As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 6, 2009
Registration No. 333-
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM S-3
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
Under
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Delaware
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43-1698480
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Delaware
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43-1742520
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Delaware
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43-1698481
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Delaware
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14-1866671
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(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation
or organization)
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(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
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7500 College Boulevard, Suite 1000, Overland Park, Kansas 66210
(913) 661-1500
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of registrants principal executive office)
J. Ryan VanWinkle
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Ferrellgas, Inc.
7500 College Boulevard, Suite 1000, Overland Park, Kansas 66210
(913) 661-1500
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of registrants agent for service)
Copies to
:
David L. Ronn
Greenberg Traurig LLP
1000 Louisiana Street
Houston, Texas 77002
(713) 374 3500
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:
From time to time after the
effective date of this registration statement, as determined in light of market conditions and
other factors.
If the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered pursuant to dividend or
interest reinvestment plans, please check the following box.
o
If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or
continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, other than securities
offered only in connection with dividend or interest reinvestment plans, check the following
box.
þ
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule
462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same
offering.
o
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities
Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the
earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.
o
If this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction I.D. or a
post-effective amendment thereto that shall become effective upon filing with the Commission
pursuant to Rule 462(e) under the Securities Act, check the following box.
o
If this Form is a post-effective amendment to a registration statement filed pursuant to
General Instruction I.D. filed to register additional securities or additional classes of
securities pursuant to Rule 413(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box.
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated
filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large
accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act.
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Large accelerated filer
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Accelerated filer
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Non-accelerated filer
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(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
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Smaller Reporting Company
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THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY
TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY
STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 8(a) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL
BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SECTION
8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
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Proposed maximum
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Proposed maximum
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Title of each class of
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Amount to be
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offering price per
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aggregate offering
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Amount of
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securities to be registered
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Registered
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security
(1)
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price
(1)(2)
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registration fee
(3)(4)
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Common Units,
Senior Units,
Deferred
Participation
Units, Debt
Securities and
Warrants
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$750,000,000
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$22,477.16
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(1)
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The proposed maximum offering price per security will be determined from time-to-time by the
registrant in connection with the issuance of the securities registered by this registration
statement.
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(2)
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There is being registered hereunder such number of common units, senior units, deferred
participation units, debt securities and warrants as will result in aggregate proceeds of
$750,000,000 or, if any debt securities are issued at an original issue discount, such greater
amount as shall result in net proceeds of $750,000,000 to the registrant.
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(3)
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This amount is estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration pursuant to
Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Rule 457(o) permits the registration
fee to be calculated on the basis of the maximum offering price of all of the securities
listed and, therefore, the table does not specify by each class information as to the amount
to be registered, the maximum offering price per unit or the proposed maximum aggregate
offering price.
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(4)
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The filing fee of $29,475 is calculated in accordance with Rule 457(p) of the Securities Act
of 1933. The registration fee of $29,475 due for this offering is offset against the unused
registration fees of $6,997.84 that has been paid in respect of securities that were
previously registered pursuant to Registration Statement No. 333-132337 and were not sold
thereunder. Pursuant to Rule 457(p), such unutilized filing fee may be applied to the filing
fees payable with respect to this Registration Statement.
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The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed.
We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an
offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these
securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MARCH 6, 2009
PROSPECTUS
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
Ferrellgas, L.P.
Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
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Common Units
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Debt Securities
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Senior Units
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Warrants
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Deferred Participation Units
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WE WILL PROVIDE THE SPECIFIC TERMS OF THE SECURITIES OFFERED IN SUPPLEMENTS TO THIS PROSPECTUS.
YOU SHOULD READ THIS PROSPECTUS AND ANY PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU INVEST.
This prospectus provides you with a general description of the securities we may offer from
time to time up to an aggregate offering price of $750,000,000. Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. may
offer common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants and debt securities.
Ferrellgas, L.P. may offer only nonconvertible investment grade debt securities. Ferrellgas
Partners Finance Corp. may be the co-obligor on any debt securities issued by Ferrellgas Partners,
L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. may be the co-obligor on any debt securities issued by
Ferrellgas, L.P. Each time we sell securities we will provide a prospectus supplement that will
contain specific information about the terms of that offering. The prospectus supplement may also
add, update or change information contained in this prospectus.
We may offer the securities from time to time through public or private transactions, directly
or through underwriters, agents or dealers and in the case of our common units, on or off the New
York Stock Exchange at prevailing market rates or at privately negotiated prices. For additional
information on the method of sale, you should refer to the section entitled Plan of Distribution
in this prospectus and in the applicable prospectus supplement. If any underwriters are involved
in the sale of any securities with respect to which this prospectus is delivered, the names of such
underwriters and any applicable discounts or commissions, and any over-allotment options will be
set forth in a prospectus supplement. The price to the public and the net proceeds we expect to
receive from such sale will also be set forth in the prospectus supplement.
The common units are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol FGP. On March
4, 2009, the last reported sales price for the common units as reported on the NYSE Composite
Transactions tape was $13.34 per common unit.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has
approved or disapproved of the securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
This prospectus may not be used to offer or sell any securities unless accompanied by a
prospectus supplement.
Investing in our securities involves risk. See Risk Factors beginning on page 5 of this
prospectus, on page 10 of our Annual Report on
Form 10-K
for our fiscal year ended July 31, 2008
and on page 44 of our Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q
for our fiscal quarter ended October 31, 2008.
See Where You Can Find More Information on page 46 of this prospectus.
The date of this prospectus is , 2009.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we have filed with SEC, utilizing a
shelf registration process. Under this shelf registration process, Ferrellgas Partners may sell
the common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants and debt securities
described in this prospectus and Ferrellgas, L.P. may sell the debt securities described in this
prospectus:
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from time to time and in one or more offerings;
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in one or more series; and
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in any combination thereof,
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up to a maximum aggregate principal amount of $750,000,000. Ferrellgas, L.P. may offer only
nonconvertible investment grade debt securities. Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. may be the
co-obligor on any debt securities issued by Ferrellgas Partners and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. may be
the co-obligor on any debt securities issued by Ferrellgas, L.P.
This prospectus provides you with a general description of our business and the securities we
may offer. Each time we sell securities under this shelf registration, we will provide a
prospectus supplement that will contain specific information about the terms of the applicable
offering. The prospectus supplement may also add, change, or update information contained in this
prospectus. If there is any inconsistency between the information in this prospectus and any
prospectus supplement, you should rely on the information in the prospectus supplement.
This prospectus summarizes documents and other information in a manner we believe to be
accurate, but we refer you to the actual documents for a more complete understanding of the
information we discuss in this prospectus. In making an investment decision, you must rely on your
own examination of such documents, our business and the terms of the offering and the securities,
including the merits and risks involved.
We make no representation to you that the securities are a legal investment for you. You
should not consider any information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus to be
legal, business or tax advice. You should consult your own attorney, business advisor and tax
advisor for legal, business and tax advice regarding an investment in the securities. The delivery
of this prospectus or any sale made hereunder does not imply that there has been no change in our
affairs or that the information set forth or incorporated by reference herein is correct as of any
date after the date of this prospectus. We are not making an offer to sell the securities in any
jurisdiction except where an offer or sale is permitted.
You should base your decision to invest in the securities solely on information contained or
incorporated by reference in this prospectus. You should contact us with any questions about this
offering or if you require additional information to verify the information contained or
incorporated by reference in this prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information on page
46.
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Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these
securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the
contrary is a criminal offense.
We will not use this prospectus to offer and sell securities unless it is accompanied by a
supplement that more fully describes the securities being offered and the terms of the offering.
The information in this prospectus is accurate as of
, 2009.
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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
This summary may not contain all of the information that may be important to you. To fully
understand the terms of the securities we are offering with this prospectus, as well as the other
considerations that may be important to you in determining whether an investment in any of the
securities being offered is appropriate for you, you should carefully read this entire prospectus
and the documents we have incorporated by reference. You should pay special attention to Risk
Factors beginning on page 5 of this prospectus, on page 10 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended July 31, 2008 and on page 44 of our Quarterly Report for the quarter ended
October 31, 2008 to determine whether an investment in the securities is appropriate for you. See
Where You Can Find More Information on page 46 of this prospectus. Our fiscal year end is July
31.
In this prospectus, unless the context indicates otherwise:
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when we refer to us, we, our, or ours, we generally mean Ferrellgas
Partners, L.P. together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas
Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., except when used
in connection with common units, senior units, and debt securities, in which case
these terms refer to the applicable issuer of those securities;
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when we refer to operating partnership we mean Ferrellgas, L.P., together with its
consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas Finance Corp.;
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when we refer to Ferrellgas Partners we mean Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., without
its consolidated subsidiaries;
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when we refer to our general partner we mean Ferrellgas, Inc., as general partner
of Ferrellgas Partners and Ferrellgas, L.P.
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the common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants and debt
securities described in this prospectus are sometimes collectively referred to as the
securities; and
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the term unitholder generally refers to holders of common units of Ferrellgas
Partners.
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Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
We are a leading distributor of propane and related equipment and supplies to customers
primarily in the United States and conduct our business as a single reportable operating segment.
We believe that we are the second largest retail marketer of propane in the United States, and the
largest national provider of propane by portable tank exchange, as measured by our propane sales
volumes in fiscal 2008.
We serve approximately one million residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange,
agricultural and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Our
operations primarily include the distribution and sale of propane and related equipment and
supplies with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest regions of the
United States. Our propane distribution business consists principally of transporting propane
purchased from third parties to propane distribution locations and then to tanks on customers
premises or to portable propane tanks delivered to nationwide and local retailers. Our portable
tank exchange operations, nationally branded under the name Blue Rhino, are conducted through a
network of independent and partnership-owned distribution outlets. Our market areas for our
residential and agricultural customers are generally rural, but also include urban areas for
industrial applications. Our market area for our industrial/commercial and portable tank exchange
customers is generally urban.
In the residential and industrial/commercial markets, propane is primarily used for space
heating, water heating, cooking and other propane fueled appliances. In the portable tank exchange
market, propane is used primarily for outdoor cooking using gas grills. In the agricultural market,
propane is primarily used for crop drying, space heating, irrigation and weed control. In addition,
propane is used for a variety of industrial applications, including as an engine fuel which is
burned in internal combustion engines that power vehicles and forklifts, and as a heating or energy
source in manufacturing and drying processes.
Our Operations
We utilize marketing programs targeting both new and existing customers by emphasizing:
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our efficiency in delivering propane to customers;
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our employee training and safety programs;
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our enhanced customer service, facilitated by our technology platform and our 24
hours a day, seven days a week retail customer call support capabilities; and
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our national distributor network for our commercial and portable tank exchange
customers.
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The distribution of propane to residential customers generally involves large numbers of small
volume deliveries. Our retail deliveries of propane are typically transported from our retail
propane distribution locations to our customers by our fleet of bulk delivery trucks, which are
generally fitted with a 3,000 gallon tank. Propane storage tanks located on our customers premises
are then filled from these bulk delivery trucks. We also deliver propane to our
industrial/commercial and portable tank exchange customers using our fleet of portable tank and
portable tank exchange delivery trucks, truck tractors and portable tank exchange delivery
trailers.
A substantial majority of our gross margin from propane and other gas liquids sales is derived
from the distribution and sale of propane and related risk management activities. Our gross margin
from the distribution of propane and other gas liquids sales is primarily based on the
cents-per-gallon difference between the sales price we charge our customers and our costs to
purchase and deliver propane to our propane distribution locations. Our residential and portable
tank exchange customers typically provide us a greater cents-per-gallon margin than our
industrial/commercial, agricultural, wholesale and other customers. The wholesale propane price
per gallon is subject to various market conditions and may fluctuate based on changes in demand,
supply and prices of other energy commodities, primarily crude oil and natural gas as propane
prices tend to correlate with the fluctuations of these underlying commodities. We employ risk
management activities that attempt to mitigate risks related to the purchasing, selling, storing
and transporting of propane.
Residential customers typically rent their storage tanks from their distributors.
Approximately 68% of our residential customers rent their tanks from us. Our rental terms and the
fire safety regulations in some states require rented bulk tanks to be filled only by the propane
supplier owning the tank. The cost and inconvenience of switching bulk tanks helps minimize a
customers tendency to switch suppliers of propane on the basis of minor variations in price,
helping us minimize customer loss.
In addition, we generally lease tanks to independent distributors involved with our delivery
of propane by portable tank exchange operations. Our owned and independent distributors provide
portable tank exchange customers with a national delivery presence that is generally not available
from our competitors.
Some of our propane distribution locations also conduct the retail sale of propane appliances
and related parts and fittings, as well as other retail propane related services and consumer
products. We also sell gas grills, patio heaters, fireplace and garden accessories, mosquito traps
and other outdoor products through our subsidiary, Blue Rhino Global Sourcing, Inc.
Recent Developments
On February 24, 2009, the board of directors of our general partner declared a second quarter
cash distribution of $0.50 per common unit, or $2.00 per common unit on an annualized basis,
payable on March 17, 2009 to unitholders of record as of March 10, 2009.
Our Business Strategy
Maximize operating efficiencies through utilization of our technology platform.
Our technology platform allows us to efficiently route and schedule our customer deliveries,
customer administration and operational workflow for the retail sale and delivery of bulk propane.
Currently we operate a retail distribution network using a structure of 157 service centers and 688
service units. Each service center is staffed to provide oversight and management to multiple
distribution locations, referred to as service units. The service unit locations utilize hand-held
computers and satellite technology to communicate with management personnel who are typically
located at the associated service center. We believe this structure and our technology platform,
allow us to more efficiently route and schedule customer deliveries and significantly reduce the
need for daily on-site management.
The efficiencies gained from operating our new technology platform allow us to consolidate our
management teams at fewer locations, quickly adjust the sales prices to our customers and manage
our personnel and vehicle costs more effectively.
The technology platform has substantially improved the forecasting of our customers demand
and our routing and scheduling. We also utilize a call center to accept customer calls 24 hours a
day seven days a week. These combined capabilities provide us cost savings while improving customer
service by reducing customer inconvenience associated with multiple, unnecessary deliveries.
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Capitalize on our national presence and economies of scale.
We believe our national presence of 871 propane distribution locations in the United States as
of July 31, 2008 gives us advantages over our smaller competitors. These advantages include
economies of scale in areas such as:
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product procurement;
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transportation;
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fleet purchases;
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propane customer administration; and
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general administration.
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We believe that our national presence allows us to be one of the few propane distributors that
can competitively serve commercial and portable tank exchange customers on a nationwide basis,
including the ability to serve such propane customers through leading home-improvement centers,
mass merchants and hardware, grocery and convenience stores. In addition, we believe that our
national presence provides us opportunities to make acquisitions of other propane distribution
companies whose operations overlap with ours, providing economies of scale and significant cost
savings in these markets.
We also believe that investments in technology similar to ours require both a large scale and
a national presence, in order to generate sustainable operational savings to produce a sufficient
return on investment. For this reason, we believe our technology platforms provide us with an
on-going competitive advantage.
Expand our operations through disciplined acquisitions and internal growth.
We expect to continue the expansion of our propane customer base through the acquisition of
other propane distributors. We intend to concentrate on acquisition activities in geographical
areas within or adjacent to our existing operating areas, and on a selected basis in areas that
broaden our geographic coverage. We also intend to focus on acquisitions that can be efficiently
combined with our existing propane operations to provide an attractive return on investment after
taking into account the economies of scale and cost savings we anticipate will result from those
combinations. Our goal is to improve the operations and profitability of the businesses we acquire
by integrating them into our established national organization and leveraging our technology
platforms to help reduce costs and enhance customer service. We believe that our enhanced
operational synergies, improved customer service and ability to better track the financial
performance of acquired operations provide us a distinct competitive advantage and better analysis
as we consider future acquisition opportunities.
We believe that we are positioned to successfully compete for growth opportunities within our
existing operating regions. Our efforts will be focused on adding density to our existing customer
base, providing propane and complementary services to national accounts and other product offerings
to existing customer relationships. We also intend to continue expanding our propane distribution
operations into several areas to which we have not historically provided propane service. This
continued expansion will give us new growth opportunities by leveraging the capabilities of our
operating platforms.
Align employee interests with our investors through significant employee ownership.
In 1998, we established an employee benefit plan that we believe aligns the interests of our
employees with those of our investors. Through the Ferrell Companies, Inc. Employee Stock Ownership
Trust, our employees beneficially own approximately 30% of our outstanding common units, allowing
them to participate directly in our overall success. We believe this plan is unique in the propane
distribution industry and that the entrepreneurial culture fostered by employee-ownership provides
us with another distinct competitive advantage.
Our History
Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership are Delaware limited partnerships that were
formed in 1994 in connection with the initial public offering of Ferrellgas Partners. Our
operations began in 1939 as a single location propane retailer in Atchison, Kansas. Since 1986, we
have acquired approximately 175 propane distributors, expanding our operations from coast to coast.
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Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Ferrellgas Partners. Ferrellgas Finance Corp. is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned
subsidiary of the operating partnership. Both of these entities have nominal assets and do not,
and will not in the future, conduct any operations or have any employees. Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp. is expected to act as co-obligor of future issuances of debt securities of Ferrellgas
Partners and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. is expected to act as co-obligor of future issuances of debt
securities of the operating partnership, in both cases, so as to allow investment in those debt
securities by institutional investors that may not otherwise be able to make such an investment by
reason of our structure and the legal investment laws of their states of organization or their
charters. You should not expect either Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. or Ferrellgas Finance
Corp. to have the ability to service obligations on those debt securities we may offer in a
prospectus supplement.
Our Structure
The operating partnership accounts for substantially all of our consolidated assets, sales and
operating earnings. Ferrellgas Partners is the sole limited partner of the operating partnership
with an approximate 99% limited partner interest. Our general partner, Ferrellgas, Inc., performs
all of the management functions for us and our subsidiaries, including the operating partnership,
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. Ferrellgas, Inc. holds a 1% general
partner interest in Ferrellgas Partners and also owns an approximate 1% general partner interest in
the operating partnership. Our general partner does not receive any management fee in connection
with its management of us or our subsidiaries, and does not receive any remuneration for its
services as our general partner other than reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses it
incurs in connection with our operations and those of our subsidiaries.
Our Offices
The address of each of our principal offices is located at 7500 College Boulevard, Suite 1000,
Overland Park, Kansas 66210 and the telephone number for each is (913) 661-1500.
4
RISK FACTORS
You should consider carefully the risk factors discussed within the section entitled Risk
Factors beginning on page 10 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 31, 2008
and beginning on page 44 of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31,
2008, which are incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement, for a discussion of
particular factors you should consider before determining whether an investment in any of the
securities is appropriate for you. Investing in any of the securities is speculative and involves
significant risk. Any of the risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended July 31, 2008 or in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2008
could materially and adversely impair our business, financial condition and operating results. In
such case, the trading price, if any, of the securities could decline or you could lose all or part
of your investment.
5
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
In connection with the registration of debt securities of Ferrellgas Partners, Ferrellgas
Partners historical ratio of earnings to fixed charges for each of the periods indicated below is
as follows:
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Six months ended
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Year ended July 31,
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January 31,
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2004
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2005
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2006
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2007
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2008
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2007
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2008
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Historical
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1.2
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0.9
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1.3
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1.4
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1.3
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0.0
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0.4
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In connection with the registration of senior units of Ferrellgas Partners, Ferrellgas
Partners historical ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preference distributions for
each of the period indicated below is as follows:
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Six months ended
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Year ended July 31,
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January 31,
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2004
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2005
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2006
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2007
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2008
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2007
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2008
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Historical
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1.1
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0.8
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1.3
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1.4
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1.3
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0.0
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0.4
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In connection with the registration of debt securities of the operating partnership, the
operating partnerships historical ratio of earnings to fixed charges for each of the periods
indicated below is as follows:
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Six months ended
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Year ended July 31,
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January 31,
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2004
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2005
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2006
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2007
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2008
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2007
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2008
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Historical
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1.4
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1.1
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1.7
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1.9
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1.7
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(0.3
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)
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0.2
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The computations above for Ferrellgas Partners include the operating partnership on a
consolidated basis. For all of the ratios set forth above, earnings is the amount resulting from
the sum of:
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pre-tax income from continuing operations; and
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fixed charges;
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less:
The term fixed charges means the sum of:
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interest expensed or capitalized;
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amortized discounts and capitalized expenses related to indebtedness; and
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an estimate of the interest within lease expense.
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The term combined fixed charges and preference distributions means the sum of fixed charges and
the distribution to the holder of our senior units, if any.
6
USE OF PROCEEDS
Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership expect to use the net proceeds from the sale
of our securities for general business purposes, which, among other things, may include the
following:
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the repayment of outstanding indebtedness;
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the redemption of any senior units or other securities (other than common units)
previously issued;
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working capital;
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capital expenditures;
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acquisitions. or
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other general business purposes.
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The precise amount and timing of the application of the net proceeds will depend upon our
funding requirements and the availability and cost of other funds. We may change the potential
uses of the net proceeds in a prospectus supplement.
7
TAX CONSEQUENCES
This section discusses material tax consequences that may be relevant to prospective holders
of common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants or debt securities who are
individual citizens or residents of the United States. It is based upon current provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code, existing regulations, proposed regulations to the extent noted, and current
administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to change. Later changes in
these authorities may cause the actual tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences
described below. Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this section to us or we
are references to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and the operating partnership.
No attempt has been made in the following discussion to comment on all federal income tax
matters affecting us or the holders. Moreover, this discussion focuses on holders who are
individual citizens or residents of the United States and it has only limited application to
corporations, estates, trusts, non-resident aliens or other holders that may be subject to
specialized tax treatment, such as tax-exempt institutions, foreign persons, individual retirement
accounts, real estate investment trusts or mutual funds. Furthermore, this discussion only applies
to initial purchasers of common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants or debt
securities and not to secondary market purchases. Accordingly, we recommend that each prospective
holder consult, and depend on, that holders own tax advisor in analyzing the federal, state, local
and foreign tax consequences particular to that holder of the ownership or disposition of our
common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants or debt securities.
All statements as to matters of law and legal conclusions, but not as to factual matters,
contained in this section are, unless otherwise noted, the opinion of Greenberg Traurig LLP,
counsel to us and our general partner, and are, to the extent noted herein, based on the accuracy
of various factual matters.
No ruling has been or will be requested from the IRS regarding any matter affecting us or
prospective holders, other than a ruling we received relating to our taxable year. An opinion of
counsel represents only that counsels best legal judgment and does not bind the IRS or the courts.
Accordingly, the opinions and statements made in this prospectus may not be sustained by a court
if contested by the IRS. Any contest of this sort with the IRS may materially reduce the prices at
which our common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants or debt securities
trade. In addition, the costs of any contest with the IRS will be borne directly or indirectly by
the holders and our general partner. Furthermore, the tax treatment of us, or of an investment in
us or our common units, senior units, deferred participation units, warrants or debt securities,
may be significantly modified by future legislative or administrative changes or court decisions.
Any modifications may or may not be retroactively applied.
Partnership Status
A partnership is not a taxable entity and incurs no federal income tax liability. Instead,
each partner of a partnership is required to take into account that partners allocable share of
items of income, gain, loss and deduction of the partnership in computing that partners federal
income tax liability, regardless of whether cash distributions are made. In most cases,
distributions by a partnership to a partner are not taxable unless the amount of any cash
distributed is in excess of the partners adjusted basis in that partners partnership interest.
Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code provides that publicly-traded partnerships will, as
a general rule, be taxed as corporations. However, an exception, referred to as the Qualifying
Income Exception, exists with respect to publicly-traded partnerships of which 90% or more of the
gross income for every taxable year consists of qualifying income. Qualifying income includes
income and gains from the processing, refining, transportation and marketing of crude oil,
industrial source carbon dioxide, natural gas and products thereof, including the transportation
and retail and wholesale marketing of propane. Other types of qualifying income include
interest other than from a financial business, dividends, gains from the sale of real property and
gains from the sale or other disposition of assets held for the production of income that otherwise
constitutes qualifying income. We believe that more than 90% of our income has been, and will be,
within one or more categories of income that are qualifying income. The portion of our income
that is qualifying income can change from time to time.
No ruling has been or will be sought from the IRS and the IRS has made no determination as to
our status for federal income tax purposes or whether our operations generate qualifying income
under Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code. Instead, we rely on the opinion of Greenberg
Traurig LLP that, based upon the Internal Revenue Code, its regulations, published revenue rulings
and court decisions, we and our operating partnership will each be classified as a partnership for
federal income tax purposes so long as:
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we do not elect to be treated as a corporation; and
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for each taxable year, more than 90% of our gross income has been, and continues to
be, qualifying income within the meaning of Section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue
Code.
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Although we expect to conduct our business so as to meet the Qualifying Income Exception, if
we fail to meet the Qualifying Income Exception, other than a failure that is determined by the IRS
to be inadvertent and that is cured within a reasonable time after discovery, we will be treated as
if we had transferred all of our assets, subject to liabilities, to a newly formed corporation on
the first day of the year in which we fail to meet the Qualifying Income Exception in return for
stock in that corporation, and as if we had then distributed that stock to the unitholders in
liquidation of their interests in us. This contribution and liquidation should be tax-free to us
so long as we, at that time, do not have liabilities in excess of the tax basis of our assets and
should be tax-free to a holder so long as that holder does not have liabilities allocated to that
holder in excess of the tax basis in that holders common or preferred units. Thereafter, we would
be treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes.
If we were treated as a corporation in any taxable year, either as a result of a failure to
meet the Qualifying Income Exception or otherwise, our items of income, gain, loss and deduction
would be reflected only on our tax return rather than being passed through to the unitholders, and
our net income would be taxed to us at corporate rates. In addition, any distribution made to a
holder of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units would be treated as
either taxable dividend income (to the extent of our current or accumulated earnings and profits)
or (in the absence of earnings and profits or any amount in excess of earnings and profits) a
nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the tax basis in that holders common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units or taxable capital gain (after the tax basis in that
holders common units, senior units, or deferred participation units is reduced to zero).
Accordingly, treatment of us as a corporation would result in a material reduction in a holders
cash flow and after-tax return and thus would likely result in a substantial reduction of the value
of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units.
The discussion below assumes that we will be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes.
Tax Treatment of Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation Units
Limited Partner Status
Holders who have become our limited partners will be treated as our partners for U.S. federal
income tax purposes. Also:
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assignees who have executed and delivered transfer applications, and are awaiting
admission as limited partners; and
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holders whose common units, senior units, or deferred participation units are held
in street name or by a nominee and who have the right to direct the nominee in the
exercise of all substantive rights attendant to the ownership of their common or
preferred units;
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will be treated as our partners for federal income tax purposes. Assignees of common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units, who are entitled to execute and deliver transfer
applications and become entitled to direct the exercise of attendant rights, but who fail to
execute and deliver transfer applications, may not be treated as one of our partners for federal
income tax purposes. Furthermore, a purchaser or other transferee of common units, senior units,
or deferred participation units, who does not execute and deliver a transfer application may not
receive particular federal income tax information or reports furnished to record holders of common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units unless our common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units are held in a nominee or street name account and the nominee or broker
has executed and delivered a transfer application for those common and preferred units.
A beneficial owner of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units whose common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units have been transferred to a short seller to
complete a short sale would appear to lose its status as one of our partners with respect to those
common or preferred units for federal income tax purposes. See Treatment of Short Sales.
No portion of our income, gains, deductions or losses is reportable by a holder who is not one
of our partners for federal income tax purposes, and any cash distributions received by a holder
who is not one of our partners for federal income tax purposes would therefore appear to be fully
taxable as ordinary income. These holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors with respect
to the consequences of holding our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units for
federal income tax purposes.
The following discussion assumes that a holder is treated as one of our partners.
9
Flow-through of Taxable Income
A partnership is not subject to federal income tax, but is required to file a partnership
information tax return each year. Each holder will be required to take into account, in computing
the holders income tax liability, the holders distributive share (as determined by the
partnership and reported on Schedule K-1 to Form 1065) of all items of our net profits, losses,
credits and items of tax preference for any of our taxable years ending within or with the taxable
year of the holder without regard to whether the holder has received or will receive any cash
distributions from us. Thus, a holder may be subject to tax if we have net income even though no
corresponding cash distribution is made. Our taxable year is the calendar year.
Treatment of Partnership Distributions
Except as described below, our distributions to a holder will not be taxable to that holder
for federal income tax purposes to the extent of the tax basis in that holders common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units immediately before the distribution. Except as
described below, our cash distributions in excess of a holders tax basis will be considered to be
gain from the sale or exchange of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units,
taxable in accordance with the rules described under Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units,
and Deferred Participation Units below. Any reduction in a holders share of our liabilities for
which no partner, including our general partner, bears the economic risk of loss, which are known
as nonrecourse liabilities, will be treated as a distribution of cash to that holder. To the
extent that our distributions cause a holders at risk amount to be less than zero at the end of
any taxable year, that holder must recapture any losses deducted in previous years. See
"Limitations on Deductibility of Partnership Losses.
A decrease in a holders percentage interest in us because of our issuance of additional
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units will decrease that holders share of
our nonrecourse liabilities and result in a corresponding deemed distribution of cash. A non-pro
rata distribution of money or property may result in ordinary income to a holder, regardless of the
tax basis in that holders common units, senior units, or deferred participation units, if the
distribution reduces the holders share of our unrealized receivables, including depreciation
recapture, and substantially appreciated inventory items, both as defined in Section 751 of the
Internal Revenue Code and collectively referred to as Section 751 Assets. To that extent, the
holder will be treated as having been distributed that holders proportionate share of the Section
751 Assets and having exchanged those assets with us in return for the non-pro rata portion of the
actual distribution made to that holder. This latter deemed exchange will result in the holders
realization of ordinary income which will equal the excess of:
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the non-pro rata portion of that distribution; over
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the holders tax basis for the share of Section 751 Assets deemed relinquished in
the exchange.
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Ratio of Taxable Income to Cash Distributions
We estimate that a holder who:
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acquires the common units, senior units, or deferred participation units; and
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owns those common units, senior units, or deferred participation units through the
period ending on the record date for the cash distribution payable for the fiscal
quarter ended October 31, 2011,
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will be allocated, on a cumulative basis, an amount of federal taxable income that will be less
than 10% of the cumulative cash distributed to such holder for that period. The taxable income
allocable to a holder for subsequent periods may constitute an increasing percentage of
distributable cash. These estimates are based upon many assumptions regarding our business and
operations, including assumptions about weather conditions in our area of operations, capital
expenditures, cash flows and anticipated cash distributions. These estimates and our assumptions
are subject to numerous business, economic, regulatory, competitive and political uncertainties
beyond our control. Further, these estimates are based on current tax law and tax reporting
positions with which the IRS could disagree. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that these
estimates will be correct. The actual percentage of distributions that will constitute taxable
income could be higher or lower and any differences could materially affect the value of our common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units.
Basis of Common Units, Senior Units, and Deferred Participation Units
A holder will have an initial tax basis for its common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units equal to the amount that holder paid for our common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units plus that holders share of our nonrecourse liabilities. That basis
will be increased by that holders share of our income and by any increases in that holders share
of our nonrecourse liabilities. The IRS has ruled that a partner acquiring multiple interests in a
partnership in
10
separate transactions at different prices must maintain an aggregate adjusted tax basis in a
single partnership interest consisting of the partners combined interests. That basis will be
decreased, but not below zero, by distributions that that holder receives from us, by that holders
share of our losses, by any decreases in that holders share of our nonrecourse liabilities and by
that holders share of our expenditures that are not deductible in computing our taxable income and
are not required to be capitalized. A holder will have no share of our debt which is recourse to
our general partner, but will have a share, primarily based on that holders share of profits, of
our nonrecourse liabilities. See Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred
Participation Units Recognition of Gain or Loss.
Limitations on Deductibility of Partnership Losses
The deduction by a holder of that holders share of our losses will be limited to the holders
tax basis in its common units, senior units, or deferred participation units and, in the case of an
individual holder or a corporate holder (if more than 50% of the value of the corporate holders
stock is owned directly or indirectly by five or fewer individuals or particular tax-exempt
organizations), to the amount for which the holder is considered to be at risk with respect to
our activities, if that is less than the holders tax basis. A holder must recapture losses
deducted in previous years to the extent that our distributions cause that holders at risk
amount to be less than zero at the end of any taxable year. Losses disallowed to a holder or
recaptured as a result of these limitations will carry forward and will be allowable to the extent
that the holders tax basis or at risk amount, whichever is the limiting factor, subsequently
increases. Upon the taxable disposition of our common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units, any gain recognized by a holder can be offset by losses that were previously
suspended by the at risk limitation but may not be offset by losses suspended by the basis
limitation. Any excess loss, above such gain, previously suspended by the at risk or basis
limitations would no longer be utilizable.
Subject to each holders specific tax situation, a holder will be at risk to the extent of
the tax basis in that holders common units, senior units, or deferred participation units,
excluding any portion of that basis attributable to that holders share of our nonrecourse
liabilities, reduced by any amount of money the holder borrows to acquire or hold that holders
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units if the lender of such borrowed funds
owns an interest in us, is related to the holder or can look only to the common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units for repayment. A holders at risk amount will increase or
decrease as the tax basis of the holders common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units increases or decreases, other than tax basis increases or decreases attributable to increases
or decreases in that holders share of our nonrecourse liabilities.
The passive loss limitations provide that individuals, estates, trusts and specific closely
held corporations and personal service corporations can deduct losses from passive activities
(which for the most part consist of activities in which the taxpayer does not materially
participate) only to the extent of the taxpayers income from those passive activities. The
passive loss limitations are applied separately with respect to each publicly-traded partnership.
Consequently, any passive losses generated by us will only be available to offset our passive
income generated in the future and will not be available to offset income from other passive
activities or investments (including other publicly-traded partnerships) or salary or active
business income. Passive losses which are not deductible because they exceed a holders share of
our income may be deducted in full when that holder disposes of its entire investment in us in a
fully taxable transaction with an unrelated party. The passive activity loss rules are applied
after other applicable limitations on deductions such as the at risk rules and the basis
limitation.
A holders share of our net income may be offset by any suspended passive losses from us, but
it may not be offset by any other current or carryover losses from other passive activities,
including those attributable to other publicly-traded partnerships. The IRS has announced that
Treasury Regulations will be issued, which would characterize net passive income from a
publicly-traded partnership as investment income for purposes of the limitations on the
deductibility of investment interest.
Limitations on Interest Deductions
The deductibility of a non-corporate taxpayers investment interest expense is limited to
the amount of such taxpayers net investment income. As noted, a holders net passive income
from us will be treated as investment income for this purpose. In addition, the holders share of
our portfolio income will be treated as investment income. Investment interest expense includes:
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interest on indebtedness properly allocable to property held for investment;
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our interest expense attributed to portfolio income; and
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the portion of interest expense incurred to purchase or carry an interest in a
passive activity to the extent attributable to portfolio income.
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11
The computation of a holders investment interest expense will take into account interest on
any margin account borrowing or other loan incurred to purchase or carry common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units. Net investment income includes gross income from property
held for investment and amounts treated as portfolio income pursuant to the passive loss rules less
deductible expenses, other than interest, directly connected with the production of investment
income, but in most cases does not include gains attributable to the disposition of property held
for investment.
Allocation of Partnership Income, Gain, Loss and Deduction
If we have a net profit, our items of income, gain, loss and deduction, after taking into
account any special allocations required under our partnership agreement, will be allocated among
our general partner and the holders in accordance with their respective percentage interests in us.
At any time that cash distributions are made to the holders of our senior units and our incentive
distribution rights or a disproportionate distribution is made to a holder of our common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units, gross income will be allocated to the recipients to
the extent of such distributions. If we have a net loss, our items of income, gain, loss and
deduction, after taking into account any special allocations required under our partnership
agreement, will be allocated first, to the general partner and the unitholders in accordance with
their respective percentage interests in us to the extent of their positive capital accounts, as
maintained under our partnership agreements, and, second, to our general partner.
Various items of our income, gain, loss and deduction will be allocated to account for the
difference between the tax basis and fair market value of property contributed to us by our general
partner or any other person contributing property to us, and to account for the difference between
the fair market value of our assets and their carrying value on our books at the time that we
initially issued the common and preferred units offered pursuant to this prospectus. In addition,
items of recapture income will be allocated to the extent possible to the partner allocated the
deduction or curative allocation giving rise to the treatment of such gain as recapture income to
minimize the recognition of ordinary income by some holders. Finally, although we do not expect
that our operations will result in the creation of negative capital accounts, if negative capital
accounts nevertheless result, items of our income and gain will be allocated in an amount and
manner sufficient to eliminate the negative balance as quickly as possible.
Greenberg Traurig LLP is of the opinion that, with the exception of the issues described in
"Section 754 Election and Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred
Participation Units Allocations Between Transferors and Transferees, the allocations in the
partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners will be given effect for federal income tax purposes
in determining how our income, gain, loss or deduction will be allocated among the holders of its
outstanding equity.
Substantial Economic Effect
Under Treasury Regulations, an allocation will be respected by the IRS only if it meets any
one of the following: (i) the allocation has substantial economic effect; (ii) the allocation is
in accordance with the partners interests in the partnership; or, (iii) the allocation is deemed
to be in accordance with the partners interests in the partnership. Any allocation which fails to
satisfy at least one of these three tests will be reallocated in accordance with the partners
interests in the partnership as defined in the Treasury Regulations.
The Treasury Regulations set forth a two part analysis to determine whether an allocation has
substantial economic effect. First, the allocation must have economic effect. In other words,
the allocation must be consistent with the underlying economic arrangement of the partners. If
there is an economic benefit or burden that corresponds to the allocation, the partner receiving
such an allocation should benefit from the economic benefit or bear the economic burden. Normally,
economic effect will be present only if the partners capital accounts are determined and
maintained as required by the Treasury Regulations.
Liquidation proceeds must be distributed in accordance with the partners positive capital
account balances (after certain adjustments). Additionally, if partners are not required to
restore any deficit capital account balance, no loss or deduction may be allocated to a partner if
such allocation would create a deficit balance in such partners capital account in excess of the
amount such partner is obligated to restore to the partnership or is treated as required to restore
to the partnership, and the partnership agreement must contain a qualified income offset,
requiring that if a partner who unexpectedly receives an adjustment, allocation, or distribution
described in subparagraphs (4), (5) or (6) of Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(ii)(d) of the Treasury
Regulations which creates or increases a deficit in such partners capital account, such partner
will be allocated items of net profits and gain (consisting of a pro rata portion of each item of
partnership income, including gross income, and gain for such year) in an amount and manner
sufficient to eliminate such deficit balance as quickly as possible.
Second, the economic effect must be substantial. Substantiality is present if there is a
reasonable possibility that the allocation will substantially affect the dollar amounts to be
received by a partner independent of his tax consequences. If a shifting of tax attributes results
in little or no change to the partners capital accounts, or if the shift is merely transitory,
12
they will not be recognized. Thus, if the allocation causes a shift in tax consequences that
is disproportionately large in relation to the shift in economic consequence, there is a
presumption that the economic effect of the allocation is not substantial and such allocation will
be disregarded (and the partnership items will therefore be apportioned according to the partners
respective interests).
The Treasury Regulations contain several exceptions and qualifications. For example, if a
partnership allocation fails the above economic effect test, it may still be recognized if it
meets the economic effect equivalence test. An allocation will be viewed as having economic
effect if the agreement among the partners would in all cases produce the same results as the
requirements outlined above. Further, there are also several exceptions, which come into play
where the partner does not have an absolute obligation to restore a negative capital account.
Entity-Level Collections
If we are required or elect under applicable law to pay any federal, state or local income tax
on behalf of any holder or the general partner or any former holder, we are authorized to pay those
taxes from our funds. Such payment, if made, will be treated as a distribution of cash to the
holder on whose behalf the payment was made. If the payment is made on behalf of a person whose
identity cannot be determined, we are authorized to treat the payment as a distribution to current
holders. We are authorized to amend the partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners in the manner
necessary to maintain uniformity of intrinsic tax characteristics of common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units and to adjust subsequent distributions, so that after giving effect to
such distributions, the priority and characterization of distributions otherwise applicable under
that partnership agreement is maintained as nearly as is practicable. Payments by us as described
above could give rise to an overpayment of tax on behalf of a holder in which event the holder
could file a claim for credit or refund.
Treatment of Short Sales
A holder whose common units, senior units, or deferred participation units are loaned to a
short seller to cover a short sale of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units
may be considered as having disposed of ownership of those common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units. If so, that holder would no longer be a partner with respect to those common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units during the period of the loan and may
recognize gain or loss from the disposition. As a result, during this period:
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any of our income, gain, loss or deduction with respect to those common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units would not be reportable by the holder;
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any cash distributions received by the holder with respect to those common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units would be fully taxable; and
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all of such distributions would appear to be treated as ordinary income.
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Greenberg Traurig LLP has not rendered an opinion regarding the treatment of a holder whose
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units are loaned to a short seller;
therefore, holders desiring to assure their status as partners and avoid the risk of gain
recognition should modify any applicable brokerage account agreements to prohibit their brokers
from borrowing their common or preferred units. The IRS has announced that it is actively studying
issues relating to the tax treatment of short sales of partnership interests. See Disposition
of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation Units Recognition of Gain or Loss.
Certain Re-acquisitions of Debt Securities
If we or an entity related to us re-acquire one of our outstanding debt securities after
December 31, 2008 and before January 1, 2011, whether in an actual exchange or by significantly
modifying the debt, for an amount that is less than the adjusted issue price of such debt security,
any resulting cancellation-of-debt (COD) income is deferred for up to five years for
re-acquisitions occurring during 2009, and up to four years for re-acquisitions occurring in 2010.
After this period of initial deferral, the COD Income is included in income ratably over the
following five-year period. Therefore, in some cases, we may not recognize all of the COD Income
until 10 years after the date on which the reacquisition occurred. If we elect to recognize COD
income on such a re-acquisition of our debt securities during the specified period, and the new or
modified debt security has original issue discount as a result of such re-acquisition, we may have
to defer deductions for some or all of such original issue discount for the deferral period. Any
income deferred pursuant to this election will be allocated to each holder immediately before the
re-acquisition in a manner that such deferred amounts would have been included in the holders
distributive share under Section 704 of the Code if such income were recognized at such time. Any
decrease in a holders share of our liabilities as a result of such an event will not be taken into
account for purposes of Code Section 752 at the time of cancellation of debt to the extent it would
cause the holder to recognize
13
gain under Code Section 731. Any decrease in our liabilities that was so deferred will be
taken into account by the holders at the end of the deferral period for the COD income.
Prospective holders should consult with their tax advisors as to the impact of an investment
in common units, senior units, or deferred participation units on their liability for the
alternative minimum tax.
Alternative Minimum Tax
This discussion only addresses the alternative minimum tax as it applies to non-corporate
taxpayers (and to shareholders of an S corporation). Each holder will be required to take into
account that holders distributive share of any of our items of income, gain, loss or deduction for
purposes of the alternative minimum tax. The first step in determining a taxpayers alternative
minimum tax liability, if any, is calculation of the taxpayers alternative minimum taxable income.
Alternative minimum taxable income is computed by adjusting the taxpayers taxable income in
accordance with the rules set forth in Sections 55, 56 and 58 of the Code, and by increasing the
resulting amount by the taxpayers items of tax preference described in Section 57 of the Code.
Alternative minimum taxable income is then reduced by a specified exemption amount and by the
taxpayers alternative minimum tax foreign tax credit for the taxable year. For taxable years
beginning in 2009, the exemption amounts are $70,950 for married couples filing joint returns,
$46,700 for single individuals, and $34,975 for married persons filing separate returns and estates
and trusts. The exemption is phased out above certain alternative minimum taxable income levels:
$150,000 for married taxpayers filing joint returns, $112,500 for single taxpayers, and $75,000 for
married taxpayers filing separate returns and estates and trusts.
For 2009, the alternative minimum tax rate is 26% on the amount of the taxpayers alternative
minimum taxable income, which does not exceed $175,000 (after taking into account the exemption
amount) and 28% on the amount exceeding $175,000. A taxpayer is only required to pay an
alternative minimum tax liability to the extent that the amount of that liability exceeds the
liability, which the taxpayer would otherwise have for the regular federal income tax.
Prospective holders should consult with their tax advisors as to the impact of an investment
in common units, senior units, or deferred participation units on their liability for the
alternative minimum tax.
Tax Rates
The highest marginal United States federal income tax rate for individuals for 2009 is 35% and
the maximum United States federal income tax rate for net capital gains of an individual that are
recognized prior to January 1, 2011 is 15%, if the asset disposed of was held for more than 12
months at the time of disposition. It is possible that these rates will change in the near future.
Section 754 Election
We have made the election permitted by Section 754 of the Internal Revenue Code. The election
is irrevocable without the consent of the IRS. The election permits us to adjust common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units purchasers tax basis in our assets under Section
743(b) of the Internal Revenue Code to reflect that holders purchase price when common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units are purchased from a holder thereof. The Section
743(b) adjustment applies only to a person who purchases common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units from a holder of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units
(including a person who purchases the common units, senior units, or deferred participation units
offered pursuant to this registration statement) and not pursuant to an initial offering by us.
The effect of the Section 743(b) adjustment to a person buying the common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units offered herein will be essentially the same as if the tax basis of our
assets were equal to their fair market value at the time of purchase.
The calculations that are required to determine a Section 743(b) adjustment are made
additionally complex because common units, senior units, or deferred participation units held by
the public have been issued pursuant to multiple offerings. For example, particular regulations
require that the portion of the Section 743(b) adjustment that eliminates the effect of any
unamortized difference in book and tax basis of recovery property to the holder of such common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units be depreciated over the remaining recovery
period of that property, but Treasury Regulation Section 1.167(c)-1(a)(6) may require that any such
difference in book and tax basis of other property be depreciated over a different period. In
addition, the holder of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units, other than a
holder who purchased such common units, senior units, or deferred participation units pursuant to
an initial offering by us, may be entitled by reason of a Section 743(b) adjustment to amortization
deductions in respect of property to which the traditional method of eliminating differences in
book and tax basis applies but to which the holder of a common or preferred unit that is sold in
an initial offering will not be entitled.
Because we cannot match transferors and transferees of common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units, uniformity of the economic and tax characteristics of our common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units to a
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purchaser of such common units, senior units, or deferred participation units must be maintained.
In the absence of uniformity, compliance with a number of federal income tax requirements, both
statutory and regulatory, could be substantially diminished. Under the partnership agreement of
Ferrellgas Partners, our general partner is authorized to take a position to preserve our ability
to determine the tax attributes of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units from
the date of purchase and the amount that is paid therefore even if that position is not consistent
with the Treasury Regulations.
We intend to depreciate the portion of a Section 743(b) adjustment attributable to any
unamortized difference between the book and tax basis of an asset in respect of which we use the
remedial method in a manner that is consistent with the regulations under Section 743 of the
Internal Revenue Code as to recovery property in respect of which the remedial allocation method is
adopted. Such method is arguably inconsistent with Treasury Regulation Section 1.167(c)-1(a)(6),
which is not expected to directly apply to a material portion of our assets. If we determine that
this position cannot reasonably be taken, we may take a depreciation or amortization position which
may result in lower annual depreciation or amortization deductions than would otherwise be
allowable to some unitholders. In addition, if common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units held by the public other than those that are sold in an initial offering by us
are entitled to different treatment in respect of property as to which we are using the traditional
method of eliminating differences in book and tax basis, we may also take a position that results
in lower annual deductions to some or all of our holders than might otherwise be available.
Greenberg Traurig LLP is unable to opine as to the validity of any position that is described in
this paragraph because there is no clear applicable authority.
A Section 754 election is advantageous if the tax basis in a transferees common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units is higher than such common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units share of the aggregate tax basis of our assets immediately prior to the
transfer. In such a case, as a result of the election, the transferee would have a higher tax
basis in its share of our assets for purposes of calculating, among other items, the transferees
depreciation and amortization deductions and the transferees share of any gain or loss on a sale
of our assets. Conversely, a Section 754 election is disadvantageous if the transferees tax basis
in such common units, senior units, or deferred participation units is lower than such common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units share of the aggregate tax basis of our
assets immediately prior to the transfer. Thus, the fair market value of our common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units may be affected either favorably or adversely by the
election.
The calculations involved in the Section 754 election are complex and will be made by us on
the basis of assumptions as to the value of our assets and other matters. For example, the
allocation of the Section 743(b) adjustment among our assets must be made in accordance with the
Internal Revenue Code. The IRS could seek to reallocate some or all of any Section 743(b)
adjustment allocated by us to our tangible assets to goodwill instead. Goodwill, as an intangible
asset, is amortizable over a longer period of time or under a less accelerated method than most of
our tangible assets. The determinations we make may be successfully challenged by the IRS and the
deductions resulting from them may be reduced or disallowed altogether. Should the IRS require a
different basis adjustment to be made, and should, in our opinion, the expense of compliance exceed
the benefit of the election, we may seek permission from the IRS to revoke our Section 754
election. If such permission is granted, a subsequent purchaser of common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units may be allocated more income than that purchaser would have been
allocated had the election not been revoked.
Tax Treatment of Our Operations
Accounting Method and Taxable Year
We use the year ending December 31 as our taxable year and the accrual method of accounting
for federal income tax purposes. Under the accrual method, we will recognize as income items such
as rentals and interest as and when earned whether or not they are received. Each holder will be
required to include in income that holders share of our income, gain, loss and deduction for our
taxable year ending within or with that holders taxable year. In addition, a holder who has a
taxable year ending on a date other than December 31 and who disposes of all of its common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units following the close of our taxable year but before
the close of its taxable year must include that holders share of our income, gain, loss and
deduction in income for its taxable year, with the result that that holder will be required to
include in income for its taxable year that holders share of more than one year of our income,
gain, loss and deduction. See Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred
Participation Units Allocations Between Transferors and Transferees.
Initial Tax Basis, Depreciation and Amortization
We will use the tax basis of our various assets for purposes of computing depreciation and
cost recovery deductions and, ultimately, gain or loss on the disposition of such assets. Assets
that we acquired from our general partner in connection with our formation initially had an
aggregate tax basis equal to the tax basis of the assets in the possession of
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the general partner immediately prior to our formation. The majority of the assets that we
acquired after our formation had an initial tax basis equal to their cost, however some of our
assets were contributed to us and had an initial tax basis equal to the contributors tax basis in
those assets immediately prior to such contribution. The federal income tax burden associated with
the difference between the fair market value of our property and its tax basis immediately prior to
an initial offering by us will be borne by holders holding interests in us prior to that offering.
See Tax Treatment of Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation
UnitsAllocation of Partnership Income, Gain, Loss and Deduction.
We may elect to use permitted depreciation and cost recovery methods that will result in the
largest deductions being taken in the early years after assets are placed in service. Property we
acquire or construct in the future may be depreciated using accelerated methods permitted by the
Internal Revenue Code. The Code provides for a bonus depreciation of 50% (or 30% if the taxpayer
so elects) of the adjusted basis of certain qualified property in the taxable year in which it is
placed in service. Property is qualified property for this purpose if, among other things, its
original use began with the taxpayer and it is placed in service before January 1, 2010. A
taxpayer may, however, choose to use a straight line method of depreciation for the entire recovery
period. In order to elect out of the bonus depreciation with respect to property in a class the
election must apply to all property in that class placed in service during the taxable year. Up
and until the tax year of 2008, we have not used the bonus depreciation method; however, we may
decide to use it in the future.
If we dispose of depreciable property by sale, foreclosure, or otherwise, all or a portion of
any gain, determined by reference to the amount of depreciation previously deducted and the nature
of the property, may be subject to the recapture rules and taxed as ordinary income rather than
capital gain. Similarly, a holder who has taken cost recovery or depreciation deductions with
respect to property owned by us may be required to recapture such deductions as ordinary income
upon a sale of that holders interest in us. See Tax Treatment of Holders of Common Units,
Senior Units and Deferred Participation UnitsAllocation of Partnership Income, Gain, Loss and
Deduction and Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation Units
Recognition of Gain or Loss.
The costs that we incurred in our organization have previously been amortized over a period of
60 months. The costs incurred in selling our common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units i.e., syndication expenses, must be capitalized and cannot be deducted currently, ratably or
upon our termination. Uncertainties exist regarding the classification of costs as organization
expenses, which have previously been amortized by us over a period of 60 months, and as syndication
expenses, which may not be amortized by us. The underwriting discounts and commissions we incur
will be treated as syndication expenses.
Valuation and Tax Basis of our Properties
The federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units will depend in part on our estimates of the fair market
values, and determinations of the tax bases, of our assets. Although we may from time to time
consult with professional appraisers regarding valuation matters, we will make many of the fair
market value estimates ourselves. These estimates of value and determinations of basis are subject
to challenge and will not be binding on the IRS or the courts. If the estimates and determinations
of fair market value or basis are later found to be incorrect, the character and amount of items of
income, gain, loss or deduction previously reported by holders might change, and holders might be
required to adjust their tax liability for prior years and incur interest and penalties with
respect to those adjustments.
Disposition of Common Units, Senior Units, and Deferred Participation Units
Recognition of Gain or Loss
Gain or loss will be recognized on a sale of common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units equal to the difference between the amount realized and the holders tax basis
for the common units, senior units, or deferred participation units sold. A holders amount
realized will be measured by the sum of the cash or the fair market value of other property
received plus that holders share of our nonrecourse liabilities. Because the amount realized
includes a holders share of our nonrecourse liabilities, the gain recognized on the sale of common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units could result in a tax liability in excess of
any cash received from such sale. Prior distributions from us in excess of cumulative net taxable
income in respect of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units which decreased a
holders tax basis in such common units, senior units, or deferred participation units will, in
effect, become taxable income if our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units
are sold at a price greater than the holders tax basis in such common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units, even if the price is less than that holders original cost.
Should the IRS successfully contest our convention to amortize only a portion of the Section
743(b) adjustment attributable to an amortizable intangible asset described in Section 197 of the
Internal Revenue Code after a sale of
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common units, senior units, or deferred participation units, a holder could realize additional
gain from the sale of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units than had such
convention been respected. See Tax Treatment of Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and
Deferred Participation UnitsSection 754 Election. In that case, the holder may have been
entitled to additional deductions against income in prior years but may be unable to claim them,
with the result to that holder of greater overall taxable income than appropriate. Counsel is
unable to opine as to the validity of the convention but believes such a contest by the IRS to be
unlikely because a successful contest could result in substantial additional deductions to other
holders.
Except as noted below, gain or loss recognized by a holder, other than a dealer in common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units, on the sale or exchange of common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units will be taxable as capital gain or loss. Capital
gain recognized on the sale of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units held for
more than 12 months will be taxed at a maximum rate of 15% for sales occurring prior to January 1,
2011. A portion of this gain or loss, which will likely be substantial, however, will be
separately computed and taxed as ordinary income or loss under Section 751 of the Internal Revenue
Code to the extent attributable to assets giving rise to depreciation recapture or other
unrealized receivables or to inventory items owned by us. The term unrealized receivables
includes potential recapture items, including depreciation recapture. Ordinary income attributable
to unrealized receivables, inventory items and depreciation recapture may exceed net taxable gain
realized upon the sale of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units and may
be recognized even if there is a net taxable loss realized on the sale of our common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units. Thus, a holder may recognize both ordinary income and a
capital loss upon a disposition of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units.
Net capital loss may offset no more than $3,000 of ordinary income in the case of individuals and
may only be used to offset capital gain in the case of corporations.
The IRS has ruled that a partner who acquires interests in a partnership in separate
transactions must combine those interests and maintain a single adjusted tax basis for all those
interests. Upon a sale or other disposition of less than all of such interests, a portion of that
tax basis must be allocated to the interests sold using an equitable apportionment method.
Treasury Regulations under Section 1223 of the Internal Revenue Code allow a selling holder who can
identify common units, senior units, or deferred participation units transferred with an
ascertainable holding period to elect to use the actual holding period of the common units, senior
units, or deferred participation units transferred. Thus, according to the ruling, a holder of
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units will be unable to select high or low
basis common units, senior units, or deferred participation units to sell, but, under the
regulations, may designate specific common units, senior units, or deferred participation units
sold for purposes of determining the holding period of the common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units sold. A holder electing to use the actual holding period of common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units transferred must consistently use that identification
method for all subsequent sales or exchanges of our common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units. A holder considering the purchase of additional common units, senior units,
or deferred participation units or a sale of common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units purchased in separate transactions should consult that holders tax advisor as to the
possible consequences of this ruling and application of the regulations.
The Internal Revenue Code treats a taxpayer as having sold a partnership interest, such as our
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units, in which gain would be recognized if
it were actually sold at its fair market value, if the taxpayer or related persons enters into:
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a short sale;
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an offsetting notional principal contract; or
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a futures or forward contract with respect to the partnership interest or
substantially identical property.
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Moreover, if a taxpayer has previously entered into a short sale, an offsetting notional
principal contract or a futures or forward contract with respect to the partnership interest, the
taxpayer will be treated as having sold that position if the taxpayer or a related person then
acquires the partnership interest or substantially identical property.
Allocations Between Transferors and Transferees
In most cases, our taxable income and losses will be determined annually, will be prorated on
a monthly basis and will be subsequently apportioned among the holders in proportion to the number
of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units owned by each of them as of the
opening of the New York Stock Exchange on the first business day of the month. However, gain or
loss realized on a sale or other disposition of our assets other than in the ordinary course of
business will be allocated among the holders as of the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on
the first business day of the month in which that gain or loss is recognized. As a result, a
holder transferring common units, senior units, or deferred participation units in the open market
may be allocated income, gain, loss and deduction accrued after the date of transfer.
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The use of this method may not be permitted under existing Treasury Regulations. Accordingly,
Greenberg Traurig LLP is unable to opine on the validity of this method of allocating income and
deductions between transferors and transferees of common or preferred units. If this method is not
allowed under the Treasury Regulations, or only applies to transfers of less than all of the
holders interest, our taxable income or losses might be reallocated among the holders. We are
authorized to revise our method of allocation between transferors and transferees, as well as among
holders whose interests otherwise vary during a taxable period, to conform to a method permitted
under future Treasury Regulations.
A holder who owns common units, senior units, or deferred participation units at any time
during a quarter and who disposes of such common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units prior to the record date set for a cash distribution with respect to such quarter will be
allocated items of our income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to such quarter but will not
be entitled to receive that cash distribution.
Notification Requirements
A holder who sells or exchanges common units, senior units, or deferred participation units is
required to notify us in writing of that sale or exchange within 30 days after the sale or exchange
and in any event by no later than January 15 of the year following the calendar year in which the
sale or exchange occurred. We are required to notify the IRS of that transaction and to furnish
specific information to the transferor and transferee. However, these reporting requirements do
not apply with respect to a sale by an individual who is a citizen of the United States and who
causes the sale or exchange through a broker. Additionally, a transferor and a transferee of
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units will be required to furnish statements
to the IRS, filed with their income tax returns for the taxable year in which the sale or exchange
occurred, that sets forth the amount of the consideration paid for the common units, senior units,
or deferred participation units. A holder who fails to inform us of a transfer of the holders
common units, senior units or deferred participation units in accordance with the rules described
above is liable for a penalty of $50 per unreported transfer with an annual maximum penalty of
$100,000. Each such statement must contain the following: (i) the names, addresses and taxpayer
identification numbers of the transferee and transferor involved in the exchange and (ii) the date
of the sale or exchange.
Constructive Termination
We will be considered to have been terminated for tax purposes if there is a sale or exchange
of 50% or more of the total interests in our capital and profits within a 12-month period. A
termination of us will result in the closing of our taxable year for all holders. In the case of a
holder reporting on a taxable year other than a year ending December 31, the closing of our taxable
year may result in more than 12 months of our taxable income or loss being includable in that
holders taxable income for the year of our termination. New tax elections required to be made by
us, including a new election under Section 754 of the Internal Revenue Code, must be made
subsequent to a termination, and a termination could result in a deferral of our deductions for
depreciation. A termination could also result in penalties if we were unable to determine that the
termination had occurred. Moreover, a termination might either accelerate the application of, or
subject us to, any tax legislation enacted prior to the termination.
Tax Treatment of Tax Exempt Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation Units
Ownership of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units by employee benefit
plans, other tax-exempt organizations, nonresident aliens, foreign corporations, other foreign
persons and regulated investment companies raises issues unique to such persons and, as described
below, may substantially increase the tax liability and requirements imposed on such persons.
The income earned by a tax exempt entity, including a qualified employee pension or profit
sharing trust or an individual retirement account, is generally exempt from taxation. However,
gross Unrelated Business Taxable Income, or UBTI, of a tax exempt entity is subject to tax to the
extent that, when combined with all other gross UBTI of the tax exempt entity for a taxable year,
it exceeds all deductions attributable to the UBTI plus $1,000 during the taxable year. Such UBTI
will be taxable at ordinary income rates and may be subject to the alternative minimum tax.
Virtually all of the taxable income derived by such an organization from the ownership of common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units will be unrelated business taxable income and
thus will be taxable to such a holder. If the gross income taken into account in computing UBTI
exceeds $1,000, the tax exempt entity is obligated to file a tax return for such year on IRS Form
990 T.
A regulated investment company or mutual fund is required to derive 90% or more of its gross
income from interest, dividends, gains from the sale of stocks or securities or foreign currency or
related sources. It is not anticipated that any significant amount of our gross income will
include that type of income.
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Gift of Common Units, Senior Units, or Deferred Participation Units
In general, no gain or loss should be recognized on a gift of common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units, although there may be federal gift tax imposed on such gift.
However, a gift of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units encumbered by debt
(including debt incurred by the gifting holder to acquire the common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units and debt incurred by us that is included in the gifting holders basis
in his or her common units, senior units, or deferred participation units) can result in the
recognition of gain, but never loss, and federal income tax (as well as federal gift tax) liability
to the donor. A gift of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units encumbered by
debt generally results in a decrease in the gifting holders allocable share of liabilities if the
donee accepts the common units, senior units, or deferred participation units subject to the debt
or assumes the liabilities of the gifting holder. If the amount of the decrease in liabilities
exceeds the holders adjusted basis in his or her common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units, the transaction should be treated as a part gift and part sale transaction,
resulting in taxable gain to the extent the amount of liabilities exceeds adjusted basis in the
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units. To the extent some of the gain is
attributable to the holders share of substantially appreciated inventory items and unrealized
receivables, such gain will be taxed as ordinary income. Since the tax consequences of any gift
or transfer will depend upon the particular circumstances and upon the individuals or organizations
involved in the transaction, before making any gift of common units, senior units or deferred
participation units, a holder should consult his or her tax advisor as to the consequences of such
a gift and as to the basis of the common units, senior units or deferred participation units in the
hands of his or her successor.
Death of Partner
If a holder dies, the fair market value of his or her common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units at death (or, if elected, at the alternate valuation date) will be subject to
federal estate taxation. Under present law, the death of a holder does not result in a sale or
exchange giving rise to a federal income tax. It is not clear what the tax consequences are if the
decedents proportionate share of our liabilities exceeds the adjusted basis of his or her common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units at death. In this event, some gain may be
recognized to the decedent or his estate upon the distribution of the common units, senior units,
or deferred participation units to the extent of such excess. The cost or other basis of the
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units inherited from the decedent generally
is stepped up or stepped down to its fair market value for federal income tax purposes.
Non-U.S. Holders
A holder of common units, senior units, or deferred participation units is considered a
non-U.S. holder for purposes of this discussion if he or she is a beneficial owner of common
units, preferred units or deferred participation units and is not a U.S. holder or a partnership
(including an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes).
Non-resident aliens and foreign corporations, trusts or estates which hold common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units will be considered to be engaged in business in the
United States on account of ownership of common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units. As a consequence, they will be required to file federal tax returns in respect of their
share of our income, gain, loss or deduction and pay federal income tax at regular rates on any net
income or gain. Moreover, under rules applicable to publicly-traded partnerships, we will withhold
at the highest effective tax rate applicable to individuals from cash distributions made quarterly
to foreign holders. Each foreign holder must obtain a taxpayer identification number from the IRS
and submit that number to our transfer agent on a Form W-8 BEN or applicable substitute form in
order to obtain credit for the taxes withheld. A change in applicable law may require us to change
these procedures.
In addition, because a foreign corporation which owns common units, senior units, or deferred
participation units will be treated as engaged in a United States trade or business, that
corporation may be subject to United States branch profits tax at a rate of 30%, in addition to
regular federal income tax, on its allocable share of our income and gain (as adjusted for changes
in the foreign corporations U.S. net equity) which are effectively connected with the conduct of
a United States trade or business. That tax may be reduced or eliminated by an income tax treaty
between the United States and the country with respect to which the foreign corporate holder is a
qualified resident. In addition, such a holder is subject to special information reporting
requirements under Section 6038C of the Internal Revenue Code.
Under a ruling of the IRS, a foreign holder who sells or otherwise disposes of common units,
senior units, or deferred participation units will be subject to federal income tax on gain
realized on the disposition of such common units, senior units, or deferred participation units to
the extent that such gain is effectively connected with a United States trade or business of the
foreign holder. Apart from the ruling, a foreign holder will not be taxed upon the disposition of
common units, senior units, or deferred participation units if that foreign holder has held less
than 5% in value of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units during the
five-year period ending on the date of the disposition and if our
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common units, senior units, or deferred participation units are regularly traded on an
established securities market at the time of the disposition.
Administrative Matters
Information Returns and Audit Procedures
We intend to furnish to each holder, within 90 days after the close of each calendar year,
specific tax information, including a Schedule K-1, which sets forth each holders share of our
income, gain, loss and deduction for our preceding taxable year. In preparing this information,
which in most cases will not be reviewed by counsel, we will use various accounting and reporting
conventions, some of which have been mentioned in the previous discussion, to determine the
holders share of income, gain, loss and deduction. There is no assurance that any of those
conventions will yield a result which conforms to the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code,
regulations or administrative interpretations of the IRS. We cannot assure prospective holders
that the IRS will not successfully contend in court that such accounting and reporting conventions
are impermissible. Any such challenge by the IRS could negatively affect the value of our common
units, senior units, or deferred participation units.
The IRS may audit our federal income tax information returns. Adjustments resulting from any
such audit may require each holder to adjust a prior years tax liability, and possibly may result
in an audit of the holders own return. Any audit of a holders return could result in adjustments
not related to our returns as well as those related to our returns.
In most respects, partnerships are treated as separate entities for purposes of federal tax
audits, judicial review of administrative adjustments by the IRS and tax settlement proceedings.
The tax treatment of partnership items of income, gain, loss and deduction are determined in a
partnership proceeding rather than in separate proceedings with the partners. The Internal Revenue
Code requires that one partner be designated as the Tax Matters Partner for these purposes. Our
partnership agreements appoint our general partner as our Tax Matters Partner.
The Tax Matters Partner will file our tax returns using the accrual method of accounting and
will adopt the calendar year as our taxable year. Holders will be required to file their returns
consistently with the information provided on our informational return or notify the IRS of any
inconsistency. A failure to notify the IRS of an inconsistent position allows the IRS
automatically to assess and collect the tax, if any, attributable to the inconsistent treatment.
With certain exceptions, a penalty will be assessed for each month or fraction thereof (up to a
maximum of twelve months) that a partnership return is filed either late or incomplete. The
monthly penalty is equal to $89 multiplied by the number of our partners during the year for which
the return is due.
With certain exceptions, a penalty will be assessed if we fail to furnish to the holders a
correct Schedule K 1 to our federal income tax return on or before the prescribed due date
(including any extension thereof). The penalty is equal to $50 multiplied by the number of our
partners not furnished a correct Schedule K 1 on or before the prescribed due date (including any
extension thereof), with a maximum penalty of $100,000 per calendar year.
The Tax Matters Partner will make various elections on our behalf and on behalf of the
holders. In addition, the Tax Matters Partner can extend the statute of limitations for assessment
of tax deficiencies against holders for items in our returns. The Tax Matters Partner may bind a
holder with less than a 1% profits interest in us to a settlement with the IRS unless that holder
elects, by filing a statement with the IRS, not to give such authority to the Tax Matters Partner.
The Tax Matters Partner may seek judicial review (by which all the holders are bound) of a final
partnership administrative adjustment and, if the Tax Matters Partner fails to seek judicial
review, such review may be sought by any holder having at least a 1% interest in our profits and by
the holders having in the aggregate at least a 5% profits interest. However, only one action for
judicial review will go forward, and each holder with an interest in the outcome may participate.
A holder must file a statement with the IRS identifying the treatment of any item on that
holders federal income tax return that is not consistent with the treatment of the item on our
return. Intentional or negligent disregard of the consistency requirement may subject a holder to
substantial penalties.
Nominee Reporting
Persons who hold an interest in us as a nominee for another person are required to furnish to
us:
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the name, address and taxpayer identification number of the beneficial owner and the
nominee;
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whether the beneficial owner is:
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a person that is not a United States person;
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a foreign government, an international organization or any wholly-owned agency or
instrumentality of either of the foregoing; or
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the amount and description of common units, senior units, or deferred participation
units held, acquired or transferred for the beneficial owner; and
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particular information including the dates of acquisitions and transfers, means of
acquisitions and transfers, and acquisition cost for purchases, as well as the amount
of net proceeds from sales.
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Brokers and financial institutions are required to furnish additional information, including
whether they are United States persons and specific information on common units, senior units, or
deferred participation units they acquire, hold or transfer for their own account. A penalty of
$50 per failure, up to a maximum of $100,000 per calendar year, is imposed by the Internal Revenue
Code for failure to report this information to us. The nominee is required to supply the
beneficial owner of our common units, senior units, or deferred participation units with the
information furnished to us.
Partnership Anti Abuse Rules
Treasury Regulations known as the Anti-Abuse Rules purportedly grant authority to the IRS to
re-characterize certain transactions to the extent that it is determined that the utilization of
partnerships is inconsistent with the intent of the federal partnership tax rules. Under these
Anti Abuse Rules, the IRS may, under certain circumstances, (i) recast transactions which attempt
to use the partnership form of ownership, or (ii) otherwise treat the partnership as an aggregation
of its partners rather than a distinct separate entity, as appropriate in order to carry out the
purposes of the partnership tax rules. The Anti Abuse Rules also provide that the authority to
re-characterize transactions is limited to circumstances under which the tax characterization by
the taxpayer is not, based on all facts and circumstances, clearly contemplated under the Code or
the applicable Treasury Regulations.
These Anti Abuse Rules are intended to impact only a small number of transactions, which
improperly utilize partnership tax rules. It is therefore not anticipated that we and/or the
transactions contemplated herein will be affected by the promulgation or administration of these
Anti Abuse Rules. In light of the broad language incorporated in these Regulations, however, no
assurance can be given that the IRS will not attempt to utilize the Anti Abuse Rules to alter, in
whole or part, the tax consequences described herein with regard to an investment in us.
State, Local And Other Tax Consequences
In addition to federal income taxes, holders will be subject to other taxes, such as state and
local income taxes, unincorporated business taxes, and estate, inheritance or intangible taxes that
may be imposed by the various jurisdictions in which we do business or own property. Although an
analysis of those various taxes is not presented here, each prospective holder should consider
their potential impact on that holders investment in common units, senior units, and deferred
participation units. We currently conduct business in 50 states and Puerto Rico. A holder will be
required to file state income tax returns and to pay state income taxes in some or all of the
states in which we do business or own property and may be subject to penalties for failure to
comply with those requirements. In some states, tax losses may not produce a tax benefit in the
year incurred (if, for example, we have no income from sources within that state) and also may not
be available to offset income in subsequent taxable years. Some of the states may require that we,
or we may elect to, withhold a percentage of income from amounts to be distributed to a holder who
is not a resident of the state. Withholding, the amount of which may be greater or less than a
particular holders income tax liability to the state, does not relieve the non-resident holder
from the obligation to file an income tax return. Amounts withheld may be treated as if
distributed to holders for purposes of determining the amounts distributed by us. See Tax
Treatment of Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and Deferred Participation UnitsEntity-Level
Collections. Based on current law and our estimate of future operations, we anticipate that any
amounts required to be withheld will not be material.
It is the responsibility of each holder to investigate the legal and tax consequences under
the laws of pertinent states and localities of that holders investment in us. Accordingly, each
prospective holder should consult, and must depend upon, that holders own tax counsel or other
advisor with regard to those matters. Further, it is the responsibility of each holder to file all
state and local, as well as U.S. federal, tax returns that may be required of such holder.
Greenberg Traurig LLP has not rendered an opinion on the state or local tax consequences of an
investment in us.
Tax Treatment of Holders of Warrants
In general, a holder of a warrant is not treated as owning a direct equity interest in the
grantor of the warrant unless and until the warrant is physically exercised. Nevertheless, if a
warrant is deep-in-the-money at the time of issuance, the holder of the warrant is generally
viewed as holding directly the underlying property. Specifically, in the context of warrants on
partnership interests, the IRS issued proposed regulations in 2003, which contain a two-part test
to determine whether a warrant will be re-characterized as a partnership interest. They require
that both of the following tests be met: (i)
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the holder must have rights substantially similar to the rights afforded to a partner; and
(ii) there must be a strong likelihood that failure to treat the warrant holder as a partner would
result in a substantial reduction in aggregate tax liabilities.
It is unclear whether these proposed regulations would apply to our warrants or whether the
warrants will be treated as deep-in-the-money. In either case, if the IRS determines that the
holders of the warrants should be treated as holding a direct interest in us, the tax consequences
discussed above in the section entitled Tax Treatment of Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and
Deferred Participation Units may apply to such holders. Holders of warrants should consult their
own tax advisers regarding the possible re-characterization of the warrants as partnership
interests.
The discussion that follows assumes that the warrants are not treated as direct partnership
interest in us and are respected as options for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The following
discussion also assumes that the warrants can only be physically exercised (i.e., with delivery of
the underlying property).
Tax Treatment of Standalone Warrants
In general, the issuance of warrants by us would not result in any tax consequences to the
holder until the warrants are sold, exchanged, lapse or otherwise disposed of. Thus, upon issuance
of a warrant, a holder of a warrant is not allowed a deduction for the premium paid to purchase the
warrant.
A holder of a warrant will generally recognizes gain or loss upon a sale, exchange, or other
disposition of the warrant equal to the amount realized on the warrant minus the premium paid for
the warrant and any related costs. If a warrant lapses without exercise, the holder will simply be
allowed a deduction for the premium (and any related costs) at the time of lapse. Gain or loss
from the sale, exchange, or lapse of a warrant is treated as gain or loss from the sale or exchange
of property which has the same character as the property to which the option relates in the hands
of the holder. Thus, the character of gains and losses on the warrant is determined in accordance
with the character of the underlying property in the hands of the holder. Certain early
terminations of a warrant will give rise to capital gains or losses to the extent that the
underlying property is also capital in the hands of the holder.
When a warrant is physically exercised, the holder generally recognizes no gain or loss and
receives no deduction; rather, the holder adds the premium to its basis in the underlying property
acquired upon exercise. Following the physical exercise of a warrant, the tax treatment of the
property received by a holder pursuant to the warrant is similar to the tax treatment described
herein concerning equity units or debt securities.
Tax Treatment of Warrants Issued in Conjunction with Our Debt Securities
Under the original issue discount regulations, if we issue warrants in conjunction with the
issue of debt securities as an investment unit, the issue price of the investment unit is
allocated between the debt securities and the warrant based on the relative fair market values of
each component at the time of issuance. The allocation of a portion of the issue price to the
warrant creates original issue discount on the debt security, generally equal to the value of the
warrant at the time of issue. The holder is generally bound by our allocation, unless the holder
explicitly discloses on its return that its allocation differs from ours. Warrants issued in
conjunction with our debt securities are generally treated by a holder as separate from the debt
securities and are generally treated similarly for U.S. federal income tax purposes as warrants
issued not in conjunction with debt securities.
Tax Treatment of Holders of Debt Securities
The following is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the
acquisition, ownership and disposition of our debt securities. This summary does not address the
material U.S. federal income tax consequences of every type of debt security which may be issued
under this registration statement. In particular, the following summary does not discuss the U.S.
federal income tax treatment of purchasing, holding and disposing of: (i) debt securities that are
convertible into our common or senior units; (ii) debt securities characterized as variable rate
debt instruments or contingent payment debt instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes; (iii)
debt securities with a term of one year or less (short-term debt obligations); or (iv) debt
securities that are denominated in currency other than U.S. Dollar. In the event we issue debt
securities the tax treatment of which is not discussed herein, the applicable prospectus or
prospectus supplement will describe the material U.S. federal income tax consequences thereof.
This discussion only applies to initial purchasers of our debt securities by a U.S. holder. If you
purchase one of our debt securities in the secondary market, you should consult your own adviser
regarding the possible U.S. federal income tax consequences of purchasing, holding and disposing of
our debt securities.
In addition, the following discussion does not address the potential U.S. federal income tax
consequences for purchasers of our debt securities in the secondary markets. Such purchasers are
encouraged to consult with their own tax advisers regarding the potential U.S. federal income tax
consequences of purchasing, holding and disposing of our debt securities.
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Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders
U.S. Holder
A U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of debt securities that is for U.S. federal income tax
purposes:
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a citizen or resident of the United States;
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a corporation, partnership or other entity created or organized in or under the laws
of the United States or of any political subdivision thereof (other than a partnership
that is not treated as a U.S. person under any applicable Treasury regulations);
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an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of
its source; or
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a trust if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision
over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to
control all substantial decisions of the trust.
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If a partnership (including an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes) holds debt securities, the tax treatment of a partner of the partnership generally will
depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner
of a partnership acquiring the debt securities, you are urged to consult your own tax advisor about
the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of the debt
securities.
Accrual of Stated Interest and Original Issue Discount
A U.S. holder generally will be required to include in gross income as ordinary interest
income the stated interest on debt securities at the time that the interest accrues or is received,
in accordance with the U.S. holders regular method of accounting for U.S. federal income tax
purposes.
Some debt securities may be issued with original issue discount (''OID). OID on debt
securities will generally equal the excess of the debt securities stated redemption price at
maturity over the debt securities issue price, subject to a statutory de minimis exception ((0.25%
of the debt securitys stated redemption price at maturity multiplied by the number of complete
years to its maturity). The issue price of the debt securities will be the first price at which a
substantial amount of the debt securities is sold (ignoring sales to bond houses, brokers, or
similar persons acting in the capacity of underwriters, placement agents, or wholesalers). The
debt securities stated redemption price at maturity is equal to the sum of all payments to be made
on such debt securities, other than payments of qualified stated interest (i.e., payments of
interest at a fixed rate that are payable at least annually for the entire term of the notes).
For debt securities that will be issued with OID, U.S. holders will be required to include the
OID in ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes as it accrues on a constant yield basis
in advance of receipt of cash payments to which such income is attributable. A U.S. holder must
include in income for each taxable year the sum of the daily portions of OID for each day on which
it held the note during the taxable year, regardless of whether the holder is a cash-basis or
accrual-method taxpayer. To determine the daily portions of OID, a U.S. holder must determine the
amount of OID allocable to an accrual period and allocate a ratable portion of that OID to each day
in the accrual period. Under the constant-yield method, the amount of OID allocable to an accrual
period is equal to the product of the debt securities adjusted issue price at the beginning of the
accrual period and the debt securities yield (adjusted to reflect the length of the accrual
period), less the amount of any qualified stated interest allocable to the period. The debt
securities adjusted issue price at any time generally is their original issue price, increased by
the amount of OID on such debt securities accrued by any holder in a prior period, and decreased
by the amount of any payment (other than a payment of qualified stated interest) previously made on
the debt securities. The yield-to-maturity is the discount rate that, when used in computing the
present value of all principal and interest payments to be made on the debt securities, produces an
amount equal to the debt securities original issue price.
A U.S. holder may elect an accrual period of any length and may vary the length of the accrual
periods over the life of the debt securities, but no accrual period may be longer than one year,
and each scheduled payment of interest or principal on the debt securities must occur on either the
first day or the last day of an accrual period. Under the foregoing rules, a U.S. holder generally
will recognize increasingly greater amounts of OID in each successive period that the U.S. holder
holds debt securities, regardless of whether the U.S. holder received payments corresponding to
that income.
Subject to certain limitations, a U.S. holder may elect to use the constant-yield method to
include in the U.S. holders income all interest that accrues on debt securities issued with OID.
For purposes of the election, interest includes, inter alia, all stated interest and OID. In the
case of U.S. holders that use the cash method of accounting, this election generally will result in
such U.S. holders including stated interest on the notes offered hereby in income earlier than
would be the case if no such election were made. This election applies only to the debt securities
with respect to which it is made
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and may not be revoked without the consent of the IRS. U.S. holders should consult their own
tax advisors as to the desirability, the mechanics and the collateral consequences of making this
election with respect to the debt securities.
In certain circumstances, we may pay amounts on the debt securities that are in excess of the
stated interest or principal of the debt securities. We intend to take the position that the
possibility that any such payments will be made is remote so that the debt securities will not be
treated as contingent payment debt instruments solely because of this possibility, and such
possibility will not affect the timing or amount of interest income that a U.S. holder must
recognize unless and until any such payments are made. Our determination that these contingencies
are remote is binding on a U.S. holder unless the U.S. holder discloses a contrary position to the
IRS in the manner that is required by applicable Treasury Regulations. Our determination is not,
however, binding on the IRS. It is possible that the IRS might take a different position from that
described above, in which case the timing, character and amount of taxable income in respect of the
debt securities may be different from that described herein.
Debt Securities Issued at Originally Issued Bond Premium
A debt security may be issued for an amount that is in excess of the debt securitys principal
amount. The U.S. holder pays the bond premium upfront and, therefore, may later deduct it as
amortizable bond premium over the term of the debt security. A U.S. holder of a debt security with
originally issued bond premium may elect to amortize the bond premium on a yield-to-maturity basis,
as an offset to interest income, over the term of the debt security. The election will apply to
all of the U.S. holders taxable premium bonds for the current and subsequent years, unless revoked
with consent of the IRS Commissioner. The amortization of bond premium is based on the U.S.
holders yield-to-maturity, applying the same concepts found in the original issue discount rules.
The U.S. holder also should reduce his or her basis in the debt security with such amortization of
the premium.
Disposition of the debt securities
A U.S. holder generally recognizes capital gain or loss on the sale, redemption, exchange,
retirement or other taxable disposition of debt securities. This gain or loss will equal the
difference between the U.S. holders adjusted tax basis in the debt securities and the proceeds
received, excluding any proceeds attributable to accrued interest which will be recognized as
ordinary interest income to the extent the U.S. holder has not previously included the accrued
interest in income.
A U.S. holders adjusted tax basis in the debt securities generally will equal such U.S.
holders initial investment in the debt securities increased by any original issue discount
included in income and decreased by the amount of any payments, other than qualified stated
interest payments, received with respect to any of the debt securities.
The proceeds the U.S. holder receive will include the amount of any cash and the fair market
value of any other property received for the debt securities. The U.S. holders adjusted tax basis
in the debt securities will generally equal the amount paid for the debt securities less any
principal payments received. The gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S.
holder held the debt securities for more than one year. Long-term capital gains of individuals,
estates and trusts currently are taxed at a maximum rate of 15% (this rate is scheduled to increase
to 20% beginning January 1, 2011. The deductibility of capital losses may be subject to
limitation.
Information reporting and backup withholding
Information reporting will apply to payments of interest and principal on, or the proceeds of
the sale or other disposition of, debt securities held by a U.S. holder, and backup withholding may
apply to payments of interest unless the U.S. holder provides the appropriate intermediary with a
taxpayer identification number, certified under penalties of perjury, as well as certain other
information or otherwise establish an exemption from backup withholding. Any amount withheld under
the backup withholding rules is allowable as a credit against the U.S. holders U.S. federal income
tax liability, if any, and a refund may be obtained if the amounts withheld exceed your actual U.S.
federal income tax liability and you provide the required information or appropriate claim form to
the IRS.
Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Holders
Non-U.S. holder
A holder of our debt securities is a non-U.S. holder for purposes of this discussion if such
holder is a beneficial owner of debt securities and is not a U.S. holder or a partnership
(including an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes).
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Interest on the debt securities
For a non-U.S. holder, payments of interest on the debt securities generally are exempt from
withholding of U.S. federal income tax under the portfolio interest exemption if the interest is
not effectively connected with the non-U.S. holders conduct of a U.S. trade or business, the
non-U.S. holder properly certifies as to its foreign status as described below, and:
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the non-U.S. holder does not own directly or indirectly, actually or constructively,
10% or more of our capital or profits interests;
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the non-U.S. holder is not a controlled foreign corporation that is related to us
through stock ownership; and
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the non-U.S. holder is not a bank whose receipt of interest on the debt securities
is in connection with an extension of credit made pursuant to a loan agreement entered
into in the ordinary course of business.
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The portfolio interest exemption and several of the special rules for non-U.S. holders
described herein generally apply only if the non-U.S. holder appropriately certifies as to its
foreign status. A non-U.S. holder can generally meet this certification requirement by providing a
properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN (or successor form) or appropriate substitute form to us, or our
paying agent. If the non-U.S. holder holds the debt securities through a financial institution or
other agent acting on its behalf, the non-U.S. holder may be required to provide appropriate
certifications to the agent. The agent will then generally be required to provide appropriate
certifications to us or our paying agent, either directly or through other intermediaries. Special
rules apply to foreign partnerships, estates and trusts, and in certain circumstances
certifications as to foreign status of partners, trust owners or beneficiaries may have to be
provided to us or our paying agent. In addition, special rules apply to qualified intermediaries
that enter into withholding agreements with the IRS.
If the non-U.S. holder cannot satisfy the requirements described above, payments of interest
made to the non-U.S. holder will be subject to a U.S. federal withholding tax at a 30% rate, unless
the non-U.S. holder provides us with a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN (or successor form)
claiming an exemption from (or a reduction of) withholding under the benefits of a tax treaty, or
the payments of interest are effectively connected with the non-U.S. holders conduct of a trade or
business in the United States, and the non-U.S. holder meet the certification requirements
described below. See -Income or Gain Effectively Connected With a U.S. Trade or Business.
Disposition of debt securities
A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any gain
realized on the sale, redemption, exchange, retirement or other taxable disposition of debt
securities unless:
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the gain is effectively connected with the conduct by the non-U.S. holder of a U.S.
trade or business (and if a tax treaty applies, is attributable to its permanent
establishment in the United States);
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the non-U.S. holder is an individual who has been present in the United States for
183 days or more in the taxable year of disposition and certain other requirements are
met; or
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the non-U.S. holder were a citizen or resident of the United States and are subject
to special rules that apply to certain expatriates.
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Income or gain effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business
The preceding discussion of the tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of
debt securities by a non-U.S. holder generally assumes that the non-U.S. holder is not engaged in a
U.S. trade or business. If any interest on the debt securities or gain from the sale, exchange or
other taxable disposition of the debt securities is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or
business conducted by the non-U.S. holder (and if a tax treaty applies, is attributable to a
permanent establishment in the United States), then the income or gain will be subject to U.S.
federal income tax at regular graduated income tax rates, but will not be subject to withholding
tax if certain certification requirements are satisfied. A non-U.S. holder can generally meet the
certification requirements by providing a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI or appropriate
substitute form to us, or our paying agent
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U.S. federal estate tax
If the non-U.S. holder is an individual and is not a resident of the United States (as
specially defined for U.S. estate tax purposes) at the time of the non-U.S. holders death, the
debt securities will not be included in its estate for U.S. federal estate tax purposes unless, at
the time of death, interest on the debt securities does not qualify for the portfolio interest
exemption.
Information reporting and backup withholding
Payments to non-U.S. holders of interest on debt securities, and amounts withheld from such
payments, if any, generally will be required to be reported to the IRS and to the non-U.S. holder.
United States backup withholding tax generally will not apply to payments of interest and principal
on debt securities to a non-U.S. holder if the statement described in Tax consequences to non-U.S.
holdersInterest on the debt securities is duly provided by the non-U.S. holder or the non-U.S.
holder otherwise establishes an exemption, provided that we do not have actual knowledge or reason
to know that the non-U.S. holder is a United States person.
Payment of the proceeds of a disposition of debt securities effected by the U.S. office of a
U.S. or foreign broker will be subject to information reporting requirements and backup withholding
unless the non-U.S. holder properly certifies under penalties of perjury as to its foreign status
and certain other conditions are met or the non-U.S. holder otherwise establish an exemption. The
backup withholding tax rate is currently 28%. For payments made after 2010, the backup withholding
rate will be increased to 31%. Information reporting requirements and backup withholding generally
will not apply to any payment of the proceeds of the disposition of debt securities outside the
United States by a foreign office of a broker. However, unless such a broker has documentary
evidence in its records that the non-U.S. holder is a non-U.S. holder and certain other conditions
are met, or the non-U.S. holder otherwise establishes an exemption, information reporting will
apply to a payment of the proceeds of the disposition of debt securities effected outside the
United States by such a broker if it:
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is a United States person;
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derives 50% or more of its gross income for certain periods from the conduct of a
trade or business in the United States;
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is a controlled foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes; or
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is a foreign partnership that, at any time during its taxable year, has more than
50% of its income or capital interests owned by United States persons or is engaged in
the conduct of a U.S. trade or business.
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Any amount withheld under the backup withholding rules may be credited against your U.S. federal
income tax liability and any excess may be refundable if the proper information is provided to the
IRS.
Reportable Transactions
Treasury Regulations requires us to complete and file Form 8886 (Reportable Transaction
Disclosure Statement) with our tax return for any taxable year in which we participate in a
reportable transaction. Additionally, each partner treated as participating in a reportable
transaction of us is required to file Form 8886 with its tax return. We and any such partner,
respectively, must also submit a copy of the completed form with the IRSs Office of Tax Shelter
Analysis. A reportable transaction is one of the following:
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a listed transaction, which is a transaction that is the same as or substantially
similar to one of the types of transactions that the IRS has determined to be a tax
avoidance transaction and identified by notice, regulation, or other form of published
guidance as a listed transaction;
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a confidential transaction, which is a transaction that is offered to a taxpayer
under conditions of confidentiality and for which the taxpayer has paid an advisor a
minimum fee;
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a transaction with contractual protection, which is a transaction for which the
taxpayer or a related party has the right to a full or partial refund of fees if all or
part of the intended tax consequences from the transaction are not sustained, or a
transaction for which fees are contingent on the taxpayers realization of tax benefits
from the transaction;
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a loss transaction, which is any transaction resulting in the taxpayer claiming a
loss under section 165 of the Internal Revenue Code; or
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a transaction of interest, which is a transaction that is the same as or
substantially similar to one of the types of transactions that the IRS has identified
by notice, regulation, or other form of published guidance as a transaction of
interest;
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We intend to notify the partners of what we believe (based on information available to us)
might be a reportable transaction, and intend to provide each partners with any available
information needed to complete and submit Form 8886 with respect to such transaction. In certain
situations, there may also be a requirement that a list be maintained of persons participating in
such reportable transactions, which could be made available to the IRS at its request.
Under the Internal Revenue Code, a significant penalty is imposed on taxpayers who participate
in a reportable transaction and fail to make the required disclosure. The penalty is generally
$10,000 for natural persons and $50,000 for other persons (increased to $100,000 and $200,000,
respectively, if the reportable transaction is a listed transaction).
Holders are urged to consult with their own tax advisor concerning any possible disclosure
obligation with respect to their investment and should be aware that we and our material advisors
intend to comply with the list and disclosure requirements.
Accuracy-Related Penalties
An additional tax equal to 20% of the amount of any portion of an underpayment of tax, which
is attributable to one or more of particular listed causes, including negligence or disregard of
rules or regulations, substantial understatements of income tax and substantial valuation
misstatements, is imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. No penalty is imposed, however, with
respect to any portion of an underpayment if it is shown that there was a reasonable cause for
that portion and that the taxpayer acted in good faith with respect to that portion.
A substantial understatement of income tax in any taxable year exists if the amount of the
understatement exceeds the greater of 10% of the tax required to be shown on the return for the
taxable year or $5,000 ($10,000 for most corporations). The amount of any understatement subject
to penalty is reduced if any portion is attributable to a position adopted on the return:
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with respect to which there is, or was, substantial authority; or
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as to which there is a reasonable basis and the pertinent facts of such position are
disclosed on the return.
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If any item of our income, gain, loss or deduction included in the distributive shares of
holders might result in such an understatement of income for which no substantial authority
exists, we must disclose the pertinent facts on our return. In addition, we will make a reasonable
effort to furnish sufficient information for holders to make adequate disclosure on their returns
to avoid liability for this penalty.
A substantial valuation misstatement exists if the value of any property, or the adjusted
basis of any property, claimed on a tax return is 200% or more of the amount determined to be the
correct amount of such valuation or adjusted basis. No penalty is imposed unless the portion of
the underpayment attributable to a substantial valuation misstatement exceeds $5,000, $10,000 for
most corporations. If the valuation claimed on a return is 400% or more than the correct
valuation, the penalty imposed increases to 40%.
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INVESTMENT IN US BY BENEFIT PLANS
An investment in us by an employee benefit plan is subject to additional considerations
because the investments of these plans are subject to:
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the fiduciary responsibility and prohibited transaction provisions of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, often referred to as ERISA; and
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restrictions imposed by Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue Code.
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For these purposes, the term employee benefit plan may include:
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qualified pension, profit-sharing and stock bonus plans;
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simplified employee pension plans; and
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tax deferred annuities or individual retirement accounts established or maintained
by an employer or employee organization.
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Prior to making an investment in us, consideration should be given to, among other things:
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whether the investment is permitted under the terms of the employee benefit plan;
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whether the investment is prudent under Section 404(a)(1)(B) of ERISA;
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whether in making the investment, the employee benefit plan will satisfy the
diversification requirements of Section 404(a)(1)(C) of ERISA;
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whether the investment will result in recognition of unrelated business taxable
income by the employee benefit plan and, if so, the potential after-tax investment
return; and
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whether, as a result of the investment, the employee benefit plan will be required
to file an exempt organization business income tax return with the IRS.
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See Tax ConsequencesTax Treatment of Tax-Exempt Holders of Common Units, Senior Units and
Deferred Participation Units.
The person with investment discretion with respect to the assets of an employee benefit plan,
often called a fiduciary, should determine whether an investment in us is authorized by the
appropriate governing instrument and is a proper investment for the employee benefit plan. A
fiduciary should also consider whether the employee benefit plan will, by investing in us, be
deemed to own an undivided interest in our assets. If so, our general partner would also be a
fiduciary of the employee benefit plan, and we would be subject to the regulatory restrictions of
ERISA, including its prohibited transaction rules, as well as the prohibited transaction rules of
the Internal Revenue Code.
Section 406 of ERISA and Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue Code prohibit employee benefit
plans, and also individual retirement accounts that are not considered part of an employee benefit
plan, from engaging in specified transactions involving plan assets with parties that are
parties in interest under ERISA or disqualified persons under the Internal Revenue Code with
respect to the employee benefit plan. Section 3(42) of ERISA defines plan assets to mean plan
assets as defined in Department of Labor regulations. Those Department of Labor regulations
provide guidance with respect to whether the assets of an entity in which employee benefit plans
acquire equity interests would be deemed plan assets under some circumstances. Under these
regulations, an entitys assets would not be considered to be plan assets if, among other things:
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the equity interests acquired by employee benefit plans are publicly-offered
securities; meaning the equity interests are:
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widely held by 100 or more investors independent of us and each other;
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freely transferable; and
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registered under some provisions of the federal securities laws;
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the entity is an operating company; meaning that it is primarily engaged in the
production or sale of a product or service, other than the investment of capital,
either directly or through a majority owned subsidiary or subsidiaries; or
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less than 25% of the value of each class of equity interest, disregarding particular
interests held by our general partner, its affiliates, and particular other persons, is
held by benefit plan investors, which are defined in Section 3(42) of ERISA to mean:
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any employee benefit plans subject to the fiduciary requirements of
ERISA;
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any qualified plans, individual retirement accounts, or other plans
subject to the prohibited transaction rules in Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue
Code; and
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any entity whose underlying assets include plan assets by reason of a
plans investment in such entity.
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Our assets should not be considered plan assets under these regulations because it is
expected that an investment in us will satisfy the requirements of the first bullet point
immediately above.
Plan fiduciaries contemplating an investment in us should consult with their own counsel
regarding the potential consequences of such an investment under ERISA and the Internal Revenue
Code in light of the serious penalties imposed on persons who engage in prohibited transactions or
otherwise violate any applicable statutory provisions.
29
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
We may sell the securities from time-to-time pursuant to any one or more of the following
methods:
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underwritten public offerings;
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a block trade, which may involve crosses, in which the broker or dealer so engaged
will attempt to sell the securities as agent but may position and resell a portion of
the block as principal to facilitate the transaction;
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purchases by a broker or dealer as principal and resale by such broker or dealer for
its account pursuant to this prospectus;
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exchange distributions and/or secondary distributions in accordance with the rules
of the applicable exchange;
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ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker solicits
purchasers;
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through the settlement of short sales;
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directly to purchasers or to a single purchaser; and
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privately negotiated transactions.
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The applicable prospectus supplement with respect to a particular offering of securities will
describe the terms of the offering of the securities, including:
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the name or names of any underwriters, and if required, dealers of agents;
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the purchase price of the securities and the proceeds we will receive from the sale;
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any underwriting discounts and other items constituting underwriters compensation;
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any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed paid to dealers; and
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any securities exchange or market on which the securities may be listed.
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We may solicit directly offers to purchase the securities being offered by this prospectus. We
may also designate agents to solicit offers to purchase the securities from time to time. We will
name in a prospectus supplement any agent involved in the offer or sale of our securities.
If we utilize a dealer in the sale of the securities being offered by this prospectus, we will
sell the securities to the dealer, as principal. The dealer may then resell the securities to the
public at varying prices to be determined by the dealer at the time of resale. If we utilize an
underwriter in the sale of the securities being offered by this prospectus, we will execute an
underwriting agreement with the underwriter at the time of sale and we will provide the name of any
underwriter in the prospectus supplement which the underwriter will use to make resales of the
securities to the public. In connection with the sale of the securities, we, or the purchasers of
securities for whom the underwriter may act as agent, may compensate the underwriter in the form of
underwriting discounts or commissions. The underwriter may sell the securities to or through
dealers, and the underwriter may compensate those dealers in the form of discounts, concessions or
commissions.
With respect to underwritten public offerings, negotiated transactions and block trades, we
will provide in the applicable prospectus supplement any compensation we pay to underwriters,
dealers or agents in connection with the offering of the securities, and any discounts, concessions
or commissions allowed by underwriters to participating dealers. Underwriters, dealers and agents
participating in the distribution of the securities may be deemed to be underwriters within the
meaning of the Securities Act and any discounts and commissions received by them and any profit
realized by them on resale of the securities may be deemed to be underwriting discounts and
commissions. We may enter into agreements to indemnify underwriters, dealers and agents against
civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments
they may be required to make in respect thereof.
To facilitate the offering of securities, certain persons participating in the offering may
engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the securities.
This may include overallotments or short sales of the securities, which involve the sale by
persons participating in the offering of more securities than we sold to them. In these
circumstances, these persons would cover such overallotments or short positions by making
purchases in the open market or by exercising their overallotment option. In addition, these
persons may stabilize or maintain the price of the securities by bidding for or purchasing
securities in the open market or by imposing penalty bids, whereby selling concessions allowed to
dealers participating in the offering may be reclaimed if securities sold by them are repurchased
in connection with stabilization transactions. The effect of these transactions may be to stabilize
or maintain the market price of the securities at a level above that which might otherwise prevail
in the open market. These transactions may be discontinued at any time.
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The underwriters, dealers and agents may engage in other transactions with us, or perform
other services for us, in the ordinary course of their business.
31
DESCRIPTION OF COMMON UNITS, SENIOR UNITS AND DEFERRED PARTICIPATION UNITS
Common Units
As of
, 2009, we had 68,178,103 common units outstanding, representing an aggregate
98% limited partner interest. Of those common units, 20,327,666, representing an approximate 30%
limited partner interest in us, are held by Ferrell Companies, Inc., the owner of our general
partner, and its affiliates.
A copy of the partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners is incorporated herein by
reference. A summary of the important provisions of the partnership agreement of Ferrellgas
Partners and the rights and privileges of our common units is included in our registration
statement on Form 8-A/A as filed with the SEC on February 18, 2003, including any amendments or
reports filed to update such descriptions. See Where you Can Find More Information.
Our common units are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol FGP. Any
additional common units we issue will also be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Senior Units and Deferred Participation Units
The partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners authorizes Ferrellgas Partners to issue an
unlimited number of additional limited partner interests and other equity securities for the
consideration and with the rights, preferences and privileges established by our general partner in
its sole discretion without the approval of any of our limited partners. In accordance with
Delaware law and the provisions of that partnership agreement, we may also issue additional
partnership interests that, in the sole discretion of our general partner, have special voting
rights to which our common units are not entitled.
We have no senior units or deferred participation units outstanding as of the date of this
prospectus. The terms of any deferred participation units we offer under this prospectus may have
distribution, liquidation or other rights ranking junior to, or on a parity with, our senior units
or common units and may be subject to limitations and restrictions that are not applicable to our
senior units or common units. Generally, deferred participation units will participate in our
distributions at some time after their initial issuance based on targeted distribution levels.
Should Ferrellgas Partners offer senior units or deferred participation units under this
prospectus, a prospectus supplement relating to the particular series of senior units or deferred
participation units offered will include the specific terms of those senior units or deferred
participation units, including the following:
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the designation, stated value and liquidation preference of the senior units or
deferred participation units and the number of senior units or deferred participation
units offered;
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the initial public offering price at which the senior units or deferred
participation units will be issued;
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the conversion or exchange provisions of the senior units or deferred participation
units;
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any redemption or sinking fund provisions of the senior units or deferred
participation units;
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the distribution rights of the senior units or deferred participation units, if any;
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a discussion of material federal income tax considerations, if any, regarding the
senior units or deferred participation units; and
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any additional rights, preferences, privileges, limitations and restrictions of the
senior units or deferred participation units.
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DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES
The debt securities issued pursuant to this prospectus and an applicable prospectus supplement
by Ferrellgas Partners will be:
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direct secured or unsecured general obligations of Ferrellgas Partners and
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., as co-obligors; and
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either senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities.
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The debt securities issued pursuant to this prospectus and an applicable prospectus supplement
by the operating partnership will be:
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direct secured or unsecured obligations of the operating partnership and Ferrellgas
Finance Corp., as co-obligors;
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nonconvertible securities offered for cash; and
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either senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities.
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The nature of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.s and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.s roles as
co-obligors with Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership, as applicable, is that each
issuer of the applicable debt securities is jointly and severally fully and unconditionally liable
on the debt securities. In effect, each issuer could be considered to have fully and
unconditionally guaranteed the other issuers payment obligations. Because some institutional
investors in the debt securities may be unable to hold the debt securities by reason of our
structure and the legal investment laws of their states of organization or their charters, the debt
securities are expected to be co-issued by a partnership and a corporation. Neither Ferrellgas
Partners Finance Corp. nor Ferrellgas Finance Corp. will receive any additional consideration for
acting as co-issuer or as co-obligor for their payment obligations under the debt securities.
Senior debt securities will be issued under one or more senior indentures. Subordinated debt
securities will be issued under one or more subordinated indentures. Any senior indenture and any
subordinated indenture are each referred to in this prospectus as an indenture and collectively
referred to as the indentures. We will enter into the indentures with a trustee that is qualified
to act under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended. Any reference to the trustee in this
prospectus shall refer to the trustee under the indentures together with any other trustee(s)
chosen by us and appointed in a supplemental indenture with respect to a particular series of debt
securities. The trustee for each series of debt securities will be identified in the applicable
prospectus supplement.
The forms of indenture are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this
prospectus is a part. Any supplemental indentures will be filed by us from time to time by means
of an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K. The indentures and any supplemental indentures will
be available for inspection at the corporate trust office of the applicable trustee, or as
described under Where You Can Find More Information. The indentures will be subject to, and
governed by, the Trust Indenture Act. We will execute, unless previously executed, any indenture
and supplemental indenture if and when we issue any debt securities.
We summarize some of the material provisions of the indentures in the following order:
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those provisions that apply only to a senior indenture;
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those provisions that apply only to a subordinated indenture; and
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those provisions that apply to both types of indentures.
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Although the material terms of any indenture or supplemental indenture will be described in
this prospectus and in a prospectus supplement, you should read the applicable indenture and
supplemental indenture, if any, because they, and not this description or the description in the
prospectus supplement, control your rights as holders of the debt securities.
For purposes of this description:
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the partnership refers to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.; and
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the words we, us, our and ourselves refer to the co-issuers of the
applicable debt securities, either Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp. or the operating partnership and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
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Specific Terms of Each Series of Debt Securities in the Prospectus Supplement
A prospectus supplement and an indenture or supplemental indenture relating to any series of
debt securities being offered will include specific terms relating to that series of debt
securities. These terms will include some or all of the following:
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the issuers of the debt securities;
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the form and title of the debt securities;
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any limit on the total principal amount of the debt securities;
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the assets, if any, that are pledged as security for the payment of the debt
securities;
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the portion of the principal amount that will be payable if the maturity of the
debt securities is accelerated in the case of debt securities issued at a discount from
their face amount;
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the currency or currency unit in which the debt securities will be payable, if not
U.S. dollars;
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any right we may have to defer payments of interest by extending the dates payments
are due and whether interest on those deferred amounts will be payable as well;
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the date or dates on which the principal of the debt securities will be payable;
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the interest rate, which may be fixed or variable, that the debt securities will
bear, if any, the date or dates from which interest will accrue, the interest payment
dates for the debt securities and the regular record dates for interest payable on any
interest payment date;
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any conversion or exchange provisions;
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any optional redemption provisions;
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any change of control offer provisions;
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any sinking fund or other provisions that would obligate us to repurchase or
otherwise redeem the debt securities;
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any changes to or additional Events of Default or covenants; and
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any other terms of the debt securities.
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Debt securities may be issued as original issue discount debt securities. Original issue
discount debt securities bear no interest or bear interest at below-market rates and are sold at a
discount to their stated principal amount. Under applicable tax laws, the holder of an original
issue discount debt security would likely be required to include the original issue discount in
income before the receipt of cash attributable to that income. If we issue these securities, the
prospectus supplement will describe any special tax, accounting or other considerations relevant to
these securities.
Provisions Only in a Senior Indenture
The senior debt securities will rank equally in right of payment with all of our other senior
and unsubordinated debt and senior in right of payment to any of our subordinated debt, including
the subordinated debt securities. However, any secured senior debt securities will effectively
rank senior to any unsecured senior debt to the extent of the value of the property securing the
secured senior debt securities.
A senior indenture or a supplemental indenture relating to a specific series of senior debt
securities will contain restrictive covenants that, unless otherwise specified in a prospectus
supplement, will not be included in a subordinated indenture or supplemental indenture relating to
a specific series of subordinated debt securities. We expect that the these covenants will include
a prohibition on our ability to incur liens on our property, other than permitted liens, unless
the debt securities are secured equally and ratably with the obligation or liability secured by
such liens. These covenants may also include restrictions on our ability and the ability of our
restricted subsidiaries to:
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incur indebtedness;
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make restricted payments;
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engage in transactions with our affiliates;
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create restrictions on the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends
or make particular other payments; and
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sell and lease back our assets.
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The specific terms of any such covenants or other covenants applicable to any specific series
of debt securities will be contained in the applicable prospectus supplement.
Provisions Only in a Subordinated Indenture
The subordinated debt securities will be unsecured. The subordinated debt securities will be
subordinate in right of payment to all senior indebtedness.
In addition, claims of our subsidiaries creditors generally will have priority with respect
to the assets and earnings of the subsidiaries over the claims of our creditors, including holders
of the subordinated debt securities, even though those obligations may not constitute senior
indebtedness. The subordinated debt securities, therefore, will be effectively subordinated to
creditors, including trade creditors, of our subsidiaries.
A subordinated indenture relating to a specific series of subordinated debt securities will
define senior indebtedness to mean the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on:
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all indebtedness for money borrowed or guaranteed by us other than the subordinated
debt securities, unless the indebtedness expressly states that it has the same ranks
as, or ranks junior to, the subordinated debt securities; and
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any deferrals, renewals or extensions of any senior indebtedness.
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However, the term senior indebtedness will not include:
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any of our obligations to our subsidiaries;
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any liability for Federal, state, local or other taxes owed or owing by us;
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any accounts payable or other liability to trade creditors, arising in the ordinary
course of business, including guarantees of, or instruments evidencing, those
liabilities;
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any indebtedness, guarantee or obligation of ours which is expressly subordinate or
junior in right of payment in any respect to any other indebtedness, guarantee or
obligation of ours, including any senior subordinated indebtedness and any subordinated
obligations;
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any obligations with respect to any capital stock, partnership interests,
membership interests or other equity interests of any kind; or
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any indebtedness incurred in violation of the subordinated indenture.
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There is no limitation on our ability to issue additional senior indebtedness. The senior
debt securities constitute senior indebtedness under a subordinated indenture. Any subordinated
debt securities will rank equally with our other subordinated indebtedness.
Under a subordinated indenture, no payment may be made on the subordinated debt securities and
no purchase, redemption or retirement of any subordinated debt securities may be made in the
event:
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any senior indebtedness is not paid when due; or
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the maturity of any senior indebtedness is accelerated as a result of a default,
unless the default has been cured or waived and the acceleration has been rescinded or
that senior indebtedness has been paid in full.
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We may, however, pay the subordinated debt securities without regard to the above restriction
if the representatives of the holders of the applicable senior indebtedness approve the payment in
writing to us and the trustee.
The representatives of the holders of senior indebtedness may notify us and the trustee in
writing of a default, which can result in the acceleration of that senior indebtednesss maturity
without further notice or the expiration of any grace periods. In this event, we may not pay the
subordinated debt securities for 179 days after receipt of that notice of such default unless the
person who gave such notice gives written notice to the trustee and to us terminating the period of
non-payment, the senior indebtedness is paid in full or the default that caused such notice is no
longer continuing. If the
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holders of senior indebtedness or their representatives have not accelerated the maturity of
the senior indebtedness at the end of the 179-day period, we may resume payments on the
subordinated debt securities. Not more than one such notice may be given in any consecutive
360-day period, irrespective of the number of defaults with respect to senior indebtedness during
that period.
In the event we pay or distribute our assets to creditors upon a total or partial liquidation
or dissolution of us, or in bankruptcy or reorganization relating to us or our property, the
holders of senior indebtedness will be entitled to receive payment in full of the senior
indebtedness before the holders of subordinated debt securities are entitled to receive any payment
of either principal or interest. Until the senior indebtedness is paid in full, any payment or
distribution to which holders of subordinated debt securities would be entitled but for the
subordination provisions of the subordinated indenture will be made to holders of the senior
indebtedness.
If a distribution is made to holders of subordinated debt securities that, due to the
subordination provisions, should not have been made to them, those holders of subordinated debt
securities are required to hold it in trust for the holders of senior indebtedness, and pay it over
to them as their interests may appear.
If payment of the subordinated debt securities is accelerated because of an Event of Default,
either we or the trustee will promptly notify the holders of senior indebtedness or their
representatives of the acceleration. We may not pay the subordinated debt securities until five
business days after the holders of senior indebtedness or their representatives receive notice of
the acceleration. Thereafter, we may pay the subordinated debt securities only if the
subordination provisions of the subordinated indenture otherwise permit payment at that time.
As a result of the subordination provisions contained in a subordinated indenture, in the
event of insolvency, our creditors who are holders of senior indebtedness may recover more,
ratably, than the holders of subordinated debt
securities. In addition, our creditors who are not holders of senior indebtedness may recover
less, ratably, than holders of senior indebtedness and may recover more, ratably, than the holders
of subordinated indebtedness. It is important to keep this in mind if you decide to hold our
subordinated debt securities.
Provisions Applicable to Both Types of Indentures
Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets
Each indenture will provide that the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable,
may not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise
dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions
to, another entity unless:
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the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable, is the surviving entity
or the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the partnership or
the operating partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made is a corporation or
partnership organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state
thereof or the District of Columbia;
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the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the partnership or
the operating partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made assumes all the
obligations of the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable, in
accordance with a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably satisfactory to the
trustee, under the debt securities and an indenture;
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immediately after the transaction no Event of Default, or event that is or after
notice or the passage of time would be an Event of Default (a Default), exists; and
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with respect to any series of debt securities of the partnership (but not of the
operating partnership), at the time of the transaction and after giving pro forma
effect to it as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the applicable
four-quarter period, the partnership or such other entity or survivor is permitted to
incur at least $1.00 of additional indebtedness under any covenant restricting our
ability to incur indebtedness applicable to that series of debt securities.
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Each indenture will also provide that Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. or Ferrellgas Finance
Corp., as applicable, may not consolidate or merge with or into, whether or not it is the surviving
entity, or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all
of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions to, another entity except under
conditions similar to those described in the paragraph above.
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Limitations on Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
In addition to any other covenants restricting our ability to incur indebtedness that may be
contained in an indenture or supplemental indenture, each indenture will provide that Ferrellgas
Partners Finance Corp. or Ferrellgas Finance Corp., as applicable, may not incur any indebtedness,
as defined in the applicable indenture, unless:
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the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable, is a co-obligor or
guarantor of the indebtedness; or
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the net proceeds of the indebtedness are either:
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lent to the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable;
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used to acquire outstanding debt securities issued by the partnership or the
operating partnership, as applicable, or
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used, directly or indirectly, to refinance or discharge indebtedness permitted under
the limitation of this paragraph.
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Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. or Ferrellgas Finance Corp., as applicable, may not engage
in any business not related, directly or indirectly, to obtaining money or arranging financing for
the partnership or the operating partnership, as applicable.
Events of Default and Remedies
Each indenture will describe in detail the occurrences that would constitute an Event of
Default. These occurrences include the following with respect to each series of debt securities:
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default in the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, on any debt security
of that series when the same becomes due and payable, upon stated maturity,
acceleration, optional redemption, required purchase, scheduled principal payment or
otherwise;
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default in the payment of an installment of interest on any of the debt securities
of that series, when the same becomes due and payable, which default continues for a
period of 30 days;
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default in the performance, or breach, of any term, covenant or warranty contained
in the debt securities of that series or the applicable indenture, other than a
default specified in either of the two clauses above, and the default continues for a
period of 45 days after written notice of the default requiring us to remedy the same
shall have been given to the applicable issuers by the trustee or to the applicable
issuers and the trustee by holders of 25% in aggregate principal amount of the
applicable series of debt securities then outstanding;
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specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization with respect to us has
occurred; or
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any other Event of Default with respect to that series set forth in the applicable
indenture or supplemental indenture and described in the applicable prospectus
supplement.
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If any Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the trustee or the holders of at least 25%
of principal amount of the applicable series of debt securities then outstanding may declare all
the debt securities of that series to be due and payable immediately.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case of an Event of Default arising from specified
events of bankruptcy or insolvency, with respect to the applicable issuers, all outstanding
applicable debt securities will become due and payable immediately without further action or
notice. Holders of debt securities may not enforce an indenture or the debt securities except as
provided in the applicable indenture. Subject to limitations, holders of a majority in principal
amount of a series of then-outstanding debt securities may direct the trustee of that series of
debt securities in its exercise of any trust or power. The trustee may withhold from holders of
debt securities notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default, except a Default or Event of
Default relating to the payment of principal or interest, if the trustee determines in good faith
that withholding notice is in their interest. The holders of a majority in aggregate principal
amount of a series of debt securities and then outstanding, by notice to the trustee for those debt
securities, may waive any existing Default or Event of Default for all holders of that series and
its consequences under an indenture, except a continuing Default or Event of Default in the
payment of any principal of, premium, if any, or interest on the debt securities or a Default or
Event of Default in respect of a covenant or provision that may not be modified without the consent
of the holder of each outstanding debt security of that issuer.
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The issuers are required to deliver to the trustee annually a statement regarding compliance
with an indenture.
An Event of Default for a particular series of debt securities does not necessarily constitute
an Event of Default for any other series of debt securities issued under an indenture or under any
other indenture.
No Personal Liability of Limited Partners, Directors, Officers, Employees and Unitholders
No limited partner of the partnership or the operating partnership or any director, officer,
employee, incorporator or stockholder of our general partner, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. or
Ferrellgas Finance Corp., as such, shall have any liability for any of our obligations under the
debt securities or any indenture or any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, these
obligations. Each holder of debt securities, by accepting a debt security, waives and releases all
such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the debt
securities. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws
and it is the view of the SEC that such a waiver is against public policy.
Non-Recourse
The obligations under any debt securities and any indenture are:
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recourse to our general partner and the applicable issuers;
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non-recourse to any of our other entities; and
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are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of our general partner and the
applicable issuers.
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The trustee and each holder of a debt security, by accepting a debt security, will be deemed
to have agreed in the applicable indenture that:
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if the debt security is issued by the partnership, the operating partnership and its
other affiliates will not be liable for any of the partnerships obligations under an
indenture or the debt securities; or
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if the debt security is issued by the operating partnership, the partnership and its
other affiliates will not be liable for any of the operating partnerships obligations
under an indenture or the debt securities.
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Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance
We may, at the option of the board of directors of our general partner, on our behalf, and the
board of directors of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. or Ferrellgas Finance Corp., as applicable,
and at any time, elect to have all of our obligations discharged with respect to any series of
outstanding debt securities. This is known as legal defeasance. However, under legal defeasance
we cannot discharge:
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the rights of holders of outstanding debt securities to receive payments with
respect to any principal, premium, and interest on the debt securities when the
payments are due;
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our obligations with respect to the debt securities concerning registration,
transfer and/or exchange of debt securities or mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
debt securities;
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our obligation to maintain an office or agency for payment and money for security
payments held in trust;
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the rights, obligations, duties and immunities of the trustee, and our obligations
in connection therewith;
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the rights, if any, of holders to convert or exchange debt securities; and
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the legal defeasance provisions of an indenture.
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In addition, we may, at our option and at any time, elect to have our obligations released
with respect to specified covenants that are described in an indenture or supplemental indenture.
This is called covenant defeasance. After our obligations have been released in this manner, any
failure to comply with these obligations will not constitute a Default or Event of Default with
respect to the debt securities. In the event covenant defeasance occurs, specific events, not
including
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non-payment, bankruptcy, receivership, reorganization and insolvency, will no longer
constitute an Event of Default with respect to the debt securities.
In order to exercise either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance, we must irrevocably
deposit with the trustee, in trust, for the benefit of the holders of debt securities, cash in U.S.
dollars, non-callable U.S. government securities, or a combination thereof, in amounts sufficient,
in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants, to pay the
principal, any premium and interest on the outstanding debt securities on the stated maturity date
or on the applicable redemption date.
In addition, we will be required to deliver to the trustee an opinion of counsel stating that
after the 91st day following the deposit the trust funds will not be subject to the effect of any
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors rights
generally, and that all conditions precedent provided for or relating to legal defeasance or
covenant defeasance have been complied with, and confirming other matters. Furthermore, in the
case of a legal defeasance, the opinion must confirm that we have received from, or there shall
have been published by, the IRS a ruling, or since the date of an indenture, there shall have been
a change in the applicable federal income tax law, in either case, to the effect that, and based
thereon, the holders of the outstanding debt securities will not recognize income, gain or loss
for federal income tax purposes as a result of the legal defeasance and will be subject to federal
income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the
case if the legal defeasance had not occurred. In the case of covenant defeasance, the opinion
must confirm that the holders of the outstanding debt securities will not recognize income, gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of the covenant defeasance and will be subject to
federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been
the case if the covenant defeasance had not occurred.
We may not exercise either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance if an Event of Default has
occurred and is continuing on the date of the deposit or insofar as Events of Default from
bankruptcy or insolvency events are concerned, at any time in the period ending on the 91st day
after the date of deposit. In addition, we may not exercise either legal defeasance or covenant
defeasance if such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance will result in a breach, violation or
constitute a default under any material agreement or instrument, other than an indenture to which
we are a party or by which we are bound.
Amendment, Supplement and Waiver
In general, each indenture and the debt securities may be amended or supplemented, and any
existing default or compliance with any provision of an indenture or the debt securities may be
waived, with the consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the debt
securities of each affected series of the applicable issuers then outstanding. This includes
consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for debt securities.
However, without the consent of each holder of affected debt securities of the applicable issuers,
among other matters, an amendment or waiver may not, with respect to any debt securities held by a
non-consenting holder of debt securities:
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reduce the principal amount of debt securities whose holders must consent to an
amendment, supplement or waiver;
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reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any debt security;
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reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest on any debt
securities; or
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waive a Default in the payment of principal or interest on the debt securities
(except a rescission of acceleration of the debt securities by the holders of at least
a majority in aggregate principal amount of the debt securities and a waiver of the
payment default that resulted from such acceleration);
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make any note payable in money other than that stated in the debt securities;
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make any change in the provisions of the indenture relating to waivers of past
defaults or the rights of holders of debt securities to receive payments of principal,
premium, if any, or interest on the debt securities; or
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make any change in the foregoing amendment and waiver provisions.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, without the consent of any holder of debt securities, we and
the trustee may amend or supplement an indenture or the debt securities to:
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cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency;
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provide for uncertificated debt securities in addition to certificated debt
securities;
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establish a new series of debt securities;
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provide for the assumption of our obligations to holders of debt securities in the
case of a merger or consolidation;
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make any change that could provide any additional rights or benefits to the holders
of debt securities that does not adversely affect the legal rights under an indenture
of any such holder;
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comply with requirements of the SEC in order to effect or maintain the qualification
of the indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;
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provide security for or add guarantees with respect to the debt securities;
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add to, change or eliminate any of the provisions of an indenture, provided that any
such addition, change or elimination may become effective only after there are no debt
securities of any series entitled to the benefit that provision outstanding;
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evidence the acceptance of appointment by a successor trustee with respect to one or
more series of debt securities;
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supplement any provisions of an indenture necessary to permit or facilitate the
defeasance and discharge of any series of debt securities, provided that it does not
adversely affect the interests of the holders of debt securities of that series or any
other series; and
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comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated
quotation system on which any debt securities may be listed or traded.
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If an Event of Default for any series of debt securities occurs and continues, the trustee or
the holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the debt securities of the series may
declare the entire principal of all the debt securities of that series to be due and payable
immediately. If this happens, subject to specific conditions, the holders of a majority of the
aggregate principal amount of the debt securities of that series can void the declaration.
Other than its duties in case of a Default, a trustee is not obligated to exercise any of its
rights or powers under any indenture at the request, order or direction of any holders, unless the
holders offer the trustee reasonable indemnity. If they provide this reasonable indemnification,
the holders of a majority in principal amount of any series of debt securities may direct the time,
method and place of conducting any proceeding or any remedy available to the trustee, or exercising
any power conferred upon the trustee, for any series of debt securities.
No Limit on Amount of Debt Securities
The indentures may not contain limits on the amount of debt securities that we may issue under
the indentures, subject to compliance with any covenant in respect of any previously issued series
of debt securities under the applicable indenture that limits our ability to incur indebtedness.
Registration of Debt Securities
We may issue debt securities of a series in registered, bearer, coupon or global form.
The Trustee
The trustee may resign or be removed by us with respect to one or more series of debt
securities and a successor trustee may be appointed to act with respect to any such series. Any
resignation will require the appointment of a successor trustee under the applicable indenture in
accordance with the terms and conditions of such indenture. The holders of a majority in
aggregate principal amount of the debt securities of any series may remove the trustee with respect
to the debt securities of such series. Should the trustee become our creditor, each indenture will
contain specific limitations on the trustees rights to obtain payment of claims or to realize on
specific property received in respect of any claim as security or otherwise. The trustee will be
permitted to engage in other transactions; however, if it acquires any conflicting interest it must
eliminate the conflict or resign.
The holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of the
affected series will have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any
proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the trustee,
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subject to specific exceptions. Each indenture will provide that in case an uncured Event of
Default occurs, the trustee will be required, in the exercise of its power, to use the degree of
care of a prudent man in the conduct of his own affairs. Subject to these provisions, the trustee
will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under any indenture at the
request of any holder of debt securities, unless the holder offers to the trustee security and
indemnity satisfactory to the trustee against any loss, liability or expense.
Book-Entry, Delivery and Form of the Debt Securities
Global Notes
Unless otherwise stated in the prospectus supplement, we will issue the debt securities in
denominations of $1,000 and in fully registered form without coupons. Each debt security will be
represented by a global note registered in the name of a nominee of the depositary. Except as set
forth in the prospectus supplement, the debt securities will be issuable only in global form. Upon
issuance, all debt securities will be represented by one or more fully registered global notes.
Each global note will be deposited with, or on behalf of, the depositary and registered in the name
of the depositary or its nominee or will remain in the custody of the trustee pursuant to the FAST
Balance Certificate Agreement between the depositary and the trustee. Your beneficial interest in
a debt security will be shown on, and transfers of beneficial interests will be effected only
through, records maintained by the depositary or its participants. Payments of principal of,
premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the debt securities represented by a global note will be
made by us or our paying agent to the depositary or its nominee. The Depository Trust Company,
often referred to as DTC, will be the initial depositary.
We have provided the following descriptions of the operations and procedures of DTC and its
participants solely as a matter of convenience. These operations and procedures are solely within
the control of DTC and its participants and are subject to change by them. Neither we, any
underwriter, dealer, agent, trustee nor paying agent take any responsibility for these operations
or procedures, and you are urged to contact DTC or its participants directly to discuss these
matters.
In addition, neither we, any trustee nor any paying agent will be liable for any delay by DTC,
its nominee or any direct or indirect participant in identifying the beneficial owners of the debt
securities. We, any trustee and any paying agent may conclusively rely on, and will be protected
in relying on, instructions from DTC or its nominee, including instructions about the registration
and delivery, and the respective principal amounts, of any debt securities issued.
The Depositary
DTC has advised us that:
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DTC is a limited-purpose trust company organized under the New York Banking Law, a
banking organization within the meaning of the New York Banking Law, a member of the
Federal Reserve System, a clearing corporation within the meaning of the New York
Uniform Commercial Code and a clearing agency registered under Section 17A of the
Exchange Act;
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DTC was created to hold securities for its participating organizations and to
facilitate the clearance and settlement of transactions in those securities between the
participants through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of its participants,
thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of securities certificates;
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direct participants include securities brokers and dealers, including the
underwriters of this offering, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and other
organizations;
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DTC is owned by a number of its direct participants and by the New York Stock
Exchange, Inc., the American Stock Exchange LLC and the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc.;
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access to the DTC system is also available to indirect participants such as
securities brokers and dealers, banks and trust companies that clear through or
maintain a custodial relationship with a direct participant, either directly or
indirectly;
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persons who are not direct participants may beneficially own securities held by or
on behalf of DTC only through direct participants or indirect participants; and
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the rules applicable to DTC and its direct and indirect participants are on file
with the SEC.
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Ownership of Global Notes
We expect that under procedures established by DTC:
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upon deposit of the global notes, DTC will credit the accounts of the participants
designated by the underwriters with portions of the principal amount of the global
notes; and
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ownership of these interests in the debt securities will be shown on, and the
transfer of ownership of these interests will be effected only through, records
maintained by DTC (with respect to the participants) or by the participants and the
indirect participants.
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Ownership of beneficial interests in a global note will be limited to participants or persons
that hold interests through participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in debt securities
represented by a global note will be limited to participants or persons that hold interests through
participants.
So long as the depositary for a global note, or its nominee, is the registered owner of the
global note, the depositary or its nominee will be considered the sole owner or holder of the debt
securities represented by a global note for all purposes under an indenture. Except as provided
below, as the owner of beneficial interests in debt securities represented by a global note or
global notes, you:
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will not be entitled to register the debt securities represented by a global note in
your name;
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will not receive or be entitled to receive physical delivery of debt securities in
definitive form; and
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will not be considered the owner or holder of any of the debt securities under an
indenture.
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The laws of some states require that purchasers of securities take physical delivery of
securities in definitive form. Therefore, the limits and restrictions listed above may impair your
ability to transfer beneficial interests in a global note. In addition, the lack of a physical
certificate evidencing your beneficial interests in the global notes may limit your ability to
pledge the interests to a person or entity that is not a participant in DTC.
We understand that under existing policy of the depositary and industry practices, if:
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we request any action of holders; or
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you desire to give notice or take action which a holder is entitled to under an
indenture or a global note,
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the depositary would authorize the participants holding the beneficial interests to give the notice
or take the action. Accordingly, if you are a beneficial owner that is not a participant, you must
rely on the procedures of the depositary or on the procedures of the participant as well as the
contractual arrangements you have directly, or indirectly through your financial intermediary, with
a participant to exercise any rights of a holder under an indenture or a global note or to give
notice or take action.
To facilitate subsequent transfers, all global notes deposited by participants with DTC are
registered in the name of DTC or its nominee. The deposit of global notes with DTC and their
registration in the name of DTC or its nominee effect no change in beneficial ownership. DTC has
no knowledge of the actual beneficial owners of the book-entry debt securities. DTCs records
reflect only the identity of the direct participants to whose accounts the book-entry debt
securities are credited, which may or may not be the beneficial owners. The participants will
remain responsible for keeping account of their holdings on behalf of their customers.
Neither DTC nor its nominee will consent or vote with respect to book-entry debt securities.
Under its usual procedures, DTC will mail an omnibus proxy to us as soon as possible after the
record date. The omnibus proxy assigns DTCs or its nominees consenting or voting rights to those
direct participants to whose accounts the book-entry debt securities are credited on the record
date, which are identified in a listing attached to the omnibus proxy.
A beneficial owner will give notice to elect to have its book-entry debt securities purchased
or tendered, through its participant, to the paying agent, and shall effect delivery of such
book-entry debt securities by causing the direct participant to transfer the participants interest
in the book-entry debt securities, on the depositarys records, to the paying agent. The
requirement for physical delivery of book-entry debt securities in connection with a demand for
purchase or a mandatory purchase will be deemed satisfied when the ownership rights in the
book-entry debt securities are transferred by a direct participant on the depositarys records.
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Payments
We will make payments of principal of, premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the debt
securities represented by a global note through the trustee to the depositary or its nominee, as
the registered owner of a global note. So long as the debt securities are represented by global
notes registered in the name of DTC or its nominee, all payments will be made by us in immediately
available funds. We expect that the depositary, upon receipt of any payments, will immediately
credit the accounts of the related participants with payments in amounts proportionate to their
beneficial interest in the global note. We also expect that payments by participants to owners of
beneficial interests in a global note will be governed by standing customer instructions and
customary practices and will be the responsibility of the participants. However, these payments
will be the sole responsibility of the participant.
Neither we, the trustee, any paying agent or any other of our agents will have any
responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account
of beneficial ownership interests of a global note or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any
records relating to beneficial ownership interests.
Certificated Debt Securities
We will issue certificated debt securities in exchange for all the global notes if:
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DTC or any other designated replacement depositary notifies us that it is at any
time unwilling or unable to continue as depositary or ceases to be a clearing agency
registered under the Exchange Act and we fail to appoint a successor depositary within
120 days; or
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we, at our option, notify the trustee in writing that we elect to cause the issuance
of the certificated debt securities; or
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there has occurred and is continuing a default or an event of default with respect
to the debt securities and the depositary has requested the security registrar/trustee
to issue certificated debt securities in lieu of the global notes.
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In case of any of the foregoing, you, as an owner of a beneficial interest in a global note,
will be entitled to have certificated debt securities equal in principal amount to the beneficial
interest registered in your name and will be entitled to physical delivery of the certificated debt
securities. The certificated debt securities will be registered in the name or names as the
depositary shall instruct the trustee (in accordance with its customary procedures). The
certificated debt securities will be issued in denominations of $1,000 and will be issued in
registered form only, without coupons. No service charge will be made for any transfer or exchange
of certificated debt securities, but we may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or
other governmental charge.
Settlement Procedures
Unless otherwise described in the applicable prospectus supplement, initial settlement of the
debt securities will be made by us, the underwriters, dealers, agents, or sales managers, as
applicable, in immediately available funds. So long as the debt securities are represented by
global notes registered in the name of DTC or its nominee, secondary market trading between DTC
participants will occur in the ordinary way in accordance with DTCs rules and procedures and will
be settled in immediately available funds using DTCs same-day funds settlement system. No
assurance though can be given as to the effect, if any, of settlement in immediately available
funds on the trading activity of the debt securities.
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DESCRIPTION OF WARRANTS
Ferrellgas Partners may issue warrants to purchase debt securities, common units or other
securities issued by us or another issuer. Warrants may be issued independently or together with
other securities and may be attached to or separate from these securities. The warrants will be
issued under warrant agreements to be entered into between us and a bank or trust company, as
warrant agent. The specific terms of the warrants as well as the warrant agreement and the
identification of the warrant agent shall be set forth in a prospectus supplement.
Debt Warrants
A prospectus supplement will describe the terms of Ferrellgas Partners debt warrants, the
warrant agreement relating to the debt warrants and the debt warrant certificates representing our
debt warrants. These descriptions will
include the following:
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the title of the debt warrants;
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the aggregate number of debt warrants being offered;
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the price or prices at which the debt warrants will be issued;
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the designation, aggregate principal amount and terms of the debt securities
purchasable upon exercise of the debt warrants;
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the principal amount of debt securities purchasable upon exercise of each debt
warrant, and the price at which such principal amount of debt securities may be
purchased upon such exercise;
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the date, if any, on and after which the debt warrants and the related debt
securities will be separately transferable;
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the date on which the right to exercise the debt warrants shall commence, and the
date on which such right shall expire;
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the maximum or minimum number of debt warrants that may be exercised at any time;
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a discussion of material federal income tax considerations of the debt warrants and
the exercise thereof, if any; and
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any other terms of the debt warrants, including terms, procedures and limitations
relating to the exchange and exercise of such debt warrants.
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Unless otherwise set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement, debt warrant certificates
will be exchangeable for new debt warrant certificates of different denominations and debt warrants
may be exercised at the corporate trust office of the warrant agent or any other office indicated
in the prospectus supplement. Prior to the exercise of debt warrants, holders of debt warrants
will not have any of the rights of holders of the debt securities that are purchasable upon such
exercise and will not be entitled to payments of principal of, or premium, if any, or interest, if
any, on the debt securities purchasable upon such exercise.
Common Unit Warrants And Other Warrants
A prospectus supplement will describe the terms of Ferrellgas Partners common unit warrants
and other warrants, the warrant agreement relating to our common unit warrants and other warrants
and the warrant certificates representing our common unit warrants and other warrants. These
descriptions will include the following:
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the title of the warrants;
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the aggregate number of warrants being offered;
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the price or prices at which the warrants will be issued;
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the securities for which the warrants are exercisable, and the price at which such
securities may be purchased upon such exercise;
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any provisions for adjustment of the exercise price of such warrants or the number
of common units or number or amount of other securities of ours or another issuer that
are receivable upon the exercise of such warrants;
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the date, if any, on and after which the warrants and the related common units or
other securities of ours or another issuer will be separately transferable;
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the date on which the right to exercise the warrants shall commence, and the date on
which such right shall expire;
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the maximum or minimum number of warrants that may be exercised at any time;
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a discussion of material federal income tax considerations of the debt warrants and
the exercise thereof, if any; and
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any other terms of the warrants, including terms, procedures and limitations
relating to the exchange and exercise of the warrants.
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Unless otherwise set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement, warrant certificates will
be exchangeable for new warrant certificates of different denominations and warrants may be
exercised at the corporate trust office of the warrant agent or any other office indicated in the
prospectus supplement. Prior to the exercise of warrants, holders of the warrants will not have
any of the rights of holders of the securities that are purchasable upon such exercise and will not
be entitled to any distributions or dividends, if any, on the securities purchasable upon such
exercise.
Exercise of Warrants
Unless otherwise set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement, each warrant will entitle
the holder of the warrant to purchase for cash a particular principal amount of debt securities,
number of common units, or number or amount of other securities at an exercise price that shall be
described in, or be determinable in, an applicable prospectus supplement. Warrants will be
exercisable at any time up to the close of business on the expiration date of
such warrants as set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. After the close of business on
the expiration date, unexercised warrants will become void.
Warrants will be exercisable as set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. Upon
receipt of payment and the properly completed and duly executed warrant certificate at the
corporate trust office of the warrant agent or any other office indicated in the prospectus
supplement, we will, as soon as practicable, forward the debt securities, common units or other
securities purchasable upon such exercise to the warrant holder. If less than all of the warrants
represented by such warrant certificate are exercised, a new warrant certificate will be issued for
the remaining unexercised warrants.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Where Documents are Filed; Copies of Documents
We file annual, quarterly and other reports and other information with the SEC. You may read
and download our filings over the Internet from several commercial document retrieval services, as
well as at the SECs website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy our SEC filings at the
SECs public reference room located at 100 F Street N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the
SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information concerning the public reference room and any
applicable copy charges.
Because our common units are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, we also provide our SEC
filings and particular other information to the New York Stock Exchange. You may obtain copies of
these filings and this other information at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange located at
11 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005.
In addition, our SEC filings are available on our website at www.ferrellgas.com at no cost as
soon as reasonably practicable after our electronic filing or furnishing thereof with the SEC.
Please note that any internet addresses provided in this prospectus are for informational purposes
only and are not intended to be hyperlinks. Accordingly, no information found and/or provided at
such internet addresses is intended or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein.
Incorporation of Documents by Reference
We filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-3 with respect to the securities
offered by this prospectus. This prospectus is a part of that registration statement. As allowed
by the SEC, this prospectus does not contain all of the information you can find in the
registration statement or the exhibits to the registration statement. Instead, the SEC allows us
to incorporate by reference information into this prospectus. Incorporation by reference means
that we can disclose particular important information to you without actually including such
information in this prospectus by simply referring you to another document that we filed separately
with the SEC.
The information we incorporate by reference is an important part of this prospectus and should
be carefully read in conjunction with this prospectus and any prospectus supplement. Information
that we file with the SEC after the date of this prospectus will automatically update and may
supersede some of the information in this prospectus as well as information we previously filed
with the SEC and that was incorporated by reference into this prospectus.
The following documents are incorporated by reference into this prospectus:
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the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. for the fiscal year ended
July 31, 2008, as filed with the SEC on September 29, 2008;
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the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. for the quarterly
period ended October 31, 2008, as filed with the SEC on December 09, 2008;
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the Current Reports on Form 8-K of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., as filed with the SEC on
December 9, 2008, January 9, 2009, January 29, 2009, February 6, 2009 and February 25, 2009;
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the description of Ferrellgas Partners common units in its registration statement
on Form 8-A/A of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., as filed with the SEC on February 18, 2003,
and any amendments or reports filed to update the description; and
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the operating partnerships registration statement on Form 10 as filed with the SEC
on February 18, 2003;
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Ferrellgas Finance Corp.s registration statement on Form 10 as filed with the SEC
on February 18, 2003; and
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all documents that we file under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange
Act after the date of this prospectus and until the earlier of the termination of the
registration statement to which this prospectus relates or until we sell all of the
securities offered by this prospectus.
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If information in any of these incorporated documents conflicts with information in this
prospectus or any prospectus supplement you should rely on the most recent information. If
information in an incorporated document conflicts with information in another incorporated
document, you should rely on the information in the most recent incorporated document.
You may request from us a copy of any document we incorporate by reference at no cost,
excluding all exhibits to such incorporated documents unless we have specifically incorporated by
reference such exhibits either in this prospectus or in the incorporated document, by making such a
request in writing or by telephone to the following address:
46
Ferrellgas, Inc.
7500 College Boulevard, Suite 1000
Overland Park, Kansas 66210
Attention: Investor Relations
(913) 661-1500
LEGAL MATTERS
Particular legal matters related to the securities described in this prospectus have been or
will be passed upon for us by Greenberg Traurig LLP, including the validity of the securities
described in the prospectus.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements, the related consolidated financial statement schedules,
and managements report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Ferrellgas, L.P. and the financial statements of Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. incorporated in this prospectus by reference from
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.s, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.s, Ferrellgas L.P.s, and Ferrellgas
Finance Corp.s Annual Report on Form 10-K, have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an
independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports dated September 29, 2008,
which are incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements and financial statement
schedules have been so incorporated in reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their
authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas, Inc. and subsidiaries incorporated in
this registration statement by reference from Exhibit 99.15 to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.s,
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.s, Ferrellgas L.P.s, and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.s Current
Report on Form 8-K dated December 9, 2008 have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an
independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report dated October 22, 2008,
which is incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements have been so incorporated in
reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and
auditing.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus and the documents we have incorporated herein by reference include
forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified as any statement that
does not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often use or are preceded by words
such as anticipate, believe, intend, plan, projection, forecast, strategy,
position, continue, estimate, expect, may, will, or the negative of those terms or
other variations of them or comparable terminology. These statements often discuss plans,
strategies, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future and
are based upon the beliefs and assumptions of our management and on the information currently
available to them. In particular, statements, express or implied, concerning our future operating
results or our ability to generate sales, income or cash flow are forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. You should not put undue
reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks,
uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those
expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Many of the factors that will affect
our future results are beyond our ability to control or predict.
Some of our forward-looking statements include the following:
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whether the operating partnership will have sufficient funds to meet its
obligations, including its obligations under its debt securities, and to enable it to
distribute to Ferrellgas Partners sufficient funds to permit Ferrellgas Partners to
meet its obligations with respect to its existing debt and equity securities;
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whether Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership will continue to meet all
of the quarterly financial tests required by the agreements governing their
indebtedness; and
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our expectation that Gross margin propane and other gas liquids, Operating
income and Net earnings during the remainder of fiscal 2009 will be higher than the
same period during fiscal 2008.
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For a more detailed description of these particular forward-looking statements and for other
factors that may affect any forward-looking statements, see Managements Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of
47
Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2008 and our
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2008, both of which are
incorporated by reference in this prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information.
When considering any forward-looking statement, you should also keep in mind the risk factors
described under the section entitled Risk Factors in this prospectus, in our Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2008 and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
period ended October 31, 2008, which are incorporated by reference in this prospectus. See Where
You Can Find More Information. Any of these risks could impair our business, financial condition
or results of operation. Any such impairment may affect our ability to make distributions or pay
interest on the principal of any of our debt securities. We undertake no obligation to update any
forward-looking statements after distribution of this prospectus.
In addition, the classification of Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership as
partnerships for federal income tax purposes means that we do not generally pay federal income
taxes. We do, however, pay taxes on the income of our subsidiaries that are corporations. See the
section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended July 31, 2008 entitled Item
1A. Risk Factors Tax Risks. The IRS could treat us as a corporation for tax purposes or changes
in federal or state laws could subject us to entity-level taxation, which would substantially
reduce the cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
48
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 14. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution
We will incur and pay all of the following expected costs in connection with the securities
being registered hereby. All amounts, other than the SEC registration fee, are estimated. We
expect to incur additional fees in connection with the issuance and distribution of the securities
registered hereby but the amount of such expenses cannot be estimated at this time as they will
depend upon the nature of the securities offered, the form and timing of such offerings and other
related matters.
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SEC registration fee*
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$
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29,475
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Legal fees and expenses
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75,000
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Accounting fees and expenses
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5,000
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Printing expenses
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10,000
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Miscellaneous
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10,000
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Total
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$
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129,475
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*
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In accordance with Rule 457(p), the total filing
fee of $29,475 is offset by $6,997.84, which has
already been paid.
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Item 15. Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Neither Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. nor Ferrellgas, L.P. has any employees, officers or
directors. Each is managed and operated by the employees, officers and directors of its general
partner, Ferrellgas, Inc.
The partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. provides that Ferrellgas Partners,
L.P., subject to any limitations expressly provided in its partnership agreement, shall indemnify
and hold harmless to the fullest extent permitted by current applicable law or as such law may
hereafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that the amendment
permits either partnership to provide broader indemnification rights) particular persons (each, an
Indemnitee) from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities (joint or several),
expenses (including, without limitation, legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, penalties,
interest, settlements and other amounts arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or
proceedings, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, in which any Indemnitee may
be involved, or is threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise, by reason of their status
as:
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the general partner, a former general partner, or any of their affiliates;
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an officer, director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of either partnership, the
general partner, any former general partner, or any of their affiliates; or
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a person or entity serving at the request of either partnership in another entity in
a similar capacity.
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This indemnification is available only if the Indemnitee acted in good faith, in a manner in
which the Indemnitee believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the applicable
partnership and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe its
conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order,
settlement, conviction or upon a plea of
nolo contendere
, or its equivalent, shall not create a
presumption that the Indemnitee acted in a manner contrary to that specified in the immediately
preceding sentence. Any indemnification shall be made only out of the assets of the applicable
partnership; our general partner shall not be personally liable for any indemnification and shall
have no obligation to contribute or loan any money or property to the applicable partnership to
enable it to effectuate such indemnification. In no event may an Indemnitee subject the limited
partners of the applicable partnership to personal liability by reason of being entitled to
indemnification.
To the fullest extent permitted by current applicable law or as such law may hereafter be
amended (but, in the case of such amendment, only to the extent that the amendment permits either
partnership to provide broader indemnification rights), expenses (including, without limitation,
legal fees and expenses) incurred by an Indemnitee in defending any claim, demand, action, suit or
proceeding shall, from time to time, be advanced by the applicable partnership prior to the final
disposition of such claim, demand, action, suit or proceeding upon receipt by the applicable
partnership of an undertaking by or on behalf of the Indemnitee to repay such amount if it shall be
determined that the Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification.
49
The indemnification provided by the partnership agreement of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. shall
be in addition to any other rights to which an Indemnitee may be entitled under any agreement,
pursuant to any vote of the holders of outstanding partnership units, as a matter of law or
otherwise, both as to actions in the Indemnitees capacity as:
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the general partner, a former general partner, or any of their affiliates;
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an officer, director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of either partnership, the
general partner, any former general partner, or any of their affiliates; or
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a person or entity serving at the request of either partnership in another entity in
a similar capacity,
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and as to actions in any other capacity, and shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to
serve in such capacity and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, successors, assigns and
administrators of the Indemnitee.
We have, to the extent commercially reasonable, purchased and currently maintain (or reimburse
our general partner or its affiliates for the cost of) insurance, on behalf of our general partner
and such other persons or entities as our general partner has determined, including particular
other Indemnitees, against any liability that may be asserted against or expenses that may be
incurred by such person or entity in connection with either partnerships activities, regardless of
whether Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. would have the power to indemnify such person or entity against
such liability under the provisions of either partnerships partnership agreement.
The applicable partnership shall be deemed to have requested an Indemnitee to serve as
fiduciary of an employee benefit plan whenever the performance by it of its duties to the
applicable partnership also imposes duties on, otherwise involves services by, it to the plan or
participants or beneficiaries of the plan. Excise taxes assessed on an Indemnitee with respect to
an employee benefit plan pursuant to the applicable law shall constitute fines subject to
indemnification. Action taken or omitted by the Indemnitee with respect to an employee benefit
plan in the performance of its duties for a purpose reasonably believed by it to be in the interest
of the participants and beneficiaries of the plan shall be deemed to be for a purpose which is in,
or not opposed to, the best interests of the applicable partnership.
An Indemnitee shall not be denied indemnification by the applicable partnership, in whole or
in part, because the Indemnitee had an interest in the transaction with respect to which the
indemnification applies, if the transaction was otherwise permitted by the terms of the applicable
partnership agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in the applicable
partnership agreement, no Indemnitee shall be liable for monetary damages to the applicable
partnership, the limited partners, their assignees or any other persons or entities who have
acquired partnership interests in Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., for losses sustained or liabilities
incurred as a result of any act or omission if such Indemnitee acted in good faith. Also, our
general partner shall not be responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent
appointed by our general partner in good faith.
Ferrellgas, Inc.
The Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and bylaws of Ferrellgas, Inc. also provide for
similar indemnification rights and benefits for its officers and directors from and against any and
all losses, claims, damages, liabilities (joint or several), expenses (including, without
limitation, legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, penalties, interest, settlements and other
amounts arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, whether civil,
criminal, administrative or investigative, in which any officer or director of Ferrellgas, Inc. may
be involved, or is threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise; provided, however, the
officers or directors must have acted in good faith, in a manner in which such person or entity
believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of Ferrellgas, Inc. and, with respect to
any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe its conduct was unlawful. Ferrellgas,
Inc. is also under similar obligations to advance expenses to its officers and directors relating
to indemnified claims and Ferrellgas, Inc. has, to the extent commercially reasonable, purchased
and currently maintains insurance on behalf of its officers and directors.
Furthermore, the directors of Ferrellgas, Inc. are not personally liable to Ferrellgas, Inc.
or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for
liability:
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for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to Ferrellgas, Inc. or its
stockholders;
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for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a
knowing violation of law;
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for unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions
under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware; or
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for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.
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Ferrellgas, Inc. has also entered into employment agreements with some of its directors and
officers. Pursuant to these employment agreements, Ferrellgas, Inc. has contractually agreed to
indemnify these officers and directors generally
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in accordance with the indemnification terms and provisions set forth above. Some of these
employment agreements also provide that Ferrellgas, Inc. shall indemnify such director or officer
when they were or are a party or are threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed action or suit by or in the right of Ferrellgas, Inc. to procure a judgment in its favor
by reason of the fact that such director or officer is or was a director or officer of Ferrellgas,
Inc., or is or was serving at the request of Ferrellgas, Inc. as a director, officer, employee or
agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against
expenses (including attorneys fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such director or officer
in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if such director or officer
acted in good faith and in a manner that such director or officer reasonably believed to be in or
not opposed to the best interests of Ferrellgas, Inc. and except that no indemnification pursuant
to the employment agreements shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which
such director or officer shall have been adjudged to be liable to Ferrellgas, Inc. unless and only
to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought
shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the
circumstances of the case, such directors or officers are fairly and reasonably entitled to
indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.
Generally, any indemnification under these employment agreements (unless ordered by a court)
shall be made by Ferrellgas, Inc. only as authorized in each specific case upon a determination, in
accordance with the procedures set forth in the applicable employment agreement, that
indemnification of such director or officer is proper in the circumstances because such director or
officer has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in their particular employment
agreement. Such determination shall be made:
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by a majority vote of the board of directors of Ferrellgas, Inc. who are not parties
to such action, suit or proceeding, even though less than a quorum;
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if there are no such directors or, if such directors so direct, by independent legal
counsel in a written opinion; or
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by the stockholders of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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Also, if such director or officer institutes any legal action to enforce such directors or
officers rights under their employment agreement, or to recover damages for breach of their
employment agreement, such director or officer, if such director or officer prevails in whole or in
part, shall be entitled to recover from Ferrellgas, Inc. all fees and expenses (including
attorneys fees) incurred by such director or officer in connection therewith.
None of the indemnification rights described herein are exclusive of any other rights to which
an Indemnitee, or other applicable person, may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of
stockholders, unitholders or disinterested directors, as a matter of law or otherwise, both as to
action in the Indemnitees, or other applicable persons, official capacity with either partnership
or Ferrellgas, Inc. and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, and shall
continue after the Indemnitee, or other applicable person, has ceased to be an officer or director
of either partnership or Ferrellgas, Inc., and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors
and administrators of the Indemnitee, or other applicable person.
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Item 16. Exhibits
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Exhibit Number
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Description
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**1.1
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Form of Underwriting Agreement.
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*3.1
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Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners,
L.P., dated as of February 18, 2003.
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*3.2
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First Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated March 8, 2005.
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*3.3
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Second Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of June 29, 2005.
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*3.4
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Third Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of October 11, 2006.
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*3.5
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Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated
as of April 7, 2004.
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*3.6
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Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. filed with the
Delaware Division of Corporations on March 28, 1996.
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*3.7
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Bylaws of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. adopted as of April 1, 1996.
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*3.8
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Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware
Division of Corporations on January 16, 2003.
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*3.9
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Bylaws of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. adopted as of January 16, 2003.
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*4.1
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Common Units representing Limited Partner Interests
(contained in Exhibit 3.1 as Exhibit A thereto).
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**4.2
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Senior Units representing Limited Partner Interests.
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**4.3
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Deferred Participation Units representing Limited
Partner Interests.
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*4.4
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Form of Senior Indenture among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance
Corp., and Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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*4.5
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Form of Subordinated Indenture among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp., and Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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*4.6
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Form of Senior Indenture among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and Trustee,
with form of Note attached.
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*4.7
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Form of Subordinated Indenture among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and
Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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**4.8
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Form of Warrant.
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**4.9
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Form of Warrant Agreement.
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***5.1
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Opinion of Greenberg Traurig LLP as to the legality of the securities registered hereby.
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***8.1
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Opinion of Greenberg Traurig LLP as to tax matters.
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*12.1
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Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to
Fixed Charges.
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S-1
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Exhibit Number
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Description
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*23.1
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Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
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***23.2
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Consent of Greenberg Traurig LLP (contained in Exhibits 5.1 and 8.1 herewith).
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**25.1
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Statement of Eligibility of Trustee
on Form T-1.
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*
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Filed herewith.
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**
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To be filed as an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K or post-effective amendment to this registration statement on Form S-3.
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***
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To be filed as an exhibit to an amendment to this
registration statement on Form S-3.
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S-2
Item 17. Undertakings
(a) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) to file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective
amendment to this registration statement:
(i) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;
(ii) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date
of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which,
individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set
forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or
decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered
would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of
the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with
the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price
represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the
Calculation of Registration Fee table in the effective registration statement.
(iii) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not
previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such
information in the registration statement;
provided, however, that:
(A) paragraphs (a)(1)(i) and (a)(1)(ii) of this section do not apply if the
registration statement is on Form S-8, and the information required to be included in a
post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or
furnished to the SEC by the registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement; and
(B) Paragraphs (a)(1)(i), (a)(1)(ii) and (a)(1)(iii) of this section do not apply
if the registration statement is on Form S-3 or Form F-3 and the information required to
be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports
filed with or furnished to the Commission by the registrant pursuant to section 13 or
section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are incorporated by reference
in the registration statement, or is contained in a form of prospectus filed pursuant to
Rule 424(b) that is part of the registration statement.
(2) that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such
post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the
securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be
the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) to remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities
being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any
liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the registrants Annual Report pursuant to
Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an
employee benefit plans annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is
incorporated by reference in the registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration
statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be
permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the
foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC
such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore,
unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than
the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted
by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered,
the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by
controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be
governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant certifies that it
has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this
Registration Statement on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Registration Statement on Form S-3 to
be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Overland
Park, State of Missouri, on March 6, 2009.
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
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By:
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FERRELLGAS, INC., its general partner
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By:
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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James E. Ferrell
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Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on
Form S-3 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
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Name
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Title
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Date
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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Chairman, President and Chief
Executive Officer
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March 6, 2009
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of Ferrellgas,
Inc. (Principal Executive Officer)
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/s/ William K. Hoskins
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Director of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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March 6, 2009
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/s/ A. Andrew Levison
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Director of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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March 6, 2009
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/s/ John R. Lowden
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Director of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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March 6, 2009
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/s/ Michael F. Morrissey
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Director of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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March 6, 2009
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/s/ Elizabeth T. Solberg
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Director of Ferrellgas, Inc.
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March 6, 2009
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/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
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Senior Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer
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March 6, 2009
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of Ferrellgas,
Inc. (Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
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S-1
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant certifies that it
has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this
Registration Statement on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Registration Statement on Form S-3 to
be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Overland
Park, State of Missouri, on March 6, 2009.
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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James E. Ferrell
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President and Chief Executive Officer
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on
Form S-3 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
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Name
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Title
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Date
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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President and Chief Executive Officer of
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March 6, 2009
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Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
(Principal Executive Officer)
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/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
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Senior Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer
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March 6, 2009
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of Ferrellgas
Finance Corp. (Principal Financial
and Accounting Officer)
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S-2
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant certifies that it
has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this
Registration Statement on Form S-3 and has duly caused this Registration Statement on Form S-3 to
be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Overland
Park, State of Missouri, on March 6, 2009.
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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James E. Ferrell
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President and Chief Executive Officer
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on
Form S-3 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
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Name
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Title
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Date
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/s/ James E. Ferrell
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President and Chief Executive Officer of
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March 6, 2009
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Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
(Principal Executive Officer)
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/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
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Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
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March 6, 2009
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of Ferrellgas
Partners Finance Corp. (Principal
Financial and Accounting Officer)
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S-3
Exhibit Index
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Exhibit Number
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Description
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**1.1
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Form of Underwriting Agreement
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*3.1
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Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners,
L.P., dated as of February 18, 2003.
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*3.2
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First Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated March 8, 2005.
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*3.3
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Second Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of June 29, 2005.
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*3.4
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Third Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of October 11, 2006
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*3.5
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Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated
as of April 7, 2004.
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*3.6
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Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. filed with the
Delaware Division of Corporations on March 28, 1996.
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*3.7
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Bylaws of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. adopted as of April 1, 1996.
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*3.8
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Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware
Division of Corporations on January 16, 2003.
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*3.9
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Bylaws of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. adopted as of January 16, 2003.
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*4.1
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Common Units representing Limited Partner Interests
(contained in Exhibit 3.1 as Exhibit A thereto).
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**4.2
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Senior Units representing Limited Partner Interests.
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**4.3
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Specimen Certificate evidencing Deferred Participation Units representing Limited
Partner Interests.
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*4.4
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Form of Senior Indenture among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance
Corp., and Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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*4.5
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Form of Subordinated Indenture among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners
Finance Corp., and Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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*4.6
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Form of Senior Indenture among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and Trustee,
with form of Note attached.
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*4.7
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Form of Subordinated Indenture among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and
Trustee, with form of Note attached.
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**4.8
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Form of Warrant.
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**4.9
|
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Form of Warrant Agreement.
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***5.1
|
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Opinion of Greenberg Traurig LLP as to the legality of the securities registered hereby.
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Exhibit - 1
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Exhibit Number
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Description
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***8.1
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Opinion of Greenberg Traurig LLP as to tax matters.
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*12.1
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Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to
Fixed Charges.
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*23.1
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Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
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***23.2
|
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Consent of Greenberg Traurig LLP (contained in Exhibits 5.1 and 8.1 herewith).
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**25.1
|
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Statement of Eligibility of Trustee
on Form T-1.
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*
|
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Filed herewith.
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|
**
|
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To be filed as an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K or post-effective amendment to this registration statement on Form S-3.
|
|
***
|
|
To be filed as an exhibit to an amendment to this
registration statement on Form S-3.
|
Exhibit - 2
Exhibit 3.1
Executed Copy / Conformed
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT
OF
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
OF
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE I
ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
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Section 1.1 Formation and Continuation
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2
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Section 1.2 Name
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3
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Section 1.3 Registered Office; Principal Office
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3
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Section 1.4 Power of Attorney
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3
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Section 1.5 Term
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5
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|
Section 1.6 Possible Restrictions on Transfer
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5
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ARTICLE II
|
DEFINITIONS
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|
|
5
|
|
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ARTICLE III
PURPOSE
|
Section 3.1 Purpose and Business
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|
|
25
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Section 3.2 Powers
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|
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26
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ARTICLE IV
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
|
Section 4.1 Initial Contributions
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|
|
26
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|
Section 4.2 Contributions by the General Partner and the Initial Limited Partners;
Contributions on the WNGL Closing Date and issuance of General Partner Units
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26
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Section 4.3 Issuances of Additional Units and Other Securities
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|
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27
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Section 4.4 Limited Preemptive Rights
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29
|
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Section 4.5 Capital Accounts
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|
29
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Section 4.6 Interest
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32
|
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|
Section 4.7 No Withdrawal
|
|
|
32
|
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|
Section 4.8 Loans from Partners
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|
|
32
|
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|
Section 4.9 No Fractional Units
|
|
|
32
|
|
|
Section 4.10 Splits and Combinations
|
|
|
32
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE V
ALLOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
|
|
Section 5.1 Allocations for Capital Account Purposes
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
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|
|
|
- i -
|
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|
|
Section 5.2 Allocations for Tax Purposes
|
|
|
42
|
|
|
Section 5.3 Requirement and Characterization of Distributions
|
|
|
44
|
|
|
Section 5.4 Distributions of Cash from Operations and Additional Senior Units
|
|
|
45
|
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|
Section 5.5 Distributions of Cash from Interim Capital Transactions
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
Section 5.6 Adjustment of Senior Unit Liquidation Preference, Senior Unit
Distribution, Minimum Quarterly Distribution and Target Distribution Levels
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
Section 5.7 Special Provisions Relating to the Senior Units
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
Section 5.8 Special Provisions Relating to the Special Limited Partners
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
Section 5.9 Special Provision Relating to FCI Common Units
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE VI
MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF BUSINESS
|
Section 6.1 Management
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
Section 6.2 Certificate of Limited Partnership
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
Section 6.3 Restrictions on General Partners Authority
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
Section 6.4 Reimbursement of the General Partner
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
Section 6.5 Outside Activities
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
Section 6.6 Loans to and from the General Partner; Contracts with Affiliates
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
Section 6.7 Indemnification
|
|
|
61
|
|
|
Section 6.8 Liability of Indemnitees
|
|
|
62
|
|
|
Section 6.9 Resolution of Conflicts of Interest
|
|
|
63
|
|
|
Section 6.10 Other Matters Concerning the General Partner
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
Section 6.11 Title to Partnership Assets
|
|
|
65
|
|
|
Section 6.12 Purchase or Sale of Units
|
|
|
65
|
|
|
Section 6.13 Registration Rights of Ferrellgas and its Affiliates
|
|
|
66
|
|
|
Section 6.14 Reliance by Third Parties
|
|
|
68
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE VII
RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF LIMITED PARTNERS
|
Section 7.1 Limitation of Liability
|
|
|
68
|
|
|
Section 7.2 Management of Business
|
|
|
68
|
|
|
Section 7.3 Outside Activities
|
|
|
68
|
|
|
Section 7.4 Return of Capital
|
|
|
69
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- ii -
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 7.5 Rights of Limited Partners Relating to the Partnership
|
|
|
69
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE
VIII
BOOKS, RECORDS, ACCOUNTING AND REPORTS
|
Section 8.1 Records and Accounting
|
|
|
70
|
|
|
Section 8.2 Fiscal Year
|
|
|
70
|
|
|
Section 8.3 Reports
|
|
|
70
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE IX
TAX MATTERS
|
Section 9.1 Preparation of Tax Returns
|
|
|
71
|
|
|
Section 9.2 Tax Elections
|
|
|
71
|
|
|
Section 9.3 Tax Controversies
|
|
|
71
|
|
|
Section 9.4 Organizational Expenses
|
|
|
71
|
|
|
Section 9.5 Withholding
|
|
|
71
|
|
|
Section 9.6 Entity Level Taxation
|
|
|
72
|
|
|
Section 9.7 Entity Level Arrearage Collections
|
|
|
72
|
|
|
Section 9.8 Opinions of Counsel
|
|
|
73
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE X
CERTIFICATES
|
Section 10.1 Certificates
|
|
|
73
|
|
|
Section 10.2 Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
|
|
|
73
|
|
|
Section 10.3 Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost or Stolen Certificates
|
|
|
74
|
|
|
Section 10.4 Record Holder
|
|
|
75
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XI
TRANSFER OF INTERESTS
|
Section 11.1 Transfer
|
|
|
75
|
|
|
Section 11.2 Transfer of the General Partner Interest
|
|
|
76
|
|
|
Section 11.3 Transfer of Units (other than General Partner Units)
|
|
|
76
|
|
|
Section 11.4 Restrictions on Transfers
|
|
|
77
|
|
|
Section 11.5 Citizenship Certificates; Non citizen Assignees
|
|
|
77
|
|
|
Section 11.6 Redemption of Interests
|
|
|
78
|
|
|
Section 11.7 Transfer of IDRs
|
|
|
79
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XII
ADMISSION OF PARTNERS
|
|
|
|
|
|
- iii -
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 12.1 Admission of Initial Limited Partners
|
|
|
79
|
|
|
Section 12.2 Admission of Substituted Limited Partners
|
|
|
79
|
|
|
Section 12.3 Admission of Successor General Partner
|
|
|
80
|
|
|
Section 12.4 Admission of Additional Limited Partners
|
|
|
80
|
|
|
Section 12.5 Amendment of Agreement and Certificate of Limited Partnership
|
|
|
81
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XIII
WITHDRAWAL OR REMOVAL OF PARTNERS
|
Section 13.1 Withdrawal of the General Partner
|
|
|
81
|
|
|
Section 13.2 Removal of the General Partner
|
|
|
82
|
|
|
Section 13.3 Interest of Departing Partner and Successor General Partner
|
|
|
83
|
|
|
Section 13.4 Withdrawal of Limited Partners
|
|
|
84
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XIV
DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION
|
Section 14.1 Dissolution
|
|
|
84
|
|
|
Section 14.2 Continuation of the Business of the Partnership after Dissolution
|
|
|
85
|
|
|
Section 14.3 Liquidation
|
|
|
86
|
|
|
Section 14.4 Distributions in Kind
|
|
|
87
|
|
|
Section 14.5 Cancellation of Certificate of Limited Partnership
|
|
|
87
|
|
|
Section 14.6 Reasonable Time for Winding Up
|
|
|
87
|
|
|
Section 14.7 Return of Capital Contributions
|
|
|
87
|
|
|
Section 14.8 Capital Account Restoration
|
|
|
87
|
|
|
Section 14.9 Waiver of Partition
|
|
|
88
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XV
AMENDMENT OF PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT; MEETINGS; RECORD DATE
|
Section 15.1 Amendment to be Adopted Solely by General Partner
|
|
|
88
|
|
|
Section 15.2 Amendment Procedures
|
|
|
89
|
|
|
Section 15.3 Amendment Requirements
|
|
|
89
|
|
|
Section 15.4 Meetings
|
|
|
90
|
|
|
Section 15.5 Notice of a Meeting
|
|
|
91
|
|
|
Section 15.6 Record Date
|
|
|
91
|
|
|
Section 15.7 Adjournment
|
|
|
91
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- iv -
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 15.8 Waiver of Notice; Approval of Meeting; Approval of Minutes
|
|
|
91
|
|
|
Section 15.9 Quorum
|
|
|
91
|
|
|
Section 15.10 Conduct of Meeting
|
|
|
92
|
|
|
Section 15.11 Action Without a Meeting
|
|
|
92
|
|
|
Section 15.12 Voting and Other Rights
|
|
|
93
|
|
|
Section 15.13 Voting Rights of Senior Units
|
|
|
93
|
|
|
Section 15.14 Amendment of Arrearage Requirements
|
|
|
94
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XVI
MERGER
|
|
Section 16.1 Authority
|
|
|
94
|
|
|
Section 16.2 Procedure for Merger or Consolidation
|
|
|
94
|
|
|
Section 16.3 Approval by Holders of Common Units of Merger or Consolidation
|
|
|
95
|
|
|
Section 16.4 Certificate of Merger
|
|
|
96
|
|
|
Section 16.5 Effect of Merger
|
|
|
96
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XVII
RIGHT TO ACQUIRE UNITS
|
|
Section 17.1 Right to Acquire Units
|
|
|
97
|
|
|
Section 17.2 Right to Acquire Senior Units
|
|
|
98
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XVIII
GENERAL PROVISIONS
|
|
Section 18.1 Addresses and Notices
|
|
|
99
|
|
|
Section 18.2 References
|
|
|
99
|
|
|
Section 18.3 Pronouns and Plurals
|
|
|
99
|
|
|
Section 18.4 Further Action
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.5 Binding Effect
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.6 Integration
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.7 Creditors
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.8 Waiver
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.9 Counterparts
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.10 Applicable Law
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
Section 18.11 Invalidity of Provisions
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- v -
|
FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP OF
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
THIS FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP OF FERRELLGAS PARTNERS,
L.P
., dated as of February 18, 2003, is entered into by and among Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware
corporation, as the General Partner, the Persons who are Limited Partners in the Partnership as of
the date hereof and those Persons who become Partners in the Partnership or parties hereto as
provided herein. In consideration of the covenants, conditions and agreements contained herein,
the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the General Partner and the organizational Limited Partner organized the Partnership
as a Delaware limited partnership pursuant to an Agreement of Limited Partnership dated as of July
5, 1994 (the Original Agreement);
WHEREAS, the Partnership, the Operating Partnership and Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, entered into a Purchase Agreement dated November 7, 1999, relating to the
sale of Thermogas, L.L.C. to the Partnership in consideration, in part, for the issuance of Senior
Units, as defined below;
WHEREAS, to effect the transactions contemplated by the WNGL Purchase Agreement and other
matters, the Original Agreement was amended and restated (the Amended and Restated Agreement);
WHEREAS, on May 14, 2000, the General Partner made certain amendments to the Amended and
Restated Agreement with the consent of the holder of all of the Senior Units, as allowed by the
Amended and Restated Agreement;
WHEREAS, on June 5, 2000, the holders of Common Units approved a proposal at a special meeting
of such holders to amend the definition of Outstanding under the Amended and Restated Agreement;
and
WHEREAS, on June 5, 2000, the General Partner amended and restated the Amended and Restated
Agreement (the Second Amended and Restated Agreement) to convert the General Partners percentage
interest in the partnership into General Partner Units (as defined below) and make related
amendments, which amendment and restatement was made pursuant to Section 15.1 of the Amended and
Restated Agreement that provides that the General Partner may amend the Amended and Restated
Agreement without the consent of any Limited Partner to reflect a change that, in the sole
discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely affect the Limited Partners in any material
respect;
WHEREAS, on April 6, 2001, the Second Amended and Restated Agreement was amended and restated
(the Third Amended and Restated Agreement) to reflect (a) certain amendments to the Second
Amended and Restated Agreement made with the consent in writing
of the holder of all of the Senior Units, as allowed by the Second Amended and Restated
Agreement, (b) certain amendments made pursuant to Section 15.1 of the Second Amended and Restated
Agreement that provides that the General Partner may amend the Second Amended and Restated
Agreement without the consent of any Limited Partner to reflect a change that, in the sole
discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely affect the Limited Partners in any material
respect, and (c) the addition of Sections 5.4(a), (b) and (c) proposed by the General Partner to
allow the Common Units held by FCI, as defined below, to defer specified payments of Available
Cash, as defined below, which amendments were consented to in writing by the Limited Partners
owning not less than the minimum percentage of the Outstanding Units that were necessary to
authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all the Limited Partners entitled to vote
thereon were present and voted in accordance with Section 15.11 of the Second Amended and Restated
Agreement, and, which addition of Sections 5.4(a), (b) and (c) became effective as of the end of
the Information Statement Period, as defined below.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Third Amended and Restated Agreement is hereby amended to reflect certain
amendments made pursuant to Section 15.1 of the Third Amended and Restated Agreement that provides
that the General Partner may amend the Third Amended and Restated Agreement without the consent of
any Limited Partner to reflect a change that:
(a) in the sole discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely affect the Limited
Partners in any material respect; or
(b) is required to effect the intent of the provisions of the Third Amended and Restated
Agreement or are otherwise contemplated by the Third Amended and Restated Agreement, which
amendments, among other things, are intended to correct an unintentional alteration of the economic
terms of the Second Amended and Restated Agreement, which alteration changed the distributions to
be made to the General Partner (as the holder of the General Partner Units) in certain
circumstances, and, as so amended, is restated in its entirety as follows:
ARTICLE I
ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
Section 1.1
Formation and Continuation.
(a) The General Partner and the organizational Limited Partner previously formed the
Partnership as a limited partnership pursuant to the provisions of the Delaware Act. The General
Partner hereby amends and restates the Second Amended and Restated Agreement in its entirety to
continue the Partnership as a limited partnership pursuant to the provisions of the Delaware Act
and to set forth the rights and obligations of the Partners and certain matters related thereto.
This amendment and restatement shall become effective on the date of this Agreement. Except as
expressly provided to the contrary in this Agreement, the rights and obligations of the Partners
and the administration, dissolution and termination of the Partnership shall be governed by the
Delaware Act. All Partnership Interests shall constitute personal property of the owner thereof
for all purposes.
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(b) In connection with the formation of the Partnership, Ferrellgas was admitted as a general
partner of the Partnership, and the organizational Limited Partner was admitted as a limited
partner of the Partnership. As of the Initial Closing Date, the interest in the Partnership of the
organizational Limited Partner was terminated and the organizational Limited Partner withdrew as a
limited partner of the Partnership.
Section 1.2
Name
. The name of the Partnership is Ferrellgas Partners, L.P
.
The Partnerships
business may be conducted under any other name or names deemed necessary or appropriate by the
General Partner, including, without limitation, the name of the General Partner. The words
Limited Partnership
,
L.P
.,
Ltd
.
or similar words or letters shall be included in the
Partnerships name where necessary for the purposes of complying with the laws of any jurisdiction
that so requires. The General Partner in its sole discretion may change the name of the
Partnership at any time and from time to time and shall notify the Limited Partners of such change
in the next regular communication to the Limited Partners.
Section 1.3
Registered Office; Principal Office
. Unless and until changed by the General Partner,
the registered office of the Partnership in the State of Delaware shall be located at The
Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, New Castle County, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, and
the registered agent for service of process on the Partnership in the State of Delaware at such
registered office shall be The Corporation Trust Company. The principal office of the Partnership
shall be located at, and the address of the General Partner shall be, One Liberty Plaza, Liberty,
Missouri 64068, or such other place as the General Partner may from time to time designate by
notice to the Limited Partners. The Partnership may maintain offices at such other place or places
within or outside the State of Delaware as the General Partner deems necessary or appropriate.
Section 1.4
Power of Attorney.
(a) Each Limited Partner and each Assignee hereby constitutes and appoints each of the General
Partner and, if a Liquidator shall have been selected pursuant to Section 14.3, the Liquidator
severally (and any successor to either thereof by merger, transfer, assignment, election or
otherwise) and each of their authorized officers and attorneys in fact, with full power of
substitution, as his true and lawful agent and attorney in fact, with full power and authority in
his name, place and stead, to:
(i) execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and record in the appropriate
public offices (A) all certificates, documents and other instruments (including,
without limitation, this Agreement and the Certificate of Limited Partnership and
all amendments or restatements thereof) that the General Partner or the Liquidator
deems necessary or appropriate to form, qualify or continue the existence or
qualification of the Partnership as a limited partnership (or a partnership in which
the limited partners have limited liability) in the State of Delaware and in all
other jurisdictions in which the Partnership may conduct business or own property;
(B) all certificates, documents and other instruments that the General Partner or
the Liquidator deems necessary or appropriate to reflect, in accordance with its
terms, any amendment, change, modification or restatement of this Agreement; (C) all
certificates, documents and other
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instruments (including, without limitation, conveyances and a certificate of
cancellation) that the General Partner or the Liquidator deems necessary or
appropriate to reflect the dissolution and liquidation of the Partnership pursuant
to the terms of this Agreement; (D) all certificates, documents and other
instruments relating to the admission, withdrawal, removal or substitution of any
Partner pursuant to, or other events described in, Article XI, XII, XIII or XIV or
the Capital Contribution of any Partner; (E) all certificates, documents and other
instruments relating to the determination of the rights, preferences and privileges
of any class or series of Units or other Partnership Securities issued pursuant to
Section 4.2; and (F) all certificates, documents and other instruments (including,
without limitation, agreements and a certificate of merger) relating to a merger or
consolidation of the Partnership pursuant to Article XVI; and
(ii) execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and record all ballots,
consents, approvals, waivers, certificates, documents and other instruments
necessary or appropriate, in the sole discretion of the General Partner or the
Liquidator, to make, evidence, give, confirm or ratify any vote, consent, approval,
agreement or other action that is made or given by the Partners hereunder or is
consistent with the terms of this Agreement or is necessary or appropriate, in the
sole discretion of the General Partner or the Liquidator, to effectuate the terms or
intent of this Agreement; provided, that when required by Section 15.3 or any other
provision of this Agreement that establishes a percentage of the Limited Partners or
of the Limited Partners of any class or series required to take any action, the
General Partner or the Liquidator may exercise the power of attorney made in this
Section 1.4(a)(ii) only after the necessary vote, consent or approval of the Limited
Partners or of the Limited Partners of such class or series, as applicable.
Nothing contained in this Section 1.4(a) shall be construed as authorizing the General Partner
to amend this Agreement except in accordance with Article XV or as may be otherwise expressly
provided for in this Agreement.
(b) The foregoing power of attorney is hereby declared to be irrevocable and a power coupled
with an interest, and it shall survive and not be affected by the subsequent death, incompetency,
disability, incapacity, dissolution, bankruptcy or termination of any Limited Partner or Assignee
and the transfer of all or any portion of such Limited Partners or Assignees Partnership Interest
and shall extend to such Limited Partners or Assignees heirs, successors, assigns and personal
representatives. Each such Limited Partner or Assignee hereby agrees to be bound by any
representation made by the General Partner or the Liquidator acting in good faith pursuant to such
power of attorney; and each such Limited Partner or Assignee hereby waives any and all defenses
that may be available to contest, negate or disaffirm the action of the General Partner or the
Liquidator taken in good faith under such power of attorney. Each Limited Partner or Assignee
shall execute and deliver to the General Partner or the Liquidator, within 15 days after receipt of
the General Partners or the Liquidators request therefor, such further designation, powers of
attorney and other instruments as the General Partner or the Liquidator deems necessary to
effectuate this Agreement and the purposes of the Partnership.
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Section 1.5
Term
. The Partnership commenced upon the filing of the Certificate of Limited
Partnership in accordance with the Delaware Act and shall continue in existence until the close of
Partnership business on July 31, 2084, or until the earlier dissolution of the Partnership in
accordance with the provisions of Article XIV.
Section 1.6
Possible Restrictions on Transfer
. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained
in this Agreement, in the event of (a) the enactment (or imminent enactment) of any legislation,
(b) the publication of any temporary or final regulation by the Treasury Department, (c) any ruling
by the Internal Revenue Service or (d) any judicial decision, that, in any such case, in the
Opinion of Counsel, would result in the taxation of the Partnership as an association taxable as a
corporation or would otherwise result in the Partnerships being taxed as an entity for federal
income tax purposes, then, the General Partner may impose such restrictions on the transfer of
Units or Partnership Interests as may be required, in the Opinion of Counsel, to prevent the
Partnership from being taxed as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise as an entity
for federal income tax purposes, including, without limitation, making such amendments to this
Agreement as the General Partner in its sole discretion may determine to be necessary or
appropriate to impose such restrictions, provided, that any such amendment to this Agreement that
would result in the delisting or suspension of trading of any class of Units on any National
Securities Exchange on which such class of Units is then traded must be approved by the holders of
at least two thirds of the Outstanding Units of such class (excluding the vote in respect of Units
held by the General Partner and its Affiliates).
ARTICLE II
DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall be for all purposes, unless otherwise clearly indicated to the
contrary, applied to the terms used in this Agreement.
Acquisition
means any transaction in which the Partnership or the Operating Partnership
acquires (through an asset acquisition, merger, stock acquisition or other form of investment)
control over all or a portion of the assets, properties or business of another Person for the
purpose of increasing the operating capacity of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership,
taken as a whole, from the operating capacity of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership,
taken as a whole, existing immediately prior to such transaction.
Additional Limited Partner
means a Person admitted to the Partnership as a Limited Partner
pursuant to Section 12.4 and who is shown as such on the books and records of the Partnership.
Additional Senior Units
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.4.
Adjusted Capital Account
means the Capital Account maintained for each Partner as of the end
of each fiscal year of the Partnership, (a) increased by any amounts that such Partner is obligated
to restore under the standards set by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(ii)(c) (or is
deemed obligated to restore under Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704 2(g) and 1.704 2(i)(5)) and
(b) decreased by (i) the amount of all losses and deductions that, as of the end of such fiscal
year, are reasonably expected to be allocated to such Partner in subsequent years
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under Sections 704(e)(2) and 706(d) of the Code and Treasury Regulation Section 1.751
1(b)(2)(ii), and (ii) the amount of all distributions that, as of the end of such fiscal year, are
reasonably expected to be made to such Partner in subsequent years in accordance with the terms of
this Agreement or otherwise to the extent they exceed offsetting increases to such Partners
Capital Account that are reasonably expected to occur during (or prior to) the year in which such
distributions are reasonably expected to be made (other than increases as a result of a minimum
gain chargeback pursuant to Section 5.1(d)(i) or 5.1(d)(ii)). The foregoing definition of Adjusted
Capital Account is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704
1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith. The
Adjusted Capital Account
in
respect of a Common Unit, a General Partner Unit, a Senior Unit, an IDR or any other specified
interest in the Partnership shall be the amount which such Adjusted Capital Account would be if
such Common Unit, General Partner Unit, Senior Unit or IDR or other interest in the Partnership
were the only interest in the Partnership held by a Partner.
Adjusted Property
means any property the Carrying Value of which has been adjusted pursuant
to Section 4.5(d)(i) or 4.5(d)(ii).
Affiliate
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly
controls, is controlled by or is under common control with, the Person in question. As used
herein, the term
control
means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or
cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through ownership of voting
securities, by contract or otherwise.
Agreed Allocation
means any allocation, other than a Required Allocation, of an item of
income, gain, loss or deduction pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.1, including, without
limitation, a Curative Allocation (if appropriate to the context in which the term
Agreed
Allocation
is used).
Agreed Value
of any Contributed Property means the fair market value of such property or
other consideration at the time of contribution as determined by the General Partner using such
reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt. The General Partner shall, in its sole discretion,
use such method as it deems reasonable and appropriate to allocate the aggregate Agreed Value of
Contributed Properties contributed to the Partnership in a single or integrated transaction among
each separate property on a basis proportional to the fair market value of each Contributed
Property.
Amended and Restated Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.
Agreement
means this Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., as it may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.
Amended and Restated Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.
Arrearage
means as to each Quarter within the Arrearage Period, the excess, if any, of (a)
the sum of all Available Cash distributed pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(ii) through 5.4(a)(vi) or
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5.4(b)(ii), as applicable, over (b) the sum of all Available Cash distributed pursuant to Section
5.4(a)(vii) or Section 5.4(b)(iii), as applicable, and categorized by Unit or Special Limited
Partner for each Quarter according to the amount of the excess accrued for that Unit or Special
Limited Partner pursuant to each clause of Section 5.4(a) or Section 5.4(b), as applicable. Upon
payment of any amount of the Arrearage pursuant to Section 5.4(b)(iv) or Section 5.4(c)(iii), that
amount shall no longer be considered an Arrearage.
Arrearage Period
means the period commencing at the end of the Information Statement Period,
and ending on the earlier of (a) December 31, 2005, (b) a Change of Control, (c) upon the
occurrence of an event that causes the dissolution of the Partnership in accordance with Section
14.1, or (d) the date on which FCI no longer beneficially owns any FCI Common Units.
Assignee
means a Non-citizen Assignee or a Person to whom one or more Units have been
transferred in a manner permitted under this Agreement and who has executed and delivered a
Transfer Application as required by this Agreement, but who has not become a Substituted Limited
Partner.
Associate
means, when used to indicate a relationship with any Person, (i) any corporation
or organization of which such Person is a director, officer or partner or is, directly or
indirectly, the owner of 20% or more of any class of voting stock or other voting interest of such
corporation or organization; (ii) any trust or other estate in which such Person has at least a 20%
beneficial interest or as to which such Person serves as trustee or in a similar fiduciary
capacity; and (iii) any relative or spouse of such Person, or any relative of such spouse, who has
the same residence as such Person.
Audit Committee
means a committee of the Board of Directors of the General Partner composed
entirely of two or more directors who are neither officers nor employees of the General Partner or
any of its Affiliates.
Available Cash
means, with respect to any Quarter and without duplication:
(a) the sum of:
(i) all cash receipts of the Partnership during such Quarter from all sources
(including, without limitation, distributions of cash received from the Operating
Partnership and cash proceeds from Interim Capital Transactions, but excluding cash
proceeds from Termination Capital Transactions), plus, in the case of the Quarter
ending October 31, 1994, the cash balance of the Partnership as of the close of
business on the Initial Closing Date; and
(ii) any reduction with respect to such Quarter in a cash reserve previously
established pursuant to clause (b)(ii) below (either by reversal or utilization)
from the level of such reserve at the end of the prior Quarter;
(b) less the sum of:
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(i) all cash disbursements of the Partnership during such Quarter, including,
without limitation, disbursements for operating expenses, taxes, if any, debt
service (including, without limitation, the payment of principal, premium and
interest), redemption of Partnership Interests, capital expenditures, contributions,
if any, to the Operating Partnership and cash distributions to Partners (but only to
the extent that such cash distributions to Partners exceed Available Cash for the
immediately preceding Quarter); and
(ii) any cash reserves established with respect to such Quarter, and any
increase with respect to such Quarter in a cash reserve previously established
pursuant to this clause (b)(ii) from the level of such reserve at the end of the
prior Quarter, in such amounts as the General Partner determines in its reasonable
discretion to be necessary or appropriate (A) to provide for the proper conduct of
the business of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership (including, without
limitation, reserves for future capital expenditures), (B) to provide funds for
distributions with respect to Units in respect of any one or more of the next four
Quarters
provided, however
, that for so long as any Senior Units are Outstanding,
the General Partner may not establish cash reserves for distributions pursuant to
Sections 5.4(a)(ii) through (a)(vii), 5.4(b)(ii) through (b)(iv), 5.4(c)(ii),
5.4(c)(iii) or 5.4(d)(ii) through (d)(vi) unless the General Partner has determined
that in its judgment the establishment of such reserves will not prevent the
Partnership from making distributions pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(i), 5.4(b)(i),
5.4(c)(i) or 5.4(d)(i), as applicable, with respect to the four Quarters next
following the date on which such cash reserves are to be so established or (C)
because the distribution of such amounts would be prohibited by applicable law or by
any loan agreement, security agreement, mortgage, debt instrument or other agreement
or obligation to which the Partnership or the Operating Partnership is a party or by
which any of them is bound or its assets are subject;
provided, however
, that for
purposes of determining Available Cash for the Quarter ending October 31, 1994, such
Quarter shall be deemed to have commenced on the Initial Closing Date.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Available Cash with respect to any Quarter shall not include any
cash receipts or reductions in reserves or take into account any disbursements made or reserves
established in each case after the Liquidation Date. Taxes paid by the Partnership on behalf of,
or amounts withheld with respect to, all or less than all of the Partners shall not be considered
cash disbursements of the Partnership that reduce Available Cash, but the payment or withholding
thereof shall be deemed to be a distribution of Available Cash to the Partners other than the
Limited Partners holding Senior Units. Alternatively, in the discretion of the General Partner,
such taxes (if pertaining to all Partners) may be considered to be cash disbursements of the
Partnership which reduce Available Cash, but the payment or withholding thereof shall not be deemed
to be a distribution of Available Cash to such Partners. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
payment of taxes by the Partnership on behalf of Limited Partners holding Senior Units will not
satisfy the obligation of the Partnership to pay the Senior Unit Distribution.
Book-Tax Disparity
means with respect to any item of Contributed Property or Adjusted
Property, as of the date of any determination, the difference between the Carrying Value of such
Contributed Property or Adjusted Property and the adjusted basis thereof for
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federal income tax purposes as of such date. A Partners share of the Partnerships Book Tax
Disparities in all of its Contributed Property and Adjusted Property will be reflected by the
difference between such Partners Capital Account balance as maintained pursuant to Section 4.5 and
the hypothetical balance of such Partners Capital Account computed as if it had been maintained
strictly in accordance with federal income tax accounting principles.
Business Day
means Monday through Friday of each week, except that a legal holiday
recognized as such by the government of the United States or the states of New York or Missouri
shall not be regarded as a Business Day.
Capital Account
means the capital account maintained for a Partner pursuant to Section 4.5.
Capital Additions and Improvements
means (a) additions or improvements to the capital assets
owned by the Partnership or the Operating Partnership or (b) the acquisition of existing or the
construction of new capital assets (including, without limitation, retail distribution outlets,
propane tanks, pipeline systems, storage facilities and related assets), made to increase the
operating capacity of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership, taken as a whole, from the
operating capacity of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership, taken as a whole, existing
immediately prior to such addition, improvement, acquisition or construction.
Capital Contribution
means any cash, cash equivalents or the Net Agreed Value of Contributed
Property that a Partner contributes to the Partnership pursuant to the Contribution Agreement or
Sections 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 13.3(c) or 14.8.
Capital Interests
means, with respect to any corporation, any and all shares,
participations, rights or other equivalent interests in the capital of the corporation, and with
respect to any partnership, any and all partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any
other interests or participations that confer on a Person the right to receive a share of the
profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Carrying Value
means (a) with respect to a Contributed Property, the Agreed Value of such
property reduced (but not below zero) by all depreciation, amortization and cost recovery
deductions charged to the Partners and Assignees Capital Accounts in respect of such Contributed
Property, and (b) with respect to any other Partnership property, the adjusted basis of such
property for federal income tax purposes, all as of the time of determination. The Carrying Value
of any property shall be adjusted from time to time in accordance with Sections 4.5(d)(i) and
4.5(d)(ii) and to reflect changes, additions or other adjustments to the Carrying Value for
dispositions and acquisitions of Partnership properties, as deemed appropriate by the General
Partner.
Cash from Interim Capital Transactions
means, at any date, such amounts of Available Cash as
are deemed to be Cash from Interim Capital Transactions pursuant to Section 5.3.
Cash from Operations
means, at the close of any Quarter but prior to the Liquidation Date,
on a cumulative basis and without duplication,
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(a) the sum of all cash receipts of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership during the
period since the Initial Closing Date through such date (including, without limitation, the cash
balance of the Partnership as of the close of business on the Initial Closing Date, plus an initial
balance of $25 million, excluding any cash proceeds from any Interim Capital Transactions (except
to the extent specified in Section 5.3) and Termination Capital Transactions),
(b)
less
the sum of:
(i) all cash operating expenditures of the Partnership and the Operating
Partnership during such period, including, without limitation, taxes, if any, and
amounts owed to the General Partner as reimbursement pursuant to Section 6.4,
(ii) all cash debt service payments of the Partnership and the Operating
Partnership during such period (other than payments or prepayments of principal and
premium (A) required by reason of loan agreements (including, without limitation,
covenants and default provisions therein) or by lenders, in each case in connection
with sales or other dispositions of assets or (B) made in connection with
refinancings or refundings of indebtedness with the proceeds from new indebtedness
or from the sale of equity interests, provided, that any payment or prepayment of
principal and premium, whether or not then due, shall be deemed, at the election and
in the discretion of the General Partner, to be refunded or refinanced by any
indebtedness incurred or to be incurred by the Partnership or the Operating
Partnership simultaneously with or within 180 days prior to or after such payment or
prepayment to the extent of the principal amount of such indebtedness so incurred),
(iii) all cash capital expenditures of the Partnership and the Operating
Partnership during such period, including, without limitation, cash capital
expenditures made in respect of Maintenance Capital Expenditures, but excluding (A)
cash capital expenditures made in respect of Acquisitions and Capital Additions and
Improvements and (B) cash expenditures made in payment of transaction expenses
relating to Interim Capital Transactions,
(iv) any cash reserves of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership
outstanding as of such date that the General Partner deems in its reasonable
discretion to be necessary or appropriate to provide for the future cash payment of
items of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (iii) of this sentence, and
(v) any cash reserves of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership
outstanding as of such date that the General Partner deems in its reasonable
discretion to be necessary or appropriate to provide funds for distributions with
respect to Units in respect of any one or more of the next four Quarters,
all as determined on a consolidated basis and after taking into account the General Partners
interest therein attributable to its general partner interest in the Operating Partnership. Where
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cash capital expenditures are made in part in respect of Acquisitions or Capital Additions and
Improvements and in part for other purposes, the General Partners good faith allocation thereof
between the portion made for Acquisitions or Capital Additions and Improvements and the portion
made for other purposes shall be conclusive. Taxes paid by the Partnership on behalf of, or
amounts withheld with respect to, all or less than all of the Partners shall not be considered cash
operating expenditures of the Partnership that reduce Cash from Operations, but the payment or
withholding thereof shall be deemed to be a distribution of Available Cash to such Partners.
Alternatively, in the discretion of the General Partner, such taxes (if pertaining to all Partners)
may be considered to be cash operating expenditures of the Partnership which reduce Cash from
Operations, but the payment or withholding thereof shall not be deemed to be a distribution of
Available Cash to such Partners.
Cause
means a court of competent jurisdiction has entered a final, non-appealable judgment
finding the General Partner liable for actual fraud, gross negligence or willful or wanton
misconduct in its capacity as general partner of the Partnership.
Ceiling Quarterly Distribution
means the highest distribution per Quarter made for any of
the immediately preceding four Quarters per Common Unit (other than an FCI Common Unit) pursuant to
Section 5.4, or if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage is equal to zero (determined after
giving the effect to the application of Section 5.4 for the current Quarter), then the distribution
to be made for the current Quarter per Common Unit as declared by the General Partner; provided,
however, that in no case may the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution be less than the Minimum Quarterly
Distribution.
Certificate
means a certificate (a) substantially in the form of Exhibit A to this Agreement
with respect to the Common Units, (b) substantially in the form of Exhibit B to this Agreement with
respect to the Senior Units, (c) issued in global or book-entry form in accordance with the rules
and regulations of the Depository, or (d) in such other form as may be adopted by the General
Partner in its sole discretion, issued by the Partnership evidencing ownership of one or more
Common Units or Senior Units, as the case may be, or a certificate, in such form as may be adopted
by the General Partner in its sole discretion, issued by the Partnership evidencing ownership of
one or more other Units.
Certificate of Limited Partnership
means the Certificate of Limited Partnership filed with
the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as referenced in Section 6.2, as such Certificate
of Limited Partnership may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.
Change of Control
means (a) the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition of all or
substantially all of the assets of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to any Person or
group (as such term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act) other than James E. Ferrell,
the Related Parties and any Person of which James E. Ferrell and the Related Parties beneficially
own in the aggregate 51% or more of the outstanding voting stock (or if such Person is a
partnership, 51% or more of the general partner interests), (b) the liquidation or dissolution of
the Partnership, the Operating Partnership or the General Partner, (c) the occurrence of any
transaction, the result of which is that James E. Ferrell and the Related Parties beneficially own
in the aggregate, directly or indirectly, less than 51% of the outstanding voting stock entitled to
vote for the election of directors of the General Partner and (d) the occurrence of any
transaction,
- 11 -
the result of which is that the General Partner is no longer the sole general partner of the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership.
Citizenship Certification
means a properly completed certificate in such form as may be
specified by the General Partner by which an Assignee or a Limited Partner certifies that he (and
if he is a nominee holding for the account of another Person, that to the best of his knowledge
such other Person) is an Eligible Citizen.
Closing Price
for any day means the last sale price on such day, regular way, or in case no
such sale takes place on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices on such day,
regular way, in either case as reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system
with respect to securities listed on the principal National Securities Exchange on which the Units
of such class are listed or admitted to trading or, if the Units of such class are not listed or
admitted to trading on any National Securities Exchange, the last quoted price on such day or, if
not so quoted, the average of the high bid and low asked prices on such day in the over the counter
market, as reported by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. Automated Quotation
System or such other system then in use, or if on any such day the Units of such class are not
quoted by any such organization, the average of the closing bid and asked prices on such day as
furnished by a professional market maker making a market in the Units of such class selected by the
Board of Directors of the General Partner, or if on any such day no market maker is making a market
in the Units of such class, the fair value of such Units on such day as determined reasonably and
in good faith by the Board of Directors of the General Partner.
Code
means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and in effect from time to time, as
interpreted by the applicable regulations thereunder. Any reference herein to a specific section
or sections of the Code shall be deemed to include a reference to any corresponding provision of
future law.
Combined Interest
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 13.3(a).
Commission
means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Common Unit
means a Unit representing a fractional part of the Partnership Interests of all
Limited Partners and Assignees and having the rights and obligations specified with respect to
Common Units in this Agreement. The term
Common Unit
shall specifically include all FCI Common
Units and, except with respect to certain allocations and distributions to the extent specified in
Article V or pursuant to Section 15.14(a), the FCI Common Units shall not be treated as a separate
class or series of Units or Partnership Securities from other Common Units under any provision of
this Agreement, specifically including, but not limited to, any voting purpose, right or privilege.
Contributed Property
means each property or other asset, in such form as may be permitted by
the Delaware Act, but excluding cash, contributed to the Partnership. Once the Carrying Value of a
Contributed Property is adjusted pursuant to Section 4.5(d), such property shall no longer
constitute a Contributed Property, but shall be deemed an Adjusted Property.
Contribution Agreement
means that certain Contribution, Conveyance and Assumption Agreement,
dated as of the Initial Closing Date, between Ferrellgas, the Partnership and the
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Operating
Partnership, together with the additional conveyance documents and instruments contemplated or
referenced thereunder.
Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage
means, with respect to all FCI Common Units, whenever
issued, and as of the end of any Quarter, the excess, if any, of (a) the sum resulting from adding
together the FCI Common Unit Arrearage as to all FCI Common Units for each of the Quarters within
the Arrearage Period including the current Quarter over (b) the sum of any distributions
theretofore made pursuant to Sections 5.4(b)(iv) and 5.4(c)(iii) with respect to such FCI Common
Units (determined after giving effect to any distributions to be made in the current Quarter).
Curative Allocation
means any allocation of an item of income, gain, deduction, loss or
credit pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.1(d)(xi).
Current Market Price
as of any date of any class of Units listed or admitted to trading on
any National Securities Exchange means the average of the daily Closing Prices per Unit of such
class for the 20 consecutive Trading Days immediately prior to such date.
Delaware Act
means the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act, 6 Del C. § 17 101,
et seq., as amended, supplemented or restated from time to time, and any successor to such statute.
Departing Partner
means a former General Partner from and after the effective date of any
withdrawal or removal of such former General Partner pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2.
Depositary
means with respect to any Units issued in global or book-entry form, The
Depository Trust Company and its successors and permitted assigns.
Economic Risk of Loss
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation Section 1.752 2(a).
Eligible Citizen
means a Person qualified to own interests in real property in jurisdictions
in which the Partnership or the Operating Partnership does business or proposes to do business from
time to time, and whose status as a Limited Partner or Assignee does not or would not subject the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership to a substantial risk of cancellation or forfeiture of any
of its properties or any interest therein.
Event of Withdrawal
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 13.1(a).
FCI
means Ferrell Companies, Inc., a Kansas corporation.
FCI Common Unit
means any Common Units beneficially owned by FCI or the last FCI Common Unit
owned by another holder specified in Section 4.5(c). Any FCI Common Unit Outstanding and no
longer beneficially owned by FCI (other than the last FCI Common Unit specified in Section 4.5(c))
shall have, as a substantive manner in the hands of a subsequent holder like intrinsic economic and
federal income tax characteristics in all material respects, to
the intrinsic economic and federal income tax characteristics of a Common Unit then
Outstanding.
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FCI Common Unit Arrearage
means, with respect to any FCI Common Unit and as to each Quarter
within the Arrearage Period, the excess, if any, of (a) the sum of all Available Cash distributed
for that Quarter with respect to a Common Unit (other than an FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding
pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(ii) through 5.4(a)(vi) or Section 5.4(b)(ii), as applicable, over (b)
the sum of all Available Cash distributed for that Quarter with respect to an FCI Common Unit
pursuant to Section 5.4(a)(vii) or Section 5.4(b)(iii), as applicable.
FCI ESOT
means the employee stock ownership trust related to the employee stock ownership
plan of FCI organized under Section 4975(e)(7) of the Code.
Ferrellgas
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of
FCI.
First Liquidation Target Amount
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section
5.1(c)(i)(D).
First Target Distribution
means $0.55 per Unit (or, with respect to the period commencing on
the Initial Closing Date and ending on October 31, 1994, the product of $0.55 multiplied by a
fraction of which the numerator is the number of days in such period and of which the denominator
is 92), subject to adjustment in accordance with Sections 5.6(b) and (c) and Section 9.6.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, and its successors as general partner of the Partnership.
General Partner Interest
means the ownership interest of the General Partner in the
Partnership (in its capacity as a general partner without reference to any other Partnership
Interests in the Partnership held by it) which is evidenced by General Partner Units and includes
any and all benefits to which the General Partner is entitled as provided in this Agreement,
together with all obligations of the General Partner to comply with the terms and provisions of
this Agreement.
General Partner Unit
means a Unit representing a fractional part of the General Partner
Interest and having the rights and obligations specified with respect to the General Partner Units
in this Agreement.
Group
means a Person that with or through any of its Affiliates or Associates has any
agreement, arrangement or understanding for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting (except
voting pursuant to a revocable proxy or consent given to such Person in response to a proxy or
consent solicitation made to 10 or more Persons) or disposing of any Partnership Securities with
any other Person that beneficially owns, or whose Affiliates or Associates beneficially own,
directly or indirectly, Partnership Interests.
Holder
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.13(a).
IDR
means a Partnership Interest issued to Ferrellgas in connection with the transfer of its
assets to the Partnership pursuant to Section 4.2, which Partnership Interest shall confer upon
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the
holder thereof only the rights and obligations specifically provided in this Agreement with respect
to IDRs (and no other rights otherwise available to holders of a Partnership Interest).
Incentive Distribution
means any amount of cash distributed to the Special Limited Partners,
pursuant to Section 5.4.
Indemnified Persons
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.13(c).
Indemnitee
means the General Partner, any Departing Partner, any Person who is or was an
Affiliate of the General Partner or any Departing Partner, any Person who is or was an officer,
director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of the General Partner or any Departing Partner or
any such Affiliate, or any Person who is or was serving at the request of the General Partner or
any Departing Partner or any such Affiliate as a director, officer, employee, partner, agent or
trustee of another Person.
Information Statement Period
means the period that commences on the mailing of an
Information Statement to the holders of the Common Units (other than the FCI Common Units) that
informs those holders of FCIs consent to the addition of Sections 5.4(a), (b) and (c), which
period ends twenty (20) days after the commencement of the mailing.
Initial Closing Date
means July 5, 1994.
Initial Limited Partners
means Ferrellgas (with respect to the Common Units it owned) and
the Underwriters.
Initial Offering
means the initial offering and sale of Common Units to the public, as
described in the Registration Statement.
Initial Unit Price
means (a) with respect to the Common Units, $21.00 or (b) with respect to
any other class or series of Units, the price per Unit at which such class or series of Units is
initially sold by the Partnership, as determined by the General Partner, in each case adjusted as
the General Partner determines to be appropriate to give effect to any distribution, subdivision or
combination of Units.
Interim Capital Transactions
means (a) borrowings, refinancings or refundings of
indebtedness and sales of debt securities (other than for working capital purposes and other than
for items purchased on open account in the ordinary course of business) by the Partnership or the
Operating Partnership, (b) sales of equity interests (including Common Units sold to the
Underwriters pursuant to the exercise of the Overallotment Option) by the Partnership or the
Operating Partnership and (c) sales or other voluntary or involuntary dispositions of any assets of
the Partnership or the Operating Partnership (other than (x) sales or other dispositions of
inventory in the ordinary course of business, (y) sales or other dispositions of other current
assets including, without limitation, receivables and accounts and (z) sales or other dispositions
of assets as a part of normal retirements or replacements), in each case prior to the commencement
of the dissolution and liquidation of the Partnership.
Issue Price
means the price at which a Unit is purchased from the Partnership, less any
sales commission or underwriting discount charged to the Partnership.
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Limited Partner
means, unless the context otherwise requires, (a) each Initial Limited
Partner, each Substituted Limited Partner, each Additional Limited Partner and any Departing
Partner upon the change of its status from General Partner to Limited Partner pursuant to Section
13.3, subject to the provisions of Section 5.7, (b) solely for the purposes of Section 1.4 and
Articles VI and VII, each Special Limited Partner and (c) solely for purposes of Articles IV, V and
VI and Sections 14.3 and 14.4, each Assignee.
Liquidation Date
means (a) in the case of an event giving rise to the dissolution of the
Partnership of the type described in clauses (a) and (b) of the first sentence of Section 14.2, the
date on which the applicable time period during which the holders of Outstanding Units have the
right to elect to reconstitute the Partnership and continue its business has expired without such
an election being made, and (b) in the case of any other event giving rise to the dissolution of
the Partnership, the date on which such event occurs.
Liquidator
means the General Partner or other Person approved pursuant to Section 14.3 who
performs the functions described therein.
Maintenance Capital Expenditures
means cash capital expenditures made to maintain, up to the
level thereof that existed at the time of such expenditure, the operating capacity of the capital
assets of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership, taken as a whole, as such assets existed
at the time of such expenditure and shall, therefore, not include cash capital expenditures made in
respect of Acquisitions and Capital Additions and Improvements. Where cash capital expenditures
are made in part to maintain the operating capacity level referred to in the immediately preceding
sentence and in part for other purposes, the General Partners good faith allocation thereof
between the portion used to maintain such operating capacity level and the portion used for other
purposes shall be conclusive.
Material Event
means the occurrence of any of the following events while any Senior Units
are owned by The Williams Companies, Inc. or owned directly or indirectly by James E. Ferrell or
any Related Party: (a) a Change of Control; (b) the Partnership or the Operating Partnership is
treated as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes or is otherwise
subject to taxation as an entity for federal income tax purposes; (c) the Partnership issues any
Partnership Interests for cash prior to December 31, 2005 (other than issuances pursuant to the
Ferrellgas, Inc. Unit Option Plan) and the first $40 million of the aggregate proceeds of such
issuances are not used to redeem the Senior Units; (d) the Partnership issues any Partnership
Interests for cash prior to December 31, 2005, and the aggregate proceeds of such issuances above
the amount specified in clause (c) are not used to redeem the Senior Units (other than (i)
issuances pursuant to the Ferrellgas, Inc. Unit Option Plan and (ii) up to $20 million of the
aggregate proceeds of such issuances used to reduce indebtedness or other off-balance sheet credit
facilities of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership); or (e) the Partnership fails to pay
the Senior Unit Distribution in full for any Quarter.
Merger Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 16.1.
Minimum Quarterly Distribution
means $0.50 per Common Unit per Quarter (or, with respect to
the period commencing on the Initial Closing Date and ending on October 31, 1994, the product of
$0.55 multiplied by a fraction of which the numerator is the number of days in
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such period and of
which the denominator is 92), subject to adjustment in accordance with Sections 5.6(b) and (c) and
Section 9.6.
National Securities Exchange
means an exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under Section 6(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, supplemented or
restated from time to time, and any successor to such statute.
Net Agreed Value
means, (a) in the case of any Contributed Property, the Agreed Value of
such property reduced by any liabilities either assumed by the Partnership upon such contribution
or to which such property is subject when contributed, and (b) in the case of any property
distributed to a Partner or Assignee by the Partnership, the Partnerships Carrying Value of such
property (as adjusted pursuant to Section 4.5(d)(ii)) at the time such property is distributed,
reduced by any indebtedness either assumed by such Partner or Assignee upon such distribution or to
which such property is subject at the time of distribution, in either case, as determined under
Section 752 of the Code.
Net Income
means, for any taxable period, the excess, if any, of the Partnerships items of
income and gain (other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination
Capital Transactions) for such taxable period over the Partnerships items of loss and deduction
(other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination Capital Transactions)
for such taxable period. The items included in the calculation of Net Income shall be determined
in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items specially allocated under Section
5.1(d). Once an item of income, gain, loss or deduction that has been included in the initial
computation of Net Income is subjected to a Required Allocation or a Curative Allocation, Net
Income or Net Loss, whichever the case may be, shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Net Loss
means, for any taxable period, the excess, if any, of the Partnerships items of
loss and deduction (other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination
Capital Transactions) for such taxable period over the Partnerships items of income and gain
(other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination Capital Transactions)
for such taxable period. The items included in the calculation of Net Loss shall be determined in
accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items specially allocated under Section
5.1(d). Once an item of income, gain, loss or deduction that has been included in the initial
computation of Net Loss is subjected to a Required Allocation or a Curative Allocation, Net Income,
or Net Loss, whichever the case may be, shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
- 17 -
Net Termination Gain
means, for any taxable period, the sum, if positive, of all items of
income, gain, loss or deduction recognized by the Partnership (including, without limitation, such
amounts recognized through the Operating Partnership) from Termination Capital Transactions
occurring in such taxable period. The items included in the determination of Net Termination Gain
shall be determined in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items of income,
gain or loss specially allocated under Section 5.1(d). Once an item of
income, gain or loss that has been included in the initial computation of Net Termination Gain
is subjected to a Required Allocation or a Curative Allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net
Termination Loss, whichever the case may be, shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Net Termination Loss
means, for any taxable period, the sum, if negative, of all items of
income, gain, loss or deduction recognized by the Partnership (including, without limitation, such
amounts recognized through the Operating Partnership) from Termination Capital Transactions
occurring in such taxable period. The items included in the determination of Net Termination Loss
shall be determined in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items of income,
gain or loss specially allocated under Section 5.1(d). Once an item of gain or loss that has been
included in the initial computation of Net Termination Loss is subjected to a Required Allocation
or a Curative Allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss, whichever the case may be,
shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Non-citizen Assignee
means a Person who the General Partner has determined in its sole
discretion does not constitute an Eligible Citizen and as to whose Partnership Interest the General
Partner has become the Substituted Limited Partner, pursuant to Section 11.5.
Nonrecourse Built-in Gain
means with respect to any Contributed Properties or Adjusted
Properties that are subject to a mortgage or pledge securing a Nonrecourse Liability, the amount of
any taxable gain that would be allocated to the Partners pursuant to Sections 5.2(b)(i)(A),
5.2(b)(ii)(A) or 5.2(b)(iii) if such properties were disposed of in a taxable transaction in full
satisfaction of such liabilities and for no other consideration.
Nonrecourse Deductions
means any and all items of loss, deduction or expenditures (described
in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code) that, in accordance with the principles of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704 2(b), are attributable to a Nonrecourse Liability.
Nonrecourse Liability
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation Section 1.752
1(a)(2).
Notice of Election to Purchase
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 17.1(b).
Operating Partnership
means Ferrellgas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
Operating Partnership Agreement
means the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating
Partnership, as it may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.
Opinion of Counsel
means a written opinion of counsel (who may be regular counsel to
Ferrellgas, any Affiliate of Ferrellgas, the Partnership or the General Partner) acceptable to the
General Partner.
Original Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.
Outstanding
means, with respect to the Units or other Partnership Securities, all Units or
other Partnership Securities that are issued by the Partnership and reflected as outstanding on the
Partnerships books and records as of the date of determination; provided that, if at any time
any Person or Group (other than Ferrellgas, its Affiliates and except as provided below) owns
beneficially 20% or more of all Common Units, such Common Units so owned shall not be voted on any
matter and shall not be considered to be Outstanding when sending notices of a meeting of Limited
Partners (unless otherwise required by law), calculating required votes,
- 18 -
determining the presence
of a quorum or for other similar purposes under this Agreement, except that such Common Units shall
be considered to be Outstanding for purposes of Section 13.1(b)(iv) (such Common Units shall not,
however, be treated as a separate class or series of Partnership Securities for purposes of this
Agreement). Notwithstanding the above, the Common Units issued upon conversion of the Senior
Units, so long as such Common Units are held by WNGL, its successors, directly or indirectly by The
Williams Companies, Inc. or directly or indirectly by James E. Ferrell or any Related Party (1)
shall at all times be considered Outstanding for purposes of this Agreement and have all rights
specified with respect to Common Units in this Agreement and (2) shall be included with any other
Common Units in determining whether WNGL, its successors, The Williams Companies, Inc., James E.
Ferrell or any Related Party own beneficially 20% or more of all Common Units with respect to those
other Common Units that were not converted from Senior Units.
Overallotment Option
means the overallotment option granted to the Underwriters by the
Partnership pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement.
Partners
means the General Partner, the Limited Partners and the Special Limited Partners.
Partner Nonrecourse Debt
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704
2(b)(4).
Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704 2(i)(2).
Partner Nonrecourse Deductions
means any and all items of loss, deduction or expenditure
(including, without limitation, any expenditure described in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code)
that, in accordance with the principles of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 2(i), are attributable
to a Partner Nonrecourse Debt.
Partnership
means Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership established by
the Certificate of Limited Partnership, and any successors thereto.
Partnership Interest
means an interest in the Partnership, which shall include General
Partner Units, Senior Units, Common Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities, or a combination
thereof or interest therein, as the case may be.
Partnership Minimum Gain
means that amount determined in accordance with the principles of
Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 2(d).
Partnership Securities
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 4.3(a).
Per Unit Capital Amount
means, as of any date of determination, the Capital Account, stated
on a per Unit basis, underlying any Unit held by a Person.
Percentage Interest
means as of the date of such determination (a) as to any Partner or
Assignee holding Units, the product of (i) 100% less the percentage applicable to clause (b)
multiplied by (ii) the quotient of the number of Units held by such Partner or Assignee divided
- 19 -
by
the total number of all Outstanding Units (other than Senior Units), and (b) as to the holders of
additional Partnership Securities issued by the Partnership in accordance with Section 4.3, the
percentage established as a part of such issuance. The Senior Units have not been allocated a
Percentage Interest.
Person
means an individual or a corporation, partnership, trust, unincorporated
organization, association or other entity.
Pro Rata
means (a) when modifying Units or any class thereof, apportioned equally among all
designated Units or class thereof in accordance with their relative Percentage Interests, (b) when
modifying Partners and Assignees, apportioned among all Partners and Assignees in accordance with
their relative Percentage Interests, and (c) when modifying holders of IDRs, apportioned equally
among all holders of IDRs in accordance with the relative number of IDRs held by such holder.
Purchase Date
means the date determined by the General Partner as the date for purchase of
all Outstanding Units (other than Units owned by the General Partner and its Affiliates) pursuant
to Article XVII.
Quarter
means, unless the context requires otherwise, a three month period of time ending on
October 31, January 31, April 30, or July 31; provided, however, that the General Partner, in its
sole discretion, may amend such period as it deems necessary or appropriate in connection with a
change in the fiscal year of the Partnership.
Recapture Income
means any gain recognized by the Partnership (computed without regard to
any adjustment required by Sections 734 or 743 of the Code) upon the disposition of any property or
asset of the Partnership, which gain is characterized as ordinary income because it represents the
recapture of deductions previously taken with respect to such property or asset.
Record Date
means the date established by the General Partner for determining (a) the
identity of the Record Holder entitled to notice of, or to vote at, any meeting of Limited Partners
or entitled to vote by ballot or give approval of Partnership action in writing without a meeting
or entitled to exercise rights in respect of any lawful action of Limited Partners or (b) the
identity of Record Holders entitled to receive any report or distribution.
Record Holder
means the Person in whose name a Unit is registered on the books of the
Transfer Agent as of the opening of business on a particular Business Day, or with respect to a
holder of a General Partner Unit or an IDR, the Person in whose name such General Partner Unit or
IDR is registered on the books which the General Partner has caused to be kept as of the opening of
business on such Business Day.
Redeemable Units
means any Units for which a redemption notice has been given, and has not
been withdrawn, under Section 11.6.
Registration Statement
means the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No.
33-53383), as it has been or as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, filed by the
Partnership with the Commission under the Securities Act to register the offering and sale of the
Common Units in the Initial Offering.
- 20 -
Related Party
means (a) the spouse or any lineal descendant of James E. Ferrell, (b) any
trust for his benefit or for the benefit of his spouse or any such lineal descendants, (c) any
corporation, partnership or other entity in which James E. Ferrell and/or such other Persons
referred to in the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) are the direct record and beneficial owners of all
of the voting and nonvoting securities, (d) the FCI ESOT and (e) any participant in the FCI ESOT
whose ESOT account has been allocated shares of FCI.
Required Allocations
means any allocation (or limitation imposed on any allocation) of an
item of income, gain, deduction or loss pursuant to (a) Section 5.1(b)(ii) or (b) Sections
5.1(d)(i), 5.1(d)(ii), 5.1(d)(iv), 5.1(d)(v), 5.1(d)(vi), 5.1(d)(vii) and 5.1(d)(ix), such
allocations (or limitations thereon) being directly or indirectly required by the Treasury
Regulations promulgated under Section 704(b) of the Code.
Residual Gain
or
Residual Loss
means any item of gain or loss, as the case may be, of the
Partnership recognized for federal income tax purposes resulting from a sale, exchange or other
disposition of a Contributed Property or Adjusted Property, to the extent such item of gain or loss
is not allocated pursuant to Sections 5.2(b)(i)(A) or 5.2(b)(ii)(A), respectively, to eliminate
Book Tax Disparities.
Restricted Activities
means the retail sale of propane to end users within the continental
United States in the manner engaged in by Ferrellgas immediately prior to the Initial Closing Date.
Second Amended and Restated Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals
hereto.
Second Liquidation Target Amount
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section
5.1(c)(i)(E).
Second Target Distribution
means $0.63 per Unit (or, with respect to the period commencing
on the Initial Closing Date and ending on October 31, 1994, the product of $0.55 multiplied by a
fraction of which the numerator is the number of days in such period and of which the denominator
is 92), subject to adjustment in accordance with Sections 5.6(b) and (c) and Section 9.6.
Securities Act
means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, supplemented or restated from
time to time and any successor to such statute.
Senior Unit
means a Unit representing a fractional part of the Partnership Interests of all
Limited Partners and Assignees having the rights and obligations specified with respect to Senior
Units in this Agreement. The term
Senior Unit
includes all Additional Senior Units.
Senior Unit Distribution
means distributions that are required to be paid on the Senior
Units (including Additional Senior Units) at a quarterly rate equal to the sum of (a) $1.00 per
Senior Unit per Quarter (or part thereof or, with respect to the period commencing with the WNGL
Closing Date and ending on January 31, 2000, the product of $1.00 multiplied by a fraction of which
the numerator is the number of days in such period and of which the denominator is 92), plus (b) an
additional $0.50 per Senior Unit per Quarter (or part thereof) if
- 21 -
the Partnership fails to pay in
full the Senior Unit Redemption Price on or prior to the Senior Unit Redemption Date, in each case
accumulating from and including the date of such failure or default in clause (b) until the date
such failure or default has been cured by the Partnership. Each of the amounts set forth in
clauses (a) and (b) are subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 5.6(a).
All Senior Unit Distributions shall be cumulative, whether or not declared and whether or not
there is sufficient Available Cash for the payment thereof, on a daily basis from the WNGL Closing
Date and shall be payable quarterly in arrears on each distribution payment date pursuant to
Section 5.3(a), commencing on the first distribution payment date after the WNGL Closing Date. Any
unpaid or undistributed Senior Unit Distributions will compound on a quarterly basis at a rate
equal to the then applicable distribution rate, calculated in accordance with the first sentence of
this definition. If any Senior Unit Distributions are payable through the issuance of Additional
Senior Units pursuant to Section 5.4 and are so paid by such issuance, such Senior Unit
Distributions shall be deemed paid in full. Any Additional Senior Units that are required to be
issued and distributed, but which are not issued and distributed as required, will be entitled to
the Senior Unit Distribution as if they were issued and distributed as required.
Senior Unit Liquidation Preference
means $40.00 per Senior Unit, subject to adjustment in
accordance with Section 5.6(a).
Senior Unit Redemption Date
means the date the Partnership shall pay the Senior Unit
Redemption Price to the holders of Senior Units pursuant to Section 17.2(b).
Senior Unit Redemption Notice
means a written notice from the Partnership to the holder or
holders of Senior Units setting forth:
(a) the Senior Unit Redemption Price;
(b) whether all or less than all of the Outstanding Senior Units are to be redeemed and the
total number of Senior Units being redeemed;
(c) the Senior Unit Redemption Date;
(d) that the holder is to surrender to the Partnership, in the manner, at the place or places
and at the price designated, his certificate or certificates representing the Senior Units to be
redeemed; and
(e) that distributions on the Senior Units to be redeemed shall cease to accumulate on such
Senior Unit Redemption Date unless the Partnership defaults in the payment of the redemption price.
Senior Unit Redemption Price
means, with respect to each Senior Unit called for redemption
in accordance with the Senior Unit Redemption Notice pursuant to Section 17.2(b), an amount in cash
equal to the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference, plus an amount equal to any accumulated and unpaid
Senior Unit Distributions on such Senior Units to the Senior Unit Redemption Date.
- 22 -
Special Approval
means approval by the Audit Committee.
Special Limited Partner
means each holder of an IDR.
Special Limited Partners Book Capital
means, as of any date of determination, the amount
equal to the sum of the balances of the Capital Accounts of all the Special Limited Partners,
determined pursuant to Section 4.5 (prior to any adjustment pursuant to Section 4.5(d) arising upon
the present event requiring a valuation of the Partnerships assets).
Subordinated Unit
means a Unit representing a fractional part of the Partnership Interests
of all Limited Partners and Assignees and having the rights and obligations specified with respect
to Subordinated Units in the Original Agreement. Each Outstanding Subordinated Unit converted into
a Common Unit on a one-for-one basis as of August 1, 1999.
Subordination Period
means the period which commenced on the Initial Closing Date and ended
on August 1, 1999.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, (i) a corporation of which more than 50% of
the voting power of shares of Capital Interests entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any
contingency) to vote in the election of directors or other governing body of such corporation is
owned, directly or indirectly, by such Person, by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, or a
combination thereof, (ii) a partnership (whether general or limited) in which such Person or a
Subsidiary of such Person is, at the date of determination, a general or limited partner of such
partnership, but only if more than 50% of the Capital Interests of such partnership (considering
all of the Capital Interests of the partnership as a single class) is owned or controlled, directly
or indirectly, by such Person, by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, or a combination
thereof, or (iii) any other Person (other than a corporation or a partnership) in which such
Person, directly or indirectly, at the date of determination, has (x) at least a majority ownership
interest or (y) the power to elect or direct the election of a majority of the directors or other
governing body of such Person.
Substituted Limited Partner
means a Person who is admitted as a Limited Partner to the
Partnership pursuant to Section 12.2 in place of and with all the rights of a Limited Partner and
who is shown as a Limited Partner on the books and records of the Partnership.
Surviving Business Entity
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 16.2(b).
Termination Capital Transactions
means any sale, transfer or other disposition of property
of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership occurring upon or incident to the liquidation and
winding up of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership pursuant to Article XIV.
Third Amended and Restated Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals
hereto.
Third Target Distribution
means $0.82 per Unit (or, with respect to the period commencing on
the Initial Closing Date and ending on October 31, 1994, the product of $0.55 multiplied by a
fraction of which the numerator is the number of days in such period and of
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which the denominator
is 92), subject to adjustment in accordance with Sections 5.6(b) and (c) and Section 9.6.
Trading Day
means a day on which the principal National Securities Exchange on which the
Units of any class are listed or admitted to trading is open for the transaction of business or, if
Units of a class are not listed or admitted to trading on any National Securities Exchange, a day
on which banking institutions in New York City generally are open.
Transaction
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.7(g).
Transfer
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 11.1(a).
Transfer Agent
means such bank, trust company or other Person (including, without
limitation, the General Partner or one of its Affiliates) as shall be appointed from time to time
by the Partnership to act as registrar and transfer agent for the Units.
Transfer Application
means an application and agreement for transfer of Units in the form
set forth on the back of a Certificate or in a form substantially to the same effect in a separate
instrument.
Underwriter
means each Person named as an underwriter in Schedule I to the Underwriting
Agreement who purchased Common Units pursuant thereto.
Underwriting Agreement
means the Underwriting Agreement dated June 27, 1994, among the
Underwriters, the Partnership, the General Partner and FCI providing for the purchase of Common
Units by such Underwriters.
Unit
means a Partnership Interest of a Partner or Assignee in the Partnership representing a
fractional part of the Partnership Interests of all Partners and Assignees and shall include,
without limitation, General Partner Units, Senior Units and Common Units; provided, that each
General Partner Unit at any time Outstanding shall represent the same fractional part of the
Partnership Interests of all Partners and Assignees holding General Partner Units as each other
General Partner Unit, each Senior Unit at any time Outstanding shall represent the same fractional
part of the Partnership Interests of all Partners and Assignees holding Senior Units as each other
Senior Unit, and each Common Unit at any time Outstanding shall represent the same fractional part
of the Partnership Interests of all Partners and Assignees holding Common Units as each other
Common Unit.
Unitholders
means the holders of Common Units and General Partner Units but shall not
include holders of Senior Units.
Unpaid MQD
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.1(c)(i)(C).
Unrealized Gain
attributable to any item of Partnership property means, as of any date of
determination, the excess, if any, of (a) the fair market value of such property as of such date
(as determined under Section 4.5(d)) over (b) the Carrying Value of such property as of such date
(prior to any adjustment to be made pursuant to Section 4.5(d) as of such date).
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Unrealized Loss
attributable to any item of Partnership property means, as of any date of
determination, the excess, if any, of (a) the Carrying Value of such property as of such date
(prior to any adjustment to be made pursuant to Section 4.5(d) as of such date) over (b) the fair
market value of such property as of such date (as determined under Section 4.5(d)).
Unrecovered Initial Unit Price
means, at any time, with respect to a class or series of
Units (other than Senior Units and General Partner Units), the price per Unit at which such class
or series of Units was initially offered to the public for sale by the underwriters in respect of
such offering, as determined by the General Partner, less the sum of all distributions theretofore
made in respect of a Unit of such class or series that was sold in the initial offering of Units of
said class or series constituting Cash from Interim Capital Transactions and any distributions of
cash (or the Net Agreed Value of any distributions in kind) in connection with the dissolution and
liquidation of the Partnership theretofore made in respect of a Unit of such class or series that
was sold in the initial offering of Units of such class or series, adjusted as the General Partner
determines to be appropriate to give effect to any distribution, subdivision or combination of
Units.
Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 13.1(b).
WNGL
means Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc., a Delaware corporation
WNGL Closing Date
means the closing date of the transactions contemplated by the WNGL
Purchase Agreement.
WNGL Purchase Agreement
means that certain Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 7, 1999,
as amended, by and among the Partnership, the Operating Partnership and WNGL.
WNGL Registration Rights Agreement
means that certain Registration Rights Agreement, dated
the WNGL Closing Date, as amended, between the Partnership and WNGL.
ARTICLE III
PURPOSE
Purpose and Business
. The purpose and nature of the business to be conducted by the
Partnership shall be (a) to serve as a limited partner in the Operating Partnership and, in
connection therewith, to exercise all of the rights and powers conferred upon the Partnership as a
limited partner in the Operating Partnership pursuant to the Operating Partnership Agreement or
otherwise, (b) to engage directly in, or to enter into or form any corporation, partnership, joint
venture, limited liability company or other arrangement to engage in, any business activity that
the Operating Partnership is permitted to engage in by the Operating Partnership Agreement and, in
connection therewith, to exercise all of the rights and powers
conferred upon the Partnership pursuant to the agreements relating to such business activity,
(c) to engage directly in, or to enter into or form any corporation, partnership, joint venture,
limited liability company or other arrangement to engage in, any business activity that is approved
by the General Partner and which lawfully may be conducted by a limited partnership organized
pursuant to the Delaware Act and, in connection therewith, to exercise all of the rights and
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powers
conferred upon the Partnership pursuant to the agreements relating to such business activity, and
(d) to do anything necessary or appropriate to the foregoing, including, without limitation, the
making of capital contributions or loans to the Operating Partnership. The General Partner has no
obligation or duty to the Partnership, the Limited Partners, the Special Limited Partners or the
Assignees to propose or approve, and in its sole discretion may decline to propose or approve, the
conduct by the Partnership of any business.
Section 3.2
Powers
. The Partnership shall be empowered to do any and all acts and things
necessary, appropriate, proper, advisable, incidental to or convenient for the furtherance and
accomplishment of the purposes and business described in Section 3.1 and for the protection and
benefit of the Partnership.
ARTICLE IV
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Section 4.1
Initial Contributions
. In connection with the formation of the Partnership under the
Delaware Act, the General Partner made an initial Capital Contribution to the Partnership and was
admitted as the general partner of the Partnership, and the organizational Limited Partner made a
Capital Contribution to the Partnership and was admitted as a limited partner of the Partnership.
Section 4.2
Contributions by the General Partner and the Initial Limited Partners;
Contributions on the WNGL Closing Date and issuance of General Partner Units.
(a) On the Initial Closing Date, the General Partner contributed and delivered to the
Partnership, as a Capital Contribution, a limited partner interest in the Operating Partnership
which, together with the Partnership Interest (as defined in the Operating Partnership Agreement)
previously held by the Partnership, represented a 98.9899% Percentage Interest (as defined in the
Operating Partnership Agreement) in the Operating Partnership, in exchange for (i) the continuation
of its Partnership Interest as general partner in the Partnership, subject to all of the rights,
privileges and duties of the General Partner under this Agreement, (ii) 1,000,000 Common Units and
16,593,721 Subordinated Units and (iii) the IDRs.
(b) On the Initial Closing Date, each Underwriter contributed and delivered to the Partnership
cash in an amount equal to the Issue Price per Common Unit, multiplied by the number of Common
Units specified in the Underwriting Agreement to be purchased by such Underwriter. In exchange for
such Capital Contribution by the Underwriters, the Partnership issued Common Units to each
Underwriter on whose behalf such Capital Contribution was made in an amount equal to the quotient
obtained by dividing (x) the cash contribution to the Partnership by or on behalf of such
Underwriter by (y) the Issue Price per Common Unit. Immediately after these contributions, the
Initial Capital Contribution of the General Partner and
the organizational Limited Partner were refunded, the interest of the organizational Limited
Partner was terminated and the organizational Limited Partner ceased to be a Limited Partner.
(c) To the extent that the Underwriters Overallotment Option was exercised, each Underwriter
contributed and delivered to the Partnership cash in an amount equal to the Issue Price per Common
Unit multiplied by the number of Common Units purchased by such
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Underwriter pursuant to the
Overallotment Option. In exchange for such Capital Contribution, the Partnership issued Common
Units to each Underwriter on whose behalf such Capital Contribution was made in an amount equal to
the quotient obtained by dividing (x) the cash contribution to the Partnership by or on behalf of
such Underwriter by (y) the Issue Price per Common Unit.
(d) On the WNGL Closing Date, pursuant to the WNGL Purchase Agreement, WNGL contributed all of
its interests in Thermogas L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company (previously Thermogas
Company, a Delaware corporation), to the Partnership in exchange for 4,375,000 Senior Units.
(e) On June 5, 2000, the Partnership issued 316,233 General Partner Units to represent the
General Partner Interest as of that date, which number is equal to one percent of the quotient of
the number of Common Units then Outstanding divided by ninety-nine percent rounded down to the
nearest whole number of General Partner Units.
(f) Immediately upon the conversion of Senior Units into Common Units as provided in Section
5.7(b), the Partnership will issue to the General Partner (for no consideration) that number of
General Partner Units which will cause the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest
immediately after such conversion to be equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner
Interest immediately prior to such conversion.
(g) If the Partnership issues additional Common Units and uses the proceeds from that issuance
to redeem any of the Senior Units pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the Partnership will
issue to the General Partner (for no consideration) that number of General Partner Units equal to
the $1,767,677 Capital Contribution made by the General Partner to the Partnership at the time of
the issuance of the Senior Units divided by the issuance price of such Common Units. This clause
(g) shall not obviate the provisions of Section 4.3 to the extent those provisions otherwise apply
to that issuance of Common Units.
Section 4.3
Issuances of Additional Units and Other Securities.
(a) Subject to Section 4.3(c), the General Partner is hereby authorized to cause the
Partnership to issue, in addition to the Partnership Interests and Units issued pursuant to
Sections 4.1 and 4.2, such additional Units (other than General Partner Units), or classes or
series thereof, or options, rights, warrants or appreciation rights relating thereto, or any other
type of equity security that the Partnership may lawfully issue, any unsecured or secured debt
obligations of the Partnership convertible into any class or series of equity securities of the
Partnership (collectively,
Partnership Securities
), for any Partnership purpose, at any time or
from time to time, to the Partners or to other Persons for such consideration and on such terms and
conditions as shall be established by the General Partner in its sole discretion, all without the
approval of any Limited Partners. The General Partner shall have sole discretion, subject to
the guidelines set forth in this Section 4.3 and the requirements of the Delaware Act, in
determining the consideration and terms and conditions with respect to any future issuance of
Partnership Securities.
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(b) Additional Partnership Securities to be issued by the Partnership pursuant to this Section
4.3 shall be issuable from time to time in one or more classes, or one or more series of any of
such classes, with such designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other
special rights, powers and duties, including, without limitation, rights, powers and duties senior
to existing classes and series of Partnership Securities (except as provided in Section 4.3(c)),
all as shall be fixed by the General Partner in the exercise of its sole discretion, subject to
Delaware law and Section 4.3(c), including, without limitation, (i) the allocations of items of
Partnership income, gain, loss, deduction and credit to each such class or series of Partnership
Securities; (ii) the right of each such class or series of Partnership Securities to share in
Partnership distributions; (iii) the rights of each such class or series of Partnership Securities
upon dissolution and liquidation of the Partnership; (iv) whether such class or series of
additional Partnership Securities is redeemable by the Partnership and, if so, the price at which,
and the terms and conditions upon which, such class or series of additional Partnership Securities
may be redeemed by the Partnership; (v) whether such class or series of additional Partnership
Securities is issued with the privilege of conversion and, if so, the rate at which, and the terms
and conditions upon which, such class or series of Partnership Securities may be converted into any
other class or series of Partnership Securities or other property; (vi) the terms and conditions
upon which each such class or series of Partnership Securities will be issued, evidenced by
certificates and assigned or transferred; and (vii) the right, if any, of each such class or series
of Partnership Securities to vote on Partnership matters, including, without limitation, matters
relating to the relative rights, preferences and privileges of each such class or series.
(c) Notwithstanding the terms of Sections 4.3(a) and 4.3(b), the issuance by the Partnership
of any Partnership Securities pursuant to this Section 4.3 shall be subject to the following
restrictions and limitations:
(i) Except for the issuance of Additional Senior Units pursuant to Section 5.4,
for so long as any Senior Units are Outstanding, the Partnership shall not create,
authorize or issue additional Partnership Securities (or securities convertible into
Partnership Securities) having distribution rights or liquidation rights ranking
prior or senior to, or on a parity with, the Senior Units, without the prior
approval of the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Senior Units; and
(ii) The General Partner may, at any time, make a Capital Contribution to the
Partnership so that the General Partner will have made aggregate Capital
Contributions equal to at least 1.0% of the aggregate Capital Contributions of all
Partners. Upon the issuance of any Common Units by the Partnership to any Person,
the General Partner, in its sole discretion, may simultaneously purchase (or may
purchase at any time thereafter as specified below) a number of General Partner
Units only to the extent necessary such that after taking into account the
additional Common Units issued to such Person and the General Partner Units to
be issued to the General Partner pursuant to this Section 4.3(c)(ii), the
General Partner will have a Percentage Interest of no more than 1.0%. The
consideration for the General Partner Units to be issued to the General Partner
shall be the higher of the price at which the Common Units were issued or, only if
the purchase is not made simultaneously with the issuance of the Common Units, the
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Closing Price of the Common Units on the day prior to the proposed issuance of such
General Partner Units;
(d) The General Partner is hereby authorized and directed to take all actions that it deems
necessary or appropriate in connection with each issuance of Units, IDRs or other Partnership
Securities pursuant to Section 4.3(a) and to amend this Agreement in any manner that it deems
necessary or appropriate to provide for each such issuance, to admit Additional Limited Partners in
connection therewith and to specify the relative rights, powers and duties of the holders of the
Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities being so issued.
(e) The General Partner shall do all things necessary to comply with the Delaware Act and is
authorized and directed to do all things it deems to be necessary or advisable in connection with
any future issuance of Partnership Securities, including, without limitation, compliance with any
statute, rule, regulation or guideline of any federal, state or other governmental agency or any
National Securities Exchange on which the Units or other Partnership Securities are listed for
trading.
Section 4.4
Limited Preemptive Rights
. Except as provided in this Section 4.4 and Section 4.3, no
Person shall have any preemptive, preferential or other similar right with respect to (a)
additional Capital Contributions; (b) issuance or sale of any class or series of Units, IDRs or
other Partnership Securities, whether unissued, held in the treasury or hereafter created; (c)
issuance of any obligations, evidences of indebtedness or other securities of the Partnership
convertible into or exchangeable for, or carrying or accompanied by any rights to receive, purchase
or subscribe to, any such Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities; (d) issuance of any right of
subscription to or right to receive, or any warrant or option for the purchase of, any such Units,
IDRs or other Partnership Securities; or (e) issuance or sale of any other securities that may be
issued or sold by the Partnership. The General Partner shall have the right, which it may from time
to time assign in whole or in part to any of its Affiliates, to purchase Units, IDRs or other
Partnership Securities from the Partnership whenever, and on the same terms that, the Partnership
issues Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities to Persons other than the General Partner and
its Affiliates, to the extent necessary to maintain the Percentage Interests of the General Partner
and its Affiliates equal to that which existed immediately prior to the issuance of such Units,
IDRs or other Partnership Securities. Notwithstanding the type of Partnership Securities issued by
the Partnership to Persons other than the General Partner and its Affiliates, the right of the
General Partner and its Affiliates to purchase Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities pursuant
to the immediately preceding sentence may be exercised through the purchase of General Partner
Units (based on a value which is proportionate to the price for which the Partnership Securities
are issued to such Persons) in an amount necessary to maintain the Percentage Interest of the
General Partner and its Affiliates with respect to the General Partner Interest equal to that which
existed immediately prior to the issuance of Units, IDRs or other Partnership Securities.
Section 4.5
Capital Accounts.
(a) The Partnership shall maintain for each Partner (or a beneficial owner of a Partnership
Interest held by a nominee in any case in which the nominee has furnished the identity of such
owner to the Partnership in accordance with Section 6031(c) of the Code or any
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other method acceptable to the General Partner in its sole discretion) owning a
Partnership Interest a separate Capital Account with respect to such Partnership Interest in
accordance with the rules of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(iv). Such Capital Account
shall be increased by (i) the amount of all Capital Contributions made to the Partnership with
respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to this Agreement and (ii) all items of Partnership
income and gain (including, without limitation, income and gain exempt from tax) computed in
accordance with Section 4.5(b) and allocated with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to
Section 5.1, and decreased by (x) the amount of cash or Net Agreed Value of all actual and deemed
distributions of cash or property made with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to this
Agreement and (y) all items of Partnership deduction and loss computed in accordance with Section
4.5(b) and allocated with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to Section 5.1.
(b) For purposes of computing the amount of any item of income, gain, loss or deduction to be
reflected in the Partners Capital Accounts, the determination, recognition and classification of
any such item shall be the same as its determination, recognition and classification for federal
income tax purposes (including, without limitation, any method of depreciation, cost recovery or
amortization used for that purpose), provided, that:
(i) Solely for purposes of this Section 4.5, the Partnership shall be treated
as owning directly its proportionate share (as determined by the General Partner
based upon the provisions of the Operating Partnership Agreements) of all property
owned by the Operating Partnership.
(ii) All fees and other expenses incurred by the Partnership to promote the
sale of (or to sell) a Partnership Interest that can neither be deducted nor
amortized under Section 709 of the Code, if any, shall, for purposes of Capital
Account maintenance, be treated as an item of deduction at the time such fees and
other expenses are incurred and shall be allocated among the Partners pursuant to
Section 5.1.
(iii) Except as otherwise provided in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704
1(b)(2)(iv)(m), the computation of all items of income, gain, loss and deduction
shall be made without regard to any election under Section 754 of the Code which may
be made by the Partnership and, as to those items described in Section 705(a)(1)(B)
or 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code, without regard to the fact that such items are not
includable in gross income or are neither currently deductible nor capitalized for
federal income tax purposes.
(iv) Any income, gain or loss attributable to the taxable disposition of any
Partnership property shall be determined as if the adjusted basis of such property
as of such date of disposition were equal in amount to the Partnerships Carrying
Value with respect to such property as of such date.
(v) In accordance with the requirements of Section 704(b) of the Code, any
deductions for depreciation, cost recovery or amortization attributable to any
Contributed Property shall be determined as if the adjusted basis of such property
on the date it was acquired by the Partnership were equal to the Agreed Value of
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such property. Upon an adjustment pursuant to Section 4.5(d) to the Carrying
Value of any Partnership property subject to depreciation, cost recovery or
amortization, any further deductions for such depreciation, cost recovery or
amortization attributable to such property shall be determined (A) as if the
adjusted basis of such property were equal to the Carrying Value of such property
immediately following such adjustment and (B) using a rate of depreciation, cost
recovery or amortization derived from the same method and useful life (or, if
applicable, the remaining useful life) as is applied for federal income tax
purposes;
provided, however
, that, if the asset has a zero adjusted basis for
federal income tax purposes, depreciation, cost recovery or amortization deductions
shall be determined using any reasonable method that the General Partner may adopt.
(vi) If the Partnerships adjusted basis in a depreciable or cost recovery
property is reduced for federal income tax purposes pursuant to Section 48(q)(1) or
48(q)(3) of the Code, the amount of such reduction shall, solely for purposes
hereof, be deemed to be an additional depreciation or cost recovery deduction in the
year such property is placed in service and shall be allocated among the Partners
pursuant to Section 5.1. Any restoration of such basis pursuant to Section 48(q)(2)
of the Code shall, to the extent possible, be allocated in the same manner to the
Partners to whom such deemed deduction was allocated.
(c) Subject to the next sentence, a transferee of a Partnership Interest shall succeed to a
pro rata portion of the Capital Account of the transferor relating to the Partnership Interest so
transferred. Upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of an FCI Common Unit (other than the
last FCI Common Unit sold, exchanged or otherwise disposed of by FCI) such that the FCI Common Unit
is not beneficially owned by FCI, the Capital Account maintained for FCI shall (i) first, be
allocated to the FCI Common Units to be transferred, as the case may be, in an amount equal to the
product of (x) the number of such FCI Common Units to be transferred, as the case may be, and (y)
the Per Unit Capital Amount for a Common Unit, and (ii) second, any remaining balance in such
Capital Account will be retained by FCI in its retained Units. With respect to the last FCI Common
Unit to be sold, exchanged or otherwise disposed of by FCI, that FCI Common Unit shall remain an
FCI Common Unit and shall retain the balance of the applicable Capital Account regardless of the
holder thereof.
(d) (i) Consistent with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(iv)(
f
),
on an issuance of additional Units for cash or Contributed Property, the conversion of Senior Units
into Common Units pursuant to Section 5.7, or the conversion of the General Partners Combined
Interest to Common Units pursuant to Section 13.3(b), the Capital Account of all Partners and the
Carrying Value of each Partnership property immediately prior to such issuance shall be adjusted
upward or downward to reflect any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss attributable to such
Partnership property, as if such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss had been recognized on an
actual sale of each such property immediately prior to such issuance and had been allocated to the
Partners at such time pursuant to Sections 5.1(a) and 5.1(b). In determining such Unrealized Gain
or Unrealized Loss, the aggregate cash amount and fair market value of all Partnership assets
(including, without limitation, cash or cash equivalents) immediately prior to the issuance of
additional Units shall be determined by the General Partner using such reasonable method of
valuation as it may adopt;
provided, however
, the General
- 31 -
Partner, in arriving at such valuation, must take fully into account the fair market value of
the Partnership Interests of all Partners at such time. The General Partner shall allocate such
aggregate value among the assets of the Partnership (in such manner as it determines in its sole
discretion to be reasonable) to arrive at a fair market value for individual properties.
(ii) In accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(iv)(f),
immediately prior to any actual or deemed distribution to a Partner of any
Partnership property (other than a distribution of cash that is not in redemption or
retirement of a Partnership Interest), the Capital Accounts of all Partners and the
Carrying Value of all Partnership property shall be adjusted upward or downward to
reflect any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss attributable to such Partnership
property, as if such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss had been recognized in a
sale of such property immediately prior to such distribution for an amount equal to
its fair market value, and had been allocated to the Partners, at such time,
pursuant to Section 5.1. Any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss attributable to such
property shall be allocated in the same manner as Net Termination Gain or Net
Termination Loss pursuant to Section 5.1(c);
provided, however
, that, in making any
such allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss actually realized
shall be allocated first. In determining such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss
the aggregate cash amount and fair market value of all Partnership assets
(including, without limitation, cash or cash equivalents) immediately prior to a
distribution shall be determined and allocated by the Liquidator using such
reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt.
Section 4.6
Interest
. No interest shall be paid by the Partnership on Capital
Contributions or on balances in Partners Capital Accounts.
Section 4.7
No Withdrawal
. No Partner shall be entitled to withdraw any part of its
Capital Contributions or its Capital Account or to receive any distribution from the Partnership,
except as provided in Section 4.1, and Articles V, VII, XIII and XIV.
Section 4.8
Loans from Partners
. Loans by a Partner to the Partnership shall not
constitute Capital Contributions. If any Partner shall advance funds to the Partnership in excess
of the amounts required hereunder to be contributed by it to the capital of the Partnership, the
making of such excess advances shall not result in any increase in the amount of the Capital
Account of such Partner. The amount of any such excess advances shall be a debt obligation of the
Partnership to such Partner and shall be payable or collectible only out of the Partnership assets
in accordance with the terms and conditions upon which such advances are made.
Section 4.9
No Fractional Units
. Except for fractional Senior Units issued pursuant
to Section 5.4 and Section 4.10(d), no fractional Units shall be issued by the Partnership.
Section 4.10
Splits and Combinations.
(a) Subject to Section 4.3(c) and 4.10(d), the General Partner may make a Pro Rata
distribution of Units or other Partnership Securities to all Record Holders or may effect a
- 32 -
subdivision or combination of Units or other Partnership Securities;
provided, however
, that,
after any such distribution, subdivision or combination, each Partner shall have the same
Percentage Interest in the Partnership as before such distribution, subdivision or combination.
(b) Whenever such a distribution, subdivision or combination of Units or other Partnership
Securities is declared, the General Partner shall select a Record Date as of which the
distribution, subdivision or combination shall be effective and shall send notice of the
distribution, subdivision or combination at least 20 days prior to such Record Date to each Record
Holder as of the date not less than 10 days prior to the date of such notice. The General Partner
also may cause a firm of independent public accountants selected by it to calculate the number of
Units to be held by each Record Holder after giving effect to such distribution, subdivision or
combination. The General Partner shall be entitled to rely on any certificate provided by such
firm as conclusive evidence of the accuracy of such calculation.
(c) Promptly following any such distribution, subdivision or combination, the General Partner
may cause Certificates to be issued to the Record Holders of Units as of the applicable Record Date
representing the new number of Units held by such Record Holders, or the General Partner may adopt
such other procedures as it may deem appropriate to reflect such distribution, subdivision or
combination;
provided, however
, if any such distribution, subdivision or combination results in a
smaller total number of Units Outstanding, the General Partner shall require, as a condition to the
delivery to a Record Holder of such new Certificate, the surrender of any Certificate held by such
Record Holder immediately prior to such Record Date.
(d) Except with respect to Senior Units, the Partnership shall not issue fractional Units upon
any distribution, subdivision or combination of Units. If a distribution, subdivision or
combination of Common Units would result in the issuance of fractional Common Units but for the
provisions of Section 4.9 and this Section 4.10(d), each fractional Common Unit shall be rounded to
the nearest whole Common Unit (and a 0.5 Common Unit shall be rounded to the next higher Common
Unit).
ARTICLE V
ALLOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Section 5.1
Allocations for Capital Account Purposes
. For purposes of maintaining the
Capital Accounts and in determining the rights of the Partners among themselves, the Partnerships
items of income, gain, loss and deduction (computed in accordance with Section 4.5(b)) shall be
allocated among the Partners in each taxable year (or portion thereof) as provided hereinbelow.
(a)
Net Income
. After giving effect to the special allocations set forth in Section 5.1(d),
Net Income for each taxable period and all items of income, gain, loss and deduction taken into
account in computing Net Income for such taxable period shall be allocated as follows:
(i)
First
, to the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest
of its General Partner Interest and to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units,
Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the
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General Partner Interest, until the aggregate Net Income allocated to such
Partners pursuant to this Section 5.1(a)(i) for the current and all previous taxable
years is equal to the aggregate Net Losses allocated to such Partners pursuant to
Section 5.1(b)(iii) for all previous taxable years;
(ii)
Second
, 100% to the General Partner until the aggregate Net Income
allocated to the General Partner pursuant to this Section 5.1(a)(ii) for the current
taxable year and all previous taxable years is equal to the aggregate Net Losses
allocated to the General Partner pursuant to Section 5.1(b)(iv) for all previous
taxable years;
(iii)
Third
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until the aggregate Net Income
allocated to such Partners pursuant to this Section 5.1(a)(iii) for the current
taxable year and all previous taxable years is equal to the aggregate Net Losses
allocated to such Partners pursuant to Section 5.1(b)(ii) for all previous taxable
years; and
(iv)
Fourth
, the balance, if any, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata.
(b)
Net Losses
. After giving effect to the special allocations set forth in Section 5.1(d),
Net Losses for each taxable period and all items of income, gain, loss and deduction taken into
account in computing Net Losses for such taxable period shall be allocated as follows:
(i)
First
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until the aggregate Net Losses
allocated to such Partners pursuant to this Section 5.1(b)(i) for the current
taxable year and all previous taxable years is equal to the aggregate Net Income
allocated to such Partners pursuant to Section 5.1(a)(iv) for all previous taxable
years;
(ii)
Second
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata; provided, that Net Losses shall not
be allocated to such Partners pursuant to this Section 5.1(b)(ii) to the extent that
such allocation would cause any Limited Partner holding Common Units to have a
deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account at the end of such taxable year (or
increase any existing deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account);
(iii)
Third
, to the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage
Interest of its General Partner Interest and to the Limited Partners holding Senior
Units, Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the
General Partner Interest; provided, that Net Losses shall not be allocated to such
Partners pursuant to this Section 5.1(b)(iii) to the extent such allocation would
cause any Limited Partner holding Senior Units to have a deficit balance in its
Adjusted Capital Account at the end of such taxable year (or increase any existing
deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account); and
(iv)
Fourth
, the balance, if any, 100% to the General Partner.
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(c)
Net Termination Gains and Losses
. After giving effect to the special allocations set
forth in Section 5.1(d), all items of income gain, loss and deduction taken into account in
computing Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss for such taxable period shall be allocated
in the same manner as such Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss is allocated hereunder.
All allocations under this Section 5.1(c) shall be made after Capital Account balances have been
adjusted by all other allocations provided under this Section 5.1 and after all distributions of
Available Cash provided under Section 5.4 have been made with respect to the taxable period ending
on the date of the Partnerships liquidation pursuant to Section 14.3.
(i) If a Net Termination Gain is recognized (or deemed recognized pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)) from Termination Capital Transactions, such Net Termination Gain
shall be allocated among the Partners in the following manner (and the Adjusted
Capital Accounts of the Partners shall be increased by the amount so allocated in
each of the following subclauses, in the order listed, before an allocation is made
pursuant to the next succeeding subclause):
(A)
First,
to each Partner having a deficit balance in its Adjusted
Capital Account, in the proportion that such deficit balance bears to the
total deficit balances in the Adjusted Capital Accounts of all Partners,
until each such Partner has been allocated Net Termination Gain equal to any
such deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account;
(B)
Second
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in
an amount equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner
Interest, and to the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage
Interest of its General Partner Interest, until the Adjusted Capital Account
in respect of each Senior Unit then Outstanding is equal to the sum of (i)
the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference (or fraction thereof) plus (ii) any
accumulated and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions.
(C)
Third
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until the Adjusted Capital
Account in respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding (without taking into
account any Arrearage that makes up a part of the applicable Adjusted
Capital Account) is equal to the sum of (1) its Unrecovered Initial Unit
Price plus (2) the Minimum Quarterly Distribution for the Quarter during
which such Net Termination Gain is recognized, reduced by any distribution
made pursuant to Section 5.4 or Arrearage accrued with respect to a Common
Unit in an amount equal to the Minimum Quarterly Distribution paid during
such Quarter (the amount determined pursuant to this clause (2) is
hereinafter defined as the
Unpaid MQD
);
(D)
Fourth,
to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until the Adjusted Capital
Account in respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding (without taking into
account any Arrearage that makes up a part of the applicable Adjusted
Capital Account) is equal to the sum of (1) its Unrecovered Initial Unit
Price,
plus
(2) the Unpaid MQD, if any, for such
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Common Unit with respect to the Quarter during which such Net
Termination Gain is recognized,
plus
(3) the excess of (aa) the First Target
Distribution less the Minimum Quarterly Distribution for each Quarter of the
Partnerships existence over (bb) the amount of any distributions of Cash
from Operations that was distributed or Arrearage that was accrued pursuant
to:
(v) Section 5.4(a)(iii) hereof,
(w) Section 5.4(d)(iii) hereof,
(x) solely with respect to the distribution referenced in
Section 5.4(a)(iii) pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(vii),
5.4(b)(ii), 5.4(b)(iii), 5.4(c)(ii) and 5.4(c)(iii) hereof,
(y) Section 5.4(c) of the Amended and Restated Agreement and
the Second Amended and Restated Agreement, and
(z) Sections 5.4(a)(iv) or 5.4(b)(ii) of the Original
Agreement,
(the sum of (1) plus (2) plus (3) is hereinafter defined as the
First
Liquidation Target Amount
);
(E)
Fifth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (including
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 86.8673%
less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General
Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner
Interest, and 13.1327% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until the
Adjusted Capital Account in respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding
(without taking into account any Arrearage that makes up a part of the
applicable Adjusted Capital Account) is equal to the sum of (1) the First
Liquidation Target Amount, plus (2) the excess of (aa) the Second Target
Distribution less the First Target Distribution for each Quarter of the
Partnerships existence over (bb) the amount of any distributions of Cash
from Operations that was distributed or Arrearage that was accrued pursuant
to:
(v) Section 5.4(a)(iv) hereof,
(w) Section 5.4(d)(iv) hereof,
(x) solely with respect to the distribution referenced in
Section 5.4(a)(iv) pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(vii),
5.4(b)(ii), 5.4(b)(iii), 5.4(c)(ii) and 5.4(c)(iii) hereof,
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(y) Section 5.4(d) of the Amended and Restated Agreement and
the Second Amended and Restated Agreement, and
(z) Sections 5.4(a)(v) or 5.4(b)(iii) of the Original
Agreement,
(the sum of (1) plus (2) is hereinafter defined as the
Second Liquidation
Target Amount
);
(F)
Sixth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (including
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 76.7653%
less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General
Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner
Interest, and 23.2347% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until the
Adjusted Capital Account in respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding
(without taking into account any Arrearage that makes up a part of the
applicable Adjusted Capital Account) is equal to the sum of (1) the Second
Liquidation Target Amount,
plus
(2) the excess of (aa) the Third Target
Distribution less the Second Target Distribution for each Quarter of the
Partnerships existence over (bb) the amount of any distributions of Cash
from Operations that was distributed or Arrearage that was accrued pursuant
to:
(v) Section 5.4(a)(v) hereof,
(w) Section 5.4(d)(v) hereof,
(x) solely with respect to the distribution referenced in
Section 5.4(a)(v) pursuant to Sections 5.4(a)(vii),
5.4(b)(ii), 5.4(b)(iii), 5.4(c)(ii) and 5.4(c)(iii) hereof,
(y) Section 5.4(e) of the Amended and Restated Agreement and
the Second Amended and Restated Agreement, and
(z) Sections 5.4(a)(vi) or 5.4(b)(iv) of the Original
Agreement;
and
(G)
Thereafter
, any remaining amount to the Limited Partners holding
Common Units (including holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an
amount equal to 51.5102% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner
Interest, to the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage
Interest of its General Partner Interest, and 48.4898% to the Special
Limited Partners, Pro Rata.
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(ii) If a Net Termination Loss is recognized (or deemed recognized pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)) from Termination Capital Transactions, such Net Termination Loss
shall be allocated to the Partners in the following manner:
(A)
First
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until the Adjusted Capital
Account in respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding (without taking into
account any Arrearage that makes up a part of the applicable Adjusted
Capital Account) has been reduced to zero;
(B)
Second
, to the holders of the FCI Common Units until the Adjusted
Capital Account in respect of each FCI Common Unit then Outstanding has been
reduced to zero;
(C)
Third
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in
an amount equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner
Interest, and to the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage
Interest of its General Partner Interest, until the Adjusted Capital Account
in respect of each Senior Unit then Outstanding has been reduced to zero;
and
(D)
Thereafter
, the balance, if any, 100% to the General Partner.
(d)
Special Allocations
. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1, the
following special allocations shall be made for such taxable period:
(i)
Partnership Minimum Gain Chargeback
. Notwithstanding any other provision
of this Section 5.1, if there is a net decrease in Partnership Minimum Gain during
any Partnership taxable period, each Partner shall be allocated items of Partnership
income and gain for such period (and, if necessary, subsequent periods) in the
manner and amounts provided in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(f)(6),
1.704-2(g)(2) and 1.704-2(j)(2)(i), or any successor provision. For purposes of
this Section 5.1(d), each Partners Adjusted Capital Account balance shall be
determined, and the allocation of income or gain required hereunder shall be
effected, prior to the application of any other allocations pursuant to this Section
5.1(d) with respect to such taxable period (other than an allocation pursuant to
Sections 5.1(d)(vi) and 5.1(d)(vii)). This Section 5.1(d)(i) is intended to comply
with the Partnership Minimum Gain chargeback requirement in Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704 2(f) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(ii)
Chargeback of Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain
. Notwithstanding the
other provisions of this Section 5.1 (other than Section 5.1(d)(i)), except as
provided in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 2(i)(4), if there is a net decrease in
Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain during any Partnership taxable period, any
Partner with a share of Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain at the beginning of
such taxable period shall be allocated items of
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Partnership income and gain for such period (and, if necessary, subsequent
periods) in the manner and amounts provided in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704
2(i)(4) and 1.704 2(j)(2)(ii), or any successor provisions. For purposes of this
Section 5.1(d), each Partners Adjusted Capital Account balance shall be determined,
and the allocation of income or gain required hereunder shall be effected, prior to
the application of any other allocations pursuant to this Section 5.1(d), other than
Section 5.1(d)(i) and other than an allocation pursuant to Sections 5.1(d)(vi) and
5.1(d)(vii), with respect to such taxable period. This Section 5.1(d)(ii) is
intended to comply with the chargeback of items of income and gain requirement in
Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 2(i)(4) and shall be interpreted consistently
therewith.
(iii)
Priority Allocations
.
First
, if the amount of cash or the Net Agreed
Value of any property distributed (except cash or property distributed pursuant to
Section 14.3 or 14.4) to any Limited Partner holding Common Units with respect to a
taxable year is greater (on a per Unit basis) than the amount of cash or the Net
Agreed Value of property distributed to the other Limited Partners holding Common
Units (on a per Unit basis), then (1) each Limited Partner holding Common Units
receiving such greater cash or property distribution shall be allocated gross income
in an amount equal to the product of (aa) the amount by which the distribution (on a
per Unit basis) to such Limited Partners holding Common Units exceeds the
distribution (on a per Unit basis) to the Limited Partner holding Common Units
receiving the smallest distribution and (bb) the number of Units owned by the
Limited Partners holding Common Units receiving the greater distribution; and (2)
the General Partner shall be allocated gross income in an aggregate amount equal to
the sum of the amounts allocated in clause (1) above multiplied by the Percentage
Interest of its General Partner Interest, divided by 100% less the Percentage
Interest of the General Partner Interest.
Second,
gross income for the taxable
period shall be allocated 100% to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro
Rata, until the aggregate amount of such items allocated to the Limited Partners
holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, under this paragraph (iii) for the current taxable
period and all previous taxable periods is equal to the cumulative amount of cash
distributed to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, pursuant to
Sections 5.4 and 5.5(a) for the current and all previous taxable periods. All or a
portion of the remaining items of Partnership gross income or gain for the taxable
period, if any, shall be allocated 100% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata,
until the aggregate amount of such items allocated to the Special Limited Partners,
Pro Rata, under this paragraph (iii) for the current taxable period and all previous
taxable periods is equal to the cumulative amount of cash distributed to the Special
Limited Partners, Pro Rata, from the Initial Closing Date through the end of such
taxable period.
(iv)
Qualified Income Offset
. In the event any Partner unexpectedly receives
any adjustments, allocations or distributions described in Treasury Regulation
Sections 1.704 1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4), 1.704 1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(5), or 1.704
1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(6), items of Partnership income and gain shall be specifically
- 39 -
allocated to such Partner in an amount and manner sufficient to eliminate, to
the extent required by the Treasury Regulations promulgated under Section 704(b) of
the Code, the deficit balance, if any, in its Adjusted Capital Account created by
such adjustments, allocations or distributions as quickly as possible unless such
deficit balance is otherwise eliminated pursuant to Section 5.1(d)(i) or (ii).
(v)
Gross Income Allocations
. In the event any Partner has a deficit balance
in its Adjusted Capital Account at the end of any Partnership taxable period, such
Partner shall be specially allocated items of Partnership gross income and gain in
the amount of such excess as quickly as possible; provided, that an allocation
pursuant to this Section 5.1(d)(v) shall be made only if and to the extent that such
Partner would have a deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account after all other
allocations provided for in this Section 5.1 have been tentatively made as if this
Section 5.1(d)(v) were not in this Agreement.
(vi)
Nonrecourse Deductions
. Nonrecourse Deductions for any taxable period
shall be allocated to the Partners in accordance with their respective Percentage
Interests. If the General Partner determines in its good faith discretion that the
Partnerships Nonrecourse Deductions must be allocated in a different ratio to
satisfy the safe harbor requirements of the Treasury Regulations promulgated under
Section 704(b) of the Code, the General Partner is authorized, upon notice to the
Limited Partners, to revise the prescribed ratio to the numerically closest ratio
that does satisfy such requirements.
(vii)
Partner Nonrecourse Deductions
. Partner Nonrecourse Deductions for any
taxable period shall be allocated 100% to the Partner that bears the Economic Risk
of Loss with respect to the Partner Nonrecourse Debt to which such Partner
Nonrecourse Deductions are attributable in accordance with Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704 2(i). If more than one Partner bears the Economic Risk of Loss with
respect to a Partner Nonrecourse Debt, such Partner Nonrecourse Deductions
attributable thereto shall be allocated between or among such Partners in accordance
with the ratios in which they share such Economic Risk of Loss.
(viii)
Nonrecourse Liabilities
. For purposes of Treasury Regulation Section
1.752 3(a)(3), the Partners agree that Nonrecourse Liabilities of the Partnership in
excess of the sum of (A) the amount of Partnership Minimum Gain and (B) the total
amount of Nonrecourse Built in Gain shall be allocated among the Partners in
accordance with their respective Percentage Interests.
(ix)
Code Section 754 Adjustments
. To the extent an adjustment to the adjusted
tax basis of any Partnership asset pursuant to Section 734(b) or 743(b) of the Code
is required, pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(iv)(
m
), to be
taken into account in determining Capital Accounts, the amount of such adjustment to
the Capital Accounts shall be treated as an item of gain (if the adjustment
increases the basis of the asset) or loss (if the adjustment decreases such basis),
and such item of gain or loss shall be specially allocated to
- 40 -
the Partners in a manner consistent with the manner in which their Capital
Accounts are required to be adjusted pursuant to such Section of the Treasury
regulations.
(x)
Economic Uniformity
.
(A) Immediately prior to a sale, exchange or other disposition of all
or any portion of the Senior Units, the holders disposing of Senior Units
may elect that the Partnership allocate items of Partnership gross income or
gain 100% to the Limited Partners disposing of Senior Units until the
Limited Partners disposing of Senior Units have been allocated an amount of
gross income or gain which causes the Capital Accounts maintained with
respect to each of the Senior Units to be equal. Immediately prior to the
conversion of all or any portion of the Senior Units into Common Units, the
Limited Partners converting such Senior Units may elect that the Partnership
allocate items of Partnership gross income or gain until the Limited
Partners converting such Senior Units have been allocated an amount of gross
income or gain which causes the Capital Account maintained with respect to
each of the Senior Units to be converted to be equal to the product of (x)
the number of Common Units into which the Senior Units will be converted and
(y) the Per Unit Capital Account for a Common Unit.
(B) If at the time of the sale, exchange or other disposition of Senior
Units, the Senior Units are publicly traded or will become publicly traded
as a result of the sale, exchange or disposition, the General Partner may
cause the Partnership to allocate items of gross income or gain 100% to the
Limited Partners disposing of Senior Units until the Limited Partners
disposing of Senior Units have been allocated an amount of gross income or
gain which causes the Capital Accounts maintained with respect to each of
the Senior Units that will be publicly traded after the disposition to be
equal. Immediately prior to the sale, exchange or other disposition in the
public marketplace of Common Units into which Senior Units have been
converted, the General Partner may cause the Partnership to allocate items
of gross income or gain 100% to the Limited Partners disposing of such
Common Units until the Limited Partners disposing of such Common Units have
been allocated an amount of gross income or gain which causes the Capital
Account maintained with respect to all Common Units that are publicly traded
after the disposition to be equal.
(xi)
Curative Allocation
.
(A) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1, other than
the Required Allocations, the Required Allocations shall be taken into
account in making the Agreed Allocations so that, to the extent possible,
the net amount of items of income, gain, loss and deduction allocated to
each Partner pursuant to the Required Allocations and the
- 41 -
Agreed Allocations, together, shall be equal to the net amount of such
items that would have been allocated to each such Partner under the Agreed
Allocations had the Required Allocations and the related Curative Allocation
not otherwise been provided in this Section 5.1. Notwithstanding the
preceding sentence, Required Allocations relating to (1) Nonrecourse
Deductions shall not be taken into account except to the extent that there
has been a decrease in Partnership Minimum Gain and (2) Partner Nonrecourse
Deductions shall not be taken into account except to the extent that there
has been a decrease in Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain. Allocations
pursuant to this Section 5.1(d)(xi)(A) shall only be made with respect to
Required Allocations to the extent the General Partner reasonably determines
that such allocations will otherwise be inconsistent with the economic
agreement among the Partners. Further, allocations pursuant to this Section
5.1(d)(xi)(A) shall be deferred with respect to allocations pursuant to
clauses (1) and (2) hereof to the extent the General Partner reasonably
determines that such allocations are likely to be offset by subsequent
Required Allocations.
(B) The General Partner shall have reasonable discretion, with respect
to each taxable period, to (1) apply the provisions of Section 5.1(d)(xi)(A)
in whatever order is most likely to minimize the economic distortions that
might otherwise result from the Required Allocations, and (2) divide all
allocations pursuant to Section 5.1(d)(xi)(A) among the Partners in a manner
that is likely to minimize such economic distortions.
(xii)
Retirement of Assumed Indebtedness
. All losses or deductions
attributable to premiums, consent fees, or other expenditures incurred by the
Partnership to retire indebtedness assumed from the General Partner pursuant to the
Contribution Agreement shall be allocated to the General Partner.
Section 5.2
Allocations for Tax Purposes.
(a) Except as otherwise provided herein, for federal income tax purposes, each item of income,
gain, loss and deduction shall be allocated among the Partners in the same manner as its
correlative item of
book
income, gain, loss or deduction is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(b) In an attempt to eliminate Book Tax Disparities attributable to a Contributed Property or
Adjusted Property, items of income, gain, loss, depreciation, amortization and cost recovery
deductions shall be allocated for federal income tax purposes among the Partners as follows:
(i) (A) In the case of a Contributed Property, such items attributable thereto
shall be allocated among the Partners in the manner provided under Section 704(c) of
the Code that takes into account the variation between the Agreed Value of such
property and its adjusted basis at the time of contribution; and (B) except as
otherwise provided in Section 5.2(b)(iii), any item of Residual
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Gain or Residual Loss attributable to a Contributed Property shall be allocated
among the Partners in the same manner as its correlative item of
book
gain or loss
is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(ii) (A) In the case of an Adjusted Property, such items shall (1)
first
, be
allocated among the Partners in a manner consistent with the principles of Section
704(c) of the Code to take into account the Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss
attributable to such property and the allocations thereof pursuant to Section
4.5(d)(i) or (ii), and (2)
second
, in the event such property was originally a
Contributed Property, be allocated among the Partners in a manner consistent with
Section 5.2(b)(i)(A); and (B) except as otherwise provided in Section 5.2(b)(iii),
any item of Residual Gain or Residual Loss attributable to an Adjusted Property
shall be allocated among the Partners in the same manner as its correlative item of
book
gain or loss is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(iii) The General Partner shall apply the principles of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704 3(d) to eliminate Book Tax Disparities.
(c) For the proper administration of the Partnership and for the preservation of uniformity of
the Units (or any class or classes thereof), the General Partner shall have sole discretion to (i)
adopt such conventions as it deems appropriate in determining the amount of depreciation,
amortization and cost recovery deductions; (ii) make special allocations for federal income tax
purposes of income (including, without limitation, gross income) or deductions; and (iii) amend the
provisions of this Agreement as appropriate (x) to reflect the proposal or promulgation of Treasury
Regulations under Section 704(b) or Section 704(c) of the Code or (y) otherwise to preserve or
achieve uniformity of the Units (or any class or classes thereof). The General Partner may adopt
such conventions, make such allocations and make such amendments to this Agreement as provided in
this Section 5.2(c) only if such conventions, allocations or amendments would not have a material
adverse effect on the Partners, the holders of any class or classes of Units issued and Outstanding
or the Partnership, and if such allocations are consistent with the principles of Section 704 of
the Code.
(d) The General Partner in its sole discretion may determine to depreciate or amortize the
portion of an adjustment under Section 743(b) of the Code attributable to unrealized appreciation
in any Adjusted Property (to the extent of the unamortized Book Tax Disparity) using a
predetermined rate derived from the depreciation or amortization method and useful life applied to
the Partnerships common basis of such property, despite the inconsistency of such approach with
Treasury Regulation Section 1.167(c) 1(a)(6) and Proposed Treasury Regulation 1.197-2(g)(3) or any
successor regulations thereto. If the General Partner determines that such reporting position
cannot reasonably be taken, the General Partner may adopt depreciation and amortization conventions
under which all purchasers acquiring Units in the same month would receive depreciation and
amortization deductions, based upon the same applicable rate as if they had purchased a direct
interest in the Partnerships property. If the General Partner chooses not to utilize such
aggregate method, the General Partner may use any other reasonable depreciation and amortization
conventions to preserve the uniformity of the intrinsic tax characteristics of any Units that would
not have a material adverse effect on the Limited Partners or the Record Holders of any class or
classes of Units.
- 43 -
(e) Any gain allocated to the Partners upon the sale or other taxable disposition of any
Partnership asset shall, to the extent possible, after taking into account other required
allocations of gain pursuant to this Section 5.2, be characterized as Recapture Income in the same
proportions and to the same extent as such Partners (or their predecessors in interest) have been
allocated any deductions directly or indirectly giving rise to the treatment of such gains as
Recapture Income.
(f) All items of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit recognized by the Partnership for
federal income tax purposes and allocated to the Partners in accordance with the provisions hereof
shall be determined without regard to any election under Section 754 of the Code which may be made
by the Partnership;
provided, however
, that such allocations, once made, shall be adjusted as
necessary or appropriate to take into account those adjustments permitted or required by Sections
734 and 743 of the Code.
(g) Each item of Partnership income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to transferred
Units shall, for federal income tax purposes, be determined on an annual basis and prorated on a
monthly basis and shall be allocated to the Partners as of the opening of the New York Stock
Exchange on the first Business Day of each month;
provided, however
, that gain or loss on a sale or
other disposition of any assets of the Partnership other than in the ordinary course of business
shall be allocated to the Partners as of the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on the first
Business Day of the month in which such gain or loss is recognized for federal income tax purposes.
The General Partner may revise, alter or otherwise modify such methods of allocation as it
determines necessary, to the extent permitted or required by Section 706 of the Code and the
regulations or rulings promulgated thereunder.
(h) Allocations that would otherwise be made to a Limited Partner under the provisions of this
Article V shall instead be made to the beneficial owner of Units held by a nominee in any case in
which the nominee has furnished the identity of such owner to the Partnership in accordance with
Section 6031(c) of the Code or any other method acceptable to the General Partner in its sole
discretion.
Section 5.3
Requirement and Characterization of Distributions.
(a) Within 45 days following the end of (i) the period beginning on the Initial Closing Date
and ending on October 31, 1994 and (ii) each Quarter commencing with the Quarter beginning on
November 1, 1994, an amount equal to 100% of Available Cash with respect to such Quarter shall be
distributed in accordance with this Article V by the Partnership to the Partners, as of the Record
Date selected by the General Partner in its reasonable discretion. All amounts of Available Cash
distributed by the Partnership on any date from any source shall be deemed to be Cash from
Operations until the sum of all amounts of Available Cash theretofore distributed by the
Partnership to the Partners pursuant to Section 5.4 equals the aggregate amount of all Cash from
Operations generated by the Partnership since the Initial Closing Date through the close of the
immediately preceding Quarter. Any remaining amounts of Available Cash distributed by the
Partnership on such date shall, except as otherwise provided in Section 5.5, be deemed to be Cash
from Interim Capital Transactions.
- 44 -
(b) Notwithstanding the definitions of Available Cash and Cash from Operations contained
herein, disbursements (including, without limitation, contributions to the Operating Partnership or
disbursements on behalf of the Operating Partnership) made or cash reserves established, increased
or reduced after the end of any Quarter but on or before the date on which the Partnership makes
its distribution of Available Cash in respect of such Quarter as required by Section 5.3(a) shall
be deemed to have been made, established, increased or reduced for purposes of determining
Available Cash and Cash from Operations, within such Quarter if the General Partner so determines.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of the dissolution and liquidation of the Partnership,
all proceeds of such liquidation shall be applied and distributed in accordance with, and subject
to the terms and conditions of, Sections 14.3 and 14.4.
Section 5.4
Distributions of Cash from Operations and Additional Senior Units
.
Subject to Section 17-607 of the Delaware Act, Available Cash with respect to any Quarter that is
deemed to be Cash from Operations pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.3 or 5.5 shall be
distributed as follows, except as otherwise required by Section 4.3(b) in respect of additional
Partnership Securities issued pursuant thereto and except that clauses (a), (b) and (c) of this
Section 5.4 shall not be effective until the end of the Information Statement Period:
(a) if during the Arrearage Period and if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage is equal to
zero immediately prior to making such distribution:
(i)
First
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount
equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to
the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General
Partner Interest, until there has been distributed in respect of each Senior Unit
then Outstanding an amount equal to the Senior Unit Distribution and any accumulated
and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions through the last day of the preceding Quarter;
(ii)
Second
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (other than the
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to the General Partner in
an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, until
there has been distributed in respect of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common
Unit) then Outstanding an amount equal to the Minimum Quarterly Distribution;
(iii)
Third
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (other than the
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to the General Partner in
an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, until
there has been distributed in respect of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common
Unit) then Outstanding an amount equal to the excess of the Ceiling Quarterly
Distribution or the First Target Distribution (whichever is less) over the Minimum
Quarterly Distribution; provided, that if the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution is used
in this calculation, clauses (iv), (v) and (vi) of this Section
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5.4(a) shall not be operative and the distribution shall proceed to Section
5.4(a)(vii);
(iv)
Fourth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (other than the
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 86.8673%% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and
13.1327% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed
in respect of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding an
amount equal to the excess of the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution or the Second
Target Distribution (whichever is less) over the First Target Distribution;
provided, that if the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution is used in this calculation,
clauses (v) and (vi) of this Section 5.4(a) shall not be operative and the
distribution shall proceed to Section 5.4(a)(vii);
(v)
Fifth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (other than the holders
of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 76.7653%% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and
23.2347% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed
in respect of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding an
amount equal to the excess of the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution or the Third Target
Distribution (whichever is less) over the Second Target Distribution; provided, that
if the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution is used in this calculation, clause (vi) of
this Section 5.4(a) shall not be operative and the distribution shall proceed to
Section 5.4(a)(vii);
(vi)
Sixth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (other than the
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 51.5102%% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and
48.4898% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed
in respect of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding an
amount equal to the excess of the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution over the Third
Target Distribution; and
(vii)
Thereafter
, to the holders of the FCI Common Units, the holder of the
General Partner Units and the Special Limited Partners in the same order and until
the aggregate distributions on a per FCI Common Unit basis are the same amounts as
the distributions made on a per Common Unit basis pursuant to Section 5.4(a)(ii)
through 5.4(a)(vi) but with any distribution made to the Common Units made to the
FCI Common Units;
provided, however
, that for this clause (a) at the point (the
Section 5.4(a) Threshold Point
) in
the application of clauses (ii) through (vii) above that the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage
equals $36 million, the distribution shall continue pursuant to Section 5.4(c)(ii) (and beginning
with the specific clause of Section 5.4(a)(ii) through (vi) applicable to the Section
- 46 -
5.4(a) Threshold Point) and Section 5.4(c)(iii) with respect to all Unitholders and the Special
Limited Partners, as applicable, so that the FCI Common Units thereafter receive the distribution
they otherwise would have received under that Section 5.4(c)(ii) (and the applicable clauses of
Section 5.4(a)(ii) through (vi)) with any remainder distributed pursuant to Section 5.4(c)(iii);
(b) if during the Arrearage Period and if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage immediately
prior to making such distribution is greater than zero but less than $36 million:
(i)
First
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount
equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to
the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General
Partner Interest, until there has been distributed in respect of each Senior Unit
then Outstanding an amount equal to the Senior Unit Distribution and any accumulated
and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions through the last day of the preceding Quarter;
(ii)
Second
, to the Unitholders (other than the holders of the FCI Common
Units) and the Special Limited Partners, until there has been distributed in respect
of each Common Unit (other than any FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding an amount
equal to the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution in the order specified in Section
5.4(a)(ii) through 5.4(a)(vi);
(iii)
Third
, to the Unitholders and the Special Limited Partners, in the same
order and until the aggregate distributions on a per FCI Common Unit basis are the
same amounts as the distributions made on a per Common Unit basis pursuant to
Section 5.4(b)(ii) but with any distribution made to the Common Units made to the
FCI Common Units; and
(iv)
Thereafter
, to the holders of the FCI Common Units, the General Partner
and the Special Limited Partners, until there has been distributed an amount equal
to each Arrearage beginning with the Arrearage applicable to the oldest Quarter
applied in the same manner and to the same holders of Units and Special Limited
Partners as each such Arrearage was accrued pursuant to Sections 5.4(a) or 5.4(b);
provided, however
, that for this clause (b) at the point (the Section 5.4(b) Threshold Point) in
the application of clauses (ii) and (iii) above that the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage
equals $36 million, the distribution shall continue pursuant to Section 5.4(c)(ii) (and beginning
with the specific clause of Section 5.4(a)(ii) through (vi) applicable to the Section 5.4(b)
Threshold Point) and Section 5.4(c)(iii) with respect to all Unitholders and the Special Limited
Partners, as applicable, so that the FCI Common Units thereafter receive the distribution they
otherwise would have received under that Section 5.4(c)(ii) (and the applicable clauses of Section
5.4(a)(ii) through (vi)) with any remainder distributed pursuant to Section 5.4(c)(iii);
- 47 -
(c) if during the Arrearage Period and the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage equals $36
million or if after the Arrearage Period and if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage is greater
than zero:
(i)
First
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount
equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to
the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General
Partner Interest, until there has been distributed in respect of each Senior Unit
then Outstanding an amount equal to the Senior Unit Distribution and any accumulated
and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions through the last day of the preceding Quarter;
(ii)
Second
, to the Unitholders (including the holders of the FCI Common Units)
and the Special Limited Partners, until there has been distributed in respect of
each Common Unit (including any FCI Common Unit) then Outstanding an amount equal to
the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution as if such distribution was made pursuant to
Section 5.4(a)(ii) through 5.4(a)(vi) without the use of the phrases (other than
the holders of the FCI Common Units) and (other than any FCI Common Unit); and
(iii)
Thereafter
, to the holders of the FCI Common Units, the General Partner
and the Special Limited Partners, until there has been distributed an amount equal
to each Arrearage beginning with the Arrearage applicable to the oldest Quarter
applied in the same manner and to the same holders of Units and Special Limited
Partners as each such Arrearage was accrued pursuant to Sections 5.4(a) or 5.4(b);
or
(d) if after the Arrearage Period and if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage is zero:
(i)
First
, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount
equal to 100% less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to
the General Partner in an amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General
Partner Interest, until there has been distributed in respect of each Senior Unit
then Outstanding an amount equal to the Senior Unit Distribution and any accumulated
and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions through the last day of the preceding Quarter;
(ii)
Second
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed in
respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding an amount equal to the Minimum
Quarterly Distribution;
(iii)
Third
, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed in
respect of each Common Unit then Outstanding an amount equal to the excess of the
First Target Distribution over the Minimum Quarterly Distribution;
- 48 -
(iv)
Fourth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (including holders of
the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 86.8673% less the Percentage
Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an amount equal
to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and 13.1327% to the
Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed in respect of
each Common Unit then Outstanding an amount equal to the excess of the Second Target
Distribution over the First Target Distribution;
(v)
Fifth
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (including holders of
the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 76.7653% less the Percentage
Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an amount equal
to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and 23.2347% to the
Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata, until there has been distributed in respect of
each Common Unit then Outstanding an amount equal to the excess of the Third Target
Distribution over the Second Target Distribution; and
(vi)
Thereafter
, to the Limited Partners holding Common Units (including
holders of the FCI Common Units), Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 51.5102% less the
Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, and
48.4898% to the Special Limited Partners, Pro Rata;
provided, however
, that for Sections 5.4(a), (b), (c) and (d):
(1) notwithstanding the amount of Available Cash that is deemed to be Cash from Operations
with respect to such Quarter, Senior Unit Distributions accruing prior to February 1, 2001, shall
be paid by the issuance of additional Senior Units having an aggregate Senior Unit Liquidation
Preference equal to the amount of such Senior Unit Distributions (
Additional Senior Units
), which
may include fractional Senior Units or the cash equivalent thereof based on the Senior Unit
Liquidation Preference;
(2) if (A) the Senior Unit Distribution has been reduced to zero pursuant to the second
sentence of Section 5.6(a), (B) all of the Senior Units have been converted pursuant to Section
5.7(b) or (C) all of the Senior Units have been redeemed pursuant to Section 17.2, then clause (i)
of each of subsections (a), (b), (c) and (d) of this Section 5.4 shall terminate and have no
further force or effect; and,
(3) if the Minimum Quarterly Distribution, the First Target Distribution, the Second Target
Distribution and the Third Target Distribution have been reduced to zero pursuant to the second
sentence of Section 5.6(b), then subsections (a)(ii) through (a)(v), b(ii) and b(iii) as they
relate to (a)(ii) through a(v), c(ii) as it relates to (a)(ii) through (a)(v) and d(ii) through
(d)(v) of this Section 5.4 shall terminate and have no further force or effect.
Section 5.5
Distributions of Cash from Interim Capital Transactions
. Subject to
Section 17-607 of the Delaware Act, Available Cash that constitutes Cash from Interim Capital
- 49 -
Transactions shall be distributed, unless the provisions of Section 5.3 require otherwise, as
follows:
(a) First, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100%
less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, until there has been
distributed in respect of each Senior Unit then Outstanding an amount equal to any accumulated and
unpaid Senior Unit Distribution through such date;
(b) Second, to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata, in an amount equal to 100%
less the Percentage Interest of the General Partner Interest, and to the General Partner in an
amount equal to the Percentage Interest of its General Partner Interest, until a hypothetical
holder of a Senior Unit acquired on the WNGL Closing Date has received with respect to such Senior
Unit, during the period since the WNGL Closing Date through such date, distributions of Available
Cash that are deemed to be Cash from Interim Capital Transactions in an aggregate amount equal to
the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference;
(c) Third, to the Unitholders, Pro Rata, until a hypothetical holder of a Common Unit acquired
on the Initial Closing Date has received with respect to such Common Unit, during the period since
the Initial Closing Date through such date, distributions of Available Cash that are deemed to be
Cash from Interim Capital Transactions in an aggregate amount equal to the Initial Unit Price; and
(d) Thereafter, all Available Cash shall be distributed as if it were Cash from Operations and
shall be distributed in accordance with Section 5.4.
Section 5.6
Adjustment of Senior Unit Liquidation Preference, Senior Unit Distribution,
Minimum Quarterly Distribution and Target Distribution Levels
.
(a) The Senior Unit Liquidation Preference and the Senior Unit Distribution shall be
proportionately adjusted in the event of any distribution, combination or subdivision (whether
effected by a distribution payable in Senior Units or otherwise) of Senior Units in accordance with
Section 4.10. In the event of a distribution of Available Cash to the Limited Partners holding
Senior Units pursuant to Section 5.5(b), the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference shall be reduced by
the amount of that distribution to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units, Pro Rata. In the
event of a distribution of Available Cash to the Limited Partners holding Senior Units pursuant to
Section 5.5(b), the Senior Unit Distribution shall be adjusted proportionately downward to equal
the product obtained by multiplying the otherwise applicable Senior Unit Distribution by a fraction
of which the numerator is the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference immediately after giving effect to
such distribution and of which the denominator is the Senior Unit Liquidation Preference
immediately prior to giving effect to such distribution.
(b) The Minimum Quarterly Distribution, First Target Distribution, Second Target Distribution
and Third Target Distribution shall be proportionately adjusted in the event of any distribution,
combination or subdivision (whether effected by a distribution payable in Units or otherwise) of
Units or other Partnership Securities in accordance with Section 4.10. If a distribution of
Available Cash is made that is deemed to be Cash from Interim Capital
- 50 -
Transactions, the Minimum Quarterly Distribution, First Target Distribution, Second Target
Distribution and Third Target Distribution shall be adjusted proportionately downward to equal the
product obtained by multiplying the otherwise applicable Minimum Quarterly Distribution, First
Target Distribution, Second Target Distribution and Third Target Distribution, as the case may be,
by a fraction of which the numerator is the Unrecovered Initial Unit Price of the Common Units
immediately after giving effect to such distribution and of which the denominator is the
Unrecovered Initial Unit Price of the Common Units immediately prior to giving effect to such
distribution.
(c) The Minimum Quarterly Distribution, First Target Distribution, Second Target Distribution
and Third Target Distribution shall also be subject to adjustment pursuant to Section 9.6.
Section 5.7
Special Provisions Relating to the Senior Units.
(a) Immediately upon the conversion of Senior Units into Common Units as provided in Section
5.7(b), the holder of a Senior Unit so converted shall possess all of the rights and obligations of
a Limited Partner holding Common Units hereunder, including, without limitation, the right to vote
as a Limited Partner holding Common Units, the right to participate in allocations of income, gain,
loss and deduction and distributions of cash made with respect to Common Units pursuant to this
Article V.
(b) Each holder of Senior Units shall have the right, at its option, subject to the terms of
this Section 5.7, to convert any or all of such holders Senior Units into Common Units at any time
during the time period commencing upon the earlier to occur of:
(i) December 31, 2005, upon not less than 90 days prior written notice to the
Partnership (which notice may be given prior to December 31, 2005) in accordance
with Section 5.7(d), or
(ii) a Material Event, upon not less than 10 days prior written notice to the
Partnership in accordance with Section 5.7(d);
provided, however
, that prior to the
expiration of such 10-day period, the holders of the Senior Units may revoke their
election to convert Senior Units into Common Units at any time during the pendency
of a Material Event by written notice to the Partnership;
and ending on the date upon which the holders of the Senior Units give the
Partnership notice of their election to exercise their registration rights with
respect to the Senior Units pursuant to the WNGL Registration Rights Agreement.
(c) If the holders of the Senior Units elect to convert any or all of their Senior Units into
Common Units, such number of Senior Units shall be converted into a number of fully paid and
nonassessable (subject to Section 17-607 of the Delaware Act) Common Units as is equal, subject to
Section 5.7(g), to the number of Senior Units being so converted, multiplied by the sum of (A) the
Senior Unit Liquidation Preference plus (B) any accumulated and unpaid Senior Unit Distributions to
and including the date of conversion, with the product then divided by the Current Market Price of
the Common Units as of the date of conversion.
- 51 -
(d) The holders of the Senior Units shall exercise the right to convert by the delivery of
written notice, at the Partnerships principal place of business, during the applicable time period
specified in (b) above, that the holder elects to convert all or a portion of the Senior Units
represented by such Certificates and, subject to Section 5.7(i), specifying the name or names (with
address) in which Certificates representing Common Units are to be issued. Upon the expiration of
the applicable time period specified in (b) above, each converting holder of Senior Units shall be
deemed to be the holder of record of the number of Common Units issuable upon conversion in
accordance with (c) above, notwithstanding that the Certificates representing such Common Units
shall not then actually be delivered to such Person. Upon notice from the Partnership, each holder
of Senior Units so converted shall promptly surrender to the Partnership or the Transfer Agent,
Certificates representing the Senior Units so converted, in proper transfer form. On the date of
conversion, all rights with respect to the Senior Units so converted will terminate except for the
right of holders to receive Certificates for the number of Common Units into which such Senior
Units have been converted. If the date for the conversion of Senior Units into Common Units shall
not be a Business Day, then such conversion shall occur on the next Business Day. Each Senior Unit
shall be canceled by the General Partner upon its conversion.
(e) During the period beginning on the first of the twenty (20) Trading Days immediately prior
to the date of conversion through and including the date of conversion, the Partnership shall not
take any action that will affect the Common Units, including, without limitation, the following:
(i) (A) make a redemption payment or make a distribution payable in Common
Units on any class of Partnership Interest (which, for purposes of this Section
5.7(e) shall include, without limitation, any distributions in the form of options,
warrants or other rights to acquire Partnership Interests) of the Partnership (other
than the issuance of Common Units in connection with the payment in redemption for,
of distributions on or the conversion of Senior Units); (B) subdivide the
outstanding Common Units into a larger number of Common Units; (C) combine the
outstanding Common Units into a smaller number of Common Units; (D) issue any of its
Partnership Securities in a reclassification of the Common Units; or (E) set a
Record Date with respect to any of the events described in (A) through (D);
(ii) issue to all holders of its Common Units rights, options or warrants
entitling the holders thereof to subscribe for or purchase Common Units (or
securities convertible into or exchangeable for Common Units) other than issuances
of such rights, options or warrants if the holder of Senior Units would be entitled
to receive such rights, options or warrants upon conversion at any time of Senior
Units;
(iii) (A) other than distributions consistent with past practice, make a Pro
Rata distribution to all holders of Common Units consisting exclusively of cash
(excluding any cash distributed upon a merger or consolidation to which paragraph
(g) below applies), or (B) make a distribution to all holders of its Common Units
consisting of evidences of indebtedness, its Partnership Interests other than Common
Units or assets (including securities, but excluding those
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rights, options, warrants and distributions referred to in paragraphs (e)(i) or
(e)(ii) above); or
(iv) issue or sell Common Units or securities convertible into or exchangeable
for Common Units, or any options, warrants or other rights to acquire Common Units.
(f) No fractional Common Units shall be issued upon the conversion of any Senior Units. If
more than one Senior Unit shall be surrendered for conversion at one time by the same holder, the
number of full Common Units issuable upon conversion thereof shall be computed on the basis of the
aggregate Senior Unit Liquidation Preference of the Senior Units so surrendered. If the conversion
of any Senior Units results in a fraction, an amount equal to such fraction multiplied by the
Current Market Price of the Common Units as of the date of conversion shall be paid to such holder
in cash by the Partnership.
(g) In the event of any (i) capital reorganization or reclassification or other change of
outstanding Common Units, (ii) consolidation or merger of the Partnership with or into another
Person in accordance with Section 16.1(b) (other than a consolidation or merger in which the
Partnership is the Surviving Business Entity and which does not result in any reclassification or
change of outstanding Common Units) or (iii) sale or other disposition to another Person of all or
substantially all of the assets of the Partnership, computed on a consolidated basis in accordance
with Section 16.1(b) (any of the foregoing, a
Transaction
), lawful provision shall be made such
that the Senior Units will be convertible only into the kind and amount of stock or other
securities (of the Partnership or another issuer) or property or cash receivable upon such
Transaction by a holder of the number of Common Units into which such Senior Units could have been
converted immediately prior to such Transaction. The provisions of this Section 5.7(g) and any
equivalent thereof in any governing document of the Surviving Business Entity similarly shall apply
to successive Transactions.
(h) The Partnership shall not enter into any agreement that would prohibit the issuance of the
number of Common Units as will from time to time be sufficient to permit the conversion of all
outstanding Senior Units.
(i) The issuance or delivery of certificates for Common Units upon the conversion of Senior
Units shall be made without charge to the converting holder of Senior Units for such certificates
or for any tax in respect of the issuance or delivery of such certificates or the securities
represented thereby, and such certificates shall be issued or delivered in the respective names of,
or in such names as may be directed by, the holders of the Senior Units converted; provided,
however, that the Partnership shall not be required to pay any tax which may be payable in respect
of any transfer involved in the issuance and delivery of any such certificate in a name other than
that of the holder of the Senior Units converted, and the Partnership shall not be required to
issue or deliver such certificate unless or until the Person or Persons requesting the issuance or
delivery thereof shall have paid to the Partnership the amount of such tax or shall have
established to the reasonable satisfaction of the Partnership that such tax has been paid.
(j) The Partnership covenants that all Common Units which may be delivered upon conversion of
Senior Units will be newly issued Common Units, will have been duly
- 53 -
authorized and validly issued and will be fully paid and non-assessable (except as such
non-assessability may be affected by Section 17 607 of the Delaware Act).
(k) The Common Units issued by the Partnership upon conversion of the Senior Units shall have,
as a substantive manner in the hands of a subsequent holder, like intrinsic economic and federal
income tax characteristics in all material respects, to the intrinsic economic and federal income
tax characteristics of a Common Unit then Outstanding.
Section 5.8
Special Provisions Relating to the Special Limited Partners
.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, the Special Limited Partners
(a) shall (i) possess the rights and obligations provided in this Agreement with respect to a
Limited Partner pursuant to Articles VI and VII and (ii) have a Capital Account as a Partner
pursuant to Section 4.5 and all other provisions related thereto and (b) shall not (i) be entitled
to vote on any matters requiring the approval or vote of the holders of Outstanding Units, (ii) be
entitled to any distributions other than to Partners as specified pursuant to Sections 5.4, 14.3
and 14.4 or (iii) be allocated items of income, gain, loss or deduction other than as specified in
this Article V.
Section 5.9
Special Provision Relating to FCI Common Units
. Without the prior written
consent of FCI and notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, neither the General
Partner nor the Partnership shall declare a distribution on a Common Unit for any Quarter in an
amount in excess of the Ceiling Quarterly Distribution if the Cumulative FCI Common Unit Arrearage
is or will be, based on that Quarters distribution, greater than zero.
ARTICLE VI
MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF BUSINESS
Section 6.1
Management.
(a) The General Partner shall conduct, direct and manage all activities of the Partnership.
Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, all management powers over the business
and affairs of the Partnership shall be exclusively vested in the General Partner, and no Limited
Partner or Assignee shall have any management power over the business and affairs of the
Partnership. In addition to the powers now or hereafter granted a general partner of a limited
partnership under applicable law or which are granted to the General Partner under any other
provision of this Agreement, the General Partner, subject to Section 6.3, shall have full power and
authority to do all things and on such terms as it, in its sole discretion, may deem necessary or
appropriate to conduct the business of the Partnership, to exercise all powers set forth in Section
3.2 and to effectuate the purposes set forth in Section 3.1, including, without limitation, (i) the
making of any expenditures, the lending or borrowing of money, the assumption or guarantee of, or
other contracting for, indebtedness and other liabilities, the issuance of evidences of
indebtedness and the incurring of any other obligations; (ii) the making of tax, regulatory and
other filings, or rendering of periodic or other reports to governmental or other agencies having
jurisdiction over the business or assets of the Partnership; (iii) the acquisition, disposition,
mortgage, pledge, encumbrance, hypothecation or exchange of any or all of the assets of the
Partnership or the merger or other combination of the Partnership with or into another Person (the
matters described in this clause (iii) being subject, however, to any prior
- 54 -
approval that may be required by Section 6.3); (iv) the use of the assets of the Partnership
(including, without limitation, cash on hand) for any purpose consistent with the terms of this
Agreement, including, without limitation, the financing of the conduct of the operations of the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership, the lending of funds to other Persons (including, without
limitation, the Operating Partnership, the General Partner and Affiliates of the General Partner)
and the repayment of obligations of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership and the making of
capital contributions to the Operating Partnership; (v) the negotiation, execution and performance
of any contracts, conveyances or other instruments (including, without limitation, instruments that
limit the liability of the Partnership under contractual arrangements to all or particular assets
of the Partnership, with the other party to the contract to have no recourse against the General
Partner or its assets other than its interest in the Partnership, even if same results in the terms
of the transaction being less favorable to the Partnership than would otherwise be the case); (vi)
the distribution of Partnership cash; (vii) the selection and dismissal of employees and agents
(including, without limitation, employees having titles such as president, vice president,
secretary and treasurer) and agents, outside attorneys, accountants, consultants and
contractors and the determination of their compensation and other terms of employment or hiring;
(viii) the maintenance of such insurance for the benefit of the Partnership, the Operating
Partnership and the Partners (including, without limitation, the assets of the Operating
Partnership and the Partnership) as it deems necessary or appropriate; (ix) the formation of, or
acquisition of an interest in, and the contribution of property and the making of loans to, any
further limited or general partnerships, joint ventures, corporations or other relationships
(including, without limitation, the acquisition of interests in, and the contributions of property
to, the Operating Partnership from time to time); (x) the control of any matters affecting the
rights and obligations of the Partnership, including, without limitation, the bringing and
defending of actions at law or in equity and otherwise engaging in the conduct of litigation and
the incurring of legal expense and the settlement of claims and litigation; (xi) the
indemnification of any Person against liabilities and contingencies to the extent permitted by law;
(xii) the entering into of listing agreements with The New York Stock Exchange, Inc. and any other
securities exchange and the delisting of some or all of the Units from, or requesting that trading
be suspended on, any such exchange (subject to any prior approval that may be required under
Section 1.6); (xiii) the purchase, sale or other acquisition or disposition of Units; and (xiv) the
undertaking of any action in connection with the Partnerships participation in the Operating
Partnership as the limited partner (including, without limitation, contributions or loans of funds
by the Partnership to the Operating Partnership).
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Operating Partnership
Agreement, the Delaware Act or any applicable law, rule or regulation, each of the Partners and
Assignees and each other Person who may acquire an interest in Units hereby (i) approves, ratifies
and confirms the execution, delivery and performance by the parties thereto of the Operating
Partnership Agreement, the Underwriting Agreement, the Contribution Agreement, the agreements and
other documents filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement, and the other agreements described
in or filed as a part of the Registration Statement, and the engaging by any Affiliate of the
General Partner in business and activities (other than Restricted Activities) that are in direct
competition with the business and activities of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership; (ii)
agrees that the General Partner (on its own or through any officer of the Partnership) is
authorized to execute, deliver and perform the agreements referred to in clause (i) of this
sentence and the other agreements, acts, transactions and matters described in or
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contemplated by the Registration Statement on behalf of the Partnership without any further
act, approval or vote of the Partners or the Assignees or the other Persons who may acquire an
interest in Units; and (iii) agrees that the execution, delivery or performance by the General
Partner, the Partnership, the Operating Partnership or any Affiliate of any of them, of this
Agreement or any agreement authorized or permitted under this Agreement (including, without
limitation, the exercise by the General Partner or any Affiliate of the General Partner of the
rights accorded pursuant to Article XVII), or the engaging by any Affiliate of the General Partner
in any business and activities (other than Restricted Activities) that are in direct competition
with the business and activities of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership, shall not
constitute a breach by the General Partner of any duty that the General Partner may owe the
Partnership or the Limited Partners or the Assignees or any other Persons under this Agreement (or
any other agreements) or of any duty stated or implied by law or equity. The term Affiliate when
used in this Section 6.1(b) with respect to the General Partner shall not include the Partnership
or any Subsidiary of the Partnership.
Section 6.2
Certificate of Limited Partnership
. The General Partner has caused the
Certificate of Limited Partnership to be filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware
as required by the Delaware Act and shall use all reasonable efforts to cause to be filed such
other certificates or documents as may be determined by the General Partner in its sole discretion
to be reasonable and necessary or appropriate for the formation, continuation, qualification and
operation of a limited partnership (or a partnership in which the limited partners have limited
liability) in the State of Delaware or any other state in which the Partnership may elect to do
business or own property. To the extent that such action is determined by the General Partner in
its sole discretion to be reasonable and necessary or appropriate, the General Partner shall file
amendments to and restatements of the Certificate of Limited Partnership and do all things to
maintain the Partnership as a limited partnership (or a partnership in which the limited partners
have limited liability) under the laws of the State of Delaware or of any other state in which the
Partnership may elect to do business or own property. Subject to the terms of Section 7.5(a), the
General Partner shall not be required, before or after filing, to deliver or mail a copy of the
Certificate of Limited Partnership, any qualification document or any amendment thereto to any
Limited Partner or Assignee.
Section 6.3
Restrictions on General Partners Authority.
(a) The General Partner may not, without written approval of the specific act by all of the
Outstanding Common Units or by other written instrument executed and delivered by all of the
Outstanding Common Units subsequent to the date of this Agreement, take any action in contravention
of this Agreement, including, without limitation, (i) any act that would make it impossible to
carry on the ordinary business of the Partnership, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement;
(ii) possess Partnership property, or assign any rights in specific Partnership property, for other
than a Partnership purpose; (iii) admit a Person as a Partner, except as otherwise provided in this
Agreement; (iv) amend this Agreement in any manner, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement;
or (v) transfer its interest as general partner of the Partnership, except as otherwise provided in
this Agreement.
(b) Except as provided in Articles XIV and XVI, the General Partner may not sell, exchange or
otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the Partnerships assets in a single
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transaction or a series of related transactions or approve on behalf of the Partnership the
sale, exchange or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Operating
Partnership, without the approval of the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Common
Units;
provided, however
, that this provision shall not preclude or limit the General Partners
ability to mortgage, pledge, hypothecate or grant a security interest in all or substantially all
of the Partnerships assets and shall not apply to any forced sale of any or all of the
Partnerships assets pursuant to the foreclosure of, or other realization upon, any such
encumbrance. Without the approval of the holders of at least two thirds of the Outstanding Common
Units, the General Partner shall not, on behalf of the Partnership, (i) consent to any amendment to
the Operating Partnership Agreement or, except as expressly permitted by Section 6.9(d), take any
action permitted to be taken by a partner of the Operating Partnership, in either case, that would
have a material adverse effect on the Partnership as a partner of the Operating Partnership or (ii)
except as permitted under Sections 11.2, 13.1 and 13.2 elect or cause the Partnership to elect a
successor general partner of the Operating Partnership.
(c) Unless approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two thirds of the
Outstanding Common Units (excluding for purposes of such determination Common Units owned by the
General Partner and its Affiliates), the General Partner shall not take any action or refuse to
take any reasonable action the effect of which, if taken or not taken, as the case may be, would be
to cause the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to be treated as an association taxable as a
corporation or otherwise to be taxed as an entity for federal income tax purposes; provided that
this Section 6.3(c) shall not be construed to apply to amendments to this Agreement (which are
governed by Article XV) or mergers or consolidations of the Partnership with any Person (which are
governed by Article XVI).
Section 6.4
Reimbursement of the General Partner.
(a) Except as provided in this Section 6.4 and elsewhere in this Agreement or in the Operating
Partnership Agreement, the General Partner shall not be compensated for its services as general
partner of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership.
(b) The General Partner shall be reimbursed on a monthly basis, or such other basis as the
General Partner may determine in its sole discretion, for (i) all direct and indirect expenses it
incurs or payments it makes on behalf of the Partnership (including, without limitation, salary,
bonus, incentive compensation and other amounts paid to any Person to perform services for the
Partnership or for the General Partner in the discharge of its duties to the Partnership), and (ii)
all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to the Partnership or otherwise reasonably
incurred by the General Partner in connection with operating the Partnerships business (including,
without limitation, expenses allocated to the General Partner by its Affiliates). The General
Partner shall determine the fees and expenses that are allocable to the Partnership in any
reasonable manner determined by the General Partner in its sole discretion. Reimbursements
pursuant to this Section 6.4 shall be in addition to any reimbursement to the General Partner as a
result of indemnification pursuant to Section 6.7.
(c) Subject to Section 4.3(c), the General Partner in its sole discretion and without the
approval of the Limited Partners (who shall have no right to vote in respect thereof) may propose
and adopt on behalf of the Partnership, employee benefit and incentive plans
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(including, without limitation, plans involving the issuance of Units), or issue Partnership
Securities pursuant to any employee benefit or incentive plan maintained or sponsored by the
General Partner or one of its Affiliates, in each case for the benefit of employees of the General
Partner, the Partnership, the Operating Partnership or any Affiliate of any of them in respect of
services performed, directly or indirectly, for the benefit of the Partnership or the Operating
Partnership. The Partnership agrees to issue and sell to the General Partner any Units or other
Partnership Securities that the General Partner is obligated to provide to any employees pursuant
to any such benefit or incentive plans. Expenses incurred by the General Partner in connection
with any such plans (including the net cost to the General Partner of Units purchased by the
General Partner from the Partnership to fulfill options or awards under such plans) shall be
reimbursed in accordance with Section 6.4(b). Any and all obligations of the General Partner under
any employee benefit or incentive plans adopted by the General Partner as permitted by this Section
6.4(c) shall constitute obligations of the General Partner hereunder and shall be assumed by any
successor General Partner approved pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2 or the transferee of or
successor to all of the General Partner Interest pursuant to Section 11.2.
Section 6.5
Outside Activities.
(a) After the Initial Closing Date, the General Partner, for so long as it is the general
partner of the Partnership, (i) agrees that its sole business will be to act as a general partner
of the Partnership, the Operating Partnership and any other partnership of which the Partnership or
the Operating Partnership is, directly or indirectly, a partner and to undertake activities that
are ancillary or related thereto (including being a limited partner in the Partnership), (ii) shall
not enter into or conduct any business or incur any debts or liabilities except in connection with
or incidental to (A) its performance of the activities required or authorized by this Agreement or
the Operating Partnership Agreement or described in or contemplated by the Registration Statement
and (B) the acquisition, ownership or disposition of Partnership Interests in the Partnership or
partnership interests in the Operating Partnership or any other partnership of which the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership is, directly or indirectly, a partner, except that,
notwithstanding the foregoing, employees of the General Partner may perform services for FCI and
its Affiliates, and (iii) shall not and shall cause its Affiliates not to engage in any Restricted
Activity.
(b) Except as described in Section 6.5(a), no Indemnitee shall be expressly or implicitly
restricted or proscribed pursuant to this Agreement, the Operating Partnership Agreement or the
partnership relationship established hereby or thereby from engaging in other activities for
profit, whether in the businesses engaged in by the Partnership or the Operating Partnership or
anticipated to be engaged in by the Partnership, the Operating Partnership or otherwise, including,
without limitation, in the case of any Affiliates of the General Partner those businesses and
activities (other than Restricted Activities) in direct competition with the business and
activities of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership or otherwise described in or
contemplated by the Registration Statement. Without limitation of and subject to the foregoing
each Indemnitee (other than the General Partner) shall have the right to engage in businesses of
every type and description and to engage in and possess an interest in other business ventures of
any and every type or description, independently or with others, including, without limitation, in
the case of any Affiliates of the General Partner business interests and activities (other than
Restricted Activities) in direct competition with the business and activities of the Partnership or
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the Operating Partnership, and none of the same shall constitute a breach of this Agreement or
any duty to the Partnership, the Operating Partnership or any Partner or Assignee. Neither the
Partnership, the Operating Partnership, any Limited Partner nor any other Person shall have any
rights by virtue of this Agreement, the Operating Partnership Agreement or the partnership
relationship established hereby or thereby in any business ventures of any Indemnitee (subject, in
the case of the General Partner, to compliance with Section 6.5(c)) and such Indemnitees shall have
no obligation to offer any interest in any such business ventures to the Partnership, the Operating
Partnership, any Limited Partner or any other Person. The General Partner and any other Persons
affiliated with the General Partner may acquire Units or other Partnership Securities in addition
to those acquired by any of such Persons on the Initial Closing Date, and, except as otherwise
provided in this Agreement, shall be entitled to exercise all rights of an Assignee or Limited
Partner, as applicable, relating to such Units or Partnership Securities, as the case may be.
(c) Subject to the terms of Sections 6.5(a) and (b) but otherwise notwithstanding anything to
the contrary in this Agreement, (i) the competitive activities of any Indemnitees (other than the
General Partner) are hereby approved by the Partnership and all Partners and (ii) it shall be
deemed not to be a breach of the General Partners fiduciary duty or any other obligation of any
type whatsoever of the General Partner for the General Partner to permit an Affiliate of the
General Partner to engage, or for any such Affiliate to engage, in business interests and
activities (other than Restricted Activities) in preference to or to the exclusion of the
Partnership.
(d) The term Affiliates when used in this Section 6.5 with respect to the General Partner
shall not include the Partnership or any Subsidiary of the Partnership.
Section 6.6
Loans to and from the General Partner; Contracts with Affiliates.
(a) The General Partner or any Affiliate thereof may lend to the Partnership or the Operating
Partnership, and the Partnership and the Operating Partnership may borrow, funds needed or desired
by the Partnership and the Operating Partnership for such periods of time as the General Partner
may determine and (ii) the General Partner or any Affiliate thereof may borrow from the Partnership
or the Operating Partnership, and the Partnership and the Operating Partnership may lend to the
General Partner or such Affiliate, excess funds of the Partnership and the Operating Partnership
for such periods of time and in such amounts as the General Partner may determine;
provided,
however
, that in either such case the lending party may not charge the borrowing party interest at
a rate greater than the rate that would be charged the borrowing party (without reference to the
lending partys financial abilities or guarantees), by unrelated lenders on comparable loans. The
borrowing party shall reimburse the lending party for any costs (other than any additional interest
costs) incurred by the lending party in connection with the borrowing of such funds. For purposes
of this Section 6.6(a) and Section 6.6(b), the term Partnership shall include any Affiliate of
the Partnership that is controlled by the Partnership and the term Operating Partnership shall
include any Affiliate of the Operating Partnership that is controlled by the Operating Partnership.
(b) The Partnership may lend or contribute to the Operating Partnership, and the Operating
Partnership may borrow, funds on terms and conditions established in the sole
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discretion of the General Partner;
provided, however
, that the Partnership may not charge the
Operating Partnership interest at a rate greater than the rate that would be charged to the
Operating Partnership (without reference to the General Partners financial abilities or
guarantees), by unrelated lenders on comparable loans. The foregoing authority shall be exercised
by the General Partner in its sole discretion and shall not create any right or benefit in favor of
the Operating Partnership or any other Person.
(c) The General Partner may itself, or may enter into an agreement with any of its Affiliates
to, render services to the Partnership or to the General Partner in the discharge of its duties as
general partner of the Partnership. Any services rendered to the Partnership by the General
Partner or any of its Affiliates shall be on terms that are fair and reasonable to the Partnership;
provided, however
, that the requirements of this Section 6.6(c) shall be deemed satisfied as to (i)
any transaction approved by Special Approval, (ii) any transaction, the terms of which are no less
favorable to the Partnership than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated
third parties or (iii) any transaction that, taking into account the totality of the relationships
between the parties involved (including other transactions that may be particularly favorable or
advantageous to the Partnership), is equitable to the Partnership. The provisions of Section 6.4
shall apply to the rendering of services described in this Section 6.6(c).
(d) The Partnership may transfer assets to joint ventures, other partnerships, corporations,
limited liability companies or other business entities in which it is or thereby becomes a
participant upon such terms and subject to such conditions as are consistent with this Agreement
and applicable law.
(e) Neither the General Partner nor any of its Affiliates shall sell, transfer or convey any
property to, or purchase any property from, the Partnership, directly or indirectly, except
pursuant to transactions that are fair and reasonable to the Partnership;
provided, however
, that
the requirements of this Section 6.6(e) shall be deemed to be satisfied as to (i) the transactions
effected pursuant to Sections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, the Contribution Agreement and any other
transactions described in or contemplated by the Registration Statement, (ii) any transaction
approved by Special Approval, (iii) any transaction, the terms of which are no less favorable to
the Partnership than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated third parties,
or (iv) any transaction that, taking into account the totality of the relationships between the
parties involved (including other transactions that may be particularly favorable or advantageous
to the Partnership), is equitable to the Partnership.
(f) The General Partner and its Affiliates will have no obligation to permit the Partnership
or the Operating Partnership to use any facilities or assets of the General Partner and its
Affiliates, except as may be provided in contracts entered into from time to time specifically
dealing with such use, nor shall there be any obligation on the part of the General Partner or its
Affiliates to enter into such contracts.
(g) Without limitation of Sections 6.6(a) through 6.6(f), and notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in this Agreement, the existence of the conflicts of interest described in the
Registration Statement are hereby approved by all Partners.
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Section 6.7
Indemnification.
(a) To the fullest extent permitted by law but subject to the limitations expressly provided
in this Agreement, the General Partner, any Departing Partner and any Person who is or was an
officer or director of the General Partner or any Departing Partner and all other Indemnitees shall
be indemnified and held harmless by the Partnership from and against any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities, joint or several, expenses (including, without limitation, legal fees and
expenses), judgments, fines, penalties, interest, settlements and other amounts arising from any
and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative, in which any Indemnitee may be involved, or is threatened to be involved, as a party
or otherwise, by reason of its status as (i) the General Partner, a Departing Partner or any of
their Affiliates, (ii) an officer, director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of the
Partnership, the General Partner, any Departing Partner or any of their Affiliates or (iii) a
Person serving at the request of the Partnership in another entity in a similar capacity,
provided
,
that in each case the Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner which such Indemnitee
reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the Partnership and, with
respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe its conduct was unlawful;
provided, further
, no indemnification pursuant to this Section 6.7 shall be available to the
General Partner with respect to its obligations incurred pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement or
the Contribution Agreement (other than obligations incurred by the General Partner on behalf of the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership). The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by
judgment, order, settlement, conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere, or its equivalent, shall
not create a presumption that the Indemnitee acted in a manner contrary to that specified above.
Any indemnification pursuant to this Section 6.7 shall be made only out of the assets of the
Partnership, it being agreed that the General Partner shall not be personally liable for such
indemnification and shall have no obligation to contribute or loan any monies or property to the
Partnership to enable it to effectuate such indemnification.
(b) To the fullest extent permitted by law, expenses (including, without limitation, legal
fees and expenses) incurred by an Indemnitee who is indemnified pursuant to Section 6.7(a) in
defending any claim, demand, action, suit or proceeding shall, from time to time, be advanced by
the Partnership prior to the final disposition of such claim, demand, action, suit or proceeding
upon receipt by the Partnership of an undertaking by or on behalf of the Indemnitee to repay such
amount if it shall be determined that the Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified as
authorized in this Section 6.7.
(c) The indemnification provided by this Section 6.7 shall be in addition to any other rights
to which an Indemnitee may be entitled under any agreement, pursuant to any vote of the holders of
Outstanding Units, as a matter of law or otherwise, both as to actions in the Indemnitees capacity
as (i) the General Partner, a Departing Partner or an Affiliate thereof, (ii) an officer, director,
employee, partner, agent or trustee of the Partnership, the General Partner, any Departing Partner
or an Affiliate thereof or (iii) a Person serving at the request of the Partnership in another
entity in a similar capacity, and as to actions in any other capacity (including, without
limitation, any capacity under the Underwriting Agreement), and shall continue as to an Indemnitee
who has ceased to serve in such capacity and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, successors,
assigns and administrators of the Indemnitee.
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(d) The Partnership may purchase and maintain (or reimburse the General Partner or its
Affiliates for the cost of) insurance, on behalf of the General Partner and such other Persons as
the General Partner shall determine, against any liability that may be asserted against or expense
that may be incurred by such Person in connection with the Partnerships activities, regardless of
whether the Partnership would have the power to indemnify such Person against such liability under
the provisions of this Agreement.
(e) For purposes of this Section 6.7, the Partnership shall be deemed to have requested an
Indemnitee to serve as fiduciary of an employee benefit plan whenever the performance by it of its
duties to the Partnership also imposes duties on, or otherwise involves services by, it to the plan
or participants or beneficiaries of the plan; excise taxes assessed on an Indemnitee with respect
to an employee benefit plan pursuant to applicable law shall constitute fines within the meaning
of Section 6.7(a); and action taken or omitted by it with respect to an employee benefit plan in
the performance of its duties for a purpose reasonably believed by it to be in the interest of the
participants and beneficiaries of the plan shall be deemed to be for a purpose which is in, or not
opposed to, the best interests of the Partnership.
(f) In no event may an Indemnitee subject the Limited Partners to personal liability by reason
of the indemnification provisions set forth in this Agreement.
(g) An Indemnitee shall not be denied indemnification in whole or in part under this Section
6.7 because the Indemnitee had an interest in the transaction with respect to which the
indemnification applies if the transaction was otherwise permitted by the terms of this Agreement.
(h) The provisions of this Section 6.7 are for the benefit of the Indemnitees, their heirs,
successors, assigns and administrators and shall not be deemed to create any rights for the benefit
of any other Persons.
(i) No amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.7 or any provision hereof shall in
any manner terminate, reduce or impair the right of any past, present or future Indemnitee to be
indemnified by the Partnership, nor the obligation of the Partnership to indemnify any such
Indemnitee under and in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6.7 as in effect immediately
prior to such amendment, modification or repeal with respect to claims arising from or relating to
matters occurring, in whole or in part, prior to such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless
of when such claims may arise or be asserted.
Section 6.8
Liability of Indemnitees.
(a) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, no Indemnitee shall
be liable for monetary damages to the Partnership, the Limited Partners, the Assignees or any other
Persons who have acquired interests in the Units, for losses sustained or liabilities incurred as a
result of any act or omission if such Indemnitee acted in good faith.
(b) Subject to its obligations and duties as General Partner set forth in Section 6.1(a), the
General Partner may exercise any of the powers granted to it by this Agreement and perform any of
the duties imposed upon it hereunder either directly or by or through its agents,
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and the General Partner shall not be responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part
of any such agent appointed by the General Partner in good faith.
(c) Any amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.8 or any provision hereof shall be
prospective only and shall not in any way affect the limitations on the liability to the
Partnership and the Limited Partners of the General Partner, its directors, officers and employees
under this Section 6.8 as in effect immediately prior to such amendment, modification or repeal
with respect to claims arising from or relating to matters occurring, in whole or in part, prior to
such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless of when such claims may arise or be asserted.
Section 6.9
Resolution of Conflicts of Interest.
(a) Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or the Operating Partnership
Agreement, whenever a potential conflict of interest exists or arises between the General Partner
or any of its Affiliates, on the one hand, and the Partnership, the Operating Partnership, any
Partner or any Assignee, on the other, any resolution or course of action in respect of such
conflict of interest shall be permitted and deemed approved by all Partners, and shall not
constitute a breach of this Agreement, of the Operating Partnership Agreement, of any agreement
contemplated herein or therein, or of any duty stated or implied by law or equity, if the
resolution or course of action is, or by operation of this Agreement is deemed to be, fair and
reasonable to the Partnership. The General Partner shall be authorized but not required in
connection with its resolution of such conflict of interest to seek Special Approval of a
resolution of such conflict or course of action. Any conflict of interest and any resolution of
such conflict of interest shall be conclusively deemed fair and reasonable to the Partnership if
such conflict of interest or resolution is (i) approved by Special Approval, (ii) on terms no less
favorable to the Partnership than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated
third parties or (iii) fair to the Partnership, taking into account the totality of the
relationships between the parties involved (including other transactions that may be particularly
favorable or advantageous to the Partnership). The General Partner may also adopt a resolution or
course of action that has not received Special Approval. The General Partner (including the Audit
Committee in connection with Special Approval) shall be authorized in connection with its
determination of what is
fair and reasonable
to the Partnership and in connection with its
resolution of any conflict of interest to consider (A) the relative interests of any party to such
conflict, agreement, transaction or situation and the benefits and burdens relating to such
interest; (B) any customary or accepted industry practices and any customary or historical dealings
with a particular Person; (C) any applicable generally accepted accounting practices or principles;
and (D) such additional factors as the General Partner (including such Audit Committee) determines
in its sole discretion to be relevant, reasonable or appropriate under the circumstances. Nothing
contained in this Agreement, however, is intended to nor shall it be construed to require the
General Partner (including such Audit Committee) to consider the interests of any Person other than
the Partnership. In the absence of bad faith by the General Partner, the resolution, action or
terms so made, taken or provided by the General Partner with respect to such matter shall not
constitute a breach of this Agreement or any other agreement contemplated herein or a breach of any
standard of care or duty imposed herein or therein or under the Delaware Act or any other law, rule
or regulation.
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(b) Whenever this Agreement or any other agreement contemplated hereby provides that the
General Partner or any of its Affiliates is permitted or required to make a decision (i) in its
sole discretion or discretion
,
that it deems necessary or appropriate or under a grant of
similar authority or latitude, the General Partner or such Affiliate shall be entitled to consider
only such interests and factors as it desires and shall have no duty or obligation to give any
consideration to any interest of, or factors affecting, the Partnership, the Operating Partnership,
any Limited Partner or any Assignee, (ii) it may make such decision in its sole discretion
(regardless of whether there is a reference to sole discretion or discretion) unless another
express standard is provided for, or (iii) in good faith or under another express standard, the
General Partner or such Affiliate shall act under such express standard and shall not be subject to
any other or different standards imposed by this Agreement, the Operating Partnership Agreement,
any other agreement contemplated hereby or under the Delaware Act or any other law, rule or
regulation. In addition, any actions taken by the General Partner or such Affiliate consistent with
the standards of reasonable discretion set forth in the definitions of Available Cash or Cash
from Operations shall not constitute a breach of any duty of the General Partner to the Partnership
or the Limited Partners. The General Partner shall have no duty, express or implied, to sell or
otherwise dispose of any asset of the Operating Partnership or of the Partnership, other than in
the ordinary course of business. No borrowing by the Partnership or the Operating Partnership or
the approval thereof by the General Partner shall be deemed to constitute a breach of any duty of
the General Partner to the Partnership or the Limited Partners by reason of the fact that the
purpose or effect of such borrowing is directly or indirectly to enable Incentive Distributions or
to hasten the expiration of the Arrearage Period.
(c) Whenever a particular transaction, arrangement or resolution of a conflict of interest is
required under this Agreement to be fair and reasonable to any Person, the fair and reasonable
nature of such transaction, arrangement or resolution shall be considered in the context of all
similar or related transactions.
(d) The Limited Partners hereby authorize the General Partner, on behalf of the Partnership as
a partner of the Operating Partnership, to approve of actions by the general partner of the
Operating Partnership similar to those actions permitted to be taken by the General Partner
pursuant to this Section 6.9.
Section 6.10
Other Matters Concerning the General Partner.
(a) The General Partner may rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting
upon any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent,
order, bond, debenture, or other paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been
signed or presented by the proper party or parties.
(b) The General Partner may consult with legal counsel, accountants, appraisers, management
consultants, investment bankers and other consultants and advisers selected by it, and any act
taken or omitted to be taken in reliance upon the opinion (including, without limitation, an
Opinion of Counsel) of such Persons as to matters that such General Partner reasonably believes to
be within such Persons professional or expert competence shall be conclusively presumed to have
been done or omitted in good faith and in accordance with such opinion.
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(c) The General Partner shall have the right, in respect of any of its powers or obligations
hereunder, to act through any of its duly authorized officers, a duly appointed attorney or
attorneys in fact or the duly authorized officers of the Partnership. Each such attorney shall, to
the extent provided by the General Partner in the power of attorney, have full power and authority
to do and perform each and every act and duty that is permitted or required to be done by the
General Partner hereunder.
(d) Any standard of care and duty imposed by this Agreement or under the Delaware Act or any
applicable law, rule or regulation shall be modified, waived or limited as required to permit the
General Partner to act under this Agreement or any other agreement contemplated by this Agreement
and to make any decision pursuant to the authority prescribed in this Agreement so long as such
action is reasonably believed by the General Partner to be in, or not inconsistent with, the best
interests of the Partnership.
Section 6.11
Title to Partnership Assets
. Title to Partnership assets, whether real,
personal or mixed and whether tangible or intangible, shall be deemed to be owned by the
Partnership as an entity, and no Partner or Assignee, individually or collectively, shall have any
ownership interest in such Partnership assets or any portion thereof. Title to any or all of the
Partnership assets may be held in the name of the Partnership, the General Partner, one or more of
its Affiliates or one or more nominees, as the General Partner may determine. The General Partner
hereby declares and warrants that any Partnership assets for which record title is held in the name
of the General Partner or one or more of its Affiliates or one or more nominees shall be held by
the General Partner or such Affiliate or nominee for the use and benefit of the Partnership in
accordance with the provisions of this Agreement;
provided, however
, that the General Partner shall
use its reasonable efforts to cause record title to such assets (other than those assets in respect
of which the General Partner determines that the expense and difficulty of conveyancing makes
transfer of record title to the Partnership impracticable) to be vested in the Partnership as soon
as reasonably practicable; provided that, prior to the withdrawal or removal of the General Partner
or as soon thereafter as practicable, the General Partner shall use reasonable efforts to effect
the transfer of record title to the Partnership and, prior to any such transfer, will provide for
the use of such assets in a manner satisfactory to the Partnership. All Partnership assets shall be
recorded as the property of the Partnership in its books and records, irrespective of the name in
which record title to such Partnership assets is held.
Section 6.12
Purchase or Sale of Units
. The General Partner may cause the Partnership
to purchase or otherwise acquire Units;
provided
that, except (a) as permitted pursuant to Section
11.6 and (b) in exchange for other Units or Partnership Securities that are junior in right of
distribution and liquidation to the Senior Units, the General Partner may not cause the Partnership
or any Subsidiary to directly or indirectly purchase or otherwise acquire Common Units or any other
Units or Partnership Securities that are junior in right of distribution or liquidation to the
Senior Units at any time during which any of the Senior Units are Outstanding. As long as Units are
held by the Partnership or the Operating Partnership, such Units shall not be considered
Outstanding for any purpose, except as otherwise provided herein. The General Partner or any
Affiliate of the General Partner may also purchase or otherwise acquire and sell or otherwise
dispose of Units for its own account, subject to the provisions of Articles XI and XII.
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Section 6.13
Registration Rights of Ferrellgas and its Affiliates.
(a) If (i) Ferrellgas or any Affiliate of Ferrellgas (including, without limitation, for
purposes of this Section 6.13, any Person that is an Affiliate of Ferrellgas at the date hereof
notwithstanding that it may later cease to be an Affiliate of Ferrellgas) holds Units or other
Partnership Securities that it desires to sell and (ii) Rule 144 of the Securities Act (or any
successor rule or regulation to Rule 144) or another exemption from registration is not available
to enable such holder of Units (the
Holder
) to dispose of the number of Units or other securities
it desires to sell at the time it desires to do so without registration under the Securities Act,
then upon the request of Ferrellgas or any of its Affiliates, the Partnership shall file with the
Commission as promptly as practicable after receiving such request, and use all reasonable efforts
to cause to become effective and remain effective for a period of not more than six months
following its effective date, a registration statement under the Securities Act registering the
offering and sale of the number of Units or other securities specified by the Holder;
provided,
however
, that the Partnership shall not be required to effect more than three registrations
pursuant to this Section 6.13(a); and
provided further
, that if the General Partner or, if at the
time a request pursuant to this Section 6.13 is submitted to the Partnership, Ferrellgas or its
Affiliate requesting registration is an Affiliate of the General Partner, the Audit Committee in
connection with Special Approval determines in its good faith judgment that a postponement of the
requested registration for up to six months would be in the best interests of the Partnership and
its Partners due to a pending transaction, investigation or other event, the filing of such
registration statement or the effectiveness thereof may be deferred for up to six months, but not
thereafter. In connection with any registration pursuant to the immediately preceding sentence, the
Partnership shall promptly prepare and file (x) such documents as may be necessary to register or
qualify the securities subject to such registration under the securities laws of such states as the
Holder shall reasonably request;
provided, however
, that no such qualification shall be required in
any jurisdiction where, as a result thereof, the Partnership would become subject to general
service of process or to taxation or qualification to do business as a foreign corporation or
partnership doing business in such jurisdiction, and (y) such documents as may be necessary to
apply for listing or to list the securities subject to such registration on such National
Securities Exchange as the Holder shall reasonably request, and do any and all other acts and
things that may reasonably be necessary or advisable to enable the Holder to consummate a public
sale of such Units in such states. Except as set forth in Section 6.13(c), all costs and expenses
of any such registration and offering (other than the underwriting discounts and commissions) shall
be paid by the Partnership, without reimbursement by the Holder.
(b) If the Partnership shall at any time propose to file a registration statement under the
Securities Act for an offering of equity securities of the Partnership for cash (other than an
offering relating solely to an employee benefit plan), the Partnership shall use all reasonable
efforts to include such number or amount of securities held by the Holder in such registration
statement as the Holder shall request. If the proposed offering pursuant to this Section 6.13(b)
shall be an underwritten offering, then, in the event that the managing underwriter of such
offering advises the Partnership and the Holder in writing that in its opinion the inclusion of all
or some of the Holders securities would adversely and materially affect the success of the
offering, the Partnership shall include in such offering only that number or amount, if any, of
securities held by the Holder which, in the opinion of the managing underwriter, will not so
adversely and materially affect the offering. Except as set forth in Section 6.13(c), all costs and
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expenses of any such registration and offering (other than the underwriting discounts and
commissions) shall be paid by the Partnership, without reimbursement by the Holder.
(c) If underwriters are engaged in connection with any registration referred to in this
Section 6.13, the Partnership shall provide indemnification, representations, covenants, opinions
and other assurance to the underwriters in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to such
underwriters. Further, in addition to and not in limitation of the Partnerships obligation under
Section 6.7, the Partnership shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, indemnify and hold
harmless the Holder, its officers, directors and each Person who controls the Holder (within the
meaning of the Securities Act) and any agent thereof (collectively,
Indemnified Persons
) against
any losses, claims, demands, actions, causes of action, assessments, damages, liabilities (joint or
several), costs and expenses (including, without limitation, interest, penalties and reasonable
attorneys fees and disbursements), resulting to, imposed upon, or incurred by the Indemnified
Persons, directly or indirectly, under the Securities Act or otherwise (hereinafter referred to in
this Section 6.13(c) as a
claim
and in the plural as
claims
), based upon, arising out of, or
resulting from any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained in
any registration statement under which any Units were registered under the Securities Act or any
state securities or Blue Sky laws, in any preliminary prospectus (if used prior to the effective
date of such registration statement), or in any summary or final prospectus or in any amendment or
supplement thereto (if used during the period the Partnership is required to keep the registration
statement current), or arising out of, based upon or resulting from the omission or alleged
omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements made therein not misleading;
provided, however
, that the Partnership shall not be liable
to any Indemnified Person to the extent that any such claim arises out of, is based upon or results
from an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made in such
registration statement, such preliminary, summary or final prospectus or such amendment or
supplement, in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the
Partnership by or on behalf of such Indemnified Person specifically for use in the preparation
thereof.
(d) The provisions of Sections 6.13(a) and 6.13(b) shall continue to be applicable with
respect to Ferrellgas (and any of Ferrellgas Affiliates) after it ceases to be a Partner of the
Partnership, during a period of two years subsequent to the effective date of such cessation and
for so long thereafter as is required for the Holder to sell all of the Units or other securities
of the Partnership with respect to which it has requested during such two year period that a
registration statement be filed; provided, however, that the Partnership shall not be required to
file successive registration statements covering the same securities for which registration was
demanded during such two year period. The provisions of Section 6.13(c) shall continue in effect
thereafter.
(e) Any request to register Partnership Securities pursuant to this Section 6.13 shall (i)
specify the Partnership Securities intended to be offered and sold by the Person making the
request, (ii) express such Persons present intent to offer such shares for distribution, (iii)
describe the nature or method of the proposed offer and sale of Partnership Securities, and (iv)
contain the undertaking of such Person to provide all such information and materials and take all
action as may be required in order to permit the Partnership to comply with all applicable
requirements in connection with the registration of such Partnership Securities.
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Section 6.14
Reliance by Third Parties
. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
this Agreement, any Person dealing with the Partnership shall be entitled to assume that the
General Partner and any officer of the Partnership authorized by the General Partner to act on
behalf and in the name of the Partnership has full power and authority to encumber, sell or
otherwise use in any manner any and all assets of the Partnership and to enter into any contracts
on behalf of the Partnership, and such Person shall be entitled to deal with the General Partner or
any such officer as if it were the Partnerships sole party in interest, both legally and
beneficially. Each Limited Partner hereby waives any and all defenses or other remedies that may be
available against such Person to contest, negate or disaffirm any action of the General Partner or
any such officer in connection with any such dealing. In no event shall any Person dealing with
the General Partner or any such officer or its representatives be obligated to ascertain that the
terms of this Agreement have been complied with or to inquire into the necessity or expedience of
any act or action of the General Partner or any such officer. Each and every certificate, document
or other instrument executed on behalf of the Partnership by the General Partner or any such
officer shall be conclusive evidence in favor of any and every Person relying thereon or claiming
thereunder that (a) at the time of the execution and delivery of such certificate, document or
instrument, this Agreement was in full force and effect, (b) the Person executing and delivering
such certificate, document or instrument was duly authorized and empowered to do so for and on
behalf of the Partnership and (c) such certificate, document or instrument was duly executed and
delivered in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement and is binding upon the
Partnership.
ARTICLE VII
RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF LIMITED PARTNERS
Section 7.1
Limitation of Liability
. The Limited Partners and the Assignees shall
have no liability under this Agreement except as expressly provided in this Agreement or the
Delaware Act.
Section 7.2
Management of Business
. No Limited Partner or Assignee (other than the
General Partner, any of its Affiliates or any officer, director, employee, partner, agent or
trustee of the General Partner or any of its Affiliates, in its capacity as such, if such Person
shall also be a Limited Partner or Assignee) shall participate in the operation, management or
control (within the meaning of the Delaware Act) of the Partnerships business, transact any
business in the Partnerships name or have the power to sign documents for or otherwise bind the
Partnership. The transaction of any such business by the General Partner, any of its Affiliates or
any member, officer, director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of the General Partner or any of
its Affiliates, in its capacity as such, shall not affect, impair or eliminate the limitations on
the liability of the Limited Partners or Assignees under this Agreement.
Section 7.3
Outside Activities
. Subject to the provisions of Section 6.5, which shall
continue to be applicable to the Persons referred to therein, regardless of whether such Persons
shall also be Limited Partners or Assignees, any Limited Partner or Assignee shall be entitled to
and may have business interests and engage in business activities in addition to those relating to
the Partnership, including, without limitation, business interests and activities in direct
competition with the Partnership or the Operating Partnership. Neither the Partnership nor any of
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the other Partners or Assignees shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement in any
business ventures of any Limited Partner or Assignee.
Section 7.4
Return of Capital
. No Limited Partner or Assignee shall be entitled to
the withdrawal or return of its Capital Contribution, except to the extent, if any, that
distributions made pursuant to this Agreement or upon termination of the Partnership may be
considered as such by law and then only to the extent provided for in this Agreement. Except to
the extent provided by Article V or as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, no Limited
Partner or Assignee shall have priority over any other Limited Partner or Assignee either as to the
return of Capital Contributions or as to profits, losses or distributions. Any such return shall
be a compromise to which all Partners and Assignees agree within the meaning of § 17 502(b) of the
Delaware Act.
Section 7.5
Rights of Limited Partners Relating to the Partnership.
(a) In addition to other rights provided by this Agreement or by applicable law, and except as
limited by Section 7.5(b), each Limited Partner shall have the right, for a purpose reasonably
related to such Limited Partners interest as a limited partner in the Partnership, upon reasonable
demand and at such Limited Partners own expense:
(i) to obtain true and full information regarding the status of the business
and financial condition of the Partnership;
(ii) promptly after becoming available, to obtain a copy of the Partnerships
federal, state and local tax returns for each year;
(iii) to have furnished to him, upon notification to the General Partner, a
current list of the name and last known business, residence or mailing address of
each Partner;
(iv) to have furnished to him, upon notification to the General Partner, a copy
of this Agreement and the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all amendments
thereto, together with a copy of the executed copies of all powers of attorney
pursuant to which this Agreement, the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all
amendments thereto have been executed;
(v) to obtain true and full information regarding the amount of cash and a
description and statement of the Agreed Value of any other Capital Contribution by
each Partner and which each Partner has agreed to contribute in the future, and the
date on which each became a Partner; and
(vi) to obtain such other information regarding the affairs of the Partnership
as is just and reasonable.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner may keep
confidential from the Limited Partners and Assignees, for such period of time as the General
Partner deems reasonable, any information that the General Partner reasonably believes to be in the
nature of trade secrets or other information the disclosure of which the
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General Partner in good faith believes is not in the best interests of the Partnership or the
Operating Partnership or could damage the Partnership or the Operating Partnership or that the
Partnership or the Operating Partnership are required by law or by agreements with third parties to
keep confidential (other than agreements with Affiliates the primary purpose of which is to
circumvent the obligations set forth in this Section 7.5).
ARTICLE VIII
BOOKS, RECORDS, ACCOUNTING AND REPORTS
Section 8.1
Records and Accounting
. The General Partner shall keep or cause to be
kept at the principal office of the Partnership appropriate books and records with respect to the
Partnerships business, including, without limitation, all books and records necessary to provide
to the Limited Partners any information, lists and copies of documents required to be provided
pursuant to Section 7.5(a). Any books and records maintained by or on behalf of the Partnership in
the regular course of its business, including, without limitation, the record of the Record Holders
and Assignees of Units or other Partnership Securities, books of account and records of Partnership
proceedings, may be kept on, or be in the form of, computer disks, hard drives, punch cards,
magnetic tape, photographs, micrographics or any other information storage device,
provided
, that
the books and records so maintained are convertible into clearly legible written form within a
reasonable period of time. The books of the Partnership shall be maintained, for both tax and
financial reporting purposes, on an accrual basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.
Section 8.2
Fiscal Year
. The fiscal year of the Partnership shall be August 1 to July
31.
Section 8.3
Reports.
(a) As soon as practicable, but in no event later than 120 days after the close of each fiscal
year of the Partnership, the General Partner shall cause to be mailed to each Record Holder of a
Unit as of a date selected by the General Partner in its sole discretion, an annual report
containing financial statements of the Partnership for such fiscal year of the Partnership,
presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, including a balance sheet
and statements of operations, Partners equity and cash flows, such statements to be audited by a
firm of independent public accountants selected by the General Partner.
(b) As soon as practicable, but in no event later than 90 days after the close of each Quarter
except the last Quarter of each year, the General Partner shall cause to be mailed to each Record
Holder of a Unit, as of a date selected by the General Partner in its sole discretion, a report
containing unaudited financial statements of the Partnership and such other information as may be
required by applicable law, regulation or rule of any National Securities Exchange on which the
Units are listed for trading, or as the General Partner determines to be necessary or appropriate.
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ARTICLE IX
TAX MATTERS
Section 9.1
Preparation of Tax Returns
. The General Partner shall arrange for the
preparation and timely filing of all returns of Partnership income, gains, deductions, losses and
other items required of the Partnership for federal and state income tax purposes and shall use all
reasonable efforts to furnish, within 90 days of the close of each calendar year, the tax
information reasonably required by holders of Outstanding Units for federal and state income tax
reporting purposes. The classification, realization and recognition of income, gain, losses and
deductions and other items shall be on the accrual method of accounting for federal income tax
purposes. The taxable year of the Partnership shall be August 1 to July 31.
Section 9.2
Tax Elections
. Except as otherwise provided herein, the General Partner
shall, in its sole discretion, determine whether to make any available election pursuant to the
Code;
provided, however
, that the General Partner shall make the election under Section 754 of the
Code in accordance with applicable regulations thereunder. The General Partner shall have the
right to seek to revoke any such election (including, without limitation, the election under
Section 754 of the Code) upon the General Partners determination in its sole discretion that such
revocation is in the best interests of the Limited Partners and Assignees. For purposes of
computing the adjustments under Section 743(b) of the Code, the General Partner shall be authorized
(but not required) to adopt a convention whereby the price paid by a transferee of Units will be
deemed to be the lowest quoted closing price of the Units on any National Securities Exchange on
which such Units are traded during the calendar month in which such transfer is deemed to occur
pursuant to Section 5.2(g) without regard to the actual price paid by such transferee.
Section 9.3
Tax Controversies
. Subject to the provisions hereof, the General Partner
is designated the Tax Matters Partner (as defined in Section 6231 of the Code), and is authorized
and required to represent the Partnership (at the Partnerships expense) in connection with all
examinations of the Partnerships affairs by tax authorities, including, without limitation,
resulting administrative and judicial proceedings, and to expend Partnership funds for professional
services and costs associated therewith. Each Partner and Assignee agrees to cooperate with the
General Partner and to do or refrain from doing any or all things reasonably required by the
General Partner to conduct such proceedings.
Section 9.4
Organizational Expenses
. The Partnership shall elect to deduct expenses,
if any, incurred by it in organizing the Partnership ratably over a 60 month period as provided in
Section 709 of the Code.
Section 9.5
Withholding
. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the
General Partner is authorized to take any action that it determines in its sole discretion to be
necessary or appropriate to cause the Partnership and the Operating Partnership to comply with any
withholding requirements established under the Code or any other federal, state or local law
including, without limitation, pursuant to Sections 1441, 1442, 1445 and 1446 of the Code. To the
extent that the Partnership is required to withhold and pay over to any taxing authority any amount
resulting from the allocation or distribution of income to any Partner or Assignee (including,
without limitation, by reason of Section 1446 of the Code), the amount withheld shall
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be treated as a distribution of cash pursuant to Section 5.3 in the amount of such withholding
from such Partner.
Section 9.6
Entity Level Taxation
. If legislation is enacted or the interpretation of
existing language is modified which causes the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to be
treated as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise subjects the Partnership or the
Operating Partnership to entity level taxation for federal income tax purposes, the Minimum
Quarterly Distribution, First Target Distribution, Second Target Distribution or Third Target
Distribution, as the case may be, shall be equal to the product obtained by multiplying (a) the
amount thereof by (b) 1 minus the sum of (i) the highest marginal federal corporate (or other
entity, as applicable) income tax rate of the Partnership for the taxable year of the Partnership
in which such Quarter occurs (expressed as a percentage) plus (ii) the effective overall state and
local income tax rate (expressed as a percentage) applicable to the Partnership for the calendar
year next preceding the calendar year in which such Quarter occurs (after taking into account the
benefit of any deduction allowable for federal income tax purposes with respect to the payment of
state and local income taxes), but only to the extent of the increase in such rates resulting from
such legislation or interpretation. Such effective overall state and local income tax rate shall be
determined for the taxable year next preceding the first taxable year during which the Partnership
or the Operating Partnership is taxable for federal income tax purposes as an association taxable
as a corporation or is otherwise subject to entity level taxation by determining such rate as if
the Partnership or the Operating Partnership had been subject to such state and local taxes during
such preceding taxable year.
Section 9.7
Entity Level Arrearage Collections
. If the Partnership is required by
applicable law to pay any federal, state or local income tax on behalf of, or withhold such amount
with respect to, any Partner or Assignee or any former Partner or Assignee in respect of Common
Units held by such Person (a) the General Partner shall cause the Partnership to pay such tax on
behalf of such Partner or Assignee or former Partner or Assignee from the funds of the Partnership;
(b) any amount so paid on behalf of, or withheld with respect to, any such Partner or Assignee
shall constitute a distribution out of Available Cash to such Partner or Assignee pursuant to
Section 5.3;
provided, however
, in the discretion of the General Partner, such taxes (if pertaining
to all such Partners) may be considered to be cash disbursements of the Partnership which reduce
Available Cash, but the payment or withholding thereof shall not be deemed to be a distribution of
Available Cash to such Partners; and (c) to the extent any such Partner or Assignee (but not a
former Partner or Assignee) is not then entitled to such distribution under this Agreement, the
General Partner shall be authorized, without the approval of any Partner or Assignee, to amend this
Agreement insofar as is necessary to maintain the uniformity of intrinsic tax characteristics as to
all Common Units and to make subsequent adjustments to distributions in a manner which, in the
reasonable judgment of the General Partner, will make as little alteration as practicable in the
priority and amount of distributions otherwise applicable under this Agreement, and will not
otherwise alter the distributions to which Partners and Assignees are entitled under this
Agreement. If the Partnership is permitted (but not required) by applicable law to pay any such tax
on behalf of, or withhold such amount with respect to, any Partner or Assignee or former Partner or
Assignee with respect to Common Units held by such Person, the General Partner shall be authorized
(but not required) upon the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the
Outstanding Senior Units, if any, to cause the Partnership to pay such tax from the funds of the
Partnership and to take any action
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consistent with this Section 9.7. The General Partner shall be authorized (but not required)
to take all necessary or appropriate actions to collect all or any portion of a deficiency in the
payment of any such tax that relates to prior periods and that is attributable to Persons who were
Limited Partners or Assignees with respect to Common Units held by such Person when such
deficiencies arose, from such Persons. The payment of taxes by the Partnership on behalf of
Limited Partners holding Senior Units will not satisfy the obligation of the Partnership to pay the
Senior Unit Distribution.
Section 9.8
Opinions of Counsel
. Notwithstanding any other provision of this
Agreement, if the Partnership or the Operating Partnership is treated as an association taxable as
a corporation at any time or is otherwise taxable for federal income tax purposes as an entity at
any time and, pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, an Opinion of Counsel would otherwise
be required to the effect that an action will not cause the Partnership or the Operating
Partnership to become so treated as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise taxable as
an entity for federal income tax purposes, such requirement for an Opinion of Counsel shall be
deemed automatically waived.
ARTICLE X
CERTIFICATES
Section 10.1
Certificates
. Upon the Partnerships issuance of Common Units or Senior
Units to any Person, the Partnership shall issue one or more Certificates in the name of such
Person evidencing the number of such Units being so issued. Certificates shall be executed on
behalf of the Partnership by the General Partner. No Common Unit Certificate shall be valid for
any purpose until it has been countersigned by the Transfer Agent;
provided, however
, that if the
General Partner elects to issue Units in global or book-entry form, the Certificates shall be valid
upon receipt of a certificate from the Transfer Agent certifying that such Units have been duly
registered in accordance with the directions of the Partnership. The Partners holding Certificates
evidencing Senior Units may exchange such Certificates for Certificates evidencing Common Units on
or after the date on which such Senior Units are converted into Common Units pursuant to the terms
of Section 5.7(d). The General Partner Units need not be certificated, but upon request of the
General Partner, may be represented by Certificates in the same manner as the Common Units or
Senior Units.
Section 10.2
Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange.
(a) The General Partner shall cause to be kept on behalf of the Partnership a register in
which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe and subject to the provisions of
Section 10.2(b), the General Partner will provide for the registration and transfer of Units. The
Transfer Agent is hereby appointed registrar and transfer agent for the purpose of registering
Common Units and transfers of such Common Units as herein provided. The Partnership shall not
recognize transfers of Certificates representing Units unless same are effected in the manner
described in this Section 10.2. Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Units evidenced
by a Certificate, and subject to the provisions of Section 10.2(b), the General Partner on behalf
of the Partnership shall execute, and in the case of Common Units, the Transfer Agent shall
countersign, and deliver (or, in the case of Units issued in global or book-entry form, register in
accordance with the rules and regulations of the Depositary), in the name
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of the holder or the designated transferee or transferees, as required pursuant to the
holders instructions, one or more new Certificates evidencing the same aggregate number of Units
as was evidenced by the Certificate so surrendered.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in Section 11.5, the Partnership shall not recognize any
transfer of Units until the Certificates evidencing such Units are surrendered for registration of
transfer and such Certificates are accompanied by a Transfer Application duly executed by the
transferee (or the transferees attorney in fact duly authorized in writing). No charge shall be
imposed by the Partnership for such transfer,
provided
, that as a condition to the issuance of any
new Certificate under this Section 10.2, the General Partner may require the payment of a sum
sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed with respect thereto.
Section 10.3
Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost or Stolen Certificates.
(a) If any mutilated Certificate is surrendered to the Transfer Agent, the General Partner on
behalf of the Partnership shall execute, and upon its request the Transfer Agent shall countersign
and deliver in exchange therefor, a new Certificate evidencing the same number of Units as the
Certificate so surrendered.
(b) The General Partner on behalf of the Partnership shall execute, and upon its request, in
the case of Common Units, the Transfer Agent shall countersign and deliver (or, in the case of
Units issued in global or book-entry form, register in accordance with the rules and regulations of
the Depositary) a new Certificate in place of any Certificate previously issued if the Record
Holder of the Certificate:
(i) makes proof by affidavit, in form and substance satisfactory to the General
Partner, that a previously issued Certificate has been lost, destroyed or stolen;
(ii) requests the issuance of a new Certificate before the Partnership has
notice that the Certificate has been acquired by a purchaser for value in good faith
and without notice of an adverse claim;
(iii) if requested by the General Partner, delivers to the Partnership a bond,
in form and substance satisfactory to the General Partner, with surety or sureties
and with fixed or open penalty as the General Partner may reasonably direct, in its
sole discretion, to indemnify the Partnership, the General Partner and the Transfer
Agent against any claim that may be made on account of the alleged loss, destruction
or theft of the Certificate; and
(iv) satisfies any other reasonable requirements imposed by the General
Partner.
If a Limited Partner or Assignee fails to notify the Partnership within a reasonable time
after he has notice of the loss, destruction or theft of a Certificate, and a transfer of the Units
represented by the Certificate is registered before the Partnership, the General Partner or the
Transfer Agent receives such notification, the Limited Partner or Assignee shall be precluded
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from making any claim against the Partnership, the General Partner or the Transfer Agent for
such transfer or for a new Certificate.
(c) As a condition to the issuance of any new Certificate under this Section 10.3, the General
Partner may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge
that may be imposed in relation thereto and any other expenses (including, without limitation, the
fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent) reasonably connected therewith.
Section 10.4
Record Holder
. In accordance with Section 10.2(b), the Partnership shall
be entitled to recognize the Record Holder as the Limited Partner or Assignee with respect to any
Units and, accordingly, shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest
in such Units on the part of any other Person, whether or not the Partnership shall have actual or
other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by law or any applicable rule, regulation,
guideline or requirement of any National Securities Exchange on which the Units are listed for
trading. Without limiting the foregoing, when a Person (such as a broker, dealer, bank, trust
company or clearing corporation or an agent of any of the foregoing) is acting as nominee, agent or
in some other representative capacity for another Person in acquiring and/or holding Units, as
between the Partnership on the one hand, and such other Persons, on the other, such representative
Person (a) shall be the Limited Partner or Assignee (as the case may be) of record and
beneficially, (b) must execute and deliver a Transfer Application and (c) shall be bound by this
Agreement and shall have the rights and obligations of a Limited Partner or Assignee (as the case
may be) hereunder and as provided for herein.
ARTICLE XI
TRANSFER OF INTERESTS
Section 11.1
Transfer.
(a) The term
transfer
,
when used in this Article XI with respect to a Partnership Interest,
shall be deemed to refer to a transaction by which the General Partner assigns its General Partner
Interest to another Person, by which the holder of a Unit assigns such Unit to another Person who
is or becomes an Assignee or by which a Special Limited Partner holding an IDR assigns such IDR to
another Person, and includes a sale, assignment, gift, pledge, encumbrance, hypothecation,
mortgage, exchange or any other disposition by law or otherwise.
(b) No Partnership Interest shall be transferred, in whole or in part, except in accordance
with the terms and conditions set forth in this Article XI. Any transfer or purported transfer of
a Partnership Interest not made in accordance with this Article XI shall be null and void.
(c) Nothing contained in this Article XI shall be construed to prevent a disposition by the
parent entity of the General Partner of any or all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of
the General Partner.
(d) Nothing contained in this Article XI, or elsewhere in this Partnership Agreement, shall
preclude the settlement of any transactions involving Common Units entered into through the
facilities of the New York Stock Exchange.
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Section 11.2
Transfer of the General Partner Interest
. Except for a transfer by the
General Partner of all, but not less than all, of its General Partner Interest to (a) an Affiliate
of the General Partner or (b) another Person in connection with the merger or consolidation of the
General Partner with or into another Person or the transfer by the General Partner of all or
substantially all of its assets to another Person, the transfer by the General Partner of all or
any part of its General Partner Interest to a Person prior to July 31, 2004 shall be subject to the
prior approval of at least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units (excluding for purposes of
such determination Units owned by the General Partner and its Affiliates). Notwithstanding anything
herein to the contrary, no transfer by the General Partner of all or any part of its General
Partner Interest to another Person shall be permitted unless (i) the transferee agrees to assume
the rights and duties of the General Partner under this Agreement and the Operating Partnership
Agreement and to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement and the Operating Partnership
Agreement, (ii) the Partnership receives an Opinion of Counsel that such transfer would not result
in the loss of limited liability of any Limited Partner or of any limited partner of the Operating
Partnership or cause the Partnership or any of the Operating Partnership to be treated as an
association taxable as a corporation or otherwise to be taxed as an entity for federal income tax
purposes and (iii) such transferee also agrees to purchase all (or the appropriate portion thereof,
if applicable) of the partnership interest of the General Partner as the general partner of the
Operating Partnership. In the case of a transfer pursuant to and in compliance with this Section
11.2, the transferee or successor (as the case may be) shall, subject to compliance with the terms
of Section 12.3, be admitted to the Partnership as a General Partner immediately prior to the
transfer of the General Partner Interest, and the business of the Partnership shall continue
without dissolution.
Section 11.3
Transfer of Units (other than General Partner Units).
(a) Units (other than General Partner Units) may be transferred only in the manner described
in Section 10.2. The transfer of any Units (other than General Partner Units) and the admission of
any new Partner shall not constitute an amendment to this Agreement.
(b) Until admitted as a Substituted Limited Partner pursuant to Article XII, the Record Holder
of a Unit shall be an Assignee in respect of such Unit. Limited Partners may include custodians,
nominees, or any other individual or entity in its own or any representative capacity.
(c) Each distribution in respect of Units shall be paid by the Partnership, directly or
through the Transfer Agent or through any other Person or agent, only to the Record Holders thereof
as of the Record Date set for the distribution. Such payment shall constitute full payment and
satisfaction of the Partnerships liability in respect of such payment, regardless of any claim of
any Person who may have an interest in such payment by reason of an assignment or otherwise.
(d) A transferee who has completed and delivered a Transfer Application shall be deemed to
have (i) requested admission as a Substituted Limited Partner, (ii) agreed to comply with and be
bound by and to have executed this Agreement, (iii) represented and warranted that such transferee
has the right, power and authority and, if an individual, the capacity to enter into this
Agreement, (iv) granted the powers of attorney set forth in this
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Agreement and (v) given the consents and approvals and made the waivers contained in this
Agreement.
Section 11.4
Restrictions on Transfers
. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this
Article XI, no transfer of any Unit or interest therein of any Limited Partner, Special Limited
Partner or Assignee shall be made if such transfer would (a) violate the then applicable federal or
state securities laws or rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, any state
securities commission or any other governmental authorities with jurisdiction over such transfer,
(b) result in the taxation of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership as an association
taxable as a corporation or otherwise subject the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to
entity level taxation for federal income tax purposes or (c) affect the Partnerships or the
Operating Partnerships existence or qualification as a limited partnership under the Delaware Act.
Section 11.5
Citizenship Certificates; Non citizen Assignees.
(a) If the Partnership or the Operating Partnership is or becomes subject to any federal,
state or local law or regulation that, in the reasonable determination of the General Partner,
creates a substantial risk of cancellation or forfeiture of any property in which the Partnership
or the Operating Partnership has an interest based on the nationality, citizenship or other related
status of a Limited Partner or Assignee, the General Partner may request any Limited Partner or
Assignee to furnish to the General Partner, within 30 days after receipt of such request, an
executed Citizenship Certification or such other information concerning his nationality,
citizenship or other related status (or, if the Limited Partner or Assignee is a nominee holding
for the account of another Person, the nationality, citizenship or other related status of such
Person) as the General Partner may request. If a Limited Partner or Assignee fails to furnish to
the General Partner within the aforementioned 30 day period such Citizenship Certification or other
requested information or if upon receipt of such Citizenship Certification or other requested
information the General Partner determines, with the advice of counsel, that a Limited Partner or
Assignee is not an Eligible Citizen, the Units owned by such Limited Partner or Assignee shall be
subject to redemption in accordance with the provisions of Section 11.6. In addition, the General
Partner may require that the status of any such Limited Partner or Assignee be changed to that of a
Non citizen Assignee, and, thereupon, the General Partner shall be substituted for such Non citizen
Assignee as the Limited Partner in respect of his Units.
(b) The General Partner shall, in exercising voting rights in respect of Units held by it on
behalf of Non citizen Assignees, distribute the votes in the same ratios as the votes of Limited
Partners in respect of Units other than those of Non citizen Assignees are cast, either for,
against or abstaining as to the matter.
(c) Upon dissolution of the Partnership, a Non citizen Assignee shall have no right to receive
a distribution in kind pursuant to Section 14.4 but shall be entitled to the cash equivalent
thereof, and the General Partner shall provide cash in exchange for an assignment of the Non
citizen Assignees share of the distribution in kind. Such payment and assignment shall be treated
for Partnership purposes as a purchase by the General Partner from the Non citizen Assignee of his
Partnership Interest (representing his right to receive his share of such distribution in kind).
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(d) At any time after he can and does certify that he has become an Eligible Citizen, a Non
citizen Assignee may, upon application to the General Partner, request admission as a Substituted
Limited Partner with respect to any Units of such Non citizen Assignee not redeemed pursuant to
Section 11.6, and upon his admission pursuant to Section 12.2 the General Partner shall cease to be
deemed to be the Limited Partner in respect of the Non citizen Assignees Units.
Section 11.6
Redemption of Interests.
(a) If at any time a Limited Partner or Assignee fails to furnish a Citizenship Certification
or other information requested within the 30 day period specified in Section 11.5(a), or if upon
receipt of such Citizenship Certification or other information the General Partner determines, with
the advice of counsel, that a Limited Partner or Assignee is not an Eligible Citizen, the
Partnership may, unless the Limited Partner or Assignee establishes to the satisfaction of the
General Partner that such Limited Partner or Assignee is an Eligible Citizen or has transferred his
Units to a Person who furnishes a Citizenship Certification to the General Partner prior to the
date fixed for redemption as provided below, redeem the Partnership Interest of such Limited
Partner or Assignee as follows:
(i) The General Partner shall, not later than the 30th day before the date
fixed for redemption, give notice of redemption to the Limited Partner or Assignee,
at his last address designated on the records of the Partnership or the Transfer
Agent, by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid. The notice shall be deemed
to have been given when so mailed. The notice shall specify the Redeemable Units,
the date fixed for redemption, the place of payment, that payment of the redemption
price will be made upon surrender of the Certificate evidencing the Redeemable Units
and that on and after the date fixed for redemption no further allocations or
distributions to which the Limited Partner or Assignee would otherwise be entitled
in respect of the Redeemable Units will accrue or be made.
(ii) The aggregate redemption price for Redeemable Units shall be an amount
equal to the Current Market Price (the date of determination of which shall be the
date fixed for redemption) of Units of the class to be so redeemed multiplied by the
number of Units of each such class included among the Redeemable Units. The
redemption price shall be paid, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, in
cash or by delivery of a promissory note of the Partnership in the principal amount
of the redemption price, bearing interest at the rate of 10% annually and payable in
three equal annual installments of principal together with accrued interest,
commencing one year after the redemption date.
(iii) Upon surrender by or on behalf of the Limited Partner or Assignee, at the
place specified in the notice of redemption, of the Certificate evidencing the
Redeemable Units, duly endorsed in blank or accompanied by an assignment duly
executed in blank, the Limited Partner or Assignee or his duly authorized
representative shall be entitled to receive the payment therefor.
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(iv) After the redemption date, Redeemable Units shall no longer constitute
issued and Outstanding Units.
(b) The provisions of this Section 11.6 shall also be applicable to Units held by a Limited
Partner or Assignee as nominee of a Person determined to be other than an Eligible Citizen.
(c) Nothing in this Section 11.6 shall prevent the recipient of a notice of redemption from
transferring his Units before the redemption date if such transfer is otherwise permitted under
this Agreement. Upon receipt of notice of such a transfer, the General Partner shall withdraw the
notice of redemption,
provided
, the transferee of such Units certifies in the Transfer Application
that he is an Eligible Citizen. If the transferee fails to make such certification, such
redemption shall be effected from the transferee on the original redemption date.
Section 11.7
Transfer of IDRs
. A Special Limited Partner holding IDRs may transfer
any or all of the IDRs held by such Special Limited Partner. The General Partner shall have the
authority (but shall not be required) to adopt such reasonable restrictions on the transfer of
IDRs, consistent with the restrictions on transfer of Units provided for in this Agreement, and
requirements for registering the transfer of IDRs as the General Partner, in its sole discretion,
shall determine are necessary or appropriate including, without limitation, if the General Partner
shall so determine, in its sole discretion, the right of the Partnership to redeem IDRs upon terms
and conditions similar to those applicable to Units.
ARTICLE XII
ADMISSION OF PARTNERS
Section 12.1
Admission of Initial Limited Partners
. On the Initial Closing Date, the
General Partner was admitted to the Partnership as a Limited Partner in respect of the Common Units
and Subordinated Units issued to it and as a Special Limited Partner in respect of the IDRs issued
to it, and the Underwriters were admitted to the Partnership as Initial Limited Partners.
Section 12.2
Admission of Substituted Limited Partners
. By transfer of a Unit (other
than a General Partner Unit) in accordance with Article XI, the transferor shall be deemed to have
given the transferee the right to seek admission as a Substituted Limited Partner subject to the
conditions of, and in the manner permitted under, this Agreement. A transferor of a Certificate
(other than a Certificate representing a General Partner Unit) shall, however, only have the
authority to convey to a purchaser or other transferee who does not execute and deliver a Transfer
Application (a) the right to negotiate such Certificate to a purchaser or other transferee and (b)
the right to transfer the right to request admission as a Substituted Limited Partner to such
purchaser or other transferee in respect of the transferred Units. Each transferee of a Unit
(other than a General Partner Unit) (including, without limitation, any nominee holder or an agent
acquiring such Unit for the account of another Person) who executes and delivers a Transfer
Application shall, by virtue of such execution and delivery, be an Assignee and be deemed to have
applied to become a Substituted Limited Partner with respect to the Units so transferred to such
Person. Such Assignee shall become a Substituted Limited Partner (x) at such time as the General
Partner consents thereto, which consent may be given or withheld in the
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General Partners sole discretion, and (y) when any such admission is shown on the books and
records of the Partnership. If such consent is withheld, such transferee shall be an Assignee. An
Assignee shall have an interest in the Partnership equivalent to that of a Limited Partner with
respect to allocations and distributions, including, without limitation, liquidating distributions,
of the Partnership. With respect to voting rights attributable to Units that are held by
Assignees, the General Partner shall be deemed to be the Limited Partner with respect thereto and
shall, in exercising the voting rights in respect of such Units on any matter, vote such Units at
the written direction of the Assignee who is the Record Holder of such Units. If no such written
direction is received, such Units will not be voted. An Assignee shall have no other rights of a
Limited Partner.
Section 12.3
Admission of Successor General Partner
. A successor General Partner
approved pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2 or the transferee of or successor to all of the General
Partner Interest pursuant to Section 11.2 who is proposed to be admitted as a successor General
Partner shall be admitted to the Partnership as the General Partner, effective immediately prior to
the withdrawal or removal of the General Partner pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2 or the transfer
of the General Partner Interest pursuant to Section 11.2;
provided, however
, that no such successor
shall be admitted to the Partnership until compliance with the terms of Section 11.2 has occurred
and such successor has executed and delivered such other documents or instruments as may be
required to effect such admission. Any such successor shall, subject to the terms hereof, carry on
the business of the Partnership and Operating Partnership without dissolution.
Section 12.4
Admission of Additional Limited Partners.
(a) A Person (other than the General Partner, an Initial Limited Partner or a Substituted
Limited Partner) who makes a Capital Contribution to the Partnership in accordance with this
Agreement shall be admitted to the Partnership as an Additional Limited Partner only upon
furnishing to the General Partner (i) evidence of acceptance in form satisfactory to the General
Partner of all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the
power of attorney granted in Section 1.4, and (ii) such other documents or instruments as may be
required in the discretion of the General Partner to effect such Persons admission as an
Additional Limited Partner.
(b) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 12.4, no Person shall be admitted
as an Additional Limited Partner without the consent of the General Partner, which consent may be
given or withheld in the General Partners sole discretion. The admission of any Person as an
Additional Limited Partner shall become effective on the date upon which the name of such Person is
recorded as such in the books and records of the Partnership, following the consent of the General
Partner to such admission.
(c) Upon the issuance by the Partnership of Senior Units to WNGL pursuant to the WNGL Purchase
Agreement and the execution and delivery in writing evidencing WNGLs acceptance of all of the
terms and conditions of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the power of attorney
granted in Section 1.4, the General Partner shall admit WNGL to the Partnership as an Additional
Limited Partner on the WNGL Closing Date.
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Section 12.5
Amendment of Agreement and Certificate of Limited Partnership
. To effect
the admission to the Partnership of any Partner, the General Partner shall take all steps necessary
and appropriate under the Delaware Act to amend the records of the Partnership to reflect such
admission and, if necessary, to prepare as soon as practical an amendment of this Agreement and, if
required by law, to prepare and file an amendment to the Certificate of Limited Partnership and may
for this purpose, among others, exercise the power of attorney granted pursuant to Section 1.4.
ARTICLE XIII
WITHDRAWAL OR REMOVAL OF PARTNERS
Section 13.1
Withdrawal of the General Partner.
(a) The General Partner shall be deemed to have withdrawn from the Partnership upon the
occurrence of any one of the following events (each such event herein referred to as an
Event of
Withdrawal
);
(i) the General Partner voluntarily withdraws from the Partnership by giving
written notice to the other Partners (and it shall be deemed that the General
Partner has withdrawn pursuant to this Section 13.1(a)(i) if the General Partner
voluntarily withdraws as general partner of the Operating Partnership);
(ii) the General Partner transfers all of its General Partner Interest pursuant
to Section 11.2;
(iii) the General Partner is removed pursuant to Section 13.2;
(iv) the General Partner (A) makes a general assignment for the benefit of
creditors; (B) files a voluntary bankruptcy petition; (C) files a petition or answer
seeking for itself a reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment,
liquidation, dissolution or similar relief under any law; (D) files an answer or
other pleading admitting or failing to contest the material allegations of a
petition filed against the General Partner in a proceeding of the type described in
clauses (A) (C) of this Section 13.1(a)(iv); or (E) seeks, consents to or acquiesces
in the appointment of a trustee, receiver or liquidator of the General Partner or of
all or any substantial part of its properties;
(v) a final and non appealable judgment is entered by a court with appropriate
jurisdiction ruling that the General Partner is bankrupt or insolvent, or a final
and non appealable order for relief is entered by a court with appropriate
jurisdiction against the General Partner, in each case under any federal or state
bankruptcy or insolvency laws as now or hereafter in effect; or
(vi) a certificate of dissolution or its equivalent is filed for the General
Partner, or 90 days expire after the date of notice to the General Partner of
revocation of its charter without a reinstatement of its charter, under the laws of
its state of incorporation.
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If an Event of Withdrawal specified in Section 13.1(a)(iv), (v) or (vi) occurs, the
withdrawing General Partner shall give notice to the Limited Partners within 30 days after such
occurrence. The Partners hereby agree that only the Events of Withdrawal described in this Section
13.1 shall result in the withdrawal of the General Partner from the Partnership.
(b) Withdrawal of the General Partner from the Partnership upon the occurrence of an Event of
Withdrawal shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement under the following circumstances: (i)
at any time during the period beginning on the Initial Closing Date and ending at 12:00 midnight,
Central Standard Time, on July 31, 2004, the General Partner voluntarily withdraws by giving at
least 90 days advance notice of its intention to withdraw to the Limited Partners, provided, that
prior to the effective date of such withdrawal the withdrawal is approved by the holders of at
least two thirds of the Outstanding Common Units (excluding for purposes of such determination
Common Units owned by the General Partner and its Affiliates) and the General Partner delivers to
the Partnership an Opinion of Counsel (
Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel
) that such withdrawal
(following the selection of the successor General Partner) would not result in the loss of the
limited liability of any Limited Partner or of the limited partner of the Operating Partnership or
cause the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to be treated as an association taxable as a
corporation or otherwise to be taxed as an entity for federal income tax purposes; (ii) at any time
after 12:00 midnight, Central Standard Time, on July 31, 2004, the General Partner voluntarily
withdraws by giving at least 90 days advance notice to the Limited Partners, such withdrawal to
take effect on the date specified in such notice; (iii) at any time that the General Partner ceases
to be a General Partner pursuant to Section 13.1(a)(ii) or is removed pursuant to Section 13.2; or
(iv) notwithstanding clause (i) of this sentence, at any time that the General Partner voluntarily
withdraws by giving at least 90 days advance notice of its intention to withdraw to the Limited
Partners, such withdrawal to take effect on the date specified in the notice, if at the time such
notice is given one Person and its Affiliates (other than the General Partner and its Affiliates)
own beneficially or of record or control at least 50% of the Outstanding Common Units. The
withdrawal of the General Partner from the Partnership upon the occurrence of an Event of
Withdrawal shall also constitute the withdrawal of the General Partner as general partner of the
Operating Partnership. If the General Partner gives a notice of withdrawal pursuant to Section
13.1(a)(i), holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units (excluding for purposes
of such determination Common Units owned by the General Partner and its Affiliates) may, prior to
the effective date of such withdrawal, elect a successor General Partner. If, prior to the
effective date of the General Partners withdrawal, a successor is selected by the Limited Partners
as provided herein, the Partnership, as the limited partner of the Operating Partnership, shall
cause such Person to become the successor general partner of the Operating Partnership, as provided
in the Operating Partnership Agreement. If, prior to the effective date of the General Partners
withdrawal, a successor is not selected by the Limited Partners as provided herein or the
Partnership does not receive a Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel, the Partnership shall be dissolved in
accordance with Section 14.1. Any successor General Partner elected in accordance with the terms
of this Section 13.1 shall be subject to the provisions of Section 12.3.
Section 13.2
Removal of the General Partner
. The General Partner may be removed if
such removal is approved by Limited Partners holding at least two thirds of the Outstanding Common
Units. Any such action by such Limited Partners for removal of the General Partner must also
provide for the election of a successor General Partner by Limited Partners holding at
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least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units. Such removal shall be effective immediately
following the admission of a successor General Partner pursuant to Article XII. The removal of the
General Partner shall also automatically constitute the removal of the General Partner as general
partner of the Operating Partnership, as provided in the Operating Partnership Agreement. If a
Person is elected as a successor General Partner in accordance with the terms of this Section 13.2,
the Partnership, as the limited partner of the Operating Partnership, shall cause such Person to
become the successor general partner of the Operating Partnership, as provided in the Operating
Partnership Agreement. The right of the Limited Partners holding Outstanding Common Units to
remove the General Partner shall not exist or be exercised unless the Partnership has received an
opinion opining as to the matters covered by a Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel. Any successor
General Partner elected in accordance with the terms of this Section 13.2 shall be subject to the
provisions of Section 12.3.
Section 13.3
Interest of Departing Partner and Successor General Partner.
(a) In the event of (i) withdrawal of the General Partner under circumstances where such
withdrawal does not violate this Agreement or (ii) removal of the General Partner by the holders of
Common Units under circumstances where Cause does not exist, if a successor General Partner is
elected in accordance with the terms of Section 13.1 or 13.2, the Departing Partner shall have the
option exercisable prior to the effective date of the departure of such Departing Partner to
require its successor to purchase its General Partner Interest and its partnership interest as the
general partner in the Operating Partnership (collectively, the
Combined Interest
) in exchange
for an amount in cash equal to the fair market value of such Combined Interest, such amount to be
determined and payable as of the effective date of its departure. If the General Partner is removed
by the Limited Partners under circumstances where Cause exists or if the General Partner withdraws
under circumstances where such withdrawal violates this Agreement or the Operating Partnership
Agreement, and if a successor General Partner is elected in accordance with the terms of Section
13.1 or 13.2, such successor shall have the option, exercisable prior to the effective date of the
departure of such Departing Partner, to purchase the Combined Interest of the Departing Partner for
such fair market value of such Combined Interest. In either event, the Departing Partner shall be
entitled to receive all reimbursements due such Departing Partner pursuant to Section 6.4,
including, without limitation, any employee related liabilities (including, without limitation,
severance liabilities), incurred in connection with the termination of any employees employed by
the General Partner for the benefit of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership. Subject to
Section 13.3(b), the Departing Partner shall, as of the effective date of its departure, cease to
share in any allocations or distributions with respect to its General Partner Interest and
Partnership income, gain, loss, deduction and credit will be prorated and allocated as set forth in
Section 5.2(g).
For purposes of this Section 13.3(a), the fair market value of the Departing Partners
Combined Interest shall be determined by agreement between the Departing Partner and its successor
or, failing agreement within 30 days after the effective date of such Departing Partners
departure, by an independent investment banking firm or other independent expert selected by the
Departing Partner and its successor, which, in turn, may rely on other experts and the
determination of which shall be conclusive as to such matter. If such parties cannot agree upon one
independent investment banking firm or other independent expert within 45 days after the effective
date of such departure, then the Departing Partner shall designate an independent
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investment banking firm or other independent expert, the Departing Partners successor shall
designate an independent investment banking firm or other independent expert, and such firms or
experts shall mutually select a third independent investment banking firm or independent expert,
which shall determine the fair market value of the Combined Interest. In making its determination,
such independent investment banking firm or other independent expert shall consider the then
current trading price of Units on any National Securities Exchange on which Units are then listed,
the value of the Partnerships assets, the rights and obligations of the General Partner and other
factors it may deem relevant.
(b) If the Combined Interest is not purchased in the manner set forth in Section 13.3(a), the
Departing Partner shall become a Limited Partner and the Combined Interest shall be converted into
Common Units pursuant to a valuation made by an investment banking firm or other independent expert
selected pursuant to Section 13.3(a), without reduction in such Partnership Interest (but subject
to proportionate dilution by reason of the admission of its successor). Any successor General
Partner shall indemnify the Departing Partner as to all debts and liabilities of the Partnership
arising on or after the date on which the Departing Partner becomes a Limited Partner. For
purposes of this Agreement, conversion of the General Partners Combined Interest to Common Units
will be characterized as if the General Partner contributed its Combined Interest to the
Partnership in exchange for the newly issued Common Units.
(c) If a successor General Partner is elected in accordance with the terms of Section 13.1 or
13.2 and the option described in Section 13.3(a) is not exercised by the party entitled to do so,
the successor General Partner shall, at the effective date of its admission to the Partnership,
contribute to the capital of the Partnership cash in an amount such that its Capital Account, after
giving effect to such contribution and any adjustments made to the Capital Accounts of all Partners
pursuant to Section 4.5(d)(i), shall be equal to that percentage of the Capital Accounts of all
Partners that is equal to its Percentage Interest as the General Partner. In such event, such
successor General Partner shall, subject to the following sentence, be entitled to such Percentage
Interest of all Partnership allocations and distributions and any other allocations and
distributions to which the Departing Partner was entitled.
Section 13.4
Withdrawal of Limited Partners
. No Limited Partner shall have any right
to withdraw from the Partnership; provided, however, that when a transferee of a Limited Partners
Units becomes a Record Holder, such transferring Limited Partner shall cease to be a Limited
Partner with respect to the Units so transferred.
ARTICLE XIV
DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION
Section 14.1
Dissolution
. The Partnership shall not be dissolved by the admission of
Substituted Limited Partners or Additional Limited Partners or by the admission of a successor
General Partner in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. Upon the removal or withdrawal of
the General Partner, if a successor General Partner is elected pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2,
the Partnership shall not be dissolved and such successor General Partner shall continue the
business of the Partnership. The Partnership shall dissolve, and (subject to Section 14.2) its
affairs should be wound up, upon:
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(a) the expiration of its term as
provided
in Section 1.5;
(b) an Event of Withdrawal of the General Partner as
provided
in Section 13.1(a) (other than
Section 13.1(a)(ii)), unless a successor is elected and an Opinion of Counsel is received as
provided
in Section 13.1(b) or 13.2 and such successor is admitted to the Partnership pursuant to
Section 12.3;
(c) an election to dissolve the Partnership by the General Partner that is approved by (i) the
holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Units other than the Senior Units and (ii) the
holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Senior Units (and all holders of Units hereby
expressly consent that such approval may be effected upon written consent of said applicable
percentage of the Outstanding Units);
(d) entry of a decree of judicial dissolution of the Partnership pursuant to the provisions of
the Delaware Act; or
(e) the sale of all or substantially all of the assets and properties of the Partnership and
the Operating Partnership taken as a whole.
Section 14.2
Continuation of the Business of the Partnership after Dissolution
. Upon
(a) dissolution of the Partnership following an Event of Withdrawal caused by the withdrawal or
removal of the General Partner as provided in Section 13.1(a)(i) or (iii) and the failure of the
Partners to select a successor to such Departing Partner pursuant to Section 13.1 or 13.2, then
within 90 days thereafter or (b) dissolution of the Partnership upon an event constituting an Event
of Withdrawal as defined in Section 13.1(a)(iv), (v) or (vi), then within 180 days thereafter, a
majority of the Outstanding Common Units may elect to reconstitute the Partnership and continue its
business on the same terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement by forming a new limited
partnership on terms identical to those set forth in this Agreement and having as the successor
general partner a Person approved by a majority of the Outstanding Common Units. Upon any such
election by a majority of the Outstanding Common Units, all Partners shall be bound thereby and
shall be deemed to have approved thereof. Unless such an election is made within the applicable
time period as set forth above, the Partnership shall conduct only activities necessary to wind up
its affairs. If such an election is so made, then:
(i) the reconstituted Partnership shall continue until the end of the term set
forth in Section 1.5 unless earlier dissolved in accordance with this Article XIV;
(ii) if the successor General Partner is not the former General Partner, then
the interest of the former General Partner shall be treated thenceforth as the
interest of a Limited Partner and converted into Common Units in the manner provided
in Section 13.3(b); and
(iii) all necessary steps shall be taken to cancel this Agreement and the
Certificate of Limited Partnership and to enter into and, as necessary, to file a
new partnership agreement and certificate of limited partnership, and the successor
general partner may for this purpose exercise the powers of attorney granted the
General Partner pursuant to Section 1.4;
provided
, that the right of a majority of
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Outstanding Common Units to approve a successor General Partner and to
reconstitute and to continue the business of the Partnership shall not exist and may
not be exercised unless the Partnership has received an Opinion of Counsel that (x)
the exercise of the right would not result in the loss of limited liability of any
Limited Partner and (y) neither the Partnership, the reconstituted limited
partnership nor the Operating Partnership would be treated as an association taxable
as a corporation or otherwise be taxable as an entity for federal income tax
purposes upon the exercise of such right to continue.
Section 14.3
Liquidation
. Upon dissolution of the Partnership, unless the Partnership
is continued under an election to reconstitute and continue the Partnership pursuant to Section
14.2, the General Partner, or in the event the General Partner has been dissolved or removed,
become bankrupt as set forth in Section 13.1 or withdrawn from the Partnership, a liquidator or
liquidating committee approved by the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Common
Units, shall be the Liquidator. The Liquidator (if other than the General Partner) shall be
entitled to receive such compensation for its services as may be approved by the holders of at
least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units. The Liquidator shall agree not to resign at any
time without 15 days prior notice and (if other than the General Partner) may be removed at any
time, with or without cause, by notice of removal approved by a majority of the Outstanding Units.
Upon dissolution, removal or resignation of the Liquidator, a successor and substitute Liquidator
(who shall have and succeed to all rights, powers and duties of the original Liquidator) shall
within 30 days thereafter be approved by the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding
Common Units. The right to approve a successor or substitute Liquidator in the manner provided
herein shall be deemed to refer also to any such successor or substitute Liquidator approved in the
manner herein provided. Except as expressly provided in this Article XIV, the Liquidator approved
in the manner provided herein shall have and may exercise, without further authorization or consent
of any of the parties hereto, all of the powers conferred upon the General Partner under the terms
of this Agreement (but subject to all of the applicable limitations, contractual and otherwise,
upon the exercise of such powers, other than the limitation on sale set forth in Section 6.3(b)) to
the extent necessary or desirable in the good faith judgment of the Liquidator to carry out the
duties and functions of the Liquidator hereunder for and during such period of time as shall be
reasonably required in the good faith judgment of the Liquidator to complete the winding up and
liquidation of the Partnership as provided for herein. The Liquidator shall liquidate the assets of
the Partnership, and apply and distribute the proceeds of such liquidation in the following order
of priority, unless otherwise required by mandatory provisions of applicable law:
(a) the payment to creditors of the Partnership, including, without limitation, Partners who
are creditors, in the order of priority provided by law; and the creation of a reserve of cash or
other assets of the Partnership for contingent liabilities in an amount, if any, determined by the
Liquidator to be appropriate for such purposes; and
(b) to all Partners in accordance with, and to the extent of, the positive balances in their
respective Capital Accounts, as determined after taking into account all Capital Account
adjustments (other than those made by reason of this clause) for the taxable year of the
Partnership during which the liquidation of the Partnership occurs (with the date of such
occurrence being determined pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704 1(b)(2)(ii)(g)); and
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such distribution shall be made by the end of such taxable year (or, if later, within 90 days
after said date of such occurrence).
Section 14.4
Distributions in Kind
. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 14.3,
which require the liquidation of the assets of the Partnership, but subject to the order of
priorities set forth therein, if prior to or upon dissolution of the Partnership the Liquidator
determines that an immediate sale of part or all of the Partnerships assets would be impractical
or would cause undue loss to the Partners, the Liquidator may, in its absolute discretion, defer
for a reasonable time the liquidation of any assets except those necessary to satisfy liabilities
of the Partnership (including, without limitation, those to Partners as creditors) and or
distribute to the Partners or to specific classes of Partners, in lieu of cash, as tenants in
common and in accordance with the provisions of Section 14.3, undivided interests in such
Partnership assets as the Liquidator deems not suitable for liquidation. Any such distributions in
kind shall be made only if, in the good faith judgment of the Liquidator, such distributions in
kind are in the best interest of the Limited Partners, and shall be subject to such conditions
relating to the disposition and management of such properties as the Liquidator deems reasonable
and equitable and to any agreements governing the operation of such properties at such time. The
Liquidator shall determine the fair market value of any property distributed in kind using such
reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt.
Section 14.5
Cancellation of Certificate of Limited Partnership
. Upon the completion
of the distribution of Partnership cash and property as provided in Sections 14.3 and 14.4 in
connection with the liquidation of the Partnership, the Partnership shall be terminated and the
Certificate of Limited Partnership and all qualifications of the Partnership as a foreign limited
partnership in jurisdictions other than the State of Delaware shall be cancelled and such other
actions as may be necessary to terminate the Partnership shall be taken.
Section 14.6
Reasonable Time for Winding Up
. A reasonable time shall be allowed for
the orderly winding up of business and affairs of the Partnership and the liquidation of its assets
pursuant to Section 14.3 in order to minimize any losses otherwise attendant upon such winding up,
and the provisions of this Agreement shall remain in effect between the Partners during the period
of liquidation.
Section 14.7
Return of Capital Contributions
. The General Partner shall not be
personally liable for, and shall have no obligation to contribute or loan any monies or property to
the Partnership to enable it to effectuate, the return of the Capital Contributions of the Limited
Partners, or any portion thereof, it being expressly understood that any such return shall be made
solely from Partnership assets.
Section 14.8
Capital Account Restoration
. No Limited Partner shall have any
obligation to restore any negative balance in its Capital Account upon liquidation of the
Partnership. The General Partner shall be obligated to restore any negative balance in its Capital
Account upon liquidation of its interest in the Partnership by the end of the taxable year of the
Partnership during which such liquidation occurs, or, if later, within 90 days after the date of
such liquidation.
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Section 14.9
Waiver of Partition
. To the maximum extent permitted by law, each
Partner hereby waives any right to partition of the Partnership property.
ARTICLE XV
AMENDMENT OF PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT; MEETINGS; RECORD DATE
Section 15.1
Amendment to be Adopted Solely by General Partner
. Each Limited Partner
agrees that the General Partner (pursuant to its powers of attorney from the Limited Partners,
Special Limited Partners and Assignees), without the approval of any Limited Partner or Assignee,
may amend any provision of this Agreement, and execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and
record whatever documents may be required in connection therewith, to reflect:
(a) a change in the name of the Partnership, the location of the principal place of business
of the Partnership, the registered agent of the Partnership or the registered office of the
Partnership;
(b) admission, substitution, withdrawal or removal of Partners in accordance with this
Agreement;
(c) a change that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, is necessary or appropriate
to qualify or continue the qualification of the Partnership as a limited partnership or a
partnership in which the limited partners have limited liability under the laws of any state or
that is necessary or advisable in the opinion of the General Partner to ensure that neither the
Partnership nor the Operating Partnership will be treated as an association taxable as a
corporation or otherwise taxed as an entity for federal income tax purposes;
(d) a change (i) that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely
affect the Limited Partners in any material respect, (ii) that is necessary or desirable to satisfy
any requirements, conditions or guidelines contained in any opinion, directive, order, ruling or
regulation of any federal or state agency or judicial authority or contained in any federal or
state statute (including, without limitation, the Delaware Act) or that is necessary or desirable
to facilitate the trading of the Units (including, without limitation, the division of Outstanding
Units into different classes to facilitate uniformity of tax consequences within such classes of
Units) or comply with any rule, regulation, guideline or requirement of any National Securities
Exchange on which the Units are or will be listed for trading, compliance with any of which the
General Partner determines in its sole discretion to be in the best interests of the Partnership
and the Limited Partners, (iii) that is necessary or desirable to implement certain tax related
provisions of the Partnership Agreement, or (iv) that is required to effect the intent of the
provisions of this Agreement or is otherwise contemplated by this Agreement;
(e) a change in the fiscal year or taxable year of the Partnership and any changes that, in
the sole discretion of the General Partner, are necessary or appropriate as a result of a change in
the fiscal year or taxable year of the Partnership including, without limitation, if the General
Partner shall so determine, a change in the definition of
Quarter
and the dates on which
distributions are to be made by the Partnership;
(f) an amendment that is necessary, in the Opinion of Counsel, to prevent the Partnership or
the General Partner or its directors or officers from in any manner being subjected
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to the provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended, or plan asset regulations adopted under the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974, as amended, whether or not substantially similar to plan asset regulations
currently applied or proposed by the United States Department of Labor;
(g) subject to the terms of Section 4.3, an amendment that, in the sole discretion of the
General Partner, is necessary or desirable in connection with the authorization for issuance of any
class or series of Partnership Securities pursuant to Section 4.3;
(h) any amendment expressly permitted in this Agreement to be made by the General Partner
acting alone;
(i) an amendment effected, necessitated or contemplated by a Merger Agreement approved in
accordance with Section 16.3;
(j) an amendment that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, is necessary or
desirable to reflect, account for and deal with appropriately the formation by the Partnership of,
or investment by the Partnership in, any corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company or other entity other than the Operating Partnership, in connection with the conduct by the
Partnership of activities permitted by the terms of Section 3.1;
(k) any amendment to clause (a) of the definition of
Arrearage Period
that results in the
extension of the Arrearage Period; or
(l) any other amendments substantially similar to the foregoing.
Section 15.2
Amendment Procedures
. Except as provided in Sections 15.1, 15.3 and
15.13, all amendments to this Agreement shall be made in accordance with the following
requirements. Amendments to this Agreement may be proposed only by or with the consent of the
General Partner. A proposed amendment shall be effective upon its approval by the holders of at
least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units, unless a greater or different percentage is
required under this Agreement. Each proposed amendment that requires the approval of the holders
of a specified percentage of Outstanding Common Units shall be set forth in a writing that contains
the text of the proposed amendment. If such an amendment is proposed, the General Partner shall
seek the written approval of the requisite percentage of Outstanding Common Units or call a meeting
of the holders of Common Units to consider and vote on such proposed amendment. The General
Partner shall notify all Record Holders upon final adoption of any such proposed amendments.
Section 15.3
Amendment Requirements.
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 15.1 and 15.2, no provision of this Agreement
that establishes a percentage of Outstanding Units required to take any action shall be amended,
altered, changed, repealed or rescinded in any respect that would have the effect of reducing such
voting requirement unless such amendment is approved by the written consent or the affirmative vote
of holders of Outstanding Units whose aggregate Outstanding Units constitute not less than the
voting requirement sought to be reduced.
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(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 15.1 and 15.2, no amendment to this Agreement
may (i) enlarge the obligations of any Limited Partner without its consent, (ii) enlarge the
obligations of the General Partner without its consent, which may be given or withheld in its sole
discretion, (iii) modify the amounts distributable, reimbursable or otherwise payable to the
General Partner by the Partnership or the Operating Partnership, (iv) change Section 14.1(a) or
(c), (v) restrict in any way any action by or rights of the General Partner as set forth in this
Agreement or (vi) change the term of the Partnership or, except as set forth in Section 14.1(c),
give any Person the right to dissolve the Partnership.
(c) Except as otherwise provided, and without limitation of the General Partners authority to
adopt amendments to this Agreement as contemplated in Section 15.1, any amendment that would have a
material adverse effect on the rights or preferences of any class of Outstanding Units in relation
to other classes of Units must be approved by the holders of not less than a majority of the
Outstanding Units of the class affected (excluding for purposes of such determination Units owned
by the General Partner and its Affiliates).
(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, except for amendments pursuant to
Section 6.3 or 15.1 and except as otherwise provided by Section 16.3(b), no amendments shall become
effective without the approval of the holders of at least 95% of the Outstanding Common Units
unless the Partnership obtains an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that (a) such amendment will not
cause the Partnership or the Operating Partnership to be treated as an association taxable as a
corporation or otherwise taxable as an entity for federal income tax purposes and (b) such
amendment will not affect the limited liability of any Limited Partner or any limited partner of
the Operating Partnership under applicable law.
(e) This Section 15.3 shall only be amended with the approval of the holders of not less than
95% of the Outstanding Common Units.
Section 15.4
Meetings
. All acts of Limited Partners to be taken pursuant to this
Agreement shall be taken in the manner provided in this Article XV. Meetings of the Limited
Partners may be called by the General Partner or by Limited Partners owning 20% or more of the
Outstanding Units of the class or classes for which a meeting is proposed. Limited Partners shall
call a meeting by delivering to the General Partner one or more requests in writing stating that
the signing Limited Partners wish to call a meeting and indicating the general or specific purposes
for which the meeting is to be called. Within 60 days after receipt of such a call from Limited
Partners or within such greater time as may be reasonably necessary for the Partnership to comply
with any statutes, rules, regulations, listing agreements or similar requirements governing the
holding of a meeting or the solicitation of proxies for use at such a meeting, the General Partner
shall send a notice of the meeting to the Limited Partners either directly or indirectly through
the Transfer Agent. A meeting shall be held at a time and place determined by the General Partner
on a date not more than 60 days after the mailing of notice of the meeting. Limited Partners shall
not vote on matters that would cause the Limited Partners to be deemed to be taking part in the
management and control of the business and affairs of the Partnership so as to jeopardize the
Limited Partners limited liability under the Delaware Act or the law of any other state in which
the Partnership is qualified to do business.
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Section 15.5
Notice of a Meeting
. Notice of a meeting called pursuant to Section 15.4
shall be given to the Record Holders in writing by mail or other means of written communication in
accordance with Section 18.1. The notice shall be deemed to have been given at the time when
deposited in the mail or sent by other means of written communication.
Section 15.6
Record Date
. For purposes of determining the Limited Partners entitled
to notice of or to vote at a meeting of the Limited Partners or to give approvals without a meeting
as provided in Section 15.11, the General Partner may set a Record Date, which shall not be less
than 10 nor more than 60 days before (a) the date of the meeting (unless such requirement conflicts
with any rule, regulation, guideline or requirement of any National Securities Exchange on which
the Units are listed for trading, in which case the rule, regulation, guideline or requirement of
such exchange shall govern) or (b) in the event that approvals are sought without a meeting, the
date by which Limited Partners are requested in writing by the General Partner to give such
approvals.
Section 15.7
Adjournment
. When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place,
notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting and a new Record Date need not be fixed, if the
time and place thereof are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken, unless such
adjournment shall be for more than 45 days. At the adjourned meeting, the Partnership may transact
any business which might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for
more than 45 days or if a new Record Date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the
adjourned meeting shall be given in accordance with this Article XV.
Section 15.8
Waiver of Notice; Approval of Meeting; Approval of Minutes
. The
transactions of any meeting of Limited Partners, however called and noticed, and whenever held,
shall be as valid as if had at a meeting duly held after regular call and notice, if a quorum is
present either in person or by proxy, and if, either before or after the meeting, Limited Partners
representing such quorum who were present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote, sign a
written waiver of notice or an approval of the holding of the meeting or an approval of the minutes
thereof. All waivers and approvals shall be filed with the Partnership records or made a part of
the minutes of the meeting. Attendance of a Limited Partner at a meeting shall constitute a waiver
of notice of the meeting, except when the Limited Partner does not approve, at the beginning of the
meeting, of the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened;
and except that attendance at a meeting is not a waiver of any right to disapprove the
consideration of matters required to be included in the notice of the meeting, but not so included,
if the disapproval is expressly made at the meeting.
Section 15.9
Quorum
. The holders of two thirds of the Outstanding Units of the class
or classes for which a meeting has been called represented in person or by proxy shall constitute a
quorum at a meeting of Limited Partners of such class or classes unless any such action by the
Limited Partners requires approval by holders of a majority in interest of such Units, in which
case the quorum shall be a majority (excluding, in either case, if such are to be excluded from the
vote, Outstanding Units owned by the General Partner and its Affiliates). At any meeting of the
Limited Partners duly called and held in accordance with this Agreement at which a quorum is
present, the act of Limited Partners holding Outstanding Units that in the aggregate represent a
majority of the Outstanding Units entitled to vote and be present in person or by proxy at such
meeting shall be deemed to constitute the act of all Limited Partners, unless a greater or
different
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percentage is required with respect to such action under the provisions of this Agreement, in
which case the act of the Limited Partners holding Outstanding Units that in the aggregate
represent at least such greater or different percentage shall be required. The Limited Partners
present at a duly called or held meeting at which a quorum is present may continue to transact
business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of enough Limited Partners to leave less
than a quorum, if any action taken (other than adjournment) is approved by the required percentage
of Outstanding Units specified in this Agreement. In the absence of a quorum, any meeting of
Limited Partners may be adjourned from time to time by the affirmative vote of a majority of the
Outstanding Units of the class or classes for which the meeting was called represented either in
person or by proxy, but no other business may be transacted, except as
provided
in Section 15.7.
Section 15.10
Conduct of Meeting
. The General Partner shall have full power and
authority concerning the manner of conducting any meeting of the Limited Partners or solicitation
of approvals in writing, including, without limitation, the determination of Persons entitled to
vote, the existence of a quorum, the satisfaction of the requirements of Section 15.4, the conduct
of voting, the validity and effect of any proxies and the determination of any controversies, votes
or challenges arising in connection with or during the meeting or voting. The General Partner shall
designate a Person to serve as chairman of any meeting and shall further designate a Person to take
the minutes of any meeting. All minutes shall be kept with the records of the Partnership
maintained by the General Partner. The General Partner may make such other regulations consistent
with applicable law and this Agreement as it may deem advisable concerning the conduct of any
meeting of the Limited Partners or solicitation of approvals in writing, including, without
limitation, regulations in regard to the appointment of proxies, the appointment and duties of
inspectors of votes and approvals, the submission and examination of proxies and other evidence of
the right to vote, and the revocation of approvals in writing.
Section 15.11
Action Without a Meeting
. Any action that may be taken at a meeting of
the Limited Partners may be taken without a meeting if an approval in writing setting forth the
action so taken is signed by Limited Partners owning not less than the minimum percentage of the
Outstanding Units that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which
all the Limited Partners entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. Prompt notice of the
taking of action without a meeting shall be given to the Limited Partners who have not approved in
writing. The General Partner may specify that any written ballot submitted to Limited Partners for
the purpose of taking any action without a meeting shall be returned to the Partnership within the
time period, which shall be not less than 20 days, specified by the General Partner. If a ballot
returned to the Partnership does not vote all of the Units held by the Limited Partner, the
Partnership shall be deemed to have failed to receive a ballot for the Units that were not voted.
If approval of the taking of any action by the Limited Partners is solicited by any Person other
than by or on behalf of the General Partner, the written approvals shall have no force and effect
unless and until (a) they are deposited with the Partnership in care of the General Partner, (b)
approvals sufficient to take the action proposed are dated as of a date not more than 90 days prior
to the date sufficient approvals are deposited with the Partnership and (c) an Opinion of Counsel
is delivered to the General Partner to the effect that the exercise of such right and the action
proposed to be taken with respect to any particular matter (i) will not cause the Limited Partners
to be deemed to be taking part in the management and control of the business and affairs of the
Partnership so as to jeopardize the Limited Partners limited liability, (ii) will
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not jeopardize the status of the Partnership as a partnership under applicable tax laws and
regulations and (iii) is otherwise permissible under the state statutes then governing the rights,
duties and liabilities of the Partnership and the Partners.
Section 15.12
Voting and Other Rights.
(a) Only those Record Holders of Units on the Record Date set pursuant to Section 15.6 (and
also subject to the limitations contained in the definition of
Outstanding
) shall be entitled to
notice of, and to vote at, a meeting of Limited Partners or to act with respect to matters as to
which the holders of the Outstanding Units have the right to vote or to act. All references in
this Agreement to votes of, or other acts that may be taken by, the Outstanding Units shall be
deemed to be references to the votes or acts of the Record Holders of such Outstanding Units.
(b) With respect to Units that are held for a Persons account by another Person (such as a
broker, dealer, bank, trust company or clearing corporation, or an agent of any of the foregoing),
in whose name such Units are registered, such broker, dealer or other agent shall, in exercising
the voting rights in respect of such Units on any matter, and unless the arrangement between such
Persons provides otherwise, vote such Units in favor of, and at the direction of, the Person who is
the beneficial owner, and the Partnership shall be entitled to assume it is so acting without
further inquiry. The provisions of this Section 15.12(b) (as well as all other provisions of this
Agreement) are subject to the provisions of Section 10.4.
(c) With respect to any vote or act that may be taken by the Record Holders of the Outstanding
Common Units as specified in this Agreement, each Outstanding Common Unit shall be entitled to one
(1) vote per that Outstanding Common Unit. The Record Holders of the Outstanding Common Units
shall always vote together as a class upon any matter which they have the right to vote or act
pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 15.13
Voting Rights of Senior Units
. Except as provided in Sections
4.3(c)(i), 9.7, 14.1, 15.3(c), 16.1(b), 17.1, this Section 15.13 or otherwise as required by law,
the Senior Units shall have no voting rights. So long as any Senior Units remain outstanding,
unless a greater percentage shall then be required by law, the Partnership shall not, without the
approval of the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Senior Units voting separately as
a class, (i) amend the Partnership Agreement so as to affect adversely the specified rights,
preferences or privileges of the Senior Units, including any amendment made in order to issue
additional Senior Units other than as provided for in this Agreement as in effect on the WNGL
Closing Date, (ii) except as permitted pursuant to Section 6.12 and Section 11.6, purchase, redeem
or otherwise acquire for value any Common Units or (iii) permit any of its Subsidiaries to issue
equity interests to any Person (other than the Partnership and its Subsidiaries and an interest not
to exceed a percentage equal to one percent divided by ninety-nine percent to the General Partner).
The holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Senior Units, voting separately as one
class, may waive compliance with any provision of this Agreement. In exercising any voting rights
provided for in this Agreement, each Outstanding Senior Unit shall be entitled to one vote.
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Section 15.14
Amendment of Arrearage Requirements
. Without limitation of the General
Partners authority to adopt amendments to this Agreement as contemplated in Section 15.1 with
respect to the interests of the Common Units:
(a) any amendment to the provisions of this Agreement related to the Arrearage Period or the
Arrearage that would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the rights or
preferences of the Outstanding Common Units (other than the FCI Common Units) must be approved by
the holders of not less than a majority of the Outstanding Common Units (excluding for purposes of
such determination the FCI Common Units); and
(b) any amendment to the provisions of this Agreement related to the Arrearage Period or the
Arrearage that would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the rights or
preferences of the Outstanding FCI Common Units must be approved by FCI or the holder of the last
FCI Common Unit as specified in Section 4.5(c).
ARTICLE XVI
MERGER
Section 16.1
Authority
. (a) Subject to (b) below, the Partnership may merge or
consolidate with one or more corporations, business trusts or associations, real estate investment
trusts, common law trusts or unincorporated businesses, including, without limitation, a general
partnership or limited partnership, formed under the laws of the State of Delaware or any other
state of the United States of America, pursuant to a written agreement of merger or consolidation
(
Merger Agreement
) in accordance with this Article XVI;
(b) Without the approval of the holders of at least the majority of the Outstanding Senior
Units, the Partnership shall not, in a single transaction or series of related transactions,
consolidate with or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise
dispose of all or substantially all of its or the Operating Partnerships (which includes the sale
by the Partnership of its limited partnership interests in the Operating Partnership) assets to,
another Person unless: (A) either (1) the Partnership is the Surviving Business Entity or (2) the
Person (if other than the Partnership) formed by such consolidation or into which the Partnership
is merged or to which the properties and assets of the Partnership or Operating Partnership are
sold, assigned, transferred, leased, conveyed or otherwise disposed of shall be an entity organized
under the laws of the United States or any State thereof or the District of Columbia and shall
expressly assume all of the obligations of the Partnership under this Agreement, the WNGL Purchase
Agreement and the WNGL Registration Rights Agreement with respect to the Senior Units; and (B) if
the Partnership is not the Surviving Business Entity, the Senior Units shall be converted into or
exchanged for and shall become equity interests of such Surviving Business entity, having in
respect of such Surviving Business Entity the same powers, preferences and relative, participating,
optional or other special rights and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereon, that
the Senior Units had immediately prior to such transactions.
Section 16.2
Procedure for Merger or Consolidation
. Merger or consolidation of the
Partnership pursuant to this Article XVI requires the prior approval of the General Partner. If
the
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General Partner shall determine, in the exercise of its sole discretion, to consent to the
merger or consolidation, the General Partner shall approve the Merger Agreement, which shall set
forth:
(a) The names and jurisdictions of formation or organization of each of the business entities
proposing to merge or consolidate;
(b) The name and jurisdictions of formation or organization of the business entity that is to
survive the proposed merger or consolidation (the
Surviving Business Entity
);
(c) The terms and conditions of the proposed merger or consolidation;
(d) The manner and basis of exchanging or converting the equity securities of each constituent
business entity for, or into, cash, property or general or limited partnership interests, rights,
securities or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity; and (i) if any general or limited
partnership interests, securities or rights of any constituent business entity are not to be
exchanged or converted solely for, or into, cash, property or general or limited partnership
interests, rights, securities or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity, the cash, property
or general or limited partnership interests, rights, securities or obligations of any limited
partnership, corporation, trust or other entity (other than the Surviving Business Entity) which
the holders of such general or limited partnership interests, securities or rights are to receive
in exchange for, or upon conversion of, their general or limited partnership interests, securities
or rights, and (ii) in the case of securities represented by certificates, upon the surrender of
such certificates, which cash, property or general or limited partnership interests, rights,
securities or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity or any general or limited partnership,
corporation, trust or other entity (other than the Surviving Business Entity), or evidences
thereof, are to be delivered;
(e) A statement of any changes in the constituent documents or the adoption of new constituent
documents (the articles or certificate of incorporation, articles of trust, declaration of trust,
certificate or agreement of limited partnership or other similar charter or governing document) of
the Surviving Business Entity to be effected by such merger or consolidation;
(f) The effective time of the merger, which may be the date of the filing of the certificate
of merger pursuant to Section 16.4 or a later date specified in or determinable in accordance with
the Merger Agreement (
provided
, that if the effective time of the merger is to be later than the
date of the filing of the certificate of merger, the effective time shall be fixed no later than
the time of the filing of the certificate of merger and stated therein); and
(g) Such other provisions with respect to the proposed merger or consolidation as are deemed
necessary or appropriate by the General Partner.
Section 16.3
Approval by Holders of Common Units of Merger or Consolidation.
(a) The General Partner of the Partnership, upon its approval of the Merger Agreement, shall
direct that the Merger Agreement be submitted to a vote of the Limited Partners holding Common
Units whether at a meeting or by written consent, in either case in
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accordance with the requirements of Article XV. A copy or a summary of the Merger Agreement
shall be included in or enclosed with the notice of a meeting or the written consent.
(b) The Merger Agreement shall be approved upon receiving the affirmative vote or consent of
the holders of at least a majority of the Outstanding Common Units unless the Merger Agreement
contains any provision which, if contained in an amendment to this Agreement, the provisions of
this Agreement or the Delaware Act would require the vote or consent of a greater percentage of the
Outstanding Common Units or of any class of Limited Partners, in which case such greater percentage
vote or consent shall be required for approval of the Merger Agreement;
provided
that, in the case
of a merger or consolidation in which the surviving entity is a corporation or other entity
intended to be treated as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise taxable as an entity
for federal income tax purposes, if in the opinion of the General Partner it is necessary to
effect, in contemplation of such merger or consolidation, an amendment that would otherwise require
a vote pursuant to Section 15.3(d), no such vote pursuant to Section 15.3(d) shall be required
unless such amendment by its terms will be applicable to the Partnership in the event the merger or
consolidation is abandoned or unless such amendment will be applicable to the Partnership during a
period in excess of ten days prior to the merger or consolidation.
(c) After such approval by vote or consent of the holders of the Common Units, and at any time
prior to the filing of the certificate of merger pursuant to Section 16.4, the merger or
consolidation may be abandoned pursuant to provisions therefor, if any, set forth in the Merger
Agreement.
Section 16.4
Certificate of Merger
. Upon the required approval by the General Partner
and the Limited Partners of a Merger Agreement, a certificate of merger shall be executed and filed
with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware in conformity with the requirements of the
Delaware Act.
Section 16.5
Effect of Merger.
(a) At the effective time of the certificate of merger:
(i) all of the rights, privileges and powers of each of the business entities
that has merged or consolidated, and all property, real, personal and mixed, and all
debts due to any of those business entities and all other things and causes of
action belonging to each of those business entities shall be vested in the Surviving
Business Entity and after the merger or consolidation shall be the property of the
Surviving Business Entity to the extent they were of each constituent business
entity;
(ii) the title to any real property vested by deed or otherwise in any of those
constituent business entities shall not revert and is not in any way impaired
because of the merger or consolidation;
(iii) all rights of creditors and all liens on or security interests in
property of any of those constituent business entities shall be preserved
unimpaired; and
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(iv) all debts, liabilities and duties of those constituent business entities
shall attach to the Surviving Business Entity, and may be enforced against it to the
same extent as if the debts, liabilities and duties had been incurred or contracted
by it.
(b) A merger or consolidation effected pursuant to this Article shall not be deemed to result
in a transfer or assignment of assets or liabilities from one entity to another having occurred.
ARTICLE XVII
RIGHT TO ACQUIRE UNITS
Section 17.1
Right to Acquire Units.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, if at any time not more than 20% of
the total Units of any class then Outstanding are held by Persons other than the General Partner
and its Affiliates, the General Partner shall, upon the approval of the holders of at least a
majority of the Outstanding Senior Units, have the right, which right it may assign and transfer to
the Partnership or any Affiliate of the General Partner, exercisable in its sole discretion, to
purchase all, but not less than all, of the Units of such class then Outstanding held by Persons
other than the General Partner and its Affiliates, at the greater of (x) the Current Market Price
as of the date three days prior to the date that the notice described in Section 17.1(b) is mailed,
and (y) the highest cash price paid by the General Partner or any of its Affiliates for any such
Unit purchased during the 90 day period preceding the date that the notice described in Section
17.1(b) is mailed.
(b) If the General Partner, any Affiliate of the General Partner or the Partnership elects to
exercise the right to purchase Units granted pursuant to Section 17.1(a), the General Partner shall
deliver to the Transfer Agent notice of such election to purchase (the
Notice of Election to
Purchase
) and shall cause the Transfer Agent to mail a copy of such Notice of Election to Purchase
to the Record Holders of Units (as of a Record Date selected by the General Partner) at least 10,
but not more than 60, days prior to the Purchase Date. Such Notice of Election to Purchase shall
also be published for a period of at least three consecutive days in at least two daily newspapers
of general circulation printed in the English language and published in the Borough of Manhattan,
New York. The Notice of Election to Purchase shall specify the Purchase Date and the price
(determined in accordance with Section 17.1(a)) at which Units will be purchased and state that the
General Partner, its Affiliate or the Partnership, as the case may be, elects to purchase such
Units, upon surrender of Certificates representing such Units in exchange for payment, at such
office or offices of the Transfer Agent as the Transfer Agent may specify, or as may be required by
any National Securities Exchange on which the Units are listed or admitted to trading. Any such
Notice of Election to Purchase mailed to a Record Holder of Units at his address as reflected in
the records of the Transfer Agent shall be conclusively presumed to have been given whether or not
the owner receives such notice. On or prior to the Purchase Date, the General Partner, its
Affiliate or the Partnership, as the case may be, shall deposit with the Transfer Agent cash in an
amount sufficient to pay the aggregate purchase price of all of the Units to be purchased in
accordance with this Section 17.1. If the Notice of Election to Purchase shall have been duly
given as aforesaid at least 10 days prior to
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the Purchase Date, and if on or prior to the Purchase Date the deposit described in the
preceding sentence has been made for the benefit of the holders of Units subject to purchase as
provided herein, then from and after the Purchase Date, notwithstanding that any Certificate shall
not have been surrendered for purchase, all rights of the holders of such Units (including, without
limitation, any rights pursuant to Articles IV, V and XIV) shall thereupon cease, except the right
to receive the purchase price (determined in accordance with Section 17.1(a)) for Units therefor,
without interest, upon surrender to the Transfer Agent of the Certificates representing such Units,
and such Units shall thereupon be deemed to be transferred to the General Partner, its Affiliate or
the Partnership, as the case may be, on the record books of the Transfer Agent and the Partnership,
and the General Partner or any Affiliate of the General Partner, or the Partnership, as the case
may be, shall be deemed to be the owner of all such Units from and after the Purchase Date and
shall have all rights as the owner of such Units (including, without limitation, all rights as
owner of such Units pursuant to Articles IV, V and XIV).
(c) At any time from and after the Purchase Date, a holder of an Outstanding Unit subject to
purchase as provided in this Section 17.1 may surrender his Certificate, as the case may be,
evidencing such Unit to the Transfer Agent in exchange for payment of the amount described in
Section 17.1(a), therefor, without interest thereon.
Section 17.2
Right to Acquire Senior Units.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Partnership shall have the
right, which it may assign to any of its Affiliates, exercisable in its sole discretion, to
purchase for cash, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, Senior Units at the
Senior Unit Redemption Price. The right of the Partnership and its permitted assigns to purchase
Outstanding Senior Units at the Senior Unit Redemption Price shall not apply to Common Units issued
upon conversion of the Senior Units in accordance with Section 5.7;
provided, however
, that the
Partnership and its permitted assigns shall have the right to exercise such right at any time prior
to the date of conversion.
(b) If the Partnership or its permitted assigns exercises the right to purchase Senior Units
granted pursuant to Section 17.2(a), the Partnership shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the
holder or holders of Senior Units, a Senior Unit Redemption Notice at least three, but not more
than thirty (30) Business Days prior to the Senior Unit Redemption Date.
(c) On or prior to the Senior Unit Redemption Date, the General Partner, its Affiliate or the
Partnership, as the case may be, shall deposit with the Transfer Agent (or if all of the
Outstanding Senior Units are held by one Holder (including Affiliates of such Holder), pay to such
Holder and its Affiliates) cash in an amount sufficient to pay the aggregate Senior Unit Redemption
Price of all of the Senior Units acquired pursuant to this Section 17.2. On the Senior Unit
Redemption Date, each holder of Senior Units shall surrender the Certificates representing the
number of Senior Units set forth in the Senior Unit Redemption Notice, in proper transfer form, in
the manner and place designated in such notice. On the Senior Unit Redemption Date, the Senior
Unit Redemption Price shall be payable in cash to the person whose name appears on such
Certificates as the owner thereof, and, if purchased by the Partnership and not any of its
Affiliates, each surrendered Certificate shall be canceled and retired. In the event that less
than all of the Senior Units represented by any such Certificates are
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being acquired by the Partnership or any of its Affiliates, new Certificates shall be issued
representing the number of Senior Units to remain Outstanding.
(d) On and after the Senior Unit Redemption Date, unless the Partnership or any of its
Affiliates defaults in the payment in full of the Senior Unit Redemption Price, all distributions
on the Senior Units to be purchased shall cease, and all rights associated with the Senior Units to
be purchased shall terminate other than the right to receive the Senior Unit Redemption Price.
ARTICLE XVIII
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 18.1
Addresses and Notices
. Any notice, demand, request, report or proxy
materials required or permitted to be given or made to a Partner or Assignee under this Agreement
shall be in writing and shall be deemed given or made when delivered in person or when sent by
first class United States mail or by other means of written communication to the Partner or
Assignee at the address described below. Any notice, payment or report to be given or made to a
Partner or Assignee hereunder shall be deemed conclusively to have been given or made, and the
obligation to give such notice or report or to make such payment shall be deemed conclusively to
have been fully satisfied, upon sending of such notice, payment or report to the Record Holder of
such Unit at his address as shown on the records of the Transfer Agent or as otherwise shown on the
records of the Partnership, regardless of any claim of any Person who may have an interest in such
Unit or the Partnership Interest of a General Partner by reason of any assignment or otherwise. An
affidavit or certificate of making of any notice, payment or report in accordance with the
provisions of this Section 18.1 executed by the General Partner, the Transfer Agent or the mailing
organization shall be prima facie evidence of the giving or making of such notice, payment or
report. If any notice, payment or report addressed to a Record Holder at the address of such
Record Holder appearing on the books and records of the Transfer Agent or the Partnership is
returned by the United States Post Office marked to indicate that the United States Postal Service
is unable to deliver it, such notice, payment or report and any subsequent notices, payments and
reports shall be deemed to have been duly given or made without further mailing (until such time as
such Record Holder or another Person notifies the Transfer Agent or the Partnership of a change in
his address) if they are available for the Partner or Assignee at the principal office of the
Partnership for a period of one year from the date of the giving or making of such notice, payment
or report to the other Partners and Assignees. Any notice to the Partnership shall be deemed given
if received by the General Partner at the principal office of the Partnership designated pursuant
to Section 1.3. The General Partner may rely and shall be protected in relying on any notice or
other document from a Partner, Assignee or other Person if believed by it to be genuine.
Section 18.2
References
. Except as specifically provided otherwise, references to
Articles and Sections are to Articles and Sections of this Agreement.
Section 18.3
Pronouns and Plurals
. Whenever the context may require, any pronoun used
in this Agreement shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms, and the
singular form of nouns, pronouns and verbs shall include the plural and vice versa.
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Section 18.4
Further Action
. The parties shall execute and deliver all documents,
provide all information and take or refrain from taking action as may be necessary or appropriate
to achieve the purposes of this Agreement.
Section 18.5
Binding Effect
. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the
benefit of the parties hereto and their heirs, executors, administrators, successors, legal
representatives and permitted assigns.
Section 18.6
Integration
. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the
parties hereto pertaining to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and
understandings pertaining thereto.
Section 18.7
Creditors
. None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be for the
benefit of, or shall be enforceable by, any creditor of the Partnership.
Section 18.8
Waiver
. No failure by any party to insist upon the strict performance of
any covenant, duty, agreement or condition of this Agreement or to exercise any right or remedy
consequent upon a breach thereof shall constitute waiver of any such breach or any other covenant,
duty, agreement or condition.
Section 18.9
Counterparts
. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, all of
which together shall constitute an agreement binding on all the parties hereto, notwithstanding
that all such parties are not signatories to the original or the same counterpart. Each party
shall become bound by this Agreement immediately upon affixing its signature hereto or, in the case
of a Person acquiring a Unit, upon accepting the certificate evidencing such Unit or executing and
delivering a Transfer Application as herein described, independently of the signature of any other
party.
Section 18.10
Applicable Law
. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
and governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to the principles of conflicts of
law.
Section 18.11
Invalidity of Provisions
. If any provision of this Agreement is or
becomes invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability
of the remaining provisions contained herein shall not be affected thereby.
[remainder of page intentionally left blank signature page follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF
, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first
written above.
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GENERAL PARTNER:
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FERRELLGAS, INC.
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By:
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/s/ Kevin T. Kelly
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Name:
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Kevin T. Kelly
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Title:
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Senior Vice President and CFO
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LIMITED PARTNERS:
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All Limited Partners now and hereafter admitted as
limited partners of the Partnership, pursuant to
Powers of Attorney now and hereafter executed in favor
of, and granted and delivered to, the General Partner.
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By:
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FERRELLGAS, INC.
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General Partner, as attorney-in-fact for all
Limited Partners pursuant to the Powers of
Attorney granted pursuant to Section 1.4.
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By:
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/s/ Kevin T. Kelly
Name: Kevin T. Kelly
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Title: Senior Vice President and CFO
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Fourth Amended and Restated LP Agreement of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
Signature Page
EXHIBIT A
to the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of
Limited Partnership of
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
Certificate Evidencing Common Units
Representing Limited Partner Interests
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
No.
___ Common Units
FERRELLGAS, INC.,
a Delaware corporation, as the General Partner of
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.,
a Delaware limited partnership (the
Partnership
),
hereby certifies that
(the
"
Holder"
) is the registered owner of ___ Common Units representing limited partner interests in
the Partnership (the
Common Units"
) transferable on the books of the Partnership, in person or by
duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed and accompanied by a
properly executed application for transfer of the Common Units represented by this Certificate. The
rights, preferences and limitations of the Common Units are set forth in, and this Certificate and
the Common Units represented hereby are issued and shall in all respects be subject to the terms
and provisions of, the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of FERRELLGAS
PARTNERS, L.P., as amended, supplemented or restated from time to time (the
Partnership
Agreement"
). Copies of the Partnership Agreement are on file at, and will be furnished without
charge on delivery of written request to the Partnership at, the principal office of the
Partnership located at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068. Capitalized terms used herein
but not defined shall have the meaning given them in the Partnership Agreement.
The Holder, by accepting this Certificate, is deemed to have (i) requested admission as, and
agreed to become, a Limited Partner and to have agreed to comply with and be bound by and to have
executed the Partnership Agreement, (ii) represented and warranted that the Holder has all right,
power and authority and, if an individual, the capacity necessary to enter into the Partnership
Agreement, (iii) granted the powers of attorney provided for in the Partnership Agreement and (iv)
made the waivers and given the consents and approvals contained in the Partnership Agreement.
This Certificate shall not be valid for any purpose unless it has been countersigned and
registered by the Transfer Agent and Registrar.
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Dated:
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Countersigned and Registered by:
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FERRELLGAS, INC.,
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as General Partner
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By:
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Transfer Agent and Registrar
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President
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By:
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Authorized Signature
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Secretary
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Page 2 of Exhibit A
[Reverse of Certificate]
ABBREVIATIONS
The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this Certificate,
shall be construed as follows according to applicable laws or regulations:
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TEN COM
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as tenants in common
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UNIF GIFT MIN ACT-
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TEN ENT
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as tenants by the entireties
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Custodian
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JT TEN
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as joint tenants with right
of survivorship and not as
tenants in common
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(Cust) (Minor)
under Uniform Gifts to Minors
Act
State
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Additional abbreviations, though not in the above list, may also be used.
ASSIGNMENT OF COMMON UNITS
in
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING INVESTOR RESPONSIBILITIES
DUE TO TAX SHELTER STATUS OF FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
You have acquired an interest in Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., One Liberty Plaza, Liberty,
Missouri 64068, whose taxpayer identification number is 43-1698480. The Internal Revenue Service
has issued Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. the following tax shelter registration number 94201000010:
YOU MUST REPORT THIS REGISTRATION NUMBER TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE IF YOU CLAIM ANY
DEDUCTION, LOSS, CREDIT, OR OTHER TAX BENEFIT OR REPORT ANY INCOME BY REASON OF YOUR INVESTMENT IN
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
You must report the registration number as well as the name and taxpayer identification number
of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. on Form 8271. FORM 8271 MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE RETURN ON WHICH YOU
CLAIM THE DEDUCTION, LOSS, CREDIT, OR OTHER TAX BENEFIT OR REPORT ANY INCOME BY REASON OF YOUR
INVESTMENT IN FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
If you transfer your interest in Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. to another person, you are required
by the Internal Revenue Service to keep a list containing (a) that persons name, address and
taxpayer identification number, (b) the date on which you transferred the interest and (c) the
name, address and tax shelter registration number of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. If you do not want
to keep such a list, you must (1) send the information specified above to the Partnership, which
will keep the list for this tax shelter, and (2) give a copy of this notice to the person to whom
you
Page 3 of Exhibit A
transfer your interest. Your failure to comply with any of the above-described
responsibilities could result in the imposition of a penalty under Section 6707(b) or 6708(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, unless such failure is shown to be due to reasonable
cause.
ISSUANCE OF A REGISTRATION NUMBER DOES NOT INDICATE THAT THIS INVESTMENT OR THE CLAIMED TAX
BENEFITS HAVE BEEN REVIEWED, EXAMINED, OR APPROVED BY THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE.
FOR VALUE RECEIVED,
hereby assigns,
conveys, sells and transfers unto
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(Please print or typewrite name and
address of Assignee)
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(Please insert Social Security or
other identifying number of
Assignee)
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Common Units representing limited partner interests evidenced by this Certificate, subject to the
Partnership Agreement, and does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint
as its attorney-in-fact with full power of substitution to transfer the same on the books of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
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Date:
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NOTE: The signature to any
endorsement hereon must correspond
with the name as written upon the
face of this Certificate in every
particular, without alteration,
enlargement or change.
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SIGNATURE(S) MUST BE GUARANTEED BY A MEMBER FIRM
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OF THE NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION OF SECURITIES DEALERS,
INC. OR BY A COMMERCIAL BANK OR
TRUST COMPANY
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(Signature)
(Signature)
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SIGNATURE(S) GUARANTEED
No transfer of the Common Units evidenced hereby will be registered on the books of the
Partnership, unless the Certificate evidencing the Common Units to be transferred is surrendered
for registration or transfer and an Application for Transfer of Common Units has been executed by a
transferee either (a) on the form set forth below or (b) on a separate application that the
Partnership will furnish on request without charge. A transferor of the Common Units shall have no
duty to the transferee with respect to execution of the transfer application in order for such
transferee to obtain registration of the transfer of the Common Units.
Page 4 of Exhibit A
APPLICATION FOR TRANSFER OF COMMON UNITS
The undersigned (
Assignee
) hereby applies for transfer to the name of the Assignee of the
Common Units evidenced hereby.
The Assignee (a) requests admission as a Substituted Limited Partner and agrees to comply with
and be bound by, and hereby executes, the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited
Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (the
Partnership
), as amended, supplemented or restated
to the date hereof (the
Partnership Agreement
), (b) represents and warrants that the Assignee has
all right, power and authority and, if an individual, the capacity necessary to enter into the
Partnership Agreement, (c) grants the powers of attorney provided for in the Partnership Agreement
and (d) makes the waivers and gives the consents and approvals contained in the Partnership
Agreement.
Capitalized terms not defined herein have the meanings assigned to such terms in the
Partnership Agreement.
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Date:
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Signature of Assignee
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Social Security or other identifying number
of Assignee
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Name and Address of Assignee
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Purchase Price
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including commissions, if any
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Type of Entity (check one)
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Individual
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Partnership
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Corporation
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Trust
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Other (specify)
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Nationality (Check One):
U.S Citizen, Resident or Domestic Entity ___
Foreign Corporation, or
Non-resident
alien
If the U.S. Citizen, Resident or Domestic Entity box is checked, the following certification
must be completed.
Page 5 of Exhibit A
Under Section 1445(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
Code
), the
Partnership must withhold tax with respect to certain transfers of property if a holder of an
interest in the Partnership is a foreign person. To inform the Partnership that no withholding is
required with respect to the undersigned interest holders interest in it, the undersigned hereby
certifies the following (or, if applicable, certifies the following on behalf of the interest
holder).
Complete Either A or B:
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A.
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Individual Interest Holder
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1.
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I am not a non-resident alien for purposes of U.S. income taxation.
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2.
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My U.S. taxpayer identifying number (Social Security Number) is
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3.
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My home address is
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B.
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Partnership, Corporate or Other Interest-Holder
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1.
is not a
(Name of Interest-Holder)
foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust or foreign estate (as those
terms are defined in the Code and Treasury Regulations).
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2.
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The interest-holders U.S. employer identification number is
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3.
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The interest-holders office address and place of incorporation
(if applicable) is
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The interest-holder agrees to notify the Partnership within 60 days of the date the
interest-holder becomes a foreign person.
The interest-holder understands that this certificate may be disclosed to the Internal Revenue
Service by the Partnership and that any false statement contained herein could be punishable by
fine, imprisonment or both.
Page 6 of Exhibit A
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this certification and to the best
of my knowledge and belief it is true, correct and complete and, if applicable, I further declare
that I have authority to sign this document on behalf of
(Name of Interest-Holder)
Signature and Date
Title (if applicable)
Note: If the Assignee is a broker, dealer, bank, trust company, clearing corporation, other
nominee holder or an agent of any of the foregoing, and is holding for the account of any other
person, this application should be completed by an officer thereof or, in the case of a broker or
dealer, by a registered representative who is a member of a registered national securities exchange
or a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., or, in the case of any other
nominee holder, a person performing a similar function. If the Assignee is a broker, dealer, bank
trust company, clearing corporation, other nominee owner or an agent of any of the foregoing, the
above certification as to any person for whom the Assignee will hold the Common Units shall be made
to the best of the Assignees knowledge.
Page 7 of Exhibit A
EXHIBIT B
to the Agreement of
Limited Partnership of
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
Certificate Evidencing Senior Units
Representing Limited Partner Interests
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
No.
Senior Units
FERRELLGAS, INC.,
a Delaware corporation, as the General Partner of
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.,
a Delaware limited partnership (the
Partnership
),
hereby certifies that
(the
Holder
) is the registered owner of ___ Senior Units representing limited partner interests in
the Partnership (the
Senior Units
) transferable on the books of the Partnership, in person or by
duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed and accompanied by a
properly executed application for transfer of the Senior Units represented by this Certificate. The
rights, preferences and limitations of the Senior Units are set forth in, and this Certificate and
the Senior Units represented hereby are issued and shall in all respects be subject to the terms
and provisions of, the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of FERRELLGAS
PARTNERS, L.P., as amended, supplemented or restated from time to time (the
Partnership
Agreement
). Copies of the Partnership Agreement are on file at, and will be furnished without
charge on delivery of written request to the Partnership at, the principal office of the
Partnership located at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068. Capitalized terms used herein
but not defined shall have the meaning given them in the Partnership Agreement.
The Holder, by accepting this Certificate, is deemed to have (i) requested admission as, and
agreed to become, a Limited Partner and to have agreed to comply with and be bound by and to have
executed the Partnership Agreement, (ii) represented and warranted that the Holder has all right,
power and authority and, if an individual, the capacity necessary to enter into the Partnership
Agreement, (iii) granted the powers of attorney provided for in the Partnership Agreement and (iv)
made the waivers and given the consents and approvals contained in the Partnership Agreement.
Dated:
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FERRELLGAS, INC.,
as General Partner
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By:
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President
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By:
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Secretary
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Page 1 of Exhibit B
[Reverse of Certificate]
ABBREVIATIONS
The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this Certificate,
shall be construed as follows according to applicable laws or regulations:
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TEN COM
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-
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as tenants in common
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UNIF GIFT MIN ACT-
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TEN ENT
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-
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as tenants by the entireties
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Custodian
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JT TEN
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-
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as joint tenants with right of
survivorship and not as tenants in
common
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(Cust) (Minor)
under Uniform Gifts to Minors
Act
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State
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Additional abbreviations, though not in the above list, may also be used.
AS
SIGNMENT OF SENIOR UNITS
in
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING INVESTOR RESPONSIBILITIES
DUE TO TAX SHELTER STATUS OF FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
You have acquired an interest in Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., One Liberty Plaza, Liberty,
Missouri 64068, whose taxpayer identification number is 43-1698480. The Internal Revenue Service
has issued Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. the following tax shelter registration number 94201000010:
YOU MUST REPORT THIS REGISTRATION NUMBER TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE IF YOU CLAIM ANY
DEDUCTION, LOSS, CREDIT, OR OTHER TAX BENEFIT OR REPORT ANY INCOME BY REASON OF YOUR INVESTMENT IN
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
You must report the registration number as well as the name and taxpayer identification number
of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. on Form 8271. FORM 8271 MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE RETURN ON WHICH YOU
CLAIM THE DEDUCTION, LOSS, CREDIT, OR OTHER TAX BENEFIT OR REPORT ANY INCOME BY REASON OF YOUR
INVESTMENT IN FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
If you transfer your interest in Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. to another person, you are required
by the Internal Revenue Service to keep a list containing (a) that persons name, address and
taxpayer identification number, (b) the date on which you transferred the interest and (c) the
name, address and tax shelter registration number of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. If you do not want
to keep such a list, you must (1) send the information specified above to the Partnership, which
will keep the list for this tax shelter, and (2) give a copy of this notice to the person to whom
you
Page 2 of Exhibit B
transfer your interest. Your failure to comply with any of the above-described
responsibilities could result in the imposition of a penalty under Section 6707(b) or 6708(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, unless such failure is shown to be due to reasonable
cause.
ISSUANCE OF A REGISTRATION NUMBER DOES NOT INDICATE THAT THIS INVESTMENT OR THE CLAIMED TAX
BENEFITS HAVE BEEN REVIEWED, EXAMINED, OR APPROVED BY THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE.
FOR VALUE RECEIVED,
hereby assigns, conveys, sells and transfers unto
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(Please print or typewrite name and
address of Assignee)
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(Please insert Social Security or
other identifying number of
Assignee)
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Senior Units representing limited partner
interests
evidenced by this Certificate, subject to the Partnership Agreement, and does hereby irrevocably
constitute and appoint
as its attorney-in-fact with full power of substitution to
transfer the same on the books of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
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Date:
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NOTE: The signature to any endorsement hereon must correspond
with the name as written upon the face of this Certificate in
every particular, without alteration, enlargement or change.
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(Signature)
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No transfer of the Senior Units evidenced hereby will be registered on the books of the
Partnership, unless the Certificate evidencing the Senior Units to be transferred is surrendered
for registration or transfer and an Application for Transfer of Senior Units has been executed by a
transferee either (a) on the form set forth below or (b) on a separate application that the
Partnership will furnish on request without charge. A transferor of the Senior Units shall have no
duty to the transferee with respect to execution of the transfer application in order for such
transferee to obtain registration of the transfer of the Senior Units.
Page 3 of Exhibit B
APPLICATION FOR TRANSFER OF SENIOR UNITS
The undersigned (
Assignee
) hereby applies for transfer to the name of the Assignee of the
Senior Units evidenced hereby.
The Assignee (a) requests admission as a Substituted Limited Partner and agrees to comply with
and be bound by, and hereby executes, the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited
Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (the
Partnership
), as amended, supplemented or restated
to the date hereof (the
Partnership Agreement
), (b) represents and warrants that the Assignee has
all right, power and authority and, if an individual, the capacity necessary to enter into the
Partnership Agreement, (c) grants the powers of attorney provided for in the Partnership Agreement
and (d) makes the waivers and gives the consents and approvals contained in the Partnership
Agreement.
Capitalized terms not defined herein have the meanings assigned to such terms in the
Partnership Agreement.
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Date:
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Signature of Assignee
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Social Security or other identifying
number of Assignee
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Name and Address of Assignee
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Purchase Price
including commissions, if any
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Type of Entity (check one)
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Individual
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Partnership
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Corporation
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Trust
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Other (specify)
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Nationality (Check One):
U.S. Citizen, Resident or Domestic Entity
Foreign Corporation, or
Non-resident alien
Page 4 of Exhibit B
If the U.S. Citizen, Resident or Domestic Entity box is checked, the following certification
must be completed.
Under Section 1445(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
Code
), the
Partnership must withhold tax with respect to certain transfers of property if a holder of an
interest in the Partnership is a foreign person. To inform the Partnership that no withholding is
required with respect to the undersigned interest holders interest in it, the undersigned hereby
certifies the following (or, if applicable, certifies the following on behalf of the interest
holder).
Complete Either A or B:
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A.
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Individual Interest Holder
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1.
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I am not a non-resident alien for purposes of U.S. income
taxation.
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2.
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My U.S. taxpayer identifying number (Social Security Number)
is.
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3.
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My home address is .
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B.
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Partnership, Corporate or Other Interest-Holder
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1.
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is not a
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(Name of Interest-Holder)
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foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust or foreign estate
(as those terms are defined in the Code and Treasury Regulations).
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2.
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The interest-holders U.S. employer identification number is
.
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3.
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The interest-holders office address and place of incorporation
(if applicable) is
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The interest-holder agrees to notify the Partnership within 60 days of the date the
interest-holder becomes a foreign person.
The interest-holder understands that this certificate may be disclosed to the Internal Revenue
Service by the Partnership and that any false statement contained herein could be punishable by
fine, imprisonment or both.
Page 5 of Exhibit B
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this certification and to the best
of my knowledge and belief it is true, correct and complete and, if applicable, I further declare
that I have authority to sign this document on behalf of
(Name of Interest-Holder)
Signature and Date
Title (if applicable)
Note: If the Assignee is a broker, dealer, bank, trust company, clearing corporation, other
nominee holder or an agent of any of the foregoing, and is holding for the account of any other
person, this application should be completed by an officer thereof or, in the case of a broker or
dealer, by a registered representative who is a member of a registered national securities exchange
or a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., or, in the case of any other
nominee holder, a person performing a similar function. If the Assignee is a broker, dealer, bank
trust company, clearing corporation, other nominee owner or an agent of any of the foregoing, the
above certification as to any person for whom the Assignee will hold the Senior Units shall be made
to the best of the Assignees knowledge.
Page 6 of Exhibit B
Form of Election to Convert
To Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
The undersigned owner of the Senior Units evidenced by this Certificate hereby exercises the
option to convert all such Senior Units, or the number of Senior Units below designated, into
Common Units of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. in accordance with the terms of the Partnership Agreement
referred to in this Certificate, and directs that the Common Units issuable and deliverable upon
conversion, together with any check in payment for fractional shares, be issued with any check in
payment for fractional shares, be issued in the name of and delivered to the undersigned registered
Holder hereof, unless a different name has been indicated in the assignment below. If Common Units
are to be issued in the name of person other than the undersigned, the undersigned will pay all
transfer taxes payable with respect thereto. Any amount required to be paid by the undersigned on
account of accumulated and undistributed distributions accompanies this Certificate.
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Dated:
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Number of Senior Units to be converted:
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Signature (for conversion only)
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If Common Units are to be issued
and registered otherwise than to
the registered Holder named above,
please print or typewrite name and
address, including zip code, and
social security or other taxpayer
identification number.
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Page 7 of Exhibit B
Exhibit
3.5
EXECUTED / CONFORMED COPY
THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT
OF
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
OF
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
April 7, 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
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ARTICLE I
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ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
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SECTION 1.1 Formation
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1
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SECTION 1.2 Name
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1
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SECTION 1.3 Registered Office; Principal Office
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2
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SECTION 1.4 Power of Attorney
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2
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SECTION 1.5 Term
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3
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SECTION 1.6 Possible Restrictions on Transfer
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3
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ARTICLE II
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DEFINITIONS
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4
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ARTICLE III
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PURPOSE
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SECTION 3.1 Purpose and Business
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13
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SECTION 3.2 Powers
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14
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ARTICLE IV
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CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
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SECTION 4.1 Initial Contributions
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14
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SECTION 4.2 Contributions by Ferrellgas, the MLP and the Acquisition General Partner
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14
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SECTION 4.3 Additional Capital Contributions
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15
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SECTION 4.4 No Preemptive Rights
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15
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SECTION 4.5 Capital Accounts
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15
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SECTION 4.6 Interest
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18
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SECTION 4.7 No Withdrawal
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18
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SECTION 4.8 Loans from Partners
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18
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ARTICLE V
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ALLOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
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SECTION 5.1 Allocations for Capital Account Purposes
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19
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SECTION 5.2 Allocations for Tax Purposes
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23
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SECTION 5.3 Requirement of Distributions
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24
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i
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Page
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ARTICLE VI
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MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF BUSINESS
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SECTION 6.1 Management
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25
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SECTION 6.2 Certificate of Limited Partnership
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26
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SECTION 6.3 Restrictions on General Partners Authority
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27
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SECTION 6.4 Reimbursement of the General Partner
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28
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SECTION 6.5 Outside Activities
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28
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SECTION 6.6 Loans to and from the General Partner; Contracts with Affiliates
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29
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SECTION 6.7 Indemnification
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30
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SECTION 6.8 Liability of Indemnitees
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32
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SECTION 6.9 Resolution of Conflicts of Interest
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33
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SECTION 6.10 Other Matters Concerning the General Partner
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34
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SECTION 6.11 Title to Partnership Assets
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35
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SECTION 6.12 Reliance by Third Parties
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35
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ARTICLE VII
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RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE LIMITED PARTNER
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SECTION 7.1 Limitation of Liability
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36
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SECTION 7.2 Management of Business
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36
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SECTION 7.3 Return of Capital
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36
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SECTION 7.4 Rights of the Limited Partner Relating to the Partnership
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36
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ARTICLE VIII
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BOOKS, RECORDS, ACCOUNTING AND REPORTS
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SECTION 8.1 Records and Accounting
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37
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SECTION 8.2 Fiscal Year
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37
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ARTICLE IX
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TAX MATTERS
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SECTION 9.1 Preparation of Tax Returns
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37
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SECTION 9.2 Tax Elections
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38
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SECTION 9.3 Tax Controversies
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38
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SECTION 9.4 Organizational Expenses
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38
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SECTION 9.5 Withholding
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38
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SECTION 9.6 Opinions of Counsel
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38
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ii
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Page
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ARTICLE X
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TRANSFER OF INTERESTS
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SECTION 10.1 Transfer
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39
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SECTION 10.2 Transfer of the General Partners Partnership Interest
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39
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SECTION 10.3 Transfer of the Limited Partners Partnership Interest
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39
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SECTION 10.4 Transfer of the Acquisition General Partners Partnership Interest
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40
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ARTICLE XI
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ADMISSION OF PARTNERS
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SECTION 11.1 Admission of Initial Partners
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40
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SECTION 11.2 Admission of Ferrellgas as a Limited Partner
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40
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SECTION 11.3 Admission of Substituted Limited Partners
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40
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SECTION 11.4 Admission of Successor General Partner
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40
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SECTION 11.5 Amendment of Agreement and Certificate of Limited Partnership
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41
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SECTION 11.6 Admission of Additional Limited Partners
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41
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SECTION 11.7 Admission of FAC as the Acquisition General Partner
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41
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ARTICLE XII
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WITHDRAWAL OR REMOVAL OF PARTNERS
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SECTION 12.1 Withdrawal of the General Partner
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41
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SECTION 12.2 Removal of the General Partner
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43
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SECTION 12.3 Interest of Departing Partner and Successor General Partner
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43
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SECTION 12.4 Reimbursement of Departing Partner
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44
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SECTION 12.5 Withdrawal of the Limited Partner
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44
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SECTION 12.6 Withdrawal of the Acquisition General Partner
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44
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ARTICLE XIII
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DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION
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SECTION 13.1 Dissolution
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44
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SECTION 13.2 Continuation of the Business of the Partnership after Dissolution
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45
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SECTION 13.3 Liquidation
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45
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SECTION 13.4 Distributions in Kind
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46
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SECTION 13.5 Cancellation of Certificate of Limited Partnership
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47
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SECTION 13.6 Reasonable Time for Winding Up
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47
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SECTION 13.7 Return of Capital
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47
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SECTION 13.8 Capital Account Restoration
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47
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iii
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Page
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SECTION 13.9 Waiver of Partition
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47
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ARTICLE XIV
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AMENDMENT OF PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
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SECTION 14.1 Amendment to be Adopted Solely by General Partner
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48
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SECTION 14.2 Amendment Procedures
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49
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ARTICLE XV
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MERGER
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SECTION 15.1 Authority
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49
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SECTION 15.2 Procedure for Merger or Consolidation
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49
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SECTION 15.3 Approval by Limited Partner of Merger or Consolidation
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50
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SECTION 15.4 Certificate of Merger
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50
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SECTION 15.5 Effect of Merger
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51
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SECTION 15.6 Transfer or Assignment of Assets or Liabilities
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51
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ARTICLE XVI
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GENERAL PROVISIONS
|
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SECTION 16.1 Addresses and Notices
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51
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SECTION 16.2 References
|
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51
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SECTION 16.3 Pronouns and Plurals
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51
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SECTION 16.4 Further Action
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52
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SECTION 16.5 Binding Effect
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52
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SECTION 16.6 Integration
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SECTION 16.7 Creditors
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SECTION 16.8 Waiver
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SECTION 16.9 Counterparts
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SECTION 16.10 Applicable Law
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SECTION 16.11 Invalidity of Provisions
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iv
EXECUTED / CONFORMED COPY
THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP OF
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
THIS THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP OF FERRELLGAS, L.P. dated as
of April 7, 2004, is entered into by and between the General Partner and the Limited Partner (as
such terms are hereinafter defined).
WHEREAS, the Partnership (as such term is hereinafter defined) had previously been governed by
the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated as of
April 23, 1996; and
WHEREAS, the Partnership is presently governed by the Second Amended and Restated Agreement of
Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated as of October 14, 1998 (the Second Partnership
Agreement), as amended by that First Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Agreement of
Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated as of June 5, 2000 (the First Amendment and
together with the Second Partnership Agreement, the Current Partnership Agreement);
NOW, THEREFORE, the Current Partnership Agreement is hereby amended to reflect particular
amendments made pursuant to Section 14.1 of the Current Partnership Agreement that provides that
the General Partner may amend the Current Partnership Agreement without the consent of the
Acquisition General Partner or the Limited Partner to reflect a change that:
(a) in the sole discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely affect the Acquisition
General Partner or the Limited Partner in any material respect; or
(b) is required to effect the intent of the provisions of the Current Partnership Agreement or
are otherwise contemplated by the Current Partnership Agreement, which amendments are intended to
incorporate herein the First Amendment and to correct a typographical error contained therein, and,
as so amended, is restated in its entirety as follows:
ARTICLE I
ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
SECTION 1.1
Formation.
The General Partner and the Initial Limited Partner have previously formed the Partnership as
a limited partnership pursuant to the provisions of the Delaware Act. Except as expressly provided
to the contrary in this Agreement, the rights and obligations of the Partners and the
administration, dissolution and termination of the Partnership shall be governed by the Delaware
Act. All Partnership Interests shall constitute personal property of the owner thereof for all
purposes.
SECTION 1.2
Name
.
The name of the Partnership shall be, and the business of the Partnership shall be conducted
under the name of Ferrellgas, L.P. The Partnerships business may be conducted
under any other name or names deemed necessary or appropriate by the General Partner,
including, without limitation, the name of the General Partner or any Affiliate thereof. The words
Limited Partnership, L.P., Ltd. or similar words or letters shall be included in the
Partnerships name where necessary for the purposes of complying with the laws of any jurisdiction
that so requires. The General Partner in its sole discretion may change the name of the
Partnership at any time and from time to time and shall notify the Limited Partner of such change
in the next regular communication to the Limited Partner.
SECTION 1.3
Registered Office; Principal Office
.
Unless and until changed by the General Partner, the registered office of the Partnership in
the State of Delaware shall be located at The Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, New
Castle County, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, and the registered agent for service of process on the
Partnership in the State of Delaware at such registered office shall be The Corporation Trust
Company. The principal office of the Partnership and the address of the General Partner shall be
One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068, or such other place as the General Partner may from
time to time designate by notice to the Limited Partner. The Partnership may maintain offices at
such other place or places within or outside the State of Delaware as the General Partner deems
necessary or appropriate.
SECTION 1.4
Power of Attorney.
(a) Each of the Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner hereby constitutes and
appoints each of the General Partner and, if a Liquidator shall have been selected pursuant to
Section 13.3, the Liquidator severally (and any successor to either thereof by merger, transfer,
assignment, election or otherwise) and each of their authorized officers and attorneys-in-fact,
with full power of substitution, as its true, and lawful agent and attorney-in-fact, with full
power and authority in its name, place and stead, to:
(i) execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and record in the appropriate public
offices (A) all certificates, documents and other instruments (including, without
limitation, this Agreement and the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all amendments or
restatements thereof) that the General Partner or the Liquidator deems necessary or
appropriate to form, qualify or continue the existence or qualification of the Partnership
as a limited partnership (or a partnership in which the limited partners have limited
liability) in the State of Delaware and in all other jurisdictions in which the Partnership
may conduct business or own property; (B) all certificates, documents and other instruments
that the General Partner or the Liquidator deems necessary or appropriate to reflect, in
accordance with its terms, any amendment, change, modification or restatement of this
Agreement; (C) all certificates, documents and other instruments (including, without
limitation, conveyances and a certificate of cancellation) that the General Partner or the
Liquidator deems necessary or appropriate to reflect the dissolution and liquidation of the
Partnership pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; (D) all certificates, documents and
other instruments relating to the admission, withdrawal, removal or substitution of any
Partner pursuant to, or other events described in, Article X, XI, XII or XIII or the Capital
Contribution of any Partner; (E) all certificates, documents and other instruments relating
to the determination of the rights,
2
preferences and privileges of any class or series of Partnership Interests; and (F) all
certificates, documents and other instruments (including, without limitation, agreements and
a certificate of merger) relating to a merger or consolidation of the Partnership pursuant
to Article XV; and
(ii) execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and record all ballots, consents,
approvals, waivers, certificates, documents and other instruments necessary or appropriate,
in the sole discretion of the General Partner or the Liquidator, to make, evidence, give,
confirm or ratify any vote, consent, approval, agreement or other action that is made or
given by the Partners hereunder or is consistent with the terms of this Agreement or is
necessary or appropriate, in the sole discretion of the General Partner or the Liquidator,
to effectuate the terms or intent of this Agreement; provided, that when the consent or
approval of the Limited Partner is required by any provision of this Agreement, the General
Partner or the Liquidator may exercise the power of attorney made in this Section 1.4(a)(ii)
only after the necessary consent or approval of the Limited Partner is obtained. Nothing
contained in this Section 1.4(a) shall be construed as authorizing the General Partner to
amend this Agreement except in accordance with Article XIV or as may be otherwise expressly
provided for in this Agreement.
(b) The foregoing power of attorney is hereby declared to be irrevocable and a power coupled
with an interest, and it shall survive and not be affected by the subsequent death, incompetency,
disability, incapacity, dissolution, bankruptcy or termination of the Acquisition General Partner
or the Limited Partner and the transfer of all or any portion of the Acquisition General Partners
or the Limited Partners Partnership Interest and shall extend to the Acquisition General Partners
and the Limited Partners heirs, successors, assigns and personal representatives. Each of the
Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner hereby agrees to be bound by any representation
made by the General Partner or the Liquidator acting in good faith pursuant to such power of
attorney; and each of the Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner hereby waives any and
all defenses that may be available to contest, negate or disaffirm the action of the General
Partner or the Liquidator taken in good faith under such power of attorney. Each of the
Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner shall execute and deliver to the General
Partner or the Liquidator, within 15 days after receipt of the General Partners or the
Liquidators request therefor, such further designation, powers of attorney and other instruments
as the General Partner or the Liquidator deems necessary to effectuate this Agreement and the
purposes of the Partnership.
SECTION 1.5
Term
.
The Partnership commenced upon the filing of the Certificate of Limited Partnership in
accordance with the Delaware Act and shall continue in existence until the close of Partnership
business on July 31, 2084, or until the earlier termination of the Partnership in accordance with
the provisions of Article XIII.
SECTION 1.6
Possible Restrictions on Transfer
.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, in the event of (a) the
enactment (or imminent enactment) of any legislation, (b) the publication of any
3
temporary or final regulation by the Treasury Department, (c) any ruling by the Internal
Revenue Service or (d) any judicial decision, that, in any such case, in the Opinion of Counsel,
would result in the taxation of the Partnership as an association taxable as a corporation or would
otherwise result in the Partnership being taxed as an entity for federal income tax purposes, then,
the General Partner may impose such restrictions on the transfer of Partnership Interests as may be
required, in the Opinion of Counsel, to prevent the Partnership from being taxed as an association
taxable as a corporation or otherwise as an entity for federal income tax purposes, including,
without limitation, making any amendments to this Agreement as the General Partner in its sole
discretion may determine to be necessary or appropriate to impose such restrictions.
ARTICLE II
DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall be for all purposes, unless otherwise clearly indicated to the
contrary, applied to the terms used in this Agreement.
Acquisition Closing Date
means October 14, 1998.
Acquisition Contribution Agreement
means a contribution agreement among the Acquisition
General Partner, the Partnership and Ferrellgas pursuant to which the Acquisition General Partner
contributes the assets and properties of a retail propane business to the Partnership and the
Partnership assumes certain indebtedness and liabilities of the Acquisition General Partner related
to such business or the acquisition thereof.
Acquisition General Partner
means FAC.
Additional Limited Partner
means a Person admitted to the Partnership as a Limited Partner
pursuant to Section 11.6 and who is shown as such on the books and records of the Partnership.
Adjusted Capital Account
means the Capital Account maintained for each Partner as of the end
of each fiscal year of the Partnership, (a) increased by any amounts that such Partner is obligated
to restore under the standards set by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(c) (or is
deemed obligated to restore under Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(g) and 1.704-2(i)(5)), and
(b) decreased by (i) the amount of all losses and deductions that, as of the end of such fiscal
year, are reasonably expected to be allocated to such Partner in subsequent years under
Sections 704(e)(2) and 706(d) of the Code and Treasury Regulation Section 1.751-1(b)(2)(ii), and
(ii) the amount of all distributions that, as of the end of such fiscal year, are reasonably
expected to be made to such Partner in subsequent years in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement or otherwise to the extent they exceed offsetting increases to such Partners Capital
Account that are reasonably expected to occur during (or prior to) the year in which such
distributions are reasonably expected to be made (other than increases as a result of a minimum
gain chargeback pursuant to Section 5.1(d)(i) or 5.1(d)(ii)). The foregoing definition of Adjusted
Capital Account is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
Adjusted Property
means any property the Carrying Value of which has been adjusted pursuant
to Section 4.5(d)(i) or 4.5(d)(ii). Once an Adjusted Property is deemed distributed by,
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and recontributed to, the Partnership for federal income tax purposes upon a termination
thereof pursuant to Section 708 of the Code, such property shall thereafter constitute a
Contributed Property until the Carrying Value of such property is subsequently adjusted pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)(i) or 4.5(d)(ii).
Affiliate
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly
controls, is controlled by or is under common control with, the Person in question. As used
herein, the term
control
means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or
cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through ownership of voting
securities, by contract or otherwise.
Agreed Allocation
means any allocation, other than a Required Allocation, of an item of
income, gain, loss or deduction pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.1, including, without
limitation, a Curative Allocation (if appropriate to the context in which the term Agreed
Allocation is used).
Agreed Value
of any Contributed Property means the fair market value of such property or
other consideration at the time of contribution as determined by the General Partner using such
reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt; provided, however, that the Agreed Value of any
property deemed contributed by the Partnership for federal income tax purposes upon termination and
reconstitution thereof pursuant to Section 708 of the Code shall be determined in accordance with
Section 4.5(c)(i). Subject to Section 4.5(c)(i), the General Partner shall, in its sole
discretion, use such method as it deems reasonable and appropriate to allocate the aggregate Agreed
Value of Contributed Properties contributed to the Partnership in a single or integrated
transaction among each separate property on a basis proportional to the fair market value of each
Contributed Property.
Agreement
means this Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas, L.P., as it may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.
Audit Committee
means a committee of the Board of Directors of the General Partner composed
entirely of two or more directors who are neither officers nor employees of the General Partner or
any of its Affiliates.
Available Cash
means with respect to any period and without duplication:
(a) the sum of:
(i) all cash receipts of the Partnership during such period from all sources
(including, without limitation, distributions of cash received by the Partnership from an
OLP Subsidiary) plus, in the case of the Quarter ending October 31, 1994, the cash balance
of the Partnership as of the close of business on the Closing Date; and
(ii) any reduction with respect to such period in a cash reserve previously established
pursuant to clause (b)(ii) below (either by reversal or utilization) from the level of such
reserve at the end of the prior period;
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(b) less the sum of:
(i) all cash disbursements of the Partnership during such period, including, without
limitation, disbursements for operating expenses, taxes, if any, debt service (including,
without limitation, the payment of principal, premium and interest), redemption of
Partnership Interests, capital expenditures, contributions, if any, to an OLP Subsidiary and
cash distributions to Partners (but only to the extent that such cash distributions to
Partners exceed Available Cash for the immediately preceding Quarter); and
(ii) any cash reserves established with respect to such period, and any increase with
respect to such period in a cash reserve previously established pursuant to this
clause (b)(ii) from the level of such reserve at the end of the prior period, in such
amounts as the General Partner determines in its reasonable discretion to be necessary or
appropriate (A) to provide for the proper conduct of the business of the Partnership
(including, without limitation, reserves for future capital expenditures or capital
contributions to an OLP Subsidiary) or (B) to provide funds for distributions to the
Partners in respect of any one or more of the next four Quarters or (C) because the
distribution of such amounts would be prohibited by applicable law or by any loan agreement,
security agreement, mortgage, debt instrument or other agreement or obligation to which the
Partnership is a party or by which it is bound or its assets are subject; provided, however,
that for purposes of determining Available Cash for the Quarter ending October 31, 1994,
such Quarter shall be deemed to commence on the Closing Date. Notwithstanding the
foregoing (x) disbursements (including, without limitation, contributions to an OLP
Subsidiary or disbursements on behalf of an OLP Subsidiary) made or reserves established,
increased or reduced after the end of any Quarter but on or before the date on which the
Partnership makes its distribution of Available Cash in respect of such Quarter pursuant to
Section 5.3(a) shall be deemed to have been made, established, increased or reduced, for
purposes of determining Available Cash, with respect to such Quarter if the General Partner
so determines and (y) Available Cash with respect to any period shall not include any cash
receipts or reductions in reserves or take into account any disbursements made or reserves
established after the Liquidation Date.
Book-Tax Disparity
means with respect to any item of Contributed Property or Adjusted
Property, as of the date of any determination, the difference between the Carrying Value of such
Contributed Property or Adjusted Property and the adjusted basis thereof for federal income tax
purposes as of such date. A Partners share of the Partnerships Book-Tax Disparities in all of
its Contributed Property and Adjusted Property will be reflected by the difference between such
Partners Capital Account balance as maintained pursuant to Section 4.5 and the hypothetical
balance of such Partners Capital Account computed as if it had been maintained strictly in
accordance with federal income tax accounting principles.
Business Day
means Monday through Friday of each week, except that a legal holiday
recognized as such by the government of the United States or the states of New York or Missouri
shall not be regarded as a Business Day.
6
Capital Account
means the capital account maintained for a Partner pursuant to Section 4.5.
Capital Contribution
means any cash, cash equivalents or the Net Agreed Value of Contributed
Property that a Partner contributes to the Partnership pursuant to Section 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.5(c) or
13.8.
Capital Interests
means, with respect to any corporation, any and all shares,
participations, rights or other equivalent interests in the capital of the corporation, and with
respect to any partnership, any and all partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any
other interests or participations that confer on a Person the right to receive a share of the
profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Carrying Value
means (a) with respect to a Contributed Property, the Agreed Value of such
property reduced (but not below zero) by all depreciation, amortization and cost recovery
deductions charged to the Partners Capital Accounts in respect of such Contributed Property, and
(b) with respect to any other Partnership property, the adjusted basis of such property for federal
income tax purposes, all as of the time of determination. The Carrying Value of any property shall
be adjusted from time to time in accordance with Sections 4.5(d)(i) and 4.5(d)(ii) and to reflect
changes, additions or other adjustments to the Carrying Value for dispositions and acquisitions of
Partnership properties, as deemed appropriate by the General Partner.
Certificate of Limited Partnership
means the Certificate of Limited Partnership filed with
the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as referenced in Section 6.2, as such Certificate
of Limited Partnership may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.
Closing Date
means the first date on which Common Units are sold by the MLP to the
Underwriters pursuant to the provisions of the MLP Underwriting Agreement.
Code
means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and in effect from time to time, as
interpreted by the applicable regulations thereunder. Any reference herein to a specific section
or sections of the Code shall be deemed to include a reference to any corresponding provision of
future law.
Common Unit
has the meaning assigned to such term in the MLP Agreement.
Contributed Property
means each property or other asset, in such form as may be permitted by
the Delaware Act, but excluding cash, contributed to the Partnership (or deemed contributed to the
Partnership on termination and reconstitution thereof pursuant to Section 708 of the Code). Once
the Carrying Value of a Contributed Property is adjusted pursuant to Section 4.5(d), such property
shall no longer constitute a Contributed Property, but shall be deemed an Adjusted Property.
Contribution Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in the MLP Agreement.
Curative Allocation
means any allocation of an item of income, gain, deduction, loss or
credit pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.1(d)(ix).
7
Delaware Act
means the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act, 6 Del C. §§ 17-101,
et seq., as amended, supplemented or restated from time to time, and any successor to such statute.
Departing Partner
means a former General Partner, from and after the effective date of any
withdrawal or removal of such former General Partner pursuant to Section 12.1 or Section 12.2.
Economic Risk of Loss
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation Section 1.752-2(a).
Event of Withdrawal
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 12.1(a).
Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended supplemented or restated
from time to time, and any successor to such statute.
FAC
means Ferrellgas Acquisition Company, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company whose
sole member is Ferrellgas.
Ferrell
means Ferrell Companies, Inc., a Kansas corporation.
Ferrellgas
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of
Ferrell.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, and its successors as general partner of the Partnership.
IDR
has the meaning assigned to such term in the MLP Agreement.
Indemnitee
means the General Partner, any Departing Partner, any Person who is or was an
Affiliate of the General Partner or any Departing Partner, any Person who is or was an officer,
director, employee, partner, agent or trustee of the General Partner or any Departing Partner or
any such Affiliate, or any Person who is or was serving at the request of the General Partner or
any Departing Partner or any such Affiliate as a director, officer, employee, partner, agent or
trustee of another Person.
Initial Limited Partner
means the MLP.
Limited Partner
means the Initial Limited Partner, Ferrellgas pursuant to Section 4.2, each
Substituted Limited Partner, if any, each Additional Limited Partner and any Departing Partner upon
the change of its status from General Partner to Limited Partner pursuant to Section 12.3, but
excluding any such Person from and after the time it withdraws from the Partnership.
Liquidation Date
means (a) in the case of an event giving rise to the dissolution of the
Partnership of the type described in clauses (a) and (b) of the first sentence of Section 13.2, the
date on which the applicable time period during which the Partners have the right to elect to
reconstitute the Partnership and continue its business has expired without such an election being
8
made, and (b) in the case of any other event giving rise to the dissolution of the
Partnership, the date on which such event occurs.
Liquidator
means the General Partner or other Person approved pursuant to Section 13.3 who
performs the functions described therein.
Merger Agreement
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 15.1.
MLP
means Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
MLP Agreement
means the Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated February 18, 2003, as it may be amended, supplemented or restated
from time to time.
MLP Offering
means the initial offering of Common Units to the public, as described in the
MLP Registration Statement.
MLP Registration Statement
means the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No.
33-53383), as it has been or as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, filed by the
MLP with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act to register the offering
and sale of the Common Units in the MLP Offering.
MLP Subsidiary
means a Subsidiary of the MLP.
MLP Underwriting Agreement
means the underwriting agreement dated June 27, 1994, among the
MLP, the General Partner, Ferrell and the Underwriters named in Schedule I thereto providing for
the purchase of Common Units by such Underwriters.
National Securities Exchange
means an exchange registered with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under Section 6(a) of the Exchange Act.
Net Agreed Value
means, (a) in the case of any Contributed Property, the Agreed Value of
such property reduced by any liabilities either assumed by the Partnership upon such contribution
or to which such property is subject when contributed, and (b) in the case of any property
distributed to a Partner by the Partnership, the Partnerships Carrying Value of such property (as
adjusted pursuant to Section 4.5(d)(ii)) at the time such property is distributed, reduced by any
indebtedness either assumed by such Partner upon such distribution or to which such property is
subject at the time of distribution, in either case, as determined under Section 752 of the Code.
Net Income
means, for any taxable period, the excess, if any, of the Partnerships items of
income and gain (other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination
Capital Transactions) for such taxable period over the Partnerships items of loss and deduction
(other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination Capital Transactions)
for such taxable period. The items included in the calculation of Net Income shall be determined
in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items specially allocated under
Section 5.1(d). Once an item of income, gain, loss or deduction that has been included in the
initial computation of Net Income is subjected to a Required Allocation
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or a Curative Allocation, Net Income or Net Loss, whichever the case may be, shall be
recomputed without regard to such item.
Net Loss
means, for any taxable period, the excess, if any, of the Partnerships items of
loss and deduction (other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination
Capital Transactions) for such taxable period over the Partnerships items of income and gain
(other than those items attributable to dispositions constituting Termination Capital Transactions)
for such taxable period. The items included in the calculation of Net Loss shall be determined in
accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items specially allocated under
Section 5.1(d). Once an item of income, gain, loss or deduction that has been included in the
initial computation of Net Loss is subjected to a Required Allocation or a Curative Allocation, Net
Income, or Net Loss, whichever the case may be, shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Net Termination Gain
means, for any taxable period, the sum, if positive, of all items of
income, gain, loss or deduction recognized by the Partnership (including, without limitation, such
amounts recognized through an OLP Subsidiary, if applicable) from Termination Capital Transactions
occurring in such taxable period. The items included in the determination of Net Termination Gain
shall be determined in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items of income,
gain or loss specially allocated under Section 5.1(d). Once an item of income, gain or loss that
has been included in the initial computation of Net Termination Gain is subjected to a Required
Allocation or a Curative Allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss, whichever the
case may be, shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Net Termination Loss
means, for any taxable period, the sum, if negative, of all items of
income, gain, loss or deduction recognized by the Partnership (including, without limitation, such
amounts recognized through an OLP Subsidiary, if applicable) from Termination Capital Transactions
occurring in such taxable period. The items included in the determination of Net Termination Loss
shall be determined in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and shall not include any items of income,
gain or loss specially allocated under Section 5.1(d). Once an item of gain or loss that has been
included in the initial computation of Net Termination Loss is subjected to a Required Allocation
or a Curative Allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss, whichever the case may be,
shall be recomputed without regard to such item.
Nonrecourse Built-in Gain
means with respect to any Contributed Properties or Adjusted
Properties that are subject to a mortgage or pledge securing a Nonrecourse Liability, the amount of
any taxable gain that would be allocated to the Partners pursuant to Sections 5.2(b)(i)(A),
5.2(b)(ii)(A) or 5.2(b)(iii) if such properties were disposed of in a taxable transaction in full
satisfaction of such liabilities and for no other consideration.
Nonrecourse Deductions
means any and all items of loss, deduction or expenditures (described
in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code) that, in accordance with the principles of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704-(2)(b), are attributable to a Nonrecourse Liability.
Nonrecourse Liability
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation
Section 1.752-1(a)(2).
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OLP Offering
means the initial offering of Senior Notes to the public, as described in the
OLP Registration Statement.
OLP Registration Statement
means the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No.
33-53379), as it has been or as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, filed by the
Partnership and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the
Securities Act to register the offering and sale of the Senior Notes in the OLP Offering.
OLP Subsidiary
means a Subsidiary of the Partnership.
OLP Underwriting Agreement
means the underwriting agreement dated June 27,1994, among the
Partnership, Ferrellgas Finance Corp., the General Partner and the Underwriters named in Schedule A
thereto providing for the purchase of Senior Notes by such Underwriters.
Opinion of Counsel
means a written opinion of counsel (who may be regular counsel to the
General Partner, any Affiliate of the General Partner, or the Partnership) acceptable to the
General Partner.
Partners
means the General Partner, the Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner.
Partner Nonrecourse Debt
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704-2(b)(4).
Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain
has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulation
Section 1.704-2(i)(2).
Partner Nonrecourse Deductions
means any and all items of loss, deduction or expenditure
(including, without limitation, any expenditure described in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code)
that, in accordance with the principles of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i), are attributable
to a Partner Nonrecourse Debt.
Partnership
means Ferrellgas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, established by the
Certificate of Limited Partnership, and any successor thereto.
Partnership Interest
means the interest of a Partner in the Partnership.
Partnership Minimum Gain
means that amount determined in accordance with the principles of
Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(d).
Percentage Interest
means as of the date of such determination as to any Partner, the
percentage determined by dividing the amount of that Partners cumulative Capital Contributions to
the Partnership by the cumulative Capital Contributions of all Partners to the Partnership. As of
April 7, 2004, the Percentage Interest of the General Partner, in its capacity as such, is 1.0101%,
and the Percentage Interest of the Limited Partner, is 98.9899%.
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Person
means an individual or a corporation, partnership, trust, unincorporated
organization, association or other entity.
Quarter
means, unless the context requires otherwise, a three-month period of time ending on
October 31, January 31, April 30, or July 31; provided, however, that the General Partner in its
sole discretion may amend such period as it deems necessary or appropriate in connection with a
change in the fiscal year of the Partnership.
Recapture Income
means any gain recognized by the Partnership (computed without regard to
any adjustment required by Sections 734 or 743 of the Code) upon the disposition of any property or
asset of the Partnership, which gain is characterized as ordinary income because it represents the
recapture of deductions previously taken with respect to such property or asset.
Registration Statements
means the MLP Registration Statement and the OLP Registration
Statement.
Required Allocations
means any allocation (or limitation imposed on any allocation) of an
item of income, gain, deduction or loss pursuant to (a) Section 5.1(b)(i) or
(b) Sections 5.1(d)(i)-(vi) and (viii), such allocations (or limitations thereon) being directly or
indirectly required by the Treasury regulations promulgated under Section 704(b) of the Code.
Residual Gain
or
Residual Loss
means any item of gain or loss, as the case may be, of the
Partnership recognized for federal income tax purposes resulting from a sale, exchange or other
disposition of a Contributed Property or Adjusted Property, to the extent such item of gain or loss
is not allocated pursuant to Sections 5.2(b)(i)(A) or 5.2(b)(ii)(A), respectively, to eliminate
Book-Tax Disparities.
Restricted Activities
means the retail sale of propane to end users within the continental
United States in the manner engaged in by Ferrellgas immediately prior to the Closing Date.
Securities Act
means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, supplemented or restated from
time to time and any successor to such statute.
Senior Notes
means, collectively, the $200 million in aggregate principal amount of 10.0%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes due 2001 and $50 million in aggregate principal amount of Floating Rate
Senior Notes due 2001 to be issued by the Partnership and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and offered and
sold in the OLP Offering.
Special Approval
means approval by the Audit Committee.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, (i) a corporation of which more than 50% of
the voting power of shares of Capital Interests entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any
contingency) to vote in the election of directors or other governing body of such corporation is
owned, directly or indirectly, by such Person, by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, or a
combination thereof, (ii) a partnership (whether general or limited) in which such Person or a
Subsidiary of such Person is, at the date of determination, a general or limited partner of such
partnership, but only if more than 50% of the Capital Interests of such partnership
12
(considering all of the Capital Interests of the partnership as a single class) is owned or
controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person, by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, or
a combination thereof, or (iii) any other Person (other than a corporation or a partnership) in
which such Person, directly or indirectly, at the date of determination, has (x) at least a
majority ownership interest or (y) the power to elect or direct the election of a majority of the
directors or other governing body of such Person.
Substituted Limited Partner
means a Person who is admitted as a Limited Partner to the
Partnership pursuant to Section 11.3 in place of and with all the rights of a Limited Partner and
who is shown as a Limited Partner on the books and records of the Partnership.
Surviving Business Entity
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 15.2(b).
Termination Capital Transactions
means any sale, transfer or other disposition of property
of the Partnership occurring upon or incident to the liquidation and winding up of the Partnership
pursuant to Article XIII.
Underwriting Agreements
means the MLP Underwriting Agreement and the OLP Underwriting
Agreement.
Unit
has the meaning assigned to such term in this MLP Agreement.
Unrealized Gain
attributable to any item of Partnership property means, as of any date of
determination, the excess, if any, of (a) the fair market value of such property as of such date
(as determined under Section 4.5(d)) over (b) the Carrying Value of such property as of such date
(prior to any adjustment to be made pursuant to Section 4.5(d) as of such date).
Unrealized Loss
attributable to any item of Partnership property means, as of any date of
determination, the excess, if any, of (a) the Carrying Value of such property as of such date
(prior to any adjustment to be made pursuant to Section 4.5(d) as of such date) over (b) the fair
market value of such property as of such date (as determined under Section 4.5(d)).
Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel
has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 12.1(b).
ARTICLE III
PURPOSE
SECTION 3.1
Purpose and Business
.
The purpose and nature of this business to be conducted by the Partnership shall be (a) to
acquire, manage, and operate the assets described in the Contribution Agreement as being
transferred to the Partnership and any similar assets or properties and to engage directly in, or
to enter into or form any corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture or
other arrangement to engage indirectly in, any type of business or activity engaged in by
Ferrellgas immediately prior to the Closing Date and, in connection therewith, to exercise all of
the rights and powers conferred upon the Partnership pursuant to the agreements relating to such
assets, (b) to engage directly in, or enter into or form any corporation, limited liability
company,
13
partnership, joint venture or other arrangement to engage indirectly in, any business activity
that is approved by the General Partner and which may lawfully be conducted by a limited
partnership organized pursuant to the Delaware Act and, in connection therewith, to exercise all of
the rights and powers conferred upon the Partnership pursuant to the agreements relating to such
business activity, and (c) to do anything necessary or appropriate to the foregoing, including,
without limitation, the making of capital contributions to any OLP Subsidiary or loans to the MLP,
an MLP Subsidiary or an OLP Subsidiary (including, without limitation, those contributions or loans
that may be required in connection with its involvement in the activities referred to in clause (b)
of this sentence). The General Partner has no obligation or duty to the Partnership or the Limited
Partner to propose or approve, and in its sole discretion may decline to propose or approve, the
conduct by the Partnership of any business.
SECTION 3.2
Powers
.
The Partnership shall be empowered to do any and all acts and things necessary, appropriate,
proper, advisable, incidental to or convenient for the furtherance and accomplishment of the
purposes and business described in Section 3.1 and for the protection and benefit of the
Partnership.
ARTICLE IV
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
SECTION 4.1
Initial Contributions
.
In connection with the formation of the Partnership under the Delaware Act, the General
Partner made an initial Capital Contribution to the Partnership in the amount of $10.10 for an
interest in the Partnership and was admitted as the general partner of the Partnership, and the
Initial Limited Partner made an initial Capital Contribution to the Partnership in the amount of
$989.90 for an interest in the Partnership and was admitted as a limited partner of the
Partnership.
SECTION 4.2
Contributions by Ferrellgas, the MLP and the Acquisition General Partner.
(a) On the Closing Date, Ferrellgas, as a Capital Contribution, contributed, transferred,
conveyed, assigned and delivered to the Partnership the property and other rights described in the
Contribution Agreement as being so contributed, transferred, conveyed, assigned and delivered in
exchange for (i) the continuation of its general partner interest in the Partnership consisting of
a Partnership Interest representing a 1.0101% Percentage Interest, (ii) a limited partner interest
in the Partnership, which was contributed, transferred, conveyed, assigned and delivered by the
General Partner to the MLP as set forth in the Contribution Agreement, and which, together with the
Partnership Interest previously held by the MLP, represents a 98.9899% Percentage Interest in the
Partnership, and (iii) the Partnerships assumption of, or taking of assets subject to, certain
indebtedness and other liabilities, including, without limitation, the Partnerships assumption of
the payment obligations of certain indebtedness of Ferrellgas, all as provided for in the
Contribution Agreement.
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(b) On the Closing Date, the MLP contributed in respect of its Partnership Interest
approximately $255 million out of the net proceeds to the MLP from the issuance of the Common Units
pursuant to the MLP Offering.
(c) On the Acquisition Closing Date, FAC, as a Capital Contribution, contributed, transferred,
conveyed, assigned and delivered to the Partnership the property and other rights described in an
Acquisition Contribution Agreement dated the Acquisition Closing Date as being so contributed,
transferred, conveyed, assigned and delivered in exchange for (i) the general partner interest in
the Partnership of the Acquisition General Partner consisting of a Partnership Interest in the
amount of $735, and (ii) the Partnerships assumption of, or taking of assets subject to, certain
indebtedness and other liabilities, including, without limitation, the Partnerships assumption of
the payment obligations of certain indebtedness of FAC, all as provided for in such Acquisition
Contribution Agreement. Immediately thereafter, FAC assigned the Partnership Interest of the
Acquisition General Partner to Ferrellgas, the general partner interest in the Partnership of
Ferrellgas continued thereafter as a Partnership Interest representing a 1.0101 Percentage
Interest, and FAC withdrew from the Partnership.
SECTION 4.3
Additional Capital Contributions
.
With the consent of the General Partner, the Limited Partner may, but shall not be obligated
to, make additional Capital Contributions to the Partnership. Contemporaneously with the making of
any such additional Capital Contributions by the Limited Partner, the General Partner may make an
additional Capital Contribution to the Partnership in an amount equal to 1.0204% of the additional
Capital Contribution then made by the Limited Partner. The General Partner may, at any time and
from time to time, make a Capital Contribution to the Partnership so that the General Partner will
have a Capital Account equal to no more than 1.0101% of the sum of the Capital Accounts of all
Partners. Except as set forth in Section 13.8, the General Partner shall not be obligated to make
any additional Capital Contributions to the Partnership.
SECTION 4.4
No Preemptive Rights
.
Except as provided in Section 4.3, no Person shall have any preemptive, preferential or other
similar right with respect to (a) additional Capital Contributions; (b) issuance or sale of any
class or series of Partnership Interests, whether unissued, held in the treasury or hereafter
created; (c) issuance of any obligations, evidences of indebtedness or other securities of the
Partnership convertible into or exchangeable for, or carrying or accompanied by any rights to
receive, purchase or subscribe to, any such Partnership Interests; (d) issuance of any right of
subscription to or right to receive, or any warrant or option for the purchase of, any such
Partnership Interests; or (e) issuance or sale of any other securities that may be issued or sold
by the Partnership.
SECTION 4.5
Capital Accounts.
(a) The Partnership shall maintain for each Partner owning a Partnership Interest a separate
Capital Account with respect to such Partnership Interest in accordance with the rules of Treasury
Regulation Section 1.704-1 (b)(2)(iv). Such Capital Account shall be increased by (i) the amount
of all Capital Contributions made to the Partnership with respect to such Partnership
15
Interest pursuant to this Agreement and (ii) all items of Partnership income and gain
(including, without limitation, income and gain exempt from tax) computed in accordance with
Section 4.5(b) and allocated with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to Section 5.1, and
decreased by (x) the amount of cash or the Net Agreed Value of all actual and deemed distributions
of cash or property made with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to this Agreement and
(y) all items of Partnership deduction and loss computed in accordance with Section 4.5(b) and
allocated with respect to such Partnership Interest pursuant to Section 5.1.
(b) For purposes of computing the amount of any item of income, gain, loss or deduction to be
reflected in the Partners Capital Accounts, the determination, recognition and classification of
any such item shall be the same as its determination, recognition and classification for federal
income tax purposes (including, without limitation, any method of depreciation, cost recovery or
amortization used for that purpose), provided, that:
(i) Solely for purposes of this Section 4.5, the Partnership shall be treated as owning
directly its proportionate share (as determined by the General Partner) of all property
owned by any OLP Subsidiary that is classified as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes.
(ii) All fees and other expenses incurred by the Partnership to promote the sale of (or
to sell) a Partnership Interest that can neither be deducted nor amortized under Section 709
of the Code, if any, shall, for purposes of Capital Account maintenance, be treated as an
item of deduction at the time such fees and other expenses are incurred and shall be
allocated among the Partners pursuant to Section 5.1.
(iii) Except as otherwise provided in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1
(b)(2)(iv)(m), the computation of all items of income, gain, loss and deduction shall be
made without regard to any election under Section 754 of the Code which may be made by the
Partnership and, as to those items described in Section 705(a)(1)(B) or 705(a)(2)(B) of the
Code, without regard to the fact that such items are not includable in gross income or are
neither currently deductible nor capitalized for federal income tax purposes.
(iv) Any income, gain or loss attributable to the taxable disposition of any
Partnership property shall be determined as if the adjusted basis of such property as of
such date of disposition were equal in amount to the Partnerships Carrying Value with
respect to such property as of such date.
(v) In accordance with the requirements of Section 704(b) of the Code, any deductions
for depreciation, cost recovery or amortization attributable to any Contributed Property
shall be determined as if the adjusted basis of such property on the date it was acquired by
the Partnership were equal to the Agreed Value of such property. Upon an adjustment
pursuant to Section 4.5(d) to the Carrying Value of any Partnership property subject to
depreciation, cost recovery or amortization, any further deductions for such depreciation,
cost recovery or amortization attributable to such property shall be determined (A) as if
the adjusted basis of such property were equal to the Carrying Value of such property
immediately following such adjustment and (B) using a rate of
16
depreciation, cost recovery or amortization derived from the same method and useful
life (or, if applicable, the remaining useful life) as is applied for federal income tax
purposes; provided, however, that, if the asset has a zero adjusted basis for federal income
tax purposes, depreciation, cost recovery or amortization deductions shall be determined
using any reasonable method that the General Partner may adopt.
(vi) If the Partnerships adjusted basis in a depreciable or cost recovery property is
reduced for federal income tax purposes pursuant to Section 48(q)(1) or 48(q)(3) of the
Code, the amount of such reduction shall, solely for purposes hereof, be deemed to be an
additional depreciation or cost recovery deduction in the year such property is placed in
service and shall be allocated among the Partners pursuant to Section 5.1. Any restoration
of such basis pursuant to Section 48(q)(2) of the Code shall, to the extent possible, be
allocated in the same manner to the Partners to whom such deemed deduction was allocated.
(c) A transferee of a Partnership Interest shall succeed to a pro rata portion of the Capital
Account of the transferor relating to the partnership Interest so transferred; provided, however,
that, if the transfer causes a termination of the Partnership under Section 708(b)(1)(B) of the
Code, the Partnerships properties shall be deemed to have been distributed in liquidation of the
Partnership to the Partners (including any transferee of a Partnership Interest that is a party to
the transfer causing such termination) pursuant to Sections 13.3 and 13.4 and recontributed by such
Partners in reconstitution of the Partnership. Any such deemed distribution shall be treated as an
actual distribution for purposes of this Section 4.5. In such event, the Carrying Values of the
Partnership properties shall be adjusted immediately prior to such deemed distribution pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)(ii) and such Carrying Values shall then constitute the Agreed Values of such
properties upon such deemed contribution to the reconstituted Partnership. The Capital Accounts of
such reconstituted Partnership shall be maintained in accordance with the principles of this
Section 4.5.
(d) (i) Consistent with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f), on
an issuance of additional Partnership Interests for cash or Contributed Property, the Capital
Account of all Partners and the Carrying Value of each Partnership property immediately prior to
such issuance shall be adjusted upward or downward to reflect any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized
Loss attributable to such Partnership property, as if such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss had
been recognized on an actual sale of each such property immediately prior to such issuance and had
been allocated to the Partners at such time pursuant to Sections 5.1(a) and 5.1(b). In determining
such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss, the aggregate cash amount and fair market value of all
Partnership assets (including, without limitation, cash or cash equivalents) immediately prior to
the issuance of additional Partnership Interests shall be determined by the General Partner using
such reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt; provided, however, that the General Partner,
in arriving at such valuation, must take fully into account the fair market value of the
Partnership Interests of all Partners at such time. The General Partner shall allocate such
aggregate value among the assets of the Partnership (in such manner as it determines in its sole
discretion to be reasonable) to arrive at a fair market value for individual properties.
17
(ii) In accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f), immediately
prior to any actual or deemed distribution to a Partner of any Partnership property (other
than a distribution of cash that is not in redemption or retirement of a Partnership
Interest), the Capital Accounts of all Partners and the Carrying Value of such Partnership
property shall be adjusted upward or downward to reflect any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized
Loss attributable to such Partnership property, as if such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized
Loss had been recognized in a sale of such property immediately prior to such distribution
for an amount equal to its fair market value, and had been allocated to the Partners, at
such time, pursuant to Section 5.1. Any Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss attributable to
such property shall be allocated in the same manner as Net Termination Gain or Net
Termination Loss pursuant to Section 5.1(c); provided, however, that, in making any such
allocation, Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss actually realized shall be
allocated first. In determining such Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss the aggregate cash
amount and fair market value of all Partnership assets, (including, without limitation, cash
or cash equivalents) immediately prior to a distribution shall (A) in the case of a deemed
distribution occurring as a result of a termination of the Partnership pursuant to
Section 708 of the Code, be determined and allocated in the same manner as that provided in
Section 4.5(d)(i) or (B) in the case of a liquidating distribution pursuant to Section 14.3
or 14.4, be determined and allocated by the Liquidator using such reasonable method of
valuation as it may adopt.
SECTION 4.6
Interest
.
No interest shall be paid by the Partnership on Capital Contributions or on balances in
Partners Capital Accounts.
SECTION 4.7
No Withdrawal
.
No Partner shall be entitled to withdraw any part of its Capital Contributions or its Capital
Account or to receive any distribution from the Partnership, except as provided in Articles V, VII,
XII and XIII.
SECTION 4.8
Loans from Partners
.
Loans by a Partner to the Partnership shall not constitute Capital Contributions. If any
Partner shall advance funds to the Partnership in excess of the amounts required hereunder to be
contributed by it to the capital of the Partnership, the making of such excess advances shall not
result in any increase in the amount of the Capital Account of such Partner. The amount of any
such excess advances shall be a debt obligation of the Partnership to such Partner and shall be
payable or collectible only out of the Partnership assets in accordance with the terms and
conditions upon which such advances are made.
18
ARTICLE V
ALLOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
SECTION 5.1
Allocations for Capital Account Purposes
.
For purposes of maintaining the Capital Accounts and in determining the rights of the Partners
among themselves, the Partnerships items of income, gain, loss and deduction (computed in
accordance with Section 4.5(b)) shall be allocated among the Partners in each taxable year (or
portion thereof) as provided hereinbelow.
(a)
Net Income
. After giving effect to the special allocations set forth in
Section 5.1(d), Net Income for each taxable period and all items of income, gain, loss and
deduction taken into account in computing Net Income for such taxable period shall be allocated as
follows:
(i) First, 100% to the General Partner until the aggregate Net Income allocated to the
General Partner pursuant to this Section 5.1 (a)(i) for the current taxable year and all
previous taxable years is equal to the aggregate Net Losses allocated to the General Partner
pursuant to Section 5.1 (b)(ii) for all previous taxable years; and
(ii) Second, the balance, if any, 100% to the General Partner and the Limited Partner
in accordance with their respective Percentage Interests.
(b)
Net Losses
. After giving effect to the special allocations set forth in
Section 5.1(d), Net Losses for each taxable period and all items of income, gain, loss and
deduction taken into account in computing Net Losses for such taxable period shall be allocated as
follows:
(i) First, 100% to the General Partner and the Limited Partner in accordance with their
respective Percentage Interests; provided, that Net Losses shall not be allocated pursuant
to this Section 5.1(b)(i) to the extent that such allocation would cause any Limited Partner
to have a deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital. Account at the end of such taxable year
(or increase any existing deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital Account); and
(ii) Second, the balance, if any, 100% to the General Partner.
(c)
Net Termination Gains and Losses
. After giving effect to the special allocations
set forth in Section 5.1(d), all items of income, gain, loss and deduction taken into account in
computing Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss; for such taxable period shall be allocated
in the same manner as such Net Termination Gain or Net Termination Loss is allocated hereunder.
All allocations under this Section 5.1(c) shall be made after Capital Account balances have been
adjusted by all other allocations provided under this Section 5.1(c) after all distributions of
Available Cash provided under Section 5.3 have been made with respect to the taxable period ending
on the date of the Partnerships liquidation pursuant to Section 13.3.
(i) If a Net Termination Gain is recognized (or deemed recognized pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)) from Termination Capital Transactions, such Net Termination Gain
19
shall be allocated between the General Partner and the Limited Partner in the following
manner (and the Adjusted Capital Accounts of the Partners shall be increased by the amount
so allocated in each of the following subclauses, in the order listed, before an allocation
is made pursuant to the next succeeding subclause):
(A) First, to each Partner having a deficit balance in its Adjusted Capital
Account, in the proportion that such deficit balance bears to the total deficit
balances in the Adjusted Capital Accounts of all Partners, until each such Partner
has been allocated Net Termination Gain equal to any such deficit balance in its
Adjusted Capital Account; and
(B) Second, 100% to the General Partner and the Limited Partner in accordance
with their respective Percentage Interests.
(ii) If a Net Termination Loss is recognized (or deemed recognized pursuant to
Section 4.5(d)) from Termination Capital Transactions, such Net Termination Loss shall be
allocated to the Partners in the following manner:
(A) First, 100% to the General Partner and the Limited Partner in proportion
to, and to the extent of, the positive balances in their respective Adjusted Capital
Accounts; and
(B) Second, the balance, if any, 100% to the General Partner.
(d)
Special Allocations
. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1, the
following special allocations shall be made for such taxable period:
(i) Partnership Minimum Gain Chargeback. Notwithstanding any other provision of this
Section 5.1, if there is a net decrease in Partnership Minimum Gain during any Partnership
taxable period, each Partner shall be allocated items of Partnership income and gain for
such period (and, if necessary, subsequent periods) in the manner and amounts provided in
Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(f)(6), 1.704-2(g)(2) and 1.704-2(j)(2)(i), or any
successor provision. For purposes of this Section 5.1(d), each Partners Adjusted Capital
Account balance shall be determined, and the allocation of income or gain required hereunder
shall be effected, prior to the application of any other allocations pursuant to this
Section 5.1(d) with respect to such taxable period (other than an allocation pursuant to
Sections 5.1 (d)(v) and (vi)). This Section 5.1(d)(i) is intended to comply with the
Partnership Minimum Gain chargeback requirement in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(f)
and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(ii) Chargeback of Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain. Notwithstanding the other
provisions of this Section 5.1 (other than Section 5.1(d) (i)), except as provided in
Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(4), if there is a net decrease in Partner Nonrecourse
Debt Minimum Gain during any Partnership taxable period, any Partner with a share of Partner
Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain at the beginning of such taxable period shall be allocated
items of Partnership income and gain for such period (and, if necessary, subsequent periods)
in the manner and amounts provided in
20
Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(i)(4) and 1.704-2(j)(2)(ii), or any successor
provisions. For purposes of this Section 5.1(d), each Partners Adjusted Capital Account
balance shall be determined, and the allocation of income or gain required hereunder shall
be effected, prior to the application of any other allocations pursuant to this
Section 5.1(d), other than Section 5.1(d)(i) and other than an allocation pursuant to
Sections 5.1(d)(v) and (vi), with respect to such taxable period. This Section 5.1(d)(ii)
is intended to comply with the chargeback of items of income and gain requirement in
Treasury Regulation Section 1.7041-2(i)(4) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(iii) Qualified Income Offset. In the event any Partner unexpectedly receives any
adjustments, allocations or distributions described in Treasury Regulation
Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4), 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(5), or 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(6), items
of Partnership income and gain shall be specifically allocated to such Partner in an amount
and manner sufficient to eliminate, to the extent required by the Treasury Regulations
promulgated under Section 704(b) of the Code, the deficit balance, if any, in its Adjusted
Capital Account created by such adjustments, allocations or distributions as quickly as
possible, unless such deficit balance is otherwise eliminated pursuant to Section 5.1(d)(i)
or (ii).
(iv) Gross Income Allocations. In the event any Partner has a deficit balance in its
Adjusted Capital Account at the end of any Partnership taxable period such Partner shall be
specially allocated items of Partnership gross income and gain in the amount of such excess
as quickly as possible; provided, that an allocation pursuant to this Section 5.1(d)(iv)
shall be made only if and to the extent that such Partner would have a deficit balance in
its Adjusted Capital Account after all other allocations provided in this Section 5.1 have
been tentatively made as if this Section 5.1(d)(iv) were not in this Agreement.
(v) Nonrecourse Deductions. Nonrecourse Deductions for any taxable period shall be
allocated to the Partners in accordance with their respective Percentage Interests. If the
General Partner determines in its good faith discretion that the Partnerships Nonrecourse
Deductions must be allocated in a different ratio to satisfy the safe harbor requirements of
the Treasury Regulations promulgated under Section 704(b) of the Code, the General Partner
is authorized, upon notice to the Limited Partner, to revise the prescribed ratio to the
numerically closest ratio that does satisfy such requirements.
(vi) Partner Nonrecourse Deductions. Partner Nonrecourse Deductions for any taxable
period shall be allocated 100% to the Partner that bears the Economic Risk of Loss with
respect to the Partner Nonrecourse Debt to which such Partner Nonrecourse Deductions are
attributable in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i). If more than one
Partner bears the Economic Risk of Loss with respect to a Partner Nonrecourse Debt, such
Partner Nonrecourse Deductions attributable thereto shall be allocated between or among such
Partners in accordance with the ratios in which they share such Economic Risk of Loss.
21
(vii) Nonrecourse Liabilities. For purposes of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.752-3(a)(3), the Partners agree that Nonrecourse Liabilities of the Partnership in
excess of the sum of (A) the amount of Partnership Minimum Gain and (B) the total amount of
Nonrecourse Built-in Gain shall be allocated among the Partners in accordance with their
respective Percentage Interests.
(viii) Code Section 754 Adjustments. To the extent an adjustment to the adjusted tax
basis of any Partnership asset pursuant to Section 734(b) or 743(b) of the Code is required,
pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1 (b)(2)(iv)(m), to be taken into account in
determining Capital Accounts, the amount of such adjustment to the Capital Accounts shall be
treated as an item of gain (if the adjustment increases the basis of the asset) or loss (if
the adjustment decreases such basis), and such item of gain or loss shall be specially
allocated to the Partners in a manner consistent with the manner in which their Capital
Accounts are required to be adjusted pursuant to such Section of the Treasury Regulations.
(ix) Curative Allocation.
(A) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1, other than the
Required Allocations, the Required Allocations shall be taken into account in making
the Agreed Allocations so that, to the extent possible, the net amount of items of
income, gain, loss and deduction allocated to each Partner pursuant to the Required
Allocations and the Agreed Allocations, together, shall be equal to the net amount
of such items that would have been allocated to each such Partner under the Agreed
Allocations had the Required Allocations and the related Curative Allocation not
otherwise been provided in this Section 5.1. Notwithstanding the preceding
sentence, Required Allocations relating to (1) Nonrecourse Deductions shall not be
taken, into account except to the extent that there has been a decrease in
Partnership Minimum Gain and (2) Partner Nonrecourse Deductions shall not be taken
into account except to the extent that there has been a decrease in Partner
Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain. Allocations pursuant to this Section 5.1(d)(ix)(A)
shall only be made with respect to Required Allocations to the extent the General
Partner reasonably determines that such allocations will otherwise be inconsistent
with the economic agreement among the Partners. Further, allocations pursuant to
this Section 5.1(d)(ix)(A) shall be deferred with respect to allocations pursuant to
clauses (1) and (2) hereof to the extent the General Partner reasonably determines
that such allocations are likely to be offset by subsequent Required Allocations.
(B) The General Partner shall have reasonable discretion, with respect to each
taxable period, to (1) apply the provisions of Section 5.1(d)(ix)(A) in whatever
order is most likely to minimize the economic distortions that might otherwise
result from the Required Allocations, and (2) divide all allocations pursuant to
Section 5.1(d)(ix)(A) among the Partners in a manner that is likely to minimize such
economic distortions.
22
(e)
Allocations to Acquisition General Partner
. Notwithstanding any other provision
of this Section 5.1, no items of income, gain, loss or deduction shall be allocated to the
Acquisition General Partner.
SECTION 5.2
Allocations for Tax Purposes.
(a) Except as otherwise provided herein, for federal income tax purposes, each item of income,
gain, loss and deduction shall be allocated among the Partners in the same manner as its
correlative item of book income, gain, loss or deduction is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(b) In an attempt to eliminate Book-Tax Disparities attributable to a Contributed Property or
Adjusted Property, items of income, gain, loss, depreciation, amortization and cost recovery
deductions shall be allocated for federal income tax purposes among the Partners as follows:
(i) (A) In the case of a Contributed Property, such items attributable thereto shall be
allocated among the Partners in the manner provided under Section 704(c) of the Code that
takes into account the variation between the Agreed Value of such property and its adjusted
basis at the time of contribution; and (B) except as otherwise provided in
Section 5.2(b)i(iii), any item of Residual Gain or Residual Loss attributable to a
Contributed Property shall be allocated among the Partners in the same manner as its
correlative item of book gain or loss is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(ii) (A) In the case of an Adjusted Property, such items shall (1) first, be allocated
among the Partners in a manner consistent with the principles of Section 704(c) of the Code
to take into account the Unrealized Gain or Unrealized Loss attributable to such property
and the allocations thereof pursuant to Section 4.5(d)(i) or (ii), and (2) second, in the
event such property was originally a Contributed Property, be allocated among the Partners
in a manner consistent with Section 5.2(b)(i)(A); and (B) except as otherwise provided in
Section 5.2(b)(iii), any item of Residual Gain or Residual Loss attributable to an Adjusted
Property shall be allocated among the Partners in the same manner as its correlative item of
book gain or loss is allocated pursuant to Section 5.1.
(iii) The General Partner shall apply the principles of Temporary Regulation
Section 1.704-3T to eliminate Book-Tax Disparities.
(c) For the proper administration of the Partnership and for the preservation of uniformity of
Units of the MLP (or any class or classes thereof), the General Partner shall have sole discretion
to (i) adopt such conventions as it deems appropriate in determining the amount of depreciation,
amortization and cost recovery deductions; (ii) make special allocations for federal income tax
purposes of income (including, without limitation, gross income) or deductions; and (iii) amend the
provisions of this Agreement as appropriate (x) to reflect the proposal or promulgation of Treasury
Regulations under Section 704(b) or Section 704(c) of the Code or (y) otherwise to preserve or
achieve uniformity of Units of the MLP (or any class or classes thereof). The General Partner may
adopt such conventions, make such allocations and make such amendments to this Agreement as
provided in this Section 5.2(c) only if such conventions, allocations or amendments would not have
a material adverse effect on the Partners,
23
the holders of any class or classes of Units of the MLP issued and outstanding or the
Partnership, and if such allocations are consistent with the principles of Section 704 of the Code.
(d) The General Partner in its sole discretion may determine to depreciate or amortize the
portion of an adjustment under Section 743(b) of the Code attributable to unrealized appreciation
in any Adjusted Property (to the extent of the unamortized Book-Tax Disparity) using a
predetermined rate derived from the depreciation or amortization method and useful life applied to
the Partnerships common basis of such property, despite the inconsistency of such approach with
Proposed Treasury Regulation Section 1.168-2(n), Treasury Regulation Section 1.167(c)-1(a)(6) or
the legislative history of Section 197 of the Code. If the General Partner determines that such
reporting position cannot reasonably be taken, the General Partner may adopt depreciation and
amortization conventions under which all purchasers acquiring Units of the MLP in the same month
would receive depreciation and amortization deductions, based upon the same applicable rate as if
they had purchased a direct interest in the Partnerships property. If the General Partner chooses
not to utilize such aggregate method, the General Partner may use any other reasonable depreciation
and amortization conventions to preserve the uniformity of the intrinsic tax characteristics of any
class or classes of Units of the MLP that would not have a material adverse effect on the Limited
Partner or the holders of any class or classes of Units of the MLP.
(e) Any gain allocated to the Partners upon the sale or other taxable disposition of any
Partnership asset shall, to the extent possible, after taking into account other required
allocations of gain pursuant to this Section 5.2, be characterized as Recapture Income in the same
proportions and to the same extent as such Partners (or their predecessors in interest) have been
allocated any deductions directly or indirectly giving rise to the treatment of such gains as
Recapture Income.
(f) All items of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit recognized by the Partnership for
federal income tax purposes and allocated to the Partners in accordance with the provisions hereof
shall be determined without regard to any election under Section 754 of the Code which may be made
by the Partnership; provided, however, that such allocations, once made, shall be adjusted as
necessary or appropriate to take into account those adjustments permitted or required by
Sections 734 and 743 of the Code.
(g) The General Partner may adopt such methods of allocation of income, gain, loss or
deduction between a transferor and a transferee of a Partnership Interest as it determines
necessary, to the extent permitted or required by Section 706 of the Code and the regulations or
rulings promulgated thereunder.
SECTION 5.3
Requirement of Distributions.
(a) Within 45 days following the end of (i) the period beginning on the Closing Date and
ending on October 31, 1994 and (ii) each Quarter commencing with the Quarter beginning on
November 1, 1994, an amount equal to 100% of Available Cash with respect to such period or Quarter
shall be distributed in accordance with this Article V by the Partnership to the Partners in
accordance with their respective Percentage Interests. The immediately preceding sentence shall
not require any distribution of cash if and to the extent such distribution would be
24
prohibited by applicable law or by any loan agreement, security agreement, mortgage, debt
instrument or other agreement or obligation to which the Partnership is a party or by which it is
bound or its assets are subject.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of the dissolution and liquidation of the
Partnership, all proceeds of such liquidation shall be applied and distributed in accordance with,
and subject to the terms and conditions of, Sections 13.3 and 13.4.
ARTICLE VI
MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF BUSINESS
SECTION 6.1
Management.
(a) The General Partner shall conduct, direct and manage all activities of the Partnership.
Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, all management powers over the business
and affairs of the Partnership shall be exclusively vested in the General Partner, and neither the
Acquisition General Partner nor the Limited Partner shall have any right of control or management
power over the business and affairs of the Partnership. In addition to the powers now or hereafter
granted a general partner of a limited partnership under applicable law or which are granted to the
General Partner under any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner, subject to
Section 6.3, shall have full power and authority to do all things and on such terms as it, in its
sole discretion, may deem necessary or appropriate to conduct the business of the Partnership, to
exercise all powers set forth in Section 3.2 and to effectuate the purposes set forth in
Section 3.1, including, without limitation, (i) the making of any expenditures, the lending or
borrowing of money, the assumption or guarantee of, or other contracting for, indebtedness and
other liabilities, the issuance of evidences of indebtedness and the incurring of any other
obligations; (ii) the making of tax, regulatory and other filings, or rendering of periodic or
other reports to governmental or other agencies having jurisdiction over the business or assets of
the Partnership; (iii) the acquisition, disposition, mortgage, pledge, encumbrance, hypothecation
or exchange of any or all of the assets of the Partnership or the merger or other combination of
the Partnership with or into another Person (the matters described in this clause (iii) being
subject, however, to any prior approval that may be required by Section 6.3); (iv) the use of the
assets of the Partnership (including, without limitation, cash on hand) for any purpose consistent
with the terms of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the financing of the conduct of
the operations of the Partnership, the lending of funds to other Persons (including, without
limitation, an OLP Subsidiary), the repayment of obligations of the Partnership and the making of
capital contributions to an OLP Subsidiary; (v) the negotiation, execution and performance of any
contracts, conveyances or other instruments (including, without limitation, instruments that limit
the liability of the Partnership under contractual arrangements to all or particular assets of the
Partnership, with the other party to the contract to have no recourse against the General Partner
or its assets other than its interest in the Partnership, even if same results in the terms of the
transaction being less favorable to the Partnership than would otherwise be the case); (vi) the
distribution of Partnership cash; (vii) the selection and dismissal of employees and agents
(including, without limitation, employees having titles such as president, vice president,
secretary and treasurer) and agents, outside attorneys, accountants, consultants and
contractors and the determination of their compensation and other terms of employment or hiring;
(viii) the maintenance of such insurance
25
for the benefit of the Partnership and the Partners (including, without limitation, the assets
of the Partnership) as it deems necessary or appropriate; (ix) the formation of, or acquisition of
an interest in, and the contribution of property and the making of loans to, any further limited or
general partnerships, joint ventures, corporations, limited liability companies or other
relationships; (x) the control of any matters affecting the rights and obligations of the
Partnership, including, without limitation, the bringing and defending of actions at law or in
equity and otherwise engaging in the conduct of litigation and the incurring of legal expense and
the settlement of claims and litigation; and (xi) the indemnification of any Person against
liabilities and contingencies to the extent permitted by law.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the MLP Agreement, the Delaware Act
or any applicable law, rule or regulation, each of the Partners hereby (i) approves, ratifies and
confirms the execution, delivery and performance by the parties thereto of the MLP Agreement, the
Underwriting Agreements, the Contribution Agreement, the agreements and other documents filed as
exhibits to the Registration Statements, and the other agreements described in or filed as a part
of the Registration Statements, and the engaging by any Affiliate of the General Partner in
business and activities (other than Restricted Activities) that are in direct competition with the
business and activities of the MLP, the Partnership, any OLP Subsidiary and any MLP Subsidiary;
(ii) agrees that the General Partner (on its own or through any officer of the Partnership) is
authorized to execute, deliver and perform the agreements referred to in clause (i) of this
sentence and the other agreements, acts, transactions and matters described in the Registration
Statements on behalf of the Partnership without any further act, approval or vote of the Partners;
and (iii) agrees that the execution, delivery or performance by the General Partner, the MLP, the
Partnership or any Affiliate of any of them of this Agreement or any agreement authorized or
permitted under this Agreement, or the engaging by any Affiliate of the General Partner in any
business and activities (other than Restricted Activities) that are in direct competition with the
business and activities of the MLP, the Partnership, any OLP Subsidiary and any MLP Subsidiary,
shall not constitute a breach by the General Partner of any duty that the General Partner may owe
the Partnership or the Limited Partners or any other Persons under this Agreement (or any other
agreements) or of any duty stated or implied by law or equity. The term Affiliate when used in
this Section 6.1(b) with respect to the General Partner shall not include the Partnership, the MLP,
any OLP Subsidiary or any MLP Subsidiary.
(c) Notwithstanding any provision of the Delaware Act or other applicable law, the Acquisition
General Partner shall not participate in the operation, management or control (within the meaning
of the Delaware Act) of the Partnerships business, transact any business in the partnerships name
or have the power to sign documents for other otherwise bind the Partnership.
SECTION 6.2
Certificate of Limited Partnership
.
The General Partner has caused the Certificate of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. to
be filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as required by the Delaware Act and
shall use all reasonable efforts to cause to be filed such other certificates or documents as may
be determined by the General Partner in its sole discretion to be reasonable and necessary or
appropriate for the formation, continuation, qualification and operation of a limited partnership
(or a partnership in which the Limited Partner has limited liability) in the State of Delaware or
any other state in which the Partnership may elect to do business or own property. To the extent
26
that such action is determined by the General Partner in its sole discretion to be reasonable
and necessary or appropriate, the General Partner shall file amendments to and restatements of the
Certificate of Limited Partnership and do all things to maintain the Partnership as a limited
partnership (or a partnership in which the Limited Partner has limited liability) under the laws of
the State of Delaware or of any other state in which the Partnership may elect to do business or
own property. Subject to the terms of Section 7.4(a), the General Partner shall not be required,
before or after filing, to deliver or mail a copy of the Certificate of Limited Partnership, any
qualification document or any amendment thereto to the Limited Partner.
SECTION 6.3
Restrictions on General Partners Authority.
(a) The General Partner may not, without written approval of the specific act by the Limited
Partner or by other written instrument executed and delivered by the Limited Partner subsequent to
the date of this Agreement, take any action in contravention of this Agreement, including, without
limitation, (i) any act that would make it impossible to carry on the ordinary business of the
Partnership, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement; (ii) possess Partnership property, or
assign any rights in specific Partnership property, for other than a Partnership purpose; (iii)
admit a Person as a Partner, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement; (iv) amend this
Agreement in any manner, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement; or (v) transfer its
interest as general partner of the Partnership, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement.
(b) Except as provided in Articles XIII and XV, the General Partner may not sell, exchange or
otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the Partnerships assets in a single transaction
or a series of related transactions without the approval of the Limited Partner; provided, however,
that this provision shall not preclude or limit the General Partners ability to mortgage, pledge,
hypothecate or grant a security interest in all or substantially all of the Partnerships assets
and shall not apply to any forced sale of any or all of the Partnerships assets pursuant to the
foreclosure of, or other realization upon, any such encumbrance.
(c) Unless approved by the Limited Partner, the General Partner shall not take any action or
refuse to take any reasonable action the effect of which, if taken or not taken, as the case may
be, would be to cause the Partnership to be treated as an association taxable as a corporation or
otherwise to be taxed as an entity for federal income tax purposes; provided that this
Section 6.3(c) shall not be construed to apply to amendments to this Agreement (which are governed
by Article XIV) or mergers or consolidations of the Partnership with any Person (which are governed
by Article XV).
(d) At all times while serving as the general partner of the Partnership, the General Partner
shall not (except as provided below) make any dividend or distribution on, or repurchase any shares
of, its stock or take any other action within its control unless it shall first receive an Opinion
of Counsel that the effect of such dividend, distribution, repurchase or other action would not
reduce its net worth below an amount such that the Partnership will be treated as an association
taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; provided, however, to the extent the
General Partner receives distributions of cash from the Partnership or any other partnership of
which the Partnership is, directly or indirectly, a partner, the General Partner shall not use such
cash to make any dividend or distribution on, or repurchase any shares of, its stock
27
or take any other action within its control if the effect of such dividend, distribution,
repurchase or other action would be to reduce its net worth below an amount necessary to receive an
Opinion of Counsel that the Partnership will be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes.
SECTION 6.4
Reimbursement of the General Partner.
(a) Except as provided in this Section 6.4 and elsewhere in this Agreement, the General
Partner shall not be compensated for its services as general partner of the Partnership.
(b) The General Partner shall be reimbursed on a monthly basis, or such other basis as the
General Partner may determine in its sole discretion, for (i) all direct and indirect expenses it
incurs or payments it makes on behalf of the Partnership (including, without limitation, salary,
bonus, incentive compensation and other amounts paid to any Person to perform services for the
Partnership or for the General Partner in the discharge of its duties to the Partnership) and (ii),
all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to the Partnership or otherwise reasonably
incurred by the General Partner in connection with operating the Partnerships business (including,
without limitation, expenses allocated to the General Partner by its Affiliates). The General
Partner shall determine the fees and expenses that are allocable to the Partnership in any
reasonable manner determined by the General Partner in its sole discretion. Reimbursements
pursuant to this Section 6.4 shall be in addition to any reimbursement to the General Partner as a
result of indemnification pursuant to Section 6.7.
SECTION 6.5
Outside Activities.
(a) After the Closing Date, the General Partner, for so long as it is the general partner of
the Partnership, (i) agrees that its sole business will be to act as the general partner of the
Partnership, the MLP, any OLP Subsidiary and any MLP Subsidiary and to undertake activities that
are ancillary or related thereto (including being a limited partner in the MLP), (ii) shall not
enter into or conduct any business or incur any debts or liabilities except in connection with or
incidental to (A) its performance of the activities required or authorized by this Agreement or the
MLP Agreement or described in or contemplated by the Registration Statements and (B) the
acquisition, ownership or disposition of partnership interests in the Partnership, the MLP, any OLP
Subsidiary and any MLP Subsidiary, except that, notwithstanding the foregoing, employees of the
General Partner may perform services for Ferrell and its Affiliates and (iii) shall not and shall
cause its Affiliates not to engage in any Restricted Activities.
(b) Except as described or provided for in the MLP Agreement, the Registration Statements or
Section 6.5(a), no Indemnitee shall be expressly or implicitly restricted or proscribed pursuant to
the MLP Agreement or this Agreement or the partnership relationship established hereby or thereby
from engaging in other activities for profit, whether in the businesses engaged in by the
Partnership, an OLP Subsidiary, the MLP or an MLP Subsidiary or anticipated to be engaged in by the
Partnership, an OLP Subsidiary, the MLP, an MLP Subsidiary or otherwise, including, without
limitation, in the case of any Affiliates of the General Partner those businesses and activities
(other than Restricted Activities) in direct competition with the business and activities of the
Partnership, the MLP, an OLP Subsidiary or an MLP Subsidiary or otherwise described in or
contemplated by the Registration Statements. Without
28
limitation of and subject to the foregoing each Indemnitee (other than the General Partner)
shall have the right to engage in businesses of every type and description and to engage in and
possess an interest in other business ventures of any and every type or description, independently
or with others, including, without limitation, in the case of any Affiliates of the General
Partner, business interests and activities (other than Restricted Activities) in direct competition
with the business and activities of the Partnership, the MLP, an OLP Subsidiary or an MLP
Subsidiary, and none of the same shall constitute a breach of this Agreement or any duty to the
Partnership, the MLP or any Partners. Neither the Partnership, the MLP, any Limited Partner nor
any other Person shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement or the MLP Agreement or the
partnership relationship established hereby or thereby in any business ventures of any Indemnitee
(subject, in the case of the General Partner, to compliance with Section 6.5(c)) and such
Indemnitees shall have no obligation to offer any interest in any such business ventures to the
Partnership, the MLP, any Limited Partner or any other Person.
(c) Subject to the terms of Sections 6.5(a) and (b) but otherwise notwithstanding anything to
the contrary in this Agreement, (i) the competitive activities of any Indemnitees (other than the
General Partner) are hereby approved by the Partnership and all Partners and (ii) it shall be
deemed not to be a breach of the General Partners fiduciary duty or any other Obligation of any
type whatsoever of the General Partner for the General Partner to permit an Affiliate of the
General Partner to engage, or for any such Affiliate to engage, in business interests or activities
(other than Restricted Activities) in preference to or to the exclusion of the Partnership.
(d) The term Affiliates when used in this Section 6.5 with respect to the General Partner
shall not include the Partnership, the MLP, an OLP Subsidiary or an MLP Subsidiary.
SECTION 6.6
Loans to and from the General Partner; Contracts with Affiliates.
(a) (i) The General Partner, the Limited Partner, an OLP Subsidiary or any of their Affiliates
may lend to the Partnership, and the Partnership may borrow, funds needed or desired by the
Partnership for such periods of time as the General Partner may determine and (ii) the General
Partner, the Limited Partner, an OLP Subsidiary or any Affiliate thereof may borrow from the
Partnership, and the Partnership may lend to such Persons, excess funds of the Partnership for such
periods of time and in such amounts as the General Partner may determine; provided, however, that
in either such case the lending party may not charge the borrowing party interest at a rate greater
than the rate that would be charged the borrowing party (without reference to the lending partys
financial abilities or guarantees) by unrelated lenders on comparable loans. The borrowing party
shall reimburse the lending party for any costs (other than any additional interest costs) incurred
by the lending party in connection with the borrowing of such funds. For purposes of this
Section 6.6(a) and Section 6.6(b), the term Partnership shall include any Affiliate of the
Partnership that is controlled by the Partnership.
(i) The General Partner may itself, or may enter into an agreement with any of its
Affiliates to, render services to the Partnership or to the General Partner in the discharge
of its duties as general partner of the Partnership. Any service rendered to the
Partnership by the General Partner or any of its Affiliates shall be on terms that are fair
and reasonable to the Partnership; provided, however, that the requirements of this
29
Section 6.6(b) shall be deemed satisfied as to (i) any transaction approved by Special
Approval, (ii) any transaction the terms of which are no less favorable to the Partnership
than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated third parties or (iii)
any transaction that, taking into account the totality of the relationships between the
parties involved (including other transactions that may be particularly favorable or
advantageous to the Partnership), is equitable to the Partnership. The provisions of
Section 6.4 shall apply to the rendering of services described in this Section 6.6(b).
(b) The Partnership may transfer assets to joint ventures, other partnerships, corporations,
limited liability companies or other business entities in which it is or thereby becomes a
participant upon such terms and subject to such conditions as are consistent with this Agreement
and applicable law.
(c) Neither the General Partner nor any of its Affiliates shall sell, transfer or convey any
property to, or purchase any property from, the Partnership, directly or indirectly, except
pursuant to transactions that are fair and reasonable to the Partnership; provided, however, that
the requirements of this Section 6.6(d) shall be deemed to be satisfied as to (i) the transactions
effected pursuant to Sections 4.2, the Contribution Agreement and any other transactions described
in or contemplated by the Registration Statements, (ii) any transaction approved by Special
Approval, (iii) any transaction the terms of which are no less favorable to the Partnership than
those generally being provided to or available from unrelated third parties or (iv) any transaction
that, taking into account the totality of the relationships between the parties involved (including
other transactions that may be particularly favorable or advantageous to the Partnership), is
equitable to the Partnership.
(d) The General Partner and its Affiliates will have no obligation to permit the Partnership,
an OLP Subsidiary or the MLP to use any facilities or assets of the General Partner and its
Affiliates, except as may be provided in contracts entered into from time to time specifically
dealing with such use, nor shall there be any obligation on the part of the General Partner or its
Affiliates to enter into such contracts.
(e) Without limitation of Sections 6.6(a) through 6.6(e), and notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in this Agreement, the existence of the conflicts of interest described in the
Registration Statements are hereby approved by all Partners.
SECTION 6.7
Indemnification.
(a) To the fullest extent permitted by law but subject to the limitations expressly provided
in this Agreement, the General Partner, any Departing Partner, any Person who is or was an officer
or director of the Partnership, the General Partner, or any Departing Partner and all other
Indemnitees shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Partnership from and against any and all
losses, claims, damages, liabilities, joint or several, expenses (including, without limitation,
legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, penalties, interest, settlements and other amounts
arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, in which any Indemnitee may be involved, or is threatened to be
involved, as a party or otherwise, by reason of its status as (i) the General Partner, a Departing
Partner or any of their Affiliates, (ii) an officer, director, employee, partner,
30
agent or trustee of the Partnership, the General Partner, any Departing Partner or any of
their Affiliates or (iii) a Person serving at the request of the Partnership in another entity in a
similar capacity, provided, that in each case the Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner
which such Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the
Partnership and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe its
conduct was unlawful; provided, further, no indemnification pursuant to this Section 6.7 shall be
available to the General Partner with respect to its obligations incurred pursuant to the
Contribution Agreement (other than obligations incurred by the General Partner on behalf of the
Partnership or the MLP). The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order,
settlement, conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere, or its equivalent, shall not create a
presumption that the Indemnitee acted in a manner contrary to that specified above. Any
indemnification pursuant to this Section 6.7 shall be made only out of the assets of the
Partnership, it being agreed that the General Partner shall not be personally liable for such
indemnification and shall have no obligation to contribute or loan any monies or property to the
Partnership to enable it to effectuate such indemnification.
(b) To the fullest extent permitted by law, expenses (including, without limitation, legal
fees and expenses) incurred by an Indemnitee who is indemnified pursuant to Section 6.7(a) in
defending any claim, demand, action, suit or proceeding shall, from time to time, be advanced by
the Partnership prior to the final disposition of such claim, demand, action, suit or proceeding
upon receipt by the Partnership of an undertaking by or on behalf of the Indemnitee to repay such
amount if it shall be determined that the Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified as
authorized in this Section 6.7.
(c) The indemnification provided by this Section 6.7 shall be in addition to any other rights
to which an Indemnitee may be entitled under any agreement, pursuant to any vote of the Partners,
as a matter of law or otherwise, both as to actions in the Indemnitees capacity as (i) the General
Partner, a Departing Partner or an Affiliate thereof, (ii) an officer, director, employee, partner,
agent or trustee of the Partnership, the General Partner, any Departing Partner or an Affiliate
thereof or (iii) a Person serving at the request of the Partnership in another entity in a similar
capacity, and as to actions in any other capacity (including, without limitation, any capacity
under the Underwriting Agreements), and shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to serve
in such capacity and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, successors, assigns and
administrators of the Indemnitee.
(d) The Partnership may purchase and maintain (or reimburse the General Partner or its
Affiliates for the cost of) insurance, on behalf of the General Partner and such other Persons as
the General Partner shall determine, against any liability that may be asserted against or expense
that may be incurred by such Person in connection with the Partnerships activities, regardless of
whether the Partnership would have the power to indemnify such Person against such liability under
the provisions of this Agreement.
(e) For purposes of this Section 6.7, the Partnership shall be deemed to have requested an
Indemnitee to serve as fiduciary of an employee benefit plan whenever the performance by it of its
duties to the Partnership also imposes duties on, or otherwise involves services by, it to the plan
or participants or beneficiaries of the plan; excise taxes assessed on an Indemnitee with respect
to an employee benefit plan pursuant to applicable law shall constitute
31
fines within the meaning of Section 6.7(a); and action taken or omitted by it with respect
to an employee benefit plan in the performance of its duties for a purpose reasonably believed by
it to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of the plan shall be deemed to be
for a purpose which is in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the Partnership.
(f) In no event may an Indemnitee subject the Limited Partner to personal liability by reason
of the indemnification provisions set forth in this Agreement.
(g) An Indemnitee shall not be denied indemnification in whole or in part under this
Section 6.7 because the Indemnitee had an interest in the transaction with respect to which the
indemnification applies if the transaction was otherwise permitted by the terms of this Agreement.
(h) The provisions of this Section 6.7 are for the benefit of the Indemnitees, their heirs,
successors, assigns and administrators and shall not be deemed to create any rights for the benefit
of any other Persons.
(i) No amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.7 or any provision hereof shall in
any manner terminate, reduce or impair the right of any past, present or future Indemnitee to be
indemnified by the Partnership, nor the obligation of the Partnership to indemnify any such
Indemnitee under and in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6.7 as in effect immediately
prior to such amendment, modification or repeal with respect to claims arising from or relating to
matters occurring, in whole or in part, prior to such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless
of when such claims may arise or be asserted.
SECTION 6.8
Liability of Indemnitees.
(a) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, no Indemnitee shall
be liable for monetary damages to the Partnership, the Limited Partner, or any other Persons who
have acquired interests in the Partnership, for losses sustained or liabilities incurred as a
result of any act or omission if such Indemnitee acted in good faith.
(b) Subject to its obligations and duties as General Partner set forth in Section 6.1 (a), the
General Partner may exercise any of the powers granted to it by this Agreement and perform any of
the duties imposed upon it hereunder either directly or by or through its agents, and the General
Partner shall not be responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any such agent
appointed by the General Partner in good faith.
(c) Any amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.8 or any provision hereof shall be
prospective only and shall not in any way affect the limitations on the liability to the
Partnership and the Limited Partner of the General Partner, its directors, officers and employees
and any other Indemnitees under this Section 6.8 as in effect immediately prior to such amendment,
modification or repeal with respect to claims arising from or relating to matters occurring, in
whole or in part, prior to such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless of when such claims
may arise or be asserted.
32
SECTION 6.9
Resolution of Conflicts of Interest.
(a) Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or the MLP Agreement, whenever a
potential conflict of interest exists or arises between the General Partner or any of its
Affiliates, on the one hand, and the Partnership, the MLP or the Limited Partner, on the other
hand, any resolution or course of action in respect of such conflict of interest shall be permitted
and deemed approved by the Limited Partner, and shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement, of
the MLP Agreement or of any agreement contemplated herein or therein, or of any duty stated or
implied by law or equity, if the resolution or course of action is, or by operation of this
Agreement is deemed to be, fair and reasonable to the Partnership. The General Partner shall be
authorized but not required in connection with its resolution of such conflict of interest to seek
Special Approval of a resolution of such conflict or course of action. Any conflict of interest
and any resolution of such conflict of interest shall be conclusively deemed fair and reasonable to
the Partnership if such conflict of interest or resolution is (i) approved by Special Approval,
(ii) on terms no less favorable to the Partnership than those generally being provided to or
available from unrelated third parties or (iii) fair to the Partnership, taking into account the
totality of the relationships between the parties involved (including other transactions that may
be particularly favorable or advantageous to the Partnership). The General Partner may also adopt
a resolution or course of action that has not received Special Approval. The General Partner
(including the Audit Committee in connection with Special Approval) shall be authorized in
connection with its determination of what is fair and reasonable to the Partnership and in
connection with its resolution of any conflict of interest to consider (A) the relative interests
of any party to such conflict, agreement, transaction or situation and the benefits and burdens
relating to such interest; (B) any customary or accepted industry practices and any customary or
historical dealings with a particular Person; (C) any applicable generally accepted accounting or
engineering practices or principles; and (D) such additional factors as the General Partner
(including such Audit Committee) determines in its sole discretion to be relevant, reasonable or
appropriate under the circumstances. Nothing contained in this Agreement, however, is intended to
nor shall it be construed to require the General Partner (including such Audit Committee) to
consider the interests of any Person other than the Partnership. In the absence of bad faith by
the General Partner, the resolution, action or terms so made, taken or provided by the General
Partner with respect to such matter shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement, the MLP
Agreement or any other agreement contemplated herein or a breach of any standard of care or duty
imposed herein or therein or under the Delaware Act or any other law, rule or regulation.
(b) Whenever this Agreement or any other agreement contemplated hereby provides that the
General Partner or any of its Affiliates is permitted or required to make a decision (i) in its
sole discretion or discretion, that it deems necessary or appropriate or under a grant of
similar authority or latitude, the General Partner or such Affiliate shall be entitled to consider
only such interests and factors as it desires and shall have no duty or obligation to give any
consideration to any interest of, or factors affecting, the Partnership, the MLP, an OLP
Subsidiary, the Limited Partner or any limited partner in the MLP, (ii) it may make such decision
in its sole discretion (regardless of whether there is a reference to sole discretion or
discretion) unless another express standard is provided for, or (iii) in good faith or under
another express standard, the General Partner or such Affiliate shall act under such express
standard and shall not be subject to any other or different standards imposed by this Agreement,
the MLP Agreement, any other agreement contemplated hereby or under the Delaware Act or
33
any other law, rule or regulation. In addition, any actions taken by the General Partner or
such Affiliate consistent with the standards of reasonable discretion set forth in the definition
of Available Cash shall not constitute a breach of any duty of the General Partner to the
Partnership or the Limited Partner. The General Partner shall have no duty, express or implied, to
sell or otherwise dispose of any asset of the Partnership or of an OLP Subsidiary, other than in
the ordinary course of business. No borrowing by the Partnership or the approval thereof by the
General Partner shall be deemed to constitute a breach of any duty of the General Partner to the
Partnership or the Limited Partner by reason of the fact that the purpose or effect of such
borrowing is directly or indirectly to (A) enable the holders of IDRs to receive distributions
under the MLP Agreement or increase the amount of any such distributions, (B) hasten the
termination of the Subordination Period under the MLP Agreement or (C) reduce the Cumulative
Common Unit Arrearage under the MLP Agreement in order to hasten the conversion of the
Subordinated Units in the MLP into Common Units.
(c) Whenever a particular transaction, arrangement or resolution of a conflict of interest is
required under this Agreement to be fair and reasonable to any Person, the fair and reasonable
nature of such transaction, arrangement or resolution shall be considered in the context of all
similar or related transactions.
SECTION 6.10
Other Matters Concerning the General Partner.
(a) The General Partner may rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting
upon any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent,
order, bond, debenture, or other paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been
signed or presented by the proper party or parties.
(b) The General Partner may consult with legal counsel, accountants, appraisers, management
consultants, investment bankers and other consultants and advisers selected by it, and any act
taken or omitted to be taken in reliance upon the opinion (including, without limitation, an
Opinion of Counsel) of such Persons as to matters that such General Partner reasonably believes to
be within such Persons professional or expert competence shall be conclusively presumed to have
been done or omitted in good faith and in accordance with such opinion.
(c) The General Partner shall have the right, in respect of any of its powers or obligations
hereunder, to act through any of its duly authorized officers and a duly appointed attorney or
attorneys-in-fact. Each such attorney shall, to the extent provided by the General Partner in the
power of attorney, have full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and duty that
is permitted or required to be done by the General Partner hereunder.
(d) Any standard of care and duty imposed by this Agreement or under the Delaware Act or any
applicable law, rule or regulation shall be modified, waived or limited as required to permit the
General Partner to act under this Agreement or any other agreement contemplated by this Agreement
and to make any decision pursuant to the authority prescribed in this Agreement so long as such
action is not reasonably believed by the General Partner to be in, or not inconsistent with, the
best interests of the Partnership.
34
SECTION 6.11
Title to Partnership Assets
.
Title to Partnership assets, whether real, personal or mixed and whether tangible or
intangible, shall be deemed to be owned by the Partnership as an entity, and no Partner,
individually or collectively, shall have any ownership interest in such Partnership assets or any
portion thereof. Title to any or all of the Partnership assets may be held in the name of the
Partnership, the General Partner, one or more of its Affiliates or one or more nominees, as the
General Partner may determine. The General Partner hereby declares and warrants that any
Partnership assets for which record title is held in the name of the General Partner or one or more
of its Affiliates or one or more nominees shall be held by the General Partner or such Affiliate or
nominee for the use and benefit of the Partnership in accordance with the provisions of this
Agreement; provided, however, that the General Partner shall use its reasonable efforts to cause
record title to such assets (other than those assets in respect of which the General Partner
determines that the expense and difficulty of conveyancing makes transfer of record title to the
Partnership impracticable) to be vested in the Partnership as soon as reasonably practicable;
provided that, prior to the withdrawal or removal of the General Partner or as soon thereafter as
practicable, the General Partner shall use reasonable efforts to effect the transfer of record
title to the Partnership and, prior to any such transfer, will provide for the use of such assets
in a manner satisfactory to the Partnership. All Partnership assets shall be recorded as the
property of the Partnership in its books and records, irrespective of the name in which record
title to such Partnership assets is held.
SECTION 6.12
Reliance by Third Parties
.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any Person dealing with the
Partnership shall be entitled to assume that the General Partner has full power and authority to
encumber, sell or otherwise use in any manner any and all assets of the Partnership and to enter
into any contracts on behalf of the Partnership, and such Person shall be entitled to deal with the
General Partner as if it were the Partnerships sole party in interest, both legally and
beneficially. The Limited Partner hereby waives any and all defenses or other remedies that may be
available against such Person to contest, negate or disaffirm any action of the General Partner in
connection with any such dealing. In no event shall any Person dealing with the General Partner or
its representatives be obligated to ascertain that the terms of this Agreement have been complied
with or to inquire into the necessity or expedience of any act or action of the General Partner or
its representatives. Each and every certificate, document or other instrument executed on behalf
of the Partnership by the General Partner or its representatives shall be conclusive evidence in
favor of any and every Person relying thereon or claiming thereunder that (a) at the time of the
execution and delivery of such certificate, document or instrument, this Agreement was in full
force and effect, (b) the Person executing and delivering such certificate, document or instrument
was duly authorized and empowered to do so for and on behalf of the Partnership and (c) such
certificate, document or instrument was duly executed and delivered in accordance with the terms
and provisions of this Agreement and is binding upon the Partnership.
35
ARTICLE VII
RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE LIMITED PARTNER
SECTION 7.1
Limitation of Liability
.
The Limited Partner shall have no liability under this Agreement except as expressly provided
in this Agreement or the Delaware Act.
SECTION 7.2
Management of Business
.
The Limited Partner, in its capacity as such, shall not participate in the operation,
management or control (within the meaning of the Delaware Act) of the Partnerships business,
transact any business in the Partnerships name or have the power to sign documents for or
otherwise bind the Partnership. The transaction of any such business by the Partnership, the
General Partner, any of its Affiliates or any officer, director, employee, partner, agent or
trustee of the General Partner or any of its Affiliates, in its capacity as such, shall not affect,
impair or eliminate the limitations on the liability of the Limited Partner under this Agreement.
SECTION 7.3
Return of Capital
.
The Limited Partner shall not be entitled to the withdrawal or return of its Capital
Contribution, except to the extent, if any, that distributions made pursuant to this Agreement or
upon termination of the Partnership may be considered as such by law and then only to the extent
provided for in this Agreement.
SECTION 7.4
Rights of the Limited Partner Relating to the Partnership.
(a) In addition to other rights provided by this Agreement or by applicable law, and except as
limited by Section 7.4(b), the Limited Partner shall have the right, for a purpose reasonably
related to the Limited Partners interest as a limited partner in the Partnership, upon reasonable
demand and at the Limited Partners own expense:
(i) to obtain true and full information regarding the status of the business and
financial condition of the Partnership;
(ii) promptly after becoming available, to obtain a copy of the Partnerships federal,
state and local tax returns for each year;
(iii) to have furnished to it, upon notification to the General Partner, a current list
of the name and last known business, residence or mailing address of each Partner;
(iv) to have furnished to it, upon notification to the General Partner, a copy of this
Agreement and the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all amendments thereto, together
with a copy of the executed copies of all powers of attorney pursuant to which this
Agreement, the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all amendments thereto have been
executed;
36
(v) to obtain true and full information regarding the amount of cash and a description
and statement of the Agreed Value of any other Capital Contribution by each Partner and
which each Partner has agreed to contribute in the future, and the date on which each became
a Partner; and
(vi) to obtain such other information regarding the, affairs of the Partnership as is
just and reasonable.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner may keep
confidential from the Limited Partner for such period of time as the General Partner deems
reasonable, any information that the General Partner reasonably believes to be in the nature of
trade secrets or other information the disclosure of which the General Partner in good faith
believes is not in the best interests of the Partnership or could damage the Partnership or that
the Partnership is required by law or by agreements with third parties to keep confidential (other
than agreements with Affiliates of the General Partner the primary purpose of which is to
circumvent the obligations set forth in this Section 7.4).
ARTICLE VIII
BOOKS, RECORDS, ACCOUNTING AND REPORTS
SECTION 8.1
Records and Accounting
.
The General Partner shall keep or cause to be kept at the principal office of the Partnership
appropriate books and records with respect to the Partnerships business, including, without
limitation, all books and records necessary to provide to the Limited Partner any information,
lists and copies of documents required to be provided pursuant to Section 7.4(a). Any books and
records maintained by or on behalf of the Partnership in the regular course of its business,
including, without limitation, books of account and records of Partnership proceedings, may be kept
on, or be in the form of, computer disks, hard drives, punch cards, magnetic tape, photographs,
micrographics or any other information storage device, provided, that the books and records so
maintained are convertible into clearly legible written form within a reasonable period of time.
The books of the Partnership shall be maintained, for financial reporting purposes, on an accrual
basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
SECTION 8.2
Fiscal Year
.
The fiscal year of the Partnership shall be August 1 to July 31.
ARTICLE IX
TAX MATTERS
SECTION 9.1
Preparation of Tax Returns
.
The General Partner shall arrange for the preparation and timely filing of all returns of
Partnership income, gains, deductions, losses and other items required of the Partnership for
federal and state income tax purposes and shall use all reasonable efforts to furnish, within 90
days of the close of each calendar year, the tax information reasonably required by the Partners
for federal and state income tax reporting purposes. The classification, realization and
37
recognition of income, gain, losses and deductions and other items shall be on the accrual
method of accounting for federal income tax purposes. The taxable year of the Partnership shall be
August 1 to July 31.
SECTION 9.2
Tax Elections
.
Except as otherwise provided herein, the General Partner shall, in its sole discretion,
determine whether to make any available election pursuant to the Code; provided, however, that the
General Partner shall make the election under Section 754 of the Code in accordance with applicable
regulations thereunder. The General Partner shall have the right to seek to revoke any such
election (including, without limitation, the election under Section 754 of the Code) upon the
General Partners determination in its sole discretion that such revocation is in the best
interests of the Limited Partner.
SECTION 9.3
Tax Controversies
.
Subject to the provisions hereof, the General Partner is designated the Tax Matters Partner
(as defined in Section 6231 of the Code), and is authorized and required to represent the
Partnership (at the Partnerships expense) in connection with all examinations of the Partnerships
affairs by tax authorities, including, without limitation, resulting administrative and judicial
proceedings, and to expend Partnership funds for professional services and costs associated
therewith. The Limited Partner agrees to cooperate with the General Partner and to do or refrain
from doing any or all things reasonably required by the General Partner to conduct such
proceedings.
SECTION 9.4
Organizational Expenses
.
The Partnership shall elect to deduct expenses, if any, incurred by it in organizing the
Partnership ratably over a 60-month period as provided in Section 709 of the Code.
SECTION 9.5
Withholding
.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner is authorized to
take any action that it determines in its sole discretion to be necessary or appropriate to cause
the Partnership to comply with any withholding requirements established under the Code or any other
federal, state or local law including, without limitation, pursuant to Sections 1441, 1442, 1445
and 1446 of the Code. To the extent that the Partnership is required to withhold and pay over to
any taxing authority any amount resulting from the allocation or distribution of income to any
Partner (including, without limitation, by reason of Section 1446 of the Code), the amount withheld
shall be treated as a distribution of cash pursuant to Section 5.3 in the amount of such
withholding from such Partner.
SECTION 9.6
Opinions of Counsel
.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, if the Partnership is treated as an
association taxable as a corporation at any time or is otherwise taxable for federal income tax
purposes as an entity at any time and, pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, an Opinion of
Counsel would otherwise be required to the effect that an action will not cause the Partnership
38
to become so treated as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise taxable as an
entity for federal income tax purposes, such requirement for an Opinion of Counsel shall be deemed
automatically waived.
ARTICLE X
TRANSFER OF INTERESTS
SECTION 10.1
Transfer.
(a) The term transfer, when used in this Article X with respect to a Partnership Interest,
shall be deemed to refer to a transaction by which a Partner disposes of its Partnership Interest
to another Person and includes a sale, assignment, gift, pledge, encumbrance, hypothecation,
mortgage, exchange or any other disposition by law or otherwise, provided, however, that the term
Transfer shall not include the pledge, encumbrance or hypothecation by a Limited Partner of its
Partnership Interest.
(b) No Partnership Interest shall be transferred, in whole or in part, except in accordance
with the terms and conditions set forth in this Article X. Any Transfer or purported transfer of a
Partnership Interest not made in accordance with this Article X shall be null and void.
(c) Nothing contained in this Article X shall be construed to prevent a disposition by the
parent entity of the General Partner of any or all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of
the General Partner.
SECTION 10.2
Transfer of the General Partners Partnership Interest
.
If the general partner of the MLP transfers its partnership interest as the general partner
therein to any Person in accordance with the provisions of the MLP Agreement, the General Partner
shall contemporaneously therewith transfer its Partnership Interest as the general partner of the
Partnership to such Person, and the Limited Partner hereby expressly consents to such transfer. A
Limited Partner may not transfer all or any part of its Partnership Interest or withdraw from the
Partnership except for (i) a transfer described in the immediately preceding sentence, (ii) the
transfer by Ferrellgas of its Partnership Interest as a Limited Partner in the Partnership to the
MLP as provided in the Contribution Agreement and contemplated by Sections 4.2 and 11.2, (iii) the
forced sale or other transfer of a Limited Partners Partnership Interest pursuant to the
foreclosure of, or other realization upon, any lien resulting from the pledge, encumbrance or
hypothecation of such Partnership Interest, or (iv) any transfer of a Limited Partners Partnership
Interest by a Person acquiring such Partnership Interest as a result of a sale or other transfer
described in the immediately preceding clause (iii), or any transfer by a transferee of any such
Person.
SECTION 10.3
Transfer of the Limited Partners Partnership Interest
.
If the Limited Partner merges, consolidates or otherwise combines into any other Person or
transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person, such Person may become a
Substituted Limited Partner pursuant to Article XI. Except as set forth in the immediately
preceding sentence and except for the transfer by Ferrellgas of its Partnership Interest as a
39
limited partner in the Partnership to the MLP as provided in the Contribution Agreement and
contemplated by Sections 4.2 and 11.2, a Limited Partner may not transfer all or any part of its
Partnership Interest or withdraw from the Partnership.
SECTION 10.4
Transfer of the Acquisition General Partners Partnership Interest
.
Except for the transfer by FAC of its Partnership Interest in the Partnership as the
Acquisition General Partner to Ferrellgas, FAC may not transfer all or any part of its Partnership
Interest.
ARTICLE XI
ADMISSION OF PARTNERS
SECTION 11.1
Admission of Initial Partners
.
Upon the formation of the Partnership pursuant to the filing of the Certificate of Limited
Partnership, Ferrellgas was admitted to the Partnership as the sole general partner and the MLP was
admitted to the Partnership as the sole limited partner.
SECTION 11.2
Admission of Ferrellgas as a Limited Partner
.
Upon the making by Ferrellgas of the Capital Contributions described in Section 4.2,
Ferrellgas was admitted to the Partnership as a limited partner. Upon the transfer by Ferrellgas
of its Partnership Interest as a limited partner to the MLP as provided in the Contribution
Agreement, Ferrellgas ceased to be a limited partner of the Partnership.
SECTION 11.3
Admission of Substituted Limited Partners
.
Any person that is the successor in interest to a Limited Partner as described in Section 10.3
shall be admitted to the Partnership as a limited partner upon (a) furnishing to the General
Partner (i) acceptance in form satisfactory to the General Partner of all of the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and (ii) such other documents or instruments as may be required to
effect its admission as a limited partner in the Partnership and (b) obtaining the consent of the
General Partner, which consent may be withheld or granted in the sole discretion of the General
Partner; provided, however, that this clause (b) shall not be applicable in the case of the
admission as a Limited Partner of a Person acquiring a Limited Partners Partnership Interest as a
result of a transfer described in clauses (iii) or (iv) of the second sentence of Section 10.3.
Such Person shall be admitted to the Partnership as a limited partner immediately prior to the
transfer of the Partnership Interest, and the business of the Partnership shall continue without
dissolution.
SECTION 11.4
Admission of Successor General Partner
.
A successor General Partner approved pursuant to Section 12.1 or 12.2 or the transferee of or
successor to all of the General Partners Partnership Interest as the general partner in the
Partnership pursuant to Section 10.2 who is proposed to be admitted as a successor General Partner
shall, subject to compliance with the terms of Section 12.3, if applicable, be admitted to the
Partnership as the successor General Partner, effective immediately prior to the withdrawal or
removal of the General Partner pursuant to Section 12.1 or 12.2 or the transfer of the General
40
Partners Partnership Interest as the general partner of the Partnership pursuant to
Section 10.2. Any such successor shall, subject to the terms hereof, carry on the business of the
Partnership without dissolution. In each case, the admission of such successor General Partner to
the Partnership shall, subject to the terms hereof, be subject to the successor General Partner
executing and delivering to the Partnership an acceptance of all of the terms and conditions of
this Agreement and such other documents or instruments as may be required to effect such admission.
SECTION 11.5
Amendment of Agreement and Certificate of Limited Partnership
.
To effect the admission to the Partnership of any Partner, the General Partner shall take all
steps necessary and appropriate under the Delaware Act to amend the records of the Partnership to
reflect such admission and, if necessary, to prepare as soon as practical an amendment of this
Agreement and, if required by law, to prepare and file an amendment to the Certificate of Limited
Partnership and may for this purpose, among others, exercise the power of attorney granted pursuant
to Section 1.4.
SECTION 11.6
Admission of Additional Limited Partners.
(a) A Person (other than the General Partner, the Initial Limited Partner or a Substituted
Limited Partner) who makes a Capital Contribution to the Partnership in accordance with this
Agreement shall be admitted to the Partnership as an Additional Limited Partner only upon
furnishing to the General Partner (i) evidence of acceptance in form satisfactory to the General
Partner of all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including, without limitation, the
granting of the power of attorney granted in Section 1.4, and (ii) such other documents or
instruments as may be required in the discretion of the General Partner to effect such Persons
admission as an Additional Limited Partner.
(b) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 11.6, no Person shall be admitted
as an Additional Limited Partner without the consent of the General Partner, which consent may be
given or withheld in the General Partners sole discretion. The admission of any Person as an
Additional Limited Partner shall become effective on the date upon which the name of such Person is
recorded as such in the books and records of the Partnership, following the consent of the General
Partner to such admission.
SECTION 11.7
Admission of FAC as the Acquisition General Partner
.
Upon the making by FAC of the Capital Contribution described in Section 4.2(c), FAC was
admitted to the Partnership as the Acquisition General Partner.
ARTICLE XII
WITHDRAWAL OR REMOVAL OF PARTNERS
SECTION 12.1
Withdrawal of the General Partner.
(a) The General Partner shall be deemed to have withdrawn from the Partnership upon the
occurrence of any one of the following events (each such event herein referred to as an Event of
Withdrawal);
41
(i) the General Partner voluntarily withdraws from the Partnership by giving written
notice to the Limited Partner;
(ii) the General Partner transfers all of its rights as General Partner pursuant to
Section 10.2;
(iii) the General Partner is removed pursuant to Section 12.2;
(iv) the general partner of the MLP withdraws from the MLP;
(v) the General Partner (A) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;
(B) files a voluntary bankruptcy petition; (C) files a petition or answer seeking for itself
a reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation, dissolution or
similar relief under any law; (D) files an answer or other pleading admitting or failing to
contest the material allegations of a petition filed against the General Partner in a
proceeding of the type described in clauses (A)-(C) of this Section 12.1(a)(v); or
(E) seeks, consents to or acquiesces in the appointment of a trustee, receiver or liquidator
of the General Partner or of all or any substantial part of its properties;
(vi) a final and non-appealable judgment is entered by a court with appropriate
jurisdiction ruling that the General Partner is bankrupt or insolvent, or a final and
non-appealable order for relief is entered by a court with appropriate jurisdiction against
the General Partner, in each case under any federal or state bankruptcy or insolvency laws
as now or hereafter in effect; or
(vii) a certificate of dissolution or its equivalent is filed for the General Partner,
or 90 days expire after the date of notice to the General Partner of revocation of its
charter without a reinstatement of its charter, under the laws of its state of
incorporation.
If an Event of Withdrawal specified in Section 12.1(a)(v), (vi) or (vii) occurs, the
withdrawing General Partner shall give notice to the Limited Partner within 30 days after such
occurrence. The Partners hereby agree that only the Events of Withdrawal described in this
Section 12.1 shall result in the withdrawal of the General Partner from the Partnership.
(b) Withdrawal of the General Partner from the Partnership upon the occurrence of an Event of
Withdrawal shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement under the following circumstances:
(i) at any time during the period beginning on the Closing Date and ending at 12:00
Midnight, Central Standard Time, on July 31, 2004 the General Partner voluntarily withdraws
by giving at least 90 days advance notice of its intention to withdraw to the Limited
Partner, provided, that prior to the effective date of such withdrawal the Limited Partner
approves such withdrawal and the General Partner delivers to the Partnership an Opinion of
Counsel (Withdrawal Opinion of Counsel) that such withdrawal (following the selection of
the successor General Partner) would not result in the loss of the limited liability of the
Limited Partner or cause the Partnership to be treated as an association
42
taxable as a corporation or otherwise to be taxed as an entity for federal income tax
purposes;
(ii) at any time on or after 12:00 Midnight, Central Standard Time, on July 31, 2004,
the General Partner voluntarily withdraws by giving at least 90 days advance notice to the
Limited Partner, such withdrawal to take effect on the date specified in such notice; or
(iii) at any time that the General Partner ceases to be the General Partner pursuant to
Section 12.1(a)(ii), (iii) or (iv). If the General Partner gives a notice of withdrawal
pursuant to Section 12.1(a)(i) or Section 13.1(a)(i) of the MLP Agreement, the Limited
Partner may, prior to the effective date of such withdrawal, elect a successor General
Partner, provided, that such successor shall be the same Person, if any, that is elected by
the limited partners of the MLP pursuant to Section 13.1 of the MLP Agreement as the
successor to the General Partner in its capacity as general partner of the MLP. If, prior
to the effective date of the General Partners withdrawal, a successor is not selected by
the Limited Partner as provided herein or the Partnership does not receive a Withdrawal
Opinion of Counsel, the Partnership shall be dissolved in accordance with Section 13.1. Any
successor General Partner elected in accordance with the terms of this Section 12.1 shall be
subject to the provisions of Section 11.4.
SECTION 12.2
Removal of the General Partner
.
The General Partner shall be removed if such General Partner is removed as a general partner
of the MLP pursuant to Section 13.2 of the MLP Agreement. Such removal shall be effective
concurrently with the effectiveness of the removal of such General Partner as the general partner
of the MLP pursuant to the terms of the MLP Agreement. If a successor to the General Partner in
its capacity as general partner of the MLP is elected in connection with the removal of such
General Partner as general partner of the MLP, as provided in the MLP Agreement, then the Limited
Partner shall elect such successor as the successor General Partner of the Partnership and such
successor shall, upon admission pursuant to Article XI, automatically become a successor General
Partner of the Partnership. The admission of any such successor General Partner to the Partnership
shall be subject to the provisions of Section 11.4.
SECTION 12.3
Interest of Departing Partner and Successor General Partner
.
The Partnership Interest of a Departing Partner departing as a result of withdrawal or removal
pursuant to Section 12.1 or 12.2 shall (unless it is otherwise required to be converted into Common
Units pursuant to Section 13.3(b) of the MLP Agreement) be purchased by the successor to the
Departing Partner for cash in the manner specified in the MLP Agreement. Such purchase (or
conversion into Common Units, as applicable) shall be a condition to the admission to the
Partnership of the successor as the General Partner. Any successor General Partner shall indemnify
the Departing General Partner as to all debts and liabilities of the Partnership arising on or
after the effective date of the removal of the Departing Partner.
43
SECTION 12.4
Reimbursement of Departing Partner
.
The Departing Partner shall be entitled to receive all reimbursements due such Departing
Partner pursuant to Section 6.4, including, without limitation, any employee-related liabilities
(including, without limitation, severance liabilities), incurred in connection with the termination
of any employees employed by such departing Partner for the benefit of the Partnership.
SECTION 12.5
Withdrawal of the Limited Partner
.
A Limited Partner shall not have the right to withdraw from the Partnership without the prior
consent of the General Partner, which may be granted or withheld in its sole discretion, provided,
however, that immediately following a transfer of a Limited Partners Partnership Interest
permitted under Section 11.3, the transferring Limited Partner shall cease to be a Limited Partner
with respect to the Partnership Interest so transferred.
SECTION 12.6
Withdrawal of the Acquisition General Partner
.
The Acquisition General Partner shall withdraw from the Partnership immediately following the
assignment of its general partner interest in the Partnership to Ferrellgas as provided in
Section 4.2(c).
ARTICLE XIII
DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION
SECTION 13.1
Dissolution
.
The Partnership shall not be dissolved by the admission of Substituted Limited Partners or
Additional Limited Partners or by the admission of a successor General Partner or the withdrawal of
the Acquisition General Partner in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. Upon the removal
or withdrawal of the General Partner any successor General Partner shall continue the business of
the Partnership. The Partnership shall dissolve and, subject to Section 13.2, its affairs should
be wound up, upon:
(a) the expiration of its term as provided in Section 1.5;
(b) an Event of Withdrawal of the General Partner as provided in Section 12.1(a) (other than
Section 12.1(a)(ii)), unless a successor is elected and an Opinion of Counsel is received as
provided in Section 12.1(b) or 12.2 and such successor is admitted to the Partnership pursuant to
Section 11.4;
(c) an election to dissolve the Partnership by the General Partner that is approved by the
Limited Partner;
(d) entry of a decree of judicial dissolution of the Partnership pursuant to the provisions of
the Delaware Act;
(e) the sale of all or substantially all of the assets and properties of the Partnership; or
44
(f) the dissolution of the MLP.
SECTION 13.2
Continuation of the Business of the Partnership after Dissolution
.
Upon (a) dissolution of the Partnership following an Event of Withdrawal caused by the
withdrawal or removal of the General Partner as provided in Section 12.1(a)(i) or (iii) and
following a failure of the Limited Partner to appoint a successor General Partner as provided in
Section 12.1 or 12.2, then within 90 days thereafter or (b) dissolution of the Partnership upon an
event constituting an Event of Withdrawal as defined in Section 12.1(a)(v), (vi) or (vii), then
within 180 days thereafter, the Limited Partner may elect to reconstitute the Partnership and
continue its business on the same terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement by forming a new
limited partnership on terms identical to those set forth in this Agreement and having as a general
partner a Person approved by the Limited Partner. In addition, upon dissolution of the Partnership
pursuant to Section 13.1(f), if the MLP is reconstituted pursuant to Section 14.2 of the MLP
Agreement, the reconstituted MLP may, within 180 days after such event of dissolution, as the
Limited Partner, elect to reconstitute the Partnership in accordance with the immediately preceding
sentence. Upon any such election by the Limited Partner, all Partners shall be bound thereby and
shall be deemed to have approved same. Unless such an election is made within the applicable time
period as set forth above, the Partnership shall conduct only activities necessary to wind up its
affairs. If such an election is so made, then:
(i) the reconstituted Partnership shall continue until the end of the term set forth in
Section 1.5 unless earlier dissolved in accordance with this Article XIII;
(ii) if the successor General Partner is not the former General Partner, then the
interest of the former General Partner shall be purchased by the successor General Partner
or converted into Common Units of the MLP as provided in the MLP Agreement; and
(iii) all necessary steps shall be taken to cancel this Agreement and the Certificate
of Limited Partnership and to enter into and, as necessary, to file a new partnership
agreement and certificate of limited partnership, and the successor General Partner may for
this purpose exercise the powers of attorney granted the General Partner pursuant to
Section 1.4; provided, that the right to approve a successor General Partner and to
reconstitute and to continue the business of the Partnership shall not exist and may not be
exercised unless the Partnership has received an Opinion of Counsel that (x) the exercise of
the right would not result in the loss of limited liability of the Limited Partner and
(y) neither the Partnership nor the reconstituted limited partnership would be treated as an
association taxable as a corporation or otherwise be taxable as an entity for federal income
tax purposes upon the exercise of such right to continue.
SECTION 13.3
Liquidation
.
Upon dissolution of the Partnership, unless the Partnership is continued under an election to
reconstitute and continue the Partnership pursuant to Section 13.2, the General Partner, or in the
event the General Partner has been dissolved or removed, become bankrupt as set forth in
Section 12.1 or withdrawn from the Partnership, a liquidator or liquidating committee approved
45
by the Limited Partner, shall be the Liquidator. The Liquidator (if other than the General
Partner) shall be entitled to receive such compensation for its services as may be approved by the
Limited Partner. The Liquidator shall agree not to resign at any time without 15 days prior
notice and (if other than the General Partner) may be removed at any time, with or without cause,
by notice of removal approved by the Limited Partner. Upon dissolution, removal or resignation of
the Liquidator, a successor and substitute Liquidator (who shall have and succeed to all rights,
powers and duties of the original Liquidator) shall within 30 days thereafter be approved by the
Limited Partner. The right to approve a successor or substitute Liquidator in the manner provided
herein shall be deemed to refer also to any such successor or substitute Liquidator approved in the
manner herein provided. Except as expressly provided in this Article XIII, the Liquidator approved
in the manner provided herein shall have and may exercise, without further authorization or consent
of any of the parties hereto, all of the powers conferred upon the General Partner under the terms
of this Agreement (but subject to all of the applicable limitations, contractual and otherwise,
upon the exercise of such powers, other than the limitation on sale set forth in Section 6.3(b)) to
the extent necessary or desirable in the good faith judgment of the Liquidator to carry out the
duties and functions of the Liquidator hereunder for and during such period of time as shall be
reasonably required in the good faith judgment of the Liquidator to complete the winding up and
liquidation of the Partnership as provided for herein. The Liquidator shall liquidate the assets
of the Partnership, and apply and distribute the proceeds of such liquidation in the following
order of priority, unless otherwise required by mandatory provisions of applicable law:
(a) the payment to creditors of the Partnership, including, without limitation, Partners who
are creditors, in the order of priority provided by law; and the creation of a reserve of cash or
other assets of the Partnership for contingent liabilities in an amount, if any, determined by the
Liquidator to be appropriate for such purposes; and
(b) to all Partners in accordance with the positive balances in their respective Capital
Accounts, as determined after taking into account all Capital Account adjustments (other than those
made by reason of this clause) for the taxable year of the Partnership during which the liquidation
of the Partnership occurs (with the date of such occurrence being determined pursuant to Treasury
Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(g));and such distribution shall be made by the end of such
taxable year (or, if later, within 90 days after said date of such occurrence).
SECTION 13.4
Distributions in Kind.
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13.3, which require the liquidation of the
assets of the Partnership, but subject to the order of priorities set forth therein, if prior to or
upon dissolution of the Partnership the Liquidator determines that an immediate sale of part or all
of the Partnerships assets would be impractical or would cause undue loss to the Partners, the
Liquidator may, in its absolute discretion, defer for a reasonable time the liquidation of any
assets except those necessary to satisfy liabilities of the Partnership (including, without
limitation, those to Partners as creditors) and/or distribute to the Partners or to specific
classes of Partners, in lieu of cash, as tenants in common and in accordance with the provisions of
Section 13.3, undivided interests in such Partnership assets as the Liquidator deems not suitable
for liquidation. Any such distributions in kind shall be made only if, in the good faith judgment
of the Liquidator, such distributions in kind are in the best interest of the Limited Partner, and
shall be subject to
46
such conditions relating to the disposition and management of such properties as the
Liquidator deems reasonable and equitable and to any agreements governing the operation of such
properties at such time. The Liquidator shall determine the fair market value of any property
distributed in kind using such reasonable method of valuation as it may adopt.
(b) In accordance with Section 704(c)(1)(B) of the Code, in the case of any deemed
distribution occurring as a result of a termination of the Partnership pursuant to
Section 708(b)(1)(B) of the Code, to the maximum extent possible consistent with the priorities of
Section 13.3, the General Partner shall have sole discretion to treat the deemed distribution of
Partnership assets to Partners as occurring in a manner that will not cause a shift of the Book Tax
Disparity attributable to a Partnership asset existing immediately prior to the deemed distribution
to another asset upon the deemed contribution of assets to the reconstituted Partnership,
including, without limitation, deeming the distribution of any Partnership assets to be made either
to the Partner who contributed such assets or to the transferee of such Partner.
SECTION 13.5
Cancellation of Certificate of Limited Partnership
.
Upon the completion of the distribution of Partnership cash and property as provided in
Sections 13.3 and 13.4 in connection with the liquidation of the Partnership, the Partnership shall
be terminated and the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all qualifications of the Partnership
as a foreign limited partnership in jurisdictions other than the State of Delaware shall be
cancelled and such other action as may be necessary to terminate the Partnership shall be taken.
SECTION 13.6
Reasonable Time for Winding Up
.
A reasonable time shall be allowed for the orderly winding up of business and affairs of the
Partnership and the liquidation of its assets pursuant to Section 13.3 in order to minimize any
losses otherwise attendant upon such winding up, and the provisions of this Agreement shall remain
in effect between the Partners during the period of liquidation.
SECTION 13.7
Return of Capital
.
The General Partner shall not be personally liable for, and shall have no obligation to
contribute or loan any monies or property to the Partnership to enable it to effectuate, the return
of the Capital Contributions of the Limited Partner, or any portion thereof, it being expressly
understood that any such return shall be made solely from Partnership assets.
SECTION 13.8
Capital Account Restoration
.
No Limited Partner shall have any obligation to restore any negative balance in its Capital
Account upon liquidation of the Partnership. The General Partner shall be obligated to restore any
negative balance in its Capital Account upon liquidation of its interest in the Partnership by the
end of the taxable year of the Partnership during which such liquidation occurs, or, if later,
within 90 days after the date of such liquidation.
SECTION 13.9
Waiver of Partition
.
Each Partner hereby waives any right to partition of the Partnership property.
47
ARTICLE XIV
AMENDMENT OF PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
SECTION 14.1
Amendment to be Adopted Solely by General Partner
.
The Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner agree that the General Partner
(pursuant to its powers of attorney from the Acquisition General Partner and the Limited Partner),
without the approval of the Acquisition General Partner or the Limited Partner, may amend any
provision of this Agreement, and execute, swear to, acknowledge, deliver, file and record whatever
documents may be required in connection therewith, to reflect:
(a) a change in the name of the Partnership, the location of the principal place of business
of the Partnership, the registered agent of the Partnership or the registered office of the,
Partnership;
(b) admission, substitution, withdrawal or removal of Partners in accordance with this
Agreement;
(c) a change that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, is necessary or appropriate
to qualify or continue the qualification of the Partnership as a limited partnership or a
partnership in which the limited partners have limited liability under the laws of any state or
that is necessary or advisable in the opinion of the General Partner to ensure that the Partnership
will not be treated as an association taxable as a corporation or otherwise taxed as an entity for
federal income tax purposes;
(d) a change (i) that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, does not adversely
affect the Acquisition General Partner or the Limited Partner in any material respect, (ii) that is
necessary or desirable to satisfy any requirements, conditions or guidelines contained in any
opinion, directive, order, ruling or regulation of any federal or state agency or judicial
authority or contained in any federal or state statute (including, without limitation, the Delaware
Act), compliance with any of which the General Partner determines in its sole discretion to be in
the best interests of the Partnership and the Limited Partner, (iii) that is required to effect the
intent of the provisions of this Agreement or is otherwise contemplated by this Agreement or (iv)
that is required to conform the provisions of this Agreement with the provisions of the MLP
Agreement as the provisions of the MLP Agreement may be amended, supplemented or restated from time
to time;
(e) a change in the fiscal year and taxable year of the Partnership and any changes that, in
the sole discretion of the General Partner, are necessary or appropriate as a result of a change in
the fiscal year and taxable year of the Partnership including, without limitation, if the General
Partner shall so determine, a change in the definition of Quarter and the dates on which
distributions are to be made by the Partnership;
(f) an amendment that is necessary, in the Opinion of Counsel, to prevent the Partnership or
the General Partner or its directors or officers from in any manner being subjected to the
provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940,
as amended, or plan asset regulations adopted under the Employee Retirement
48
Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, whether or not substantially similar to plan asset
regulations currently applied or proposed by the United States Department of Labor;
(g) any amendment expressly permitted in this Agreement to be made by the General Partner
acting alone;
(h) an amendment effected, necessitated or contemplated by a Merger Agreement approved in
accordance with Section 15.3;
(i) an amendment that, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, is necessary or
desirable to reflect, account for and deal with appropriately the formation by the Partnership of,
or investment by the Partnership in, any corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company or other entity, in connection with the conduct by the Partnership of activities permitted
by the terms of Section 3.1; or
(j) any other amendments substantially similar to the foregoing.
SECTION 14.2
Amendment Procedures
.
Except with respect to amendments of the type described in Section 14.1, all amendments to
this Agreement shall be made in accordance with the following requirements. Amendments to this
Agreement may be proposed only by or with the consent of the General Partner. Each such proposal
shall contain the text of the proposed amendment. A proposed amendment shall be effective upon its
approval by the Limited Partner.
ARTICLE XV
MERGER
SECTION 15.1
Authority
.
The Partnership may merge or consolidate with one or more corporations, business trusts or
associations, real estate investment trusts, common law trusts or unincorporated businesses,
including, without limitation, a general partnership or limited partnership, formed under the laws
of the State of Delaware or any other state of the United States of America, pursuant to a written
agreement of merger or consolidation (Merger Agreement) in accordance with this Article.
SECTION 15.2
Procedure for Merger or Consolidation
.
Merger or consolidation of the Partnership pursuant to this Article requires the prior
approval of the General Partner. If the General Partner shall determine, in the exercise of its
sole discretion, to consent to the merger or consolidation, the General Partner shall approve the
Merger Agreement, which shall set forth:
(a) The names and jurisdictions of formation or organization of each of the business entities
proposing to merge or consolidate;
(b) The name and jurisdictions of formation or organization of the business entity that is to
survive the proposed merger or consolidation (the Surviving Business Entity);
49
(c) The terms and conditions of the proposed merger or consolidation;
(d) The manner and basis of exchanging or converting the equity securities of each constituent
business entity for, or into, cash, property or general or limited partnership interests, rights,
securities or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity; and (i) if any general or limited
partnership interests, securities or rights of any constituent business entity are not to be
exchanged or converted solely for, or into, cash, property or general or limited partnership
interests, rights, securities or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity, the cash, property
or general or limited partnership interests, rights, securities or obligations of any limited
partnership, corporation, trust or other entity (other than the Surviving Business Entity) which
the holders of such general or limited partnership interests, securities or rights are to receive
in exchange for, or upon conversion of, their general or limited partner interests, securities or
rights, and (ii) in the case of securities represented by certificates, upon the Surrender of such
certificates, which cash, property or general or limited partnership interests, rights, securities
or obligations of the Surviving Business Entity or any general or limited partnership, corporation,
trust or other entity (other than the Surviving Business Entity), or evidences thereof, are to be
delivered;
(e) A statement of any changes in the constituent documents or the adoption of new constituent
documents (the articles or certificate of incorporation, articles of trust, declaration of trust,
certificate or agreement of limited partnership or other similar charter or governing document) of
the Surviving Business Entity to be effected by such merger or consolidation;
(f) The effective time of the merger, which may be the date of the filing of the certificate
of merger pursuant to Section 15.4 or a later date specified in or determinable in accordance with
the Merger Agreement (provided, that if the effective time of the merger is to be later than the
date of the filing of the certificate of merger, the effective time shall be fixed no later than
the time of the filing of the certificate of merger and stated therein); and
(g) Such other provisions with respect to the proposed merger or consolidation as are deemed
necessary or appropriate by the General Partner.
SECTION 15.3
Approval by Limited Partner of Merger or Consolidation.
(a) The General Partner of the Partnership, upon its approval of the Merger Agreement, shall
direct that a copy or a summary of the Merger Agreement be submitted to the Limited Partner for its
approval.
(b) The Merger Agreement shall be approved upon receiving the consent of the Limited Partner.
After such approval by the Limited Partner, and at any time prior to the filing of the certificate
of merger pursuant to Section 15.4, the merger or consolidation may be abandoned pursuant to
provisions therefor, if any, set forth in the Merger Agreement.
SECTION 15.4
Certificate of Merger
.
Upon the required approval by the General Partner, the Acquisition General Partner and the
Limited Partner of a Merger Agreement, a certificate of merger shall be executed and filed with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware in conformity with the requirements of the Delaware
Act.
50
SECTION 15.5
Effect of Merger.
(a) At the effective time of the Certificate of merger:
(i) all of the rights, privileges and powers of each of the business entities that has
merged or consolidated, and all property, real, personal and mixed, and all debts due to any
of those business entities and all other things and causes of action belonging to each of
those business entities shall be vested in the Surviving Business Entity and after the
merger or consolidation shall be the property of the Surviving Business Entity to the extent
they were of each constituent business entity;
(ii) the title to any real property vested by deed or otherwise in any of those
constituent business entities shall not revert and is not in any way impaired because of the
merger or consolidation;
(iii) all rights of creditors and all liens on or security interest in property of any
of those constituent business entities shall be preserved unimpaired; and
(b) all debts, liabilities and duties of those constituent business entities shall attach to
the Surviving Business Entity, and may be enforced against it to the same extent as if the debts,
liabilities and duties had been incurred or contracted by it.
SECTION 15.6
Transfer or Assignment of Assets or Liabilities
.
A merger or consolidation effected pursuant to this Article shall not be deemed to result in a
transfer or assignment of assets or liabilities from one entity to another having occurred.
ARTICLE XVI
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 16.1
Addresses and Notices
.
Any notice, demand, request or report required or permitted to be given or made to a Partner
under this Agreement shall be in writing, and shall be deemed given or made when received by it at
the principal office of the Partnership referred to in Section 1.3.
SECTION 16.2
References
.
Except as specifically provided otherwise, references to Articles and Sections are to
Articles and Sections of this Agreement.
SECTION 16.3
Pronouns and Plurals
.
Whenever the context may require, any pronoun used in this Agreement shall include the
corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms, and the singular form of nouns, pronouns and
verbs shall include the plural and vice versa.
51
SECTION 16.4
Further Action
.
The parties shall execute and deliver all documents, provide all information and take or
refrain from taking action as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this
Agreement.
SECTION 16.5
Binding Effect
.
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their
heirs, executors, administrators, successors, legal representatives and permitted assigns.
SECTION 16.6
Integration
.
This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the parties hereto pertaining to the
subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings pertaining thereto.
SECTION 16.7
Creditors
.
None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be for the benefit of, or shall be enforceable
by, any creditor of the Partnership.
SECTION 16.8
Waiver
.
No failure by any party to insist upon the strict performance of any covenant, duty, agreement
or condition of this Agreement or to exercise any right or remedy consequent upon a breach thereof
shall constitute waiver of any such breach or any other covenant, duty, agreement or condition.
SECTION 16.9
Counterparts
.
This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, all of which together shall constitute an
agreement binding on all the parties hereto, notwithstanding that all such parties are not
signatories to the original or the same counterpart. Each party shall become bound by this
Agreement immediately upon affixing its signature hereto, independently of the signature of any
other party.
SECTION 16.10
Applicable Law
.
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of
Delaware, without regard to the principles of conflicts of law.
SECTION 16.11
Invalidity of Provisions
.
If any provision of this Agreement is or becomes invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any
respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein
shall not be affected thereby.
[remainder of page intentionally left blank signature page follows]
52
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first
written above.
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GENERAL PARTNER:
FERRELLGAS, INC.
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By:
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/s/ Kevin T. Kelly
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Kevin T. Kelly
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Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer
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LIMITED PARTNER:
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
By: Ferrellgas, Inc.,
its general partner
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By:
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/s/ Kevin T. Kelly
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Kevin T. Kelly,
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Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer
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Third Amended and Restated LP Agreement of Ferrellgas, L.P.
Signature Page
Exhibit 4.4
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
Issuers
Trustee
Indenture
SENIOR DEBT SECURITIES
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THIS INDENTURE RELATING TO
SECTIONS 310 THROUGH 318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE
TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939:
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Trust Indenture
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Act Section
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Indenture Section
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§310(a)(1)
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609
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(a)(2)
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609
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(a)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(4)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(5)
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608; 609
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(b)
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608; 610
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(c)
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Not Applicable
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§311(a)
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613
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(b)
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613
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§312(a)
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701; 702
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(b)
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702
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(c)
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702
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§313(a)
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703
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(b)(1)
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Not Applicable
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(b)(2)
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703
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(c)
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703
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(d)
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703
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§314(a)
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704
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(b)
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Not Applicable
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(c)(1)
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102
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(c)(2)
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102
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(c)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(d)
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Not Applicable
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(e)
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102
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(f)
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Not Applicable
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§315(a)
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601, 603
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(b)
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602
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(c)
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601
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(d)
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601
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(e)
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514
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§316(a)
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101
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(a)(1)(A)
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502; 512
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(a)(1)(B)
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513
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(a)(2)
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Not Applicable
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(b)
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508
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(c)
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104
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§317(a)(1)
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503
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(a)(2)
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504
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(b)
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1003
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§318(a)
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107
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NOTE:
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This reconciliation and tie shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be a part of the
Indenture.
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-i-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
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ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
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1
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Section 101. Definitions
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1
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Section 102. Compliance Certificates and Opinions
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8
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Section 103. Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
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8
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Section 104. Acts of Holders; Record Dates
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9
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Section 105. Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
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10
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Section 106. Notice to Holders; Waiver
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10
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Section 107. Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
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11
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Section 108. Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
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11
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Section 109. Successors and Assigns
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11
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Section 110. Separateability Clause
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11
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Section 111. Benefits of Indenture
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11
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Section 112. Governing Law
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11
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Section 113. Legal Holidays
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12
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Section 114. Language of Notices, Etc.
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12
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Section 115. Interest Limitation
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12
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Section 116. Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees, Limited Partners or Shareholders
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13
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ARTICLE II SECURITY FORMS
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13
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Section 201. Forms Generally
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13
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Section 202. Form of Face of Security
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14
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Section 203. Form of Reverse of Security
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16
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Section 204. Global Securities
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21
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Section 205. Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
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22
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ARTICLE III THE SECURITIES
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22
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Section 301. Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
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22
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Section 302. Denominations
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26
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Section 303. Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
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26
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Section 304. Temporary Securities
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28
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Section 305. Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
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28
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-ii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 306. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
|
|
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30
|
|
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Section 307. Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
|
|
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31
|
|
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Section 308. Persons Deemed Owners
|
|
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32
|
|
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Section 309. Cancellation
|
|
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32
|
|
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Section 310. Computation of Interest
|
|
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33
|
|
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Section 311. CUSIP Numbers
|
|
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33
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|
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|
|
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ARTICLE IV SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
|
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33
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|
|
|
|
|
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Section 401. Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
|
|
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33
|
|
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Section 402. Application of Trust Money
|
|
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34
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|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE V REMEDIES
|
|
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34
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|
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Section 501. Events of Default
|
|
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34
|
|
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Section 502. Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
|
|
|
35
|
|
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Section 503. Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
|
|
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36
|
|
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Section 504. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
|
|
|
37
|
|
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Section 505. Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
|
|
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37
|
|
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Section 506. Application of Money Collected
|
|
|
37
|
|
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Section 507. Limitation on Suits
|
|
|
38
|
|
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Section 508. Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
|
|
|
38
|
|
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Section 509. Restoration of Rights and Remedies
|
|
|
38
|
|
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Section 510. Rights and Remedies Cumulative
|
|
|
39
|
|
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Section 511. Delay or Omission Not Waiver
|
|
|
39
|
|
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Section 512. Control by Holders
|
|
|
39
|
|
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Section 513. Waiver of Past Defaults
|
|
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39
|
|
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Section 514. Undertaking for Costs
|
|
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40
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE VI THE TRUSTEE
|
|
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40
|
|
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|
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Section 601. Certain Duties and Responsibilities
|
|
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40
|
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Section 602. Notice of Defaults
|
|
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41
|
|
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Section 603. Certain Rights of Trustee
|
|
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41
|
|
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Section 604. Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
|
|
|
42
|
|
-iii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
|
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Page
|
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Section 605. May Hold Securities
|
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43
|
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Section 606. Money Held in Trust
|
|
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43
|
|
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Section 607. Compensation and Reimbursement
|
|
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43
|
|
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Section 608. Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
|
|
|
44
|
|
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Section 609. Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
|
|
|
44
|
|
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Section 610. Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
|
|
|
44
|
|
|
Section 611. Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
|
|
|
45
|
|
|
Section 612. Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
|
|
|
46
|
|
|
Section 613. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
|
|
|
47
|
|
|
Section 614. Appointment of Authenticating Agent
|
|
|
47
|
|
|
Section 615 Force Majeure
|
|
|
48
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE VII HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Section 701. Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
Section 702. Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder.
|
|
|
49
|
|
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Section 703. Reports by Trustee
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
Section 704. Reports by Issuers
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE VIII CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
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Section 801. Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
Section 802. Successor Substituted
|
|
|
51
|
|
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ARTICLE IX SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
|
|
|
51
|
|
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Section 901. Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
Section 902. Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
|
|
|
52
|
|
|
Section 903. Execution of Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 904. Effect of Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
53
|
|
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Section 905. Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 906. Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE X COVENANTS
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Section 1001. Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
|
|
|
54
|
|
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Section 1002. Maintenance of Office or Agency
|
|
|
54
|
|
-iv-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
|
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Page
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Section 1003. Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
|
|
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54
|
|
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Section 1004. Statement by Officers as to Default
|
|
|
55
|
|
|
Section 1005. Existence
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
Section 1006. Waiver of Certain Covenants
|
|
|
56
|
|
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Section 1007. Limitation on Finance Corp.
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE XI REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
|
|
|
57
|
|
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|
|
|
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Section 1101. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
57
|
|
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Section 1102. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
|
|
|
57
|
|
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Section 1103. Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
Section 1104. Notice of Redemption
|
|
|
58
|
|
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Section 1105. Deposit of Redemption Price
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
Section 1106. Securities Payable on Redemption Date
|
|
|
58
|
|
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Section 1107. Securities Redeemed in Part
|
|
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59
|
|
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|
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|
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ARTICLE XII SINKING FUNDS
|
|
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59
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
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Section 1201. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
59
|
|
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Section 1202. Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
|
|
|
59
|
|
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Section 1203. Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
|
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ARTICLE XIII DEFEASANCE
|
|
|
60
|
|
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|
|
|
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Section 1301. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
60
|
|
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Section 1302. Legal Defeasance
|
|
|
60
|
|
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Section 1303. Covenant Defeasance
|
|
|
62
|
|
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Section 1304. Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
Section 1305. Repayment to Issuers
|
|
|
64
|
|
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Section 1306. Reinstatement
|
|
|
64
|
|
-v-
INDENTURE dated as of
, among FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (the
Partnership
), FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation
(
Finance Corp.
and, together with the Partnership, the
Issuers
), having their principal office
at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri, 64068, and
, as Trustee (the
"
Trustee
).
RECITALS
The Issuers have duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for
the issuance from time to time of their debentures, notes or other evidences of indebtedness (the
"
Securities
), to be issued in one or more series as provided in this Indenture.
All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Issuers, in accordance
with its terms, have been done.
This Indenture is subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are required to be
a part of this Indenture and, to the extent applicable, shall be governed by such provisions.
NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:
For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders (as
defined below) thereof, it is mutually agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all
Holders of the Securities or of any series thereof, as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
Section 101.
Definitions
For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the
context otherwise requires:
(1) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article and
include the plural as well as the singular;
(2) the following Trust Indenture Act terms used in this Indenture have the following
meanings:
indenture securities
means the Securities;
indenture security Holder
means a Holder of a Security;
indenture to be qualified
means this Indenture;
indenture trustee
or
institutional trustee
means the Trustee; and
obligor
on the Securities means the Issuers and any successor obligor upon
the Securities;
(3) all other terms used herein which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act or by Commission
rule under the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings
assigned to them therein;
(4) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as
otherwise herein expressly provided, the term
generally accepted accounting principles
with
respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles as
are generally accepted in the United States at the date of such computation;
(5) the words
herein
,
hereof
and
hereunder
and other words of similar import refer to
this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision; and
(6) the words
Article
and
Section
refer to an Article and Section, respectively, of this
Indenture.
Act
, when used with respect to any Holder, has the meaning specified in Section 104.
Affiliate
of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling
or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the
purposes of this definition,
control
when used with respect to any specified Person means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct, or cause the direction of, the
management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by
agreement or otherwise;
provided
that beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the voting securities
of a person shall be deemed to be control. For purposes of this definition, the terms
controlling,
controlled by
and
under common control with
have meanings correlative to the
foregoing.
Authenticating Agent
means any Person authorized by the Trustee pursuant to Section 614 to
act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of one or more series.
Bankruptcy Law
means Title 11, U.S. Code, or any similar federal or state law for the relief
of debtors.
Board of Directors
means:
(1) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the corporation;
(2) with respect to a partnership, the Board of Directors of the general
partner of the partnership; and
(3) with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such Person
serving a similar function.
-2-
Board Resolution
means resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors of each Issuer and
in full force and effect on the date certified and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to Section
201.
Business Day
, when used with respect to any Place of Payment or other location, means,
except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which
banking institutions in that Place of Payment or other location are authorized or obligated by law,
executive order or regulation to close.
Capital Interests
means any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other
equivalents (however designated) of capital stock, including, without limitation, with respect to
partnerships, partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any other interest or
participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of,
or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Commission
means the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted,
created under the Exchange Act or, if at any time after the execution of this instrument such
Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture
Act, then the body performing such duties at such time.
Corporate Trust Office
means the office of the Trustee at which at any particular time its
corporate trust business shall be principally administered, which at the date hereof is
.
covenant defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1303.
Custodian
means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator or similar official under any
Bankruptcy Law.
Default
means, with respect to a series of Securities, any event which is, or after notice
or lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default with respect to Securities of such
series.
Defaulted Interest
has the meaning specified in Section 307.
defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1302.
Definitive Security
means a Security other than a Global Security or a temporary Security.
Depositary
means, with respect to Securities of any series issuable in whole or in part in
the form of one or more Global Securities, a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act that
is designated to act as Depositary for such Securities as contemplated by Section 301, until a
successor Depositary shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter shall mean or include each Person which is then a Depositary hereunder,
and if at any time there is more than one such Person, shall be a collective reference to such
Persons.
-3-
Dollar
or
$
means the coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of
payment is legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.
Event of Default
has the meaning specified in Section 501.
Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and
any statute successor thereto.
Finance Corp.
means the Person named as Finance Corp. in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Finance Corp.
shall mean such successor Person.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
Global Security
means a Security in global form that evidences all or part of the Securities
of any series and is registered in the name of the Depositary for such Securities or a nominee
thereof.
Holder
means a Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Security Register.
Indebtedness
means any obligation created or assumed by any Person for the repayment of
money borrowed, any purchase money obligation created or assumed by such Person and any guarantee
of the foregoing, except that, for purposes of Section 801,
Indebtedness
has the meaning
specified in such Section.
Indenture
means this instrument as originally executed or as it may from time to time be
supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the
applicable provisions hereof, including, for all purposes of this instrument, and any such
supplemental indenture, the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are deemed to be a part of
and govern this instrument and any such supplemental indenture, respectively. The term
Indenture
also shall include the terms of particular series of Securities established as contemplated by
Section 301.
Interest
, when used with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security which by its terms
bears interest only after Maturity, means interest payable after Maturity.
Interest Payment Date
, when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of
an installment of interest on such Security.
Issuer Request
or
Issuer Order
means a written request or order signed on behalf of the
Issuers by two Officers of the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the
principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer.
Issuers
means the Partnership and Finance Corp.
Maturity
, when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of
such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or
-4-
herein provided, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for
redemption or otherwise.
Notice of Default
means a written notice of the kind specified in Section 501(3).
Officer
means, with respect to any Person, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer,
any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary or any Vice
President of such Person or, if such Person is a partnership, of the general partner of such
Person.
Officers Certificate
means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuers by two Officers of
the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer,
the treasurer or the principal accounting officer, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and
103 hereof.
Opinion of Counsel
means an opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and 103 hereof. The counsel may be an
employee of or counsel to the Issuers, any Subsidiary of the Issuers or the Trustee.
Operating Partnership
means Ferrellgas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
Original Issue Discount Security
means any Security which provides for an amount less than
the stated principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the
Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 502.
Outstanding
, when used with respect to Securities, means, as of the date of determination,
all Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:
(i) Securities theretofore canceled by the Trustee or delivered to the Trustee for
cancellation;
(ii) Securities for whose payment or redemption money in the necessary amount has been
theretofore deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than an Issuer) in trust or set
aside and segregated in trust by an Issuer (if such Issuer shall act as Paying Agent for the
Issuers) for the Holders of such Securities;
provided, however
, that, if such Securities are to be
redeemed, notice of such redemption has been duly given pursuant to this Indenture or provision
therefor has been made;
(iii) Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 306 or in exchange for or in lieu of
which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture, other than
any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof
satisfactory to it that such Securities are held by a bona fide purchaser in whose hands such
Securities are valid obligations of the Issuers; and
(iv) Securities, except to the extent provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, with respect to
which the Issuers have effected defeasance or covenant defeasance as provided in Article XIII;
-5-
provided, however
, that in determining whether the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or
waiver hereunder, (A) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security that shall be
deemed to be Outstanding shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable
as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Maturity thereof on such date
pursuant to Section 502, (B) the principal amount of a Security denominated in one or more
currencies or currency units other than U.S. dollars shall be the U.S. dollar equivalent of such
currencies or currency units, determined in the manner provided as contemplated by Section 301 on
the date of original issuance of such Security, of the principal amount (or, in the case of an
Original Issue Discount Security, the U.S. dollar equivalent (as so determined) on the date of
original issuance of such Security, of the amount determined as provided in Clause (A) above) of
such Security, and (C) Securities owned by an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities or
any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be
Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any
such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver, only Securities which
the Trustee knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded. Securities so owned as described in
Clause (C) above which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the
pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgees right so to act with respect
to such Securities and that the pledgee is not an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities
or any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor.
Partnership
means the Person named as the Partnership in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Partnership
shall mean such successor Person.
Paying Agent
means any Person authorized by the Issuers to pay the principal of or any
premium or interest on any Securities on behalf of the Issuers.
Periodic Offering
means an offering of Securities of a series from time to time, the
specific terms of which Securities, including, without limitation, the rate or rates of interest or
formula for determining the rate or rates of interest thereon, if any, the Stated Maturity or
Stated Maturities thereof, the original issue date or dates thereof, the redemption provisions, if
any, with respect thereto, and any other terms specified as contemplated by Section 301 with
respect thereto, are to be determined by the Issuers upon the issuance of such Securities.
Person
means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company, association, joint-stock company, trust, other entity, unincorporated organization or
government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Place of Payment
, when used with respect to the Securities of any series, means, unless
otherwise specifically provided for with respect to such series as contemplated by Section 301, the
office or agency of the Issuers in The City of New York and such other place or places where,
subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and any premium and interest on the
Securities of that series are payable as specified as contemplated by Section 301.
Predecessor Security
of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all
or a portion of the same Indebtedness as that evidenced by such particular
-6-
Security; and, for the purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered
under Section 306 in exchange for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security
shall be deemed to evidence the same Indebtedness as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Security.
Redemption Date
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed
for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.
Redemption Price
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at
which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture.
Regular Record Date
for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities
of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 301.
Securities
has the meaning stated in the first recital of this Indenture and more
particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.
Security Register
and
Security Registrar
have the respective meanings specified in Section
305.
Special Record Date
for the payment of any Defaulted Interest means a date fixed by the
Trustee pursuant to Section 307.
Stated Maturity
, when used with respect to the principal of any Security or any installment
of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date specified in such Security as the fixed
date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due
and payable.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person of which more than 50% of the
total voting power of the Capital Interests of such Person entitled (without regard to the
occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof
or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the partners Capital Interests (considering all
partners Capital Interests as a single class), is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or a combination
thereof.
Trust Indenture Act
means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in
effect on the date on which this Indenture is qualified under the Trust Indenture Act, except as
provided in Section 905.
Trustee
means the Person named as the Trustee in the first paragraph of this instrument
until a successor Trustee shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter
Trustee
shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee
hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person,
Trustee
as used with respect to
the Securities of any series shall mean each Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.
-7-
U.S. Government Obligations
means securities which are (i) direct obligations of the United
States for the payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or (ii) obligations of a
Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States,
the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the
United States, each of which are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof.
Section 102.
Compliance Certificates and Opinions
Upon any application or request by the Issuers to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking
any action under any provision of this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee an
Officers Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in
the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this
Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with, and an Opinion of Counsel in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such
counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been complied with. Each such
certificate shall comply with the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act and any other
requirements set forth in this Indenture.
Every Officers Certificate or Opinion of Counsel (except for certificates provided for in
Section 1004) shall include:
(1) a statement that each individual signing such certificate or opinion has read such
covenant or condition;
(2) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon
which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;
(3) a statement that, in the opinion of each such individual, he has made such examination or
investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not
such covenant or condition has been complied with; and
(4) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such individual, such condition or
covenant has been complied with.
Section 103.
Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion
of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by
the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document,
but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more
other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to
such matters in one or several documents.
Any certificate or opinion of an Officer of the Issuers may be based, insofar as it relates to
legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such
Officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion
or representations with respect to the matters upon which his certificate or opinion is based are
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erroneous. Any such certificate or opinion of counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to
factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an Officer or Officers of
the Issuers stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession
of the Issuers unless such counsel knows that the certificate or opinion or representations with
respect to such matters are erroneous.
Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests,
consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may,
but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.
Section 104.
Acts of Holders; Record Dates
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided or permitted by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and
evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed (either physically or by
means of a facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is
transmitted through the facilities of a Depositary) by such Holders in person or by an agent duly
appointed in writing; and, except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become
effective when such instrument or instruments are delivered (either physically or by means of a
facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is transmitted
through the facilities of a Depositary) to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly required,
to the Issuers. Such instrument or instruments (and the action embodied therein and evidenced
thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the
Act
of the Holders signing such instrument or
instruments. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent
shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 315 of the Trust
Indenture Act) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Issuers, if made in the manner provided
in this Section.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a Holder, including a Depositary that is a
Holder of a Global Security, may make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies, duly appointed in
writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders, and a Depositary that is a Holder
of a Global Security may provide its proxy or proxies to the beneficial owners of interests in any
such Global Security.
The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be
proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of a notary public or
other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual
signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution
is by a signer acting in a capacity other than his individual capacity, such certificate or
affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his authority. The fact and date of the
execution of any such instrument or writing or the authority of the Person executing the same, may
also be proved in any other manner which the Trustee deems sufficient.
The ownership, principal amount and serial numbers of Securities held by any Person, and the
date of commencement of such Persons holding the same, shall be proved by the Security Register.
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Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action of the
Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every
Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu
thereof in respect of anything done, omitted or suffered to be done by the Trustee or the Issuers
in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.
Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled hereunder to give or take any action
hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the
principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents each of which may do so
pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any different part of such principal amount.
The Issuers may set any day as the record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of
Outstanding Securities of any series entitled to give or take any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided or permitted by this Indenture to be
given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series, but the Issuers shall have no obligation to
do so. With regard to any record date set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding
Securities of the relevant series on such record date (or their duly appointed agents), and only
such Persons, shall be entitled to give or take the relevant action, whether or not such Holders
remain Holders after such record date.
Section 105.
Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or
other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or
filed with,
(1) the Trustee by any Holder or by the Issuers shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder if made in writing and actually received by the Trustee at its office at
, or at any other address previously furnished in writing by the
Trustee, or
(2) the Issuers by the Trustee or by any Holder shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class
postage prepaid, to the Partnership addressed to it at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068,
to the attention of the Chief Financial Officer, or at any other address previously furnished in
writing to the Trustee by the Issuers.
Section 106.
Notice to Holders; Waiver
Where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be
sufficiently given (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed,
first-class postage prepaid (if international mail, by air mail), to each Holder affected by such
event, at his address as it appears in the Security Register, not later than the latest date (if
any), and not earlier than the earliest date (if any), prescribed for the giving of such notice.
In any case where notice to Holders is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor
any defect in any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder shall affect the sufficiency of such
notice with respect to other Holders. Any notice mailed to a Holder in the manner herein
prescribed shall be
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conclusively deemed to have been received by such Holder, whether or not such Holder actually
receives such notice.
Where this Indenture provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing
by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver
shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the
Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in
reliance upon such waiver.
In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service or by reason of any other cause it
shall be impracticable to give such notice by mail, then such notification as shall be made with
the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient notification for every purpose hereunder.
Section 107.
Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
If any provision hereof limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Trust Indenture
Act that is required under such Act to be a part of and govern this Indenture, the latter provision
shall control. If any provision of this Indenture modifies or excludes any provision of the Trust
Indenture Act that may be so modified or excluded, the latter provision shall be deemed to apply to
this Indenture as so modified or excluded, as the case may be.
Section 108.
Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
The Article and Section headings herein and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and
shall not affect the construction hereof.
Section 109.
Successors and Assigns
All covenants and agreements in this Indenture by the Issuers shall bind their successors and
assigns, whether so expressed or not.
Section 110.
Separateability Clause
In case any provision in this Indenture or in the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in
any way be affected or impaired thereby.
Section 111.
Benefits of Indenture
Nothing in this Indenture or in the Securities, express or implied, shall give to any Person,
other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder and Holders, any benefit or any legal or
equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.
Section 112.
Governing Law
This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the
law of the State of New York.
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Section 113.
Legal Holidays
In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity of any
Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other
provision of this Indenture or of the Securities (other than a provision of the Securities of any
series which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section)) payment
of interest or principal (and premium, if any) need not be made at such Place of Payment on such
date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment with the same
force and effect as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated
Maturity,
provided
that no interest shall accrue for the period from and after such Interest
Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity, as the case may be.
Section 114.
Language of Notices, Etc.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act required or
permitted under this Indenture shall be in the English language, except that any published notice
may be in an official language of the country of publication.
Section 115.
Interest Limitation
It is the intention of the Issuers to conform strictly to all applicable usury laws and any
subsequent revisions, repeals or judicial interpretations thereof. Accordingly, if the
transactions contemplated hereby would be usurious under any applicable law then, in that event,
notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Securities or this Indenture, it is agreed as
follows: (i) the aggregate of all consideration which constitutes interest under applicable law
with respect to a Security shall under no circumstances exceed the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall have been paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to
the extent permitted by applicable law; and (ii) in the event that the maturity of any Security is
accelerated or in the event of any redemption of such Security, then such consideration that
constitutes interest under applicable law may never include more than the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall be paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to the
extent permitted by applicable law. All calculations made to compute the rate of interest with
respect to a Security for the purpose of determining whether such rate exceeds the maximum amount
allowed by applicable law shall be made, to the extent permitted by such applicable law, by
allocating and spreading during the period of the full stated term of such Security all interest
any time contracted for, taken, reserved, charged or received by such Holder or by the Trustee on
behalf of any such Holder in connection therewith so that the amount or rate of interest charged
for any and all periods of time during the term of the Security does not exceed the maximum amount
or rate of interest allowed to be charged by law during the relevant period of time.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, if at any time applicable laws shall be changed so as to
permit a higher rate or amount of interest to be charged than that permitted prior to such change,
then unless prohibited by law, references in this Indenture or any Security to applicable law
when used in the context of determining the maximum interest or rate of interest that can be
charged shall be deemed to refer to such applicable law as so amended to allow the greater amount
or rate of interest.
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The right to accelerate maturity of any Security does not include the right to accelerate any
interest which has not otherwise accrued to the date of such acceleration, provided, however, that
the foregoing shall not prohibit the continuing accrual after acceleration of interest in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and such Security.
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Section 116.
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Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees, Limited
Partners or Shareholders
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Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General Partner),
and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General Partner. The
Trustee agrees, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance thereof will be deemed to have
agreed, in this Indenture that the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers
and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuers under this
Indenture or such Securities.
No limited partner of the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or
stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any
obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture or the Securities or any claim based on, in respect
of or by reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the
federal securities laws and it is the view of the Commission that such waiver is against public
policy.
The agreements set forth in this Section are part of the consideration for the issuance of the
Securities.
ARTICLE II
SECURITY FORMS
Section 201.
Forms Generally
The Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form set forth in this Article, or
in such other form as shall be established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or in one or more
indentures supplemental hereto, in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions,
substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture, and may have
such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed
thereon as may be required to comply with applicable laws or the rules of any securities exchange
or automated quotation system on which the Securities of such series may be listed or traded or of
any Depositary therefor or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the Officers executing
such Securities, as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the form of Securities of
any series is established by action taken pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate
record of such action shall be certified by an authorized Officer or other authorized Person on
behalf of each Issuer and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Issuer Order
contemplated by Section 303 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities. Any form of
Security approved by or pursuant to a Board Resolution must be
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acceptable as to form by the Trustee, such acceptance to be evidenced by the Trustees
authentication of Securities in that form.
The Definitive Securities shall be printed, lithographed or engraved on steel engraved borders
or may be produced in any other manner, all as determined by the Officers executing such
Securities, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
Section 202.
Form of Face of Security
.
[Insert any legend required by the United States Internal Revenue Code and the regulations
thereunder.]
[
If a Global Security,insert legend required by Section 204 of the Indenture] [If applicable,
insert
UNLESS THIS SECURITY IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST
COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION, TO THE ISSUERS OR THEIR AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER,
EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY SECURITY ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER
NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY (AND ANY
PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE
OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL IN AS MUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO.,
HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
[TITLE OF SECURITY]
[CUSIP No. ]
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (herein called the Partnership,
which term includes any successor person under the Indenture hereinafter referred to), and
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation (herein called Finance Corp., which
term includes any successor Person under the Indenture, and, together with the Partnership, herein
called the Issuers), for value received, hereby promises to pay to , or
registered assigns, the principal sum of United States Dollars [state
other currency] on [if the Security is to bear interest prior to Maturity,
insert, and to pay interest thereon from , or from the most recent Interest Payment
Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for, semi-annually on and
in each year, commencing , at the rate of % per annum,
until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment [if applicable, insert, and at
the rate of % per annum on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue installment
of interest]. [If applicable, insert The amount of interest payable for any period shall be
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computed on the basis of twelve 30-day months and a 360-day year. The amount of interest
payable for any partial period shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day
months and the days elapsed in any partial month. In the event that any date on which interest is
payable on this Security is not a Business Day, then a payment of the interest payable on such date
will be made on the next succeeding day which is a Business Day (and without any interest or other
payment in respect of any such delay) with the same force and effect as if made on the date the
payment was originally payable. A Business Day shall mean, when used with respect to any Place
of Payment, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which
banking institutions in that Place of Payment are authorized or obligated by law, executive order
or regulation to close.] The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any
Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this
Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the
Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the or
(whether or not a Business Day), as the case may be, next preceding such
Interest Payment Date. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to
the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the
close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be fixed
by the Trustee, notice of which shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not less
than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner
not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on
which the Securities of this series may be listed or traded, and upon such notice as may be
required by such exchange or automated quotation system, all as more fully provided in the
Indenture].
[If the Security is not to bear interest prior to Maturity, insertThe principal of this
Security shall not bear interest except in the case of a default in payment of principal upon
acceleration, upon redemption or at Stated Maturity and in such case the overdue principal of this
Security shall bear interest at the rate of % per annum, which shall accrue from the date
of such default in payment to the date payment of such principal has been made or duly provided
for. Interest on any overdue principal shall be payable on demand. Any such interest on any
overdue principal that is not so paid on demand shall bear interest at the rate of % per
annum, which shall accrue from the date of such demand for payment to the date payment of such
interest has been made or duly provided for, and such interest shall also be payable on demand.]
[If a Global Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made by transfer of immediately
available funds to a bank account in designated by the Holder in such
coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for
payment of public and private debts [state other currency].]
[If a Definitive Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made at the office or agency of the
Issuers maintained for that purpose in , [in such coin or
currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of
public and private debts] [state other currency] [or subject to any laws or regulations applicable
thereto and
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to the right of the Issuers (as provided in the Indenture) to rescind the designation of any
such Paying Agent, at the [main] offices of in and
in , or at such other offices or agencies as the Issuers may
designate, by [United States Dollar] [state other currency] check drawn on, or transfer to a
[United States Dollar] account maintained by the payee with, a bank in The City of New York
[ ] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper transfer
instructions in writing at least [ ] days prior to the payment date)] [if applicable,
insert;
provided, however
, that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Issuers by
[United States Dollar] [state other currency] check mailed to the addresses of the Persons entitled
thereto as such addresses shall appear in the Security Register] [or by transfer to a [United
States Dollar] [state other currency] account maintained by the payee with a bank in The City of
New York [state other Place of Payment] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper
transfer instructions in writing by the Record Date prior to the applicable Interest Payment
Date)].]
Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse
hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at
this place.
Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to
on the reverse hereof by manual signature, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under
the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuers have caused this instrument to be duly executed.
Dated:
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.,
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Section 203.
Form of Reverse of Security
This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Issuers (the
Securities), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture dated as of
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(the Indenture), among the Issuers and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee, which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and
all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective
rights, limitations of rights, obligations, duties and immunities thereunder of the Issuers, the
Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are
to be, authenticated and delivered. As provided in the Indenture, the Securities may be issued in
one or more series, which different series may be issued in various aggregate principal amounts,
may mature at different times, may bear interest, if any, at different rates, may be subject to
different redemption provisions, if any, may be subject to different sinking, purchase or analogous
funds, if any, may be subject to different covenants and Events of Default and may otherwise vary
as in the Indenture provided or permitted. This Security is one of the series designated on the
face hereof [if applicable, insert, limited in aggregate principal amount to U.S.$ ].
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, [if applicable, insert(1) on in any year
commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking
fund for this series at a Redemption Price equal to 100% of the principal amount, and (2)] at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after , ], as a whole or in part, at the
election of the Issuers, at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the
principal amount): If redeemed [if applicable, inserton or before , %, and
if redeemed] during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Year
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Redemption Price
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Year
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Redemption Price
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in the
case of any such redemption [if applicable, insert(whether through operation of the sinking fund
or otherwise)] with accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated
Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities,
or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record
Dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, (1) on in any year commencing
with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for
this series at the Redemption Prices for redemption through operation of the sinking fund
(expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below, and (2) at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after ], as a whole or in part, at the election
of the Issuers, at the Redemption Prices for redemption otherwise than through operation of the
sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below: If
redeemed during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Otherwise
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Redemption Through
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Than Through Operation
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Year
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Operation of the Sinking Fund
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of the Sinking Fund
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in
the case of any such redemption (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise) with
accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated Maturity is on or
prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities, or one or more
Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record Dates referred to
on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe sinking fund for this series provides for the redemption on
in each year beginning with the year and ending with the year of
[if applicable,not less than $ (mandatory sinking fund) and not more than]
$ aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series. Securities of this series
acquired or redeemed by the Issuers otherwise than through [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund
payments may be credited against subsequent [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund payments
otherwise required to be made [if applicable,in the inverse order in which they become due].]
[If the Security is subject to redemption in part of any kind, insertIn the event of
redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like
tenor for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of the Holder hereof upon the
cancellation hereof.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are not redeemable prior to Stated
Maturity.]
[If the Security is not an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default
with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture.]
[If the Security is an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default with
respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, an amount of principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture. Such amount shall be equal toinsert formula for determining the
amount. Upon payment (1) of the amount of principal so declared due and payable, and (2) of
interest on any overdue principal and overdue interest, all of the Issuers obligations in respect
of the payment of the principal of and interest, if any, on the Securities of this series shall
terminate.]
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The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and
the modification of the rights and obligations of the Issuer and the rights of the Holders of the
Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Issuers and the
Trustee with the consent of not less than the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of all series to be affected (voting as one class). The Indenture
also contains provisions permitting the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of all affected series (voting as one class), on behalf of the Holders of
all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Issuers with certain provisions of the
Indenture. The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the Holders of a
majority in principal amount of Securities of any series then Outstanding to waive past defaults
under the Indenture with respect to such series and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver
by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future
Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in
exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon
this Security.
As provided in and subject to the provisions of the Indenture, the Holder of this Security
shall not have the right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for the
appointment of a receiver or trustee or for any other remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall
have previously given the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to
the Securities of this series, the Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the
Securities of this series at the time Outstanding shall have made written request to the Trustee to
institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default as Trustee and offered the Trustee
reasonable indemnity and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in
principal amount of Securities of this series at the time Outstanding a direction inconsistent with
such request, and shall have failed to institute any such proceeding, for 60 days after receipt of
such notice, request and offer of indemnity. The foregoing shall not apply to any suit instituted
by the Holder of this Security for the enforcement of any payment of principal hereof or [any
premium or] interest hereon on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.
No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture
shall, without the consent of the Holder, alter or impair the obligation of the Issuers, which is
absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and [any premium and] interest on this Security
at the times, place(s) and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, except for Section
115 of the Indenture (which limits interest to the maximum amount permissible by law), the
provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[If a Global Security, insertThis Global Security or portion hereof may not be exchanged for
Definitive Securities of this series except in the limited circumstances provided in the Indenture.
The holders of beneficial interests in this Global Security will not be entitled to receive
physical delivery of Definitive Securities except as described in the Indenture and will not be
considered the Holders thereof for any purpose under the Indenture.]
[If a Definitive Security, insertAs provided in the Indenture and subject to certain
limitations therein set forth, the transfer of this Security is registerable in the Security
Register,
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upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of the
Issuers in [if applicable, insert any place where the principal of and any premium and interest
on this Security are payable] [if applicable, insert The City of New York [, or, subject to any
laws or regulations applicable thereto and to the right of the Issuers (limited as provided in the
Indenture) to rescind the designation of any such transfer agent, at the [main] offices of
in and in or at such
other offices or agencies as the Issuers may designate]], duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a
written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or
more new Securities of this series and of like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same
aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.]
The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without coupons in
denominations of U.S.$ [state other currency] and any integral multiple thereof. As provided in
the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this series are
exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series and of like tenor
of a different authorized denomination, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.
No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the
Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge
payable in connection therewith.
Prior to due presentment of this Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this
Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is
overdue, and neither the Issuers, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General Partner),
and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General Partner. The
Trustee has agreed, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance hereof will be deemed to have
agreed, in the Indenture that the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers
and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuers under the
Indenture or such Securities, including this Security. No limited partner of the Partnership or
director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp.,
as such, will have any liability for any obligations of the Issuers under the Indenture or such
Securities, including this Security or any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of, such
obligations. Each Holder of a Security, including this Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability.
The Indenture contains provisions that relieve the Issuers from the obligation to comply with
certain restrictive covenants in the Indenture and for satisfaction and discharge at any time of
the entire indebtedness upon compliance by the Issuers with certain conditions set forth in the
Indenture.
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This Security shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of
New York.
All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings
assigned to them in the Indenture.
[If a Definitive Security, insert as a separate page
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto
(Please Print or Typewrite Name and Address of Assignee) the
within instrument of FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. and FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. and does
hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint
Attorney to transfer said
instrument on the books of the within-named Issuers, with full power of substitution in the
premises.
Please Insert Social Security or
Other Identifying Number of Assignee:
|
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Signature Guarantee:
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|
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(Participant in a Recognized Signature
Guaranty Medallion Program)
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NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the
face of the within instrument in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change
whatever.]
Section 204.
Global Securities
Every Global Security authenticated and delivered hereunder shall bear a legend in
substantially the following form:
THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE HEREINAFTER
REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF A DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF.
THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED TO, OR REGISTERED OR EXCHANGED FOR SECURITIES
REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF, ANY PERSON OTHER THAN THE DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF
AND NO SUCH TRANSFER MAY BE REGISTERED, EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES
DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE. EVERY SECURITY AUTHENTICATED AND DELIVERED UPON
REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR OR IN LIEU OF, THIS SECURITY SHALL
BE A GLOBAL SECURITY SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING, EXCEPT IN SUCH LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES.
-21-
If Securities of a series are issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global
Securities, as contemplated by Section 301, then, notwithstanding Clause (9) of Section 301 and the
provisions of Section 302, any Global Security shall represent such of the Outstanding Securities
of such series as shall be specified therein and may provide that it shall represent the aggregate
amount of Outstanding Securities from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate amount
of Outstanding Securities represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as the
case may be, to reflect exchanges. Any endorsement of a Global Security to reflect the amount, or
any reduction or increase in the amount, of Outstanding Securities represented thereby shall be
made in such manner and upon instructions given by such Person or Persons as shall be specified
therein or in an Issuer Order. Subject to the provisions of Sections 303, 304 and 305, the Trustee
shall deliver and redeliver any Global Security in the manner and upon instructions given by the
Person or Persons specified therein or in the applicable Issuer Order. Any instructions by the
Issuers with respect to endorsement or delivery or redelivery of a Global Security shall be in an
Issuer Order (which need not comply with Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of
Counsel).
The provisions of the last sentence of Section 303 shall apply to any Security represented by
a Global Security if such Security was never issued and sold by the Issuers and the Issuers deliver
to the Trustee the Global Security together with an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) with regard to the reduction or
increase, as the case may be, in the principal amount of Securities represented thereby, together
with the written statement contemplated by the last sentence of Section 303.
Section 205.
Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
The Trustees certificates of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
ARTICLE III
THE SECURITIES
Section 301.
Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under
this Indenture is unlimited.
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The Securities may be issued in one or more series. There shall be established in or pursuant
to a Board Resolution (and, subject to Section 303, to the extent established pursuant to rather
than set forth in a Board Resolution, in an Officers Certificate or Issuer Order setting forth, or
determining the manner of, such establishment) or established in one or more indentures
supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of Securities of any series,
(1) the form and title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities
of the series from Securities of any other series);
(2) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series which may be
authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered
upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of the series
pursuant to Section 304, 305, 306, 906 or 1107 and except for any Securities which, pursuant to
Section 303, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder);
(3) the Person to whom any interest on a Security of the series shall be payable, if other
than the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered
at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest;
(4) the date or dates on which the Securities will be issued and on which the principal of,
and premium, if any, on the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination
thereof;
(5) the rate or rates (which may be fixed or variable) at which the Securities of the series
shall bear interest, if any, or the method of determination thereof, the date or dates from which
such interest shall accrue, or the method of determination thereof, the Interest Payment Dates on
which any such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date for any interest payable on
any Interest Payment Date;
(6) the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and
any premium and interest on Securities of the series shall be payable, Securities of the series may
be surrendered for registration of transfer, Securities of the series may be surrendered for
exchange and notices, and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of the series
and this Indenture may be served;
(7) the period or periods, if any, within which, the price or prices at which and the terms
and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the
option of the Issuers or otherwise, if the Issuers are to have that option;
(8) the obligation, if any, and the option, if any, of the Issuers to redeem, purchase or
repay, or make an offer to the same, Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or
analogous provisions or upon the happening of a specified event, including any change of control
event, or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or
prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series shall be redeemed,
purchased or repaid, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation;
-23-
(9) if other than denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof, the denominations
in which Securities of the series shall be issuable;
(10) whether payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the
Securities of the series shall be without deduction for taxes, assessments or governmental charges
paid by Holders of the series;
(11) the currency, currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any
premium and interest on any Securities of the series shall be denominated, payable, redeemable or
purchasable if other than the currency of the United States of America and the manner of
determining the equivalent thereof in the currency of the United States of America for purposes of
the definition of Outstanding in Section 101;
(12) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, the manner in which such amounts shall be
determined;
(13) if the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of the series is to be
payable, at the election of the Issuers or a Holder thereof, in one or more currencies or currency
units other than that or those in which the Securities are stated to be payable, the currency,
currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any premium and interest on
Securities of such series as to which such election is made shall be payable, and the periods
within which and the terms and conditions upon which such election is to be made;
(14) the right, if any, of the Issuers to defer payments of interest by extending the interest
payment periods and specify the duration of such extension, the Interest Payment Dates on which
such interest shall be payable and whether and under what circumstances additional interest on
amounts deferred shall be payable;
(15) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of
Securities of the series which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity
thereof pursuant to Section 502 or provable in bankruptcy pursuant to Section 504 or the method of
determination thereof;
(16) if and as applicable, that the Securities of the series shall be issuable in whole or in
part in the form of one or more Global Securities (and whether in temporary or permanent global
form) and, in such case, the Depositary or Depositaries for such Global Security or Global
Securities and any circumstances other than those set forth in Section 305 in which any such Global
Security may be transferred to, and registered and exchanged for Securities registered in the name
of, a Person other than the Depositary for such Global Security or a nominee thereof and in which
any such transfer may be registered;
(17) any deletions from, modifications of or additions to the Events of Default set forth in
Section 501 or the covenants of the Issuers set forth in Article X pertaining to the Securities of
the series;
-24-
(18) if and the terms and conditions upon which any Securities of the series may be converted
into or exchanged for securities, which may include, without limitation, capital stock, of any
class or series of the Issuers or any other issuer;
(19) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, including, but not limited to an index
based on a currency or currencies other than that in which the Securities of that series are
payable, or any other type of index, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;
(20) if other than as provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, the terms and conditions upon which
and the manner in which such series of Securities may be defeased or discharged;
(21) if other than the Trustee, the identity of any other trustee, the Security Registrar and
any Paying Agent;
(22) whether the Securities will be guaranteed by any Person;
(23) any terms relating to the pledge or mortgage of any assets as security for the payment of
obligations under the Securities;
(24) any restrictions or other provisions with respect to the transfer or exchange of the
Securities; and
(25) any other terms of the Securities of the series (which terms shall not be inconsistent
with the provisions of this Indenture, except as permitted by Section 901(4)).
All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination
and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to the Board Resolution or Officers
Certificate referred to above or in any such indenture supplemental hereto.
Any such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate referred to above with respect to
Securities of any series filed with the Trustee on or before the initial issuance of the Securities
of such series shall be incorporated herein by reference with respect to Securities of such series
and shall thereafter be deemed to be a part of the Indenture for all purposes relating to
Securities of such series as fully as if such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate were set
forth herein in full.
All Securities of any one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless otherwise
provided, a series may be reopened, without the consent of the Holders, for increases in the
aggregate principal amount of such series of Securities and issuances of additional Securities of
such series or for the establishment of additional terms with respect to the Securities of such
series.
If any of the terms of the series are established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy
of such Board Resolution shall be certified by an authorized officer or other authorized
-25-
person of the Issuers and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the
Officers Certificate setting forth, or providing the manner for determining, the terms of the
series.
With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, such Board Resolution
or Officers Certificate may provide general terms for Securities of such series and provide either
that the specific terms of particular Securities of such series shall be specified in an Issuer
Order, or that such terms shall be determined by the Issuers, or one or more of the Issuers agents
designated in an Officers Certificate, in accordance with an Issuer Order.
Section 302.
Denominations
The Securities of each series shall be issuable only in registered form without coupons in
such denominations as shall be specified as contemplated by Section 301. In the absence of any
such specified denomination with respect to the Securities of any series, the Securities of such
series shall be issuable in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.
Section 303.
Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
The Securities shall be executed on behalf of each Issuer by an Officer thereof who is the
Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President
or any Vice President and need not be attested. The signature of any of these Officers on the
Securities may be manual or facsimile.
Securities bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at any time the
proper Officers of the Issuers shall bind the Issuers, notwithstanding that such individuals or any
of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such
Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.
At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the
Issuers may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Issuers to the Trustee for
authentication, together with an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of such
Securities, and the Trustee in accordance with the Issuer Order shall authenticate and deliver such
Securities;
provided, however
, that in the case of Securities offered in a Periodic Offering, the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver such Securities from time to time in accordance with such
other procedures (including, without limitation, the receipt by the Trustee of oral or electronic
instructions from the Issuers or its duly authorized agents, thereafter promptly confirmed in
writing) acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified by or pursuant to an Issuer Order delivered
to the Trustee prior to the time of the first authentication of Securities of such series. If the
form or terms of the Securities of the series have been established in or pursuant to one or more
Board Resolutions as permitted by Sections 201 and 301, in authenticating such Securities, and
accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, in addition to any Officers Certificate and Opinion of
Counsel required to be furnished to the Trustee pursuant to Section 102, and (subject to Section
601) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating,
(1) The form and terms (or the manner of determining the terms) of such Securities have been
established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as permitted by Section
-26-
201, that such form or forms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this
Indenture;
(2) if the terms of such Securities have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as
permitted by Section 301, that such terms have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established in conformity with the provisions of this
Indenture, subject, in the case of Securities of a series offered in a Periodic Offering, to any
conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel (which conditions are reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee); and
(3) that such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the
Issuers in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, which
conditions are reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, will constitute valid and legally binding
obligations of the Issuers enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general
applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and to general equity principles and
entitled to the benefits of this Indenture, equally and ratably with all other Securities, if any,
of such series Outstanding; and
(4) such other matters as the Trustee may reasonably request;
and, if the authentication and delivery relates to a new series of Securities created by an
indenture supplemental hereto, also stating that all conditions precedent to the execution of the
supplemental indenture with respect to that series of Securities have been complied with, the
Issuers have the power to execute and deliver any such supplemental indenture and have taken all
necessary action for those purposes and any such supplemental indenture has been executed and
delivered and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers enforceable in
accordance with its terms (subject, as to enforcement of remedies, to applicable bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium or other laws and legal principles
affecting creditors rights generally from time to time in effect and to general equitable
principles, whether applied in an action at law or in equity).
If such form or forms or terms have been so established, the Trustee shall not be required to
authenticate such Securities if the issue of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will affect
the Trustees own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise
in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 301 and of the preceding paragraph, if all
Securities of a series are not to be originally issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to
deliver the Officers Certificate otherwise required pursuant to Section 301 or the Issuers Order
and Opinion of Counsel or Board Resolution or supplemental indenture otherwise required pursuant to
such preceding paragraph at or prior to the time of authentication of each Security of such series
if such documents are delivered at or prior to the authentication upon original issuance of the
first Security of such series to be issued.
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With respect to Securities of a series not to be originally issued at one time, the Trustee
may rely upon the Opinion of Counsel and the other documents delivered pursuant to Sections 201 and
301 and this Section, as applicable, in connection with the first authentication of Securities of
such series and any subsequent request by the Issuers to the Trustee to authenticate Securities of
such series upon original issuance shall constitute a representation and warranty by the Issuers
that as of the date of such request, the statements made in the Officers Certificate shall be true
and correct as if made on such date.
Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.
No Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory
for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially
in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee by manual signature of an authorized
signatory, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only
evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and is entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security shall have been
authenticated and delivered hereunder but never issued and sold by the Issuers, and the Issuers
shall deliver such Security to the Trustee for cancellation as provided in Section 309, for all
purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and
delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture.
Section 304.
Temporary Securities
Pending the preparation of Definitive Securities of any series, the Issuers may execute, and
upon receipt of the documents required by Section 303, together with an Issuer Order, the Trustee
shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten,
mimeographed or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of
the Definitive Securities of like series in lieu of which they are issued and with such appropriate
insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities
may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
If temporary Securities of any series are issued, the Issuers will cause Definitive Securities
of that series to be prepared without unreasonable delay. After the preparation of Definitive
Securities of such series, the temporary Securities of such series shall be exchangeable for
Definitive Securities of such series upon surrender of the temporary Securities of such series at
the office or agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for the purpose of
exchanges of Securities of such series, without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for
cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities of any series the Issuers shall execute and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor one or more Definitive Securities
of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and
tenor. Until so exchanged the temporary Securities of any series shall in all respects be entitled
to the same benefits under this Indenture as Definitive Securities of such series and tenor.
Section 305.
Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
The Issuers shall cause to be kept at an office or agency of the Security Registrar in The
City of New York a register (the register maintained in such office or in any other office or
-28-
agency of the Issuers in a Place of Payment being herein sometimes referred to as the
"
Security Register
) in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the
Issuers shall provide for the registration of Securities and of transfers of Securities. The
Issuers shall, prior to the issuance of any Securities hereunder, appoint the Trustee as the
initial
Security Registrar
for the purpose of registering Securities and transfers of Securities
as herein provided and its Corporate Trust Office which, at the date hereof, is located at
, as the initial office or agency in The City of New York where the Security
Register will be maintained. The Issuers may at any time replace such Security Registrar, change
such office or agency or act as its own Security Registrar. The Issuers will give prompt written
notice to the Trustee of any change of the Security Registrar or of the location of such office or
agency. At all reasonable times the Security Register shall be available for inspection by the
Trustee.
Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of any series at the office or
agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for such purpose, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee
or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and
of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor.
At the option of the Holder, Securities of any series (except a Global Security) may be
exchanged for other Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like
aggregate principal amount and tenor, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at such
office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the
exchange is entitled to receive.
All Securities issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be the
valid obligations of the Issuers, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under
this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.
Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall (if
so required by the Issuers or the Trustee) be duly endorsed, or be accompanied by a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed, by the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing.
No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities,
but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental
charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of
Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Section 304 or 1107 not involving any transfer.
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuers shall be required (1) to issue, register the transfer of
or exchange Securities of any series (or of any series and specified tenor, as the case may be)
during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of mailing of a notice
of redemption of Securities of that series selected for redemption under Section 1103 and ending at
the close of business on the day of such mailing, or (2) to register the transfer of or exchange
any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any
Security being redeemed in part.
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Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture and except as otherwise specified as
contemplated by Section 301, no Global Security may be transferred to, or registered or exchanged
for Securities registered in the name of, any Person other than the Depositary for such Global
Security or any nominee thereof, and no such transfer may be registered, except as provided in this
paragraph. Every Security authenticated and delivered upon registration or transfer of, or in
exchange for or in lieu of, a Global Security shall be a Global Security, except as provided in
this paragraph. If (1) (A) the Depositary for a Global Security notifies the Issuers that it is
unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for such Global Security or ceases to be a clearing
agency registered under the Exchange Act, and (B) a successor Depositary is not appointed by the
Issuers within 120 days, (2) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to the
Securities of such series and the Security Registrar has received a request from the Depositary to
issue certificated securities in lieu of all or a portion of the Global Securities of such series
(in which case the Issuers shall deliver certificated securities within 30 days of such request) or
(3) the Issuers determines in its sole discretion that Securities of a series issued in global form
shall no longer be represented by a Global Security, then such Global Security may be exchanged by
such Depositary for Definitive Securities of the same series, of any authorized denomination and of
a like aggregate principal amount and tenor, registered in the names of, and the transfer of such
Global Security or portion thereof may be registered to, such Persons as such Depositary shall
direct.
Section 306.
Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, together with such security or
indemnity as may be required by the Issuers or the Trustee to save each of them and any agent of
either of them harmless, the Issuers shall execute and upon its request the Trustee shall
authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a new Security of the same series and of like tenor
and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding.
If there shall be delivered to the Issuers and the Trustee (1) evidence to their satisfaction
of the destruction, loss or theft of any Security and (2) such security or indemnity as may be
required by them to save each of them and any agent of either of them harmless, then, in the
absence of notice to the Issuers or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a bona fide
purchaser, the Issuers shall execute and upon their request the Trustee shall authenticate and
deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series
and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding. If,
after the delivery of such new Security, a bona fide purchaser of the original Security in lieu of
which such new Security was issued presents for payment or registration such original Security, the
Trustee shall be entitled to recover such new Security from the party to whom it was delivered or
any party taking therefrom, except a bona fide purchaser, and shall be entitled to recover upon the
security or indemnity provided therefor to the extent of any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred
by the Issuers and the Trustee in connection therewith.
In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to
become due and payable, the Issuers in their discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay
such Security.
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Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Issuers may require the payment
of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation
thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected
therewith. Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this Section in exchange for any
mutilated Security or in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an
original additional contractual obligation of the Issuers, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed,
lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and shall be entitled to all
the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of
that series duly issued hereunder.
The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all
other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen Securities.
Section 307.
Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for,
on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one or
more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for
such interest.
Any interest on any Security of any series which is payable, but is not punctually paid or
duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date (herein called
Defaulted Interest
) shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the relevant Regular Record Date by virtue of having
been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Issuers, at its election in each
case, as provided in Clause (1) or (2) below:
(1) The Issuers may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose
names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at
the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which
shall be fixed in the following manner. The Issuers shall notify the Trustee in writing of the
amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of
the proposed payment, and at the same time the Issuers shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of
money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or
shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the
proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons
entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this Clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a
Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days
and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment and not less than 10 days after
the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly
notify the Issuers of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Issuers,
shall cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor to be mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder of Securities of such series at
his address as it appears in the Security Register, not less than 10 days prior to such Special
Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor having been so mailed, such Defaulted
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Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names the Securities of such series (or their
respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on such Special Record
Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the following Clause (2).
(2) The Issuers may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in
any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or
automated quotation system on which such Securities may be listed or traded, and upon such notice
as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Issuers to the Trustee of the
proposed payment pursuant to this Clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the
Trustee.
Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and Section 305, each Security delivered
under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other
Security, shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried
by such other Security.
For each series of Securities, the Issuers shall, prior to 10:30 a.m. (New York City time) on
each payment date for principal and premium, if any, and interest, if any, deposit with the Trustee
money in immediately available funds sufficient to make cash payments due on the applicable payment
date.
Section 308.
Persons Deemed Owners
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, prior to due presentment of a Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such
Security is registered as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of
principal of and any premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) any interest on such Security
and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and neither the
Issuers, the Trustee nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
No holder of any beneficial interest in any Global Security held on its behalf by a Depositary
shall have any rights under this Indenture with respect to such Global Security, and such
Depositary may be treated by the Issuers, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee
as the owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever. None of the Issuers, the Trustee
nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any
aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests of
a Global Security or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such
beneficial ownership interests.
Section 309.
Cancellation
All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange or
for credit against any sinking fund payment shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the
Trustee, be delivered to the Trustee and shall be promptly canceled by it. The Issuers may at any
time deliver to the Trustee for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered
hereunder which the Issuers may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, and may deliver to
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the Trustee (or to any other Person for delivery to the Trustee) for cancellation any
Securities previously authenticated hereunder which the Issuers have not issued and sold, and all
Securities so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Trustee. No Securities shall be
authenticated in lieu of or in exchange for any Securities canceled as provided in this Section,
except as expressly permitted by this Indenture. All canceled Securities held by the Trustee shall
be disposed of in accordance with its customary procedures, and the Trustee shall thereafter
deliver to the Issuers a certificate with respect to such disposition.
Section 310.
Computation of Interest
Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series,
interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of
twelve 30-day months and interest on the Securities of each series for any partial period shall be
computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and the number of days elapsed in
any partial month.
Section 311.
CUSIP Numbers
The Issuers in issuing the Securities may use CUSIP numbers (in addition to the other
identification numbers printed on the Securities), and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP
numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders. The Issuers will promptly notify the
Trustee of any change in the CUSIP numbers.
ARTICLE IV
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
Section 401.
Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
This Indenture shall upon an Issuer Request cease to be of further effect with respect to
Securities of any series (except as to any surviving rights of registration of transfer or exchange
of such Securities herein expressly provided for), and the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers,
shall execute proper instruments acknowledging satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with
respect to such Securities, when
(1) either
(A) all such Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered (other than (i) such
Securities which have been destroyed, lost or stolen and which have been replaced or paid as
provided in Section 306, and (ii) such Securities for whose payment money has theretofore been
deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and thereafter repaid to the
Issuers or discharged from such trust, as provided in Section 1003) have been delivered to the
Trustee for cancellation; or
(B) all such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation
(i) have become due and payable,
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(ii) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year, or
(iii) are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the
Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of
the Issuers,
and the Issuers in the case of (i), (ii) or (iii) above, have irrevocably deposited or caused to be
deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for this purpose an amount of money in the
currency or currency units in which such Securities are payable sufficient to pay and discharge the
entire indebtedness on such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation,
for principal and any premium and interest to the date of such deposit (in the case of Securities
which have become due and payable) or to the Stated Maturity or Redemption Date, as the case may
be;
(2) the Issuers have paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable hereunder by the Issuers
with respect to such Securities; and
(3) the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to the
satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to such Securities have been complied
with.
Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to Securities of
any series, (i) the obligations of the Issuers to the Trustee under Section 607, the obligations of
the Trustee to any Authenticating Agent under Section 614 and the right of the Trustee to resign
under Section 610 shall survive, and (ii) if money shall have been deposited with the Trustee
pursuant to subclause (B) of Clause (1) of this Section, the obligations of the Issuers and/or the
Trustee under Sections 402, 606, 701 and 1002 and the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall survive.
Section 402.
Application of Trust Money
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all money deposited with the
Trustee pursuant to Section 401 shall be held in trust and applied by it, in accordance with the
provisions of the Securities and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any
Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as its own Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine,
to the Persons entitled thereto, of the principal and any premium and interest for whose payment
such money has been deposited with the Trustee.
ARTICLE V
REMEDIES
Section 501.
Events of Default
Event of Default
, wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any
one of the following events (whatever the reason for such Event of Default and whether it
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shall be voluntary or involuntary or be effected by operation of law or pursuant to any
judgment, decree or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or
governmental body):
(1) default in the payment of any interest upon any Security of that series when it becomes
due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 30 days; or
(2) default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security of that
series at its Maturity; or
(3) default in the performance, or breach, of any term, covenant or warranty of the Issuers in
this Indenture (other than a term, covenant or warranty a default in whose performance or whose
breach is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has expressly been included in
this Indenture solely for the benefit of series of Securities other than that series), and
continuance of such default or breach for a period of 45 days after there has been given, by
registered or certified mail, to the Issuers by the Trustee or to the Issuers and the Trustee by
Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series a written
notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and stating that such
notice is a
Notice of Default
hereunder; or
(4) either of the Issuers pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law
(A) commences a voluntary case, (B) consents to the entry of any order for relief against it in an
involuntary case, (C) consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for all or substantially
all of its property, or (D) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or
(5) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that
(A) is for relief against either of the Issuers in an involuntary case, (B) appoints a Custodian of
either of the Issuers or for all or substantially all of its property, or (C) orders the
liquidation of either of the Issuers; and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60
days; or
(6) any other Event of Default provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to
Securities of that series.
Section 502.
Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
If an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5) of Section 501 occurs, the principal
amount of all outstanding Securities shall become due an payable immediately without further action
or notice. If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5)
of Section 501) with respect to Securities of any series at the time Outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then in every such case the Trustee or Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of that series may declare the principal amount of (or, if any of the
Securities of that series are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal
amount of such Securities as may be specified in the terms thereof) all of the Securities of that
series to be due and payable immediately, by a notice in writing to the Issuers (and to the Trustee
if given by Holders), and upon any such declaration such principal amount (or specified amount)
shall become immediately due and payable.
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At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series has
been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained by the
Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of that series, by written notice to the Issuers and the Trustee, may
rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if the rescission would not conflict with
any judgment or decree and if all existing Events of Default with respect to Securities of that
series (except nonpayment of principal, interest or premium of Securities of that series that has
become due solely because of the acceleration) have been cured or waived as provided in Section
513.
No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 503.
Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
The Issuers covenant that if
(1) default is made in the payment of any interest on any Security when such interest becomes
due and payable and such default continues for a period of 30 days, or
(2) default is made in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security
at the Maturity thereof,
the Issuers will, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of Holders of such
Securities, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium
and interest and, to the extent that payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable,
interest on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue interest, at the rate or rates
prescribed therefor in such Securities, and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be
sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation,
expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.
If the Issuers fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own
name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of
the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may
enforce the same against the Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities and collect the
moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the
Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.
If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series occurs and is continuing, the
Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the
Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall
deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of
any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein,
or to enforce any other proper remedy.
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Section 504.
Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
In case of any judicial proceeding relative to the Issuers, or any other obligor upon the
Securities, their property or their creditors, the Trustee shall be entitled and empowered, by
intervention in such proceeding or otherwise, to take any and all actions authorized under the
Trust Indenture Act in order to have claims of Holders and the Trustee allowed in any such
proceeding. In particular, the Trustee shall be authorized to collect and receive any moneys or
other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same; and any
custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any
such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee
and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to
Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the
Trustee under Section 607.
No provision of this Indenture shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or
consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement,
adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to
authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.
Section 505.
Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and
enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof
in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be
brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after
provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of
the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of Holders of the Securities in
respect of which such judgment has been recovered.
Section 506.
Application of Money Collected
Any money or property collected or to be applied by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall
be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the
distribution of such money or property on account of principal or any premium or interest, upon
presentation of the Securities and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and
upon surrender thereof if fully paid:
FIRST: To the payment of all amounts due the Trustee under Section 607;
SECOND: To the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid for principal of and any premium
and interest on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money has been
collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and
payable on such Securities for principal and any premium and interest, respectively; and
THIRD: The balance, if any, to the Issuers.
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Section 507.
Limitation on Suits
No Holder of any Security of any series shall have any right to institute any proceeding,
judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture or a Security, or for the appointment of a
receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless
(1) such Holder has previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of
Default with respect to the Securities of that series;
(2) Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that
series shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such
Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;
(3) such Holder or Holders have offered and, if requested, provided to the Trustee reasonable
security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with
such request;
(4) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer and, if
requested, provision of security or indemnity has failed to institute any such proceeding; and
(5) no direction inconsistent with such written request has been given to the Trustee during
such 60-day period by Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of
that series;
it being understood and intended that no one or more of such Holders shall have any right in any
manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb
or prejudice the rights of any other of such Holders, or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or
preference over any other of such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in
the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all of such Holders.
Section 508.
Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have
the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and any
premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) interest on such Security on the respective Stated
Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and
to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired
without the consent of such Holder.
Section 509.
Restoration of Rights and Remedies
If the Trustee or any Holder has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy
under this Indenture and such proceeding has been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or has
been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then in every such case, subject to any
determination in such proceeding, the Issuers, the Trustee and Holders shall be restored severally
and respectively to their former positions hereunder, and thereafter all rights and
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remedies of the Trustee and Holders shall continue as though no such proceeding had been
instituted.
Section 510.
Rights and Remedies Cumulative
Except as otherwise provided with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated,
destroyed, lost or stolen Securities in the last paragraph of Section 306, no right or remedy
herein conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to Holders is intended to be exclusive of any
other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be
cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter
existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy
hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other
appropriate right or remedy.
Section 511.
Delay or Omission Not Waiver
No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder of any Securities to exercise any right
or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a
waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by
this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders may be exercised from time to time, and as
often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders, as the case may be.
Section 512.
Control by Holders
Subject to the provisions of Section 603, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of any series shall have the right to direct the time, method and
place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust
or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series;
provided,
however
, that the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this
Indenture that Trustee determines may be unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Holders of
Securities or that may subject the Trustee to personal liability.
Section 513.
Waiver of Past Defaults
Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series may on behalf of Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default
hereunder with respect to such series and its consequences, except
(1) a continuing default in the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any
Security of such series, or
(2) a default in respect of a covenant or provision hereof which under Article IX cannot be
modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series
affected.
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Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising
therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture, but no such
waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 514.
Undertaking for Costs
In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit
against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, a court may require
any party litigant in such suit to file an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and may
assess costs against any such party litigant, in the manner and to the extent provided in the Trust
Indenture Act;
provided, however
, that neither this Section nor the Trust Indenture Act shall be
deemed to authorize any court to require such an undertaking or to make such an assessment in any
suit instituted by the Trustee, in any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders, holding
in the aggregate more than 10% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series to
which the suit relates, or in any suit instituted by any Holder for the enforcement of the payment
of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Security on or after the respective
Stated Maturity expressed by such Security (or, in the case of redemption or repayment, on or after
the Redemption Date).
ARTICLE VI
THE TRUSTEE
Section 601.
Certain Duties and Responsibilities
(a) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any series of
Securities,
(1) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are
specifically set forth in this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series, and
no implied covenants or obligations shall read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and
(2) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may, with respect to
Securities of such series, conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the
correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to
the Trustee conforming to the requirements of this Indenture; but in the case of any such
certificates or opinions which by any provision hereof are specifically required to be
furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall be under a duty to examine the same to
determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture.
(b) In case an Event of Default with respect to any series of Securities has occurred and is
continuing, the Trustee shall exercise with respect to the Securities of such series such rights
and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their
exercise, as a prudent Person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such
persons own affairs.
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(c) No provisions of this Indenture shall be construed to relieve the Trustee from liability
for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct,
except that
(1) this Subsection shall not be construed to limit the effect of Subsection (a) of
this Section;
(2) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a
responsible officer, unless it shall be proved that the Trustee was negligent in
ascertaining the pertinent facts;
(3) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action taken or omitted to be
taken by it in good faith in accordance with the direction of the Holders or a majority in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series relating to the time, method
and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or
exercising any trust or power conferred upon the Trustee, under this Indenture with respect
to the Securities of such series; and
(4) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own
funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties
hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable
grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk
or liability is not reasonably assured to it.
(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating
to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be
subject to the provisions of this Section.
Section 602.
Notice of Defaults
If a Default occurs and is continuing with respect to the Securities of any series, the
Trustee shall, within 90 days after it occurs, transmit, in the manner and to the extent provided
in Section 313(c) of the Trust Indenture Act, notice of all uncured or unwaived Defaults known to
it;
provided, however
, that, except in the case of a Default in payment on the Securities of any
series, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding the notice if and so long as the board of
directors, the executive committee or a trust committee of directors or responsible officers of the
Trustee determine in good faith that withholding such notice is in the interests of Holders of
Securities of such series;
provided, further, however
, that, in the case of any default or breach
of the character specified in Section 501(3) with respect to the Securities of such series, no such
notice to Holders shall be given until at least 60 days after the occurrence thereof.
Section 603.
Certain Rights of Trustee
Subject to the provisions of Section 601:
(1) the Trustee may rely on and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon
any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or
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document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party
or parties;
(2) any request, direction, order or demand of the Issuers mentioned herein shall be
sufficiently evidenced by an Issuer Request or Issuer Order (or in the case of a Periodic Offering,
as agreed in procedures set forth in an Issuer Order pursuant to Section 303) and any resolution of
the Board of Directors shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;
(3) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that
a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder, the
Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the absence of bad faith
on its part, rely upon an Officers Certificate;
(4) the Trustee may consult with counsel and the written advice of such counsel or any Opinion
of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken,
suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;
(5) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in
it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture,
unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it
against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such
request or direction;
(6) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated
in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document,
but the Trustee, in its discretion, may, without obligation to do so, make such further inquiry or
investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit; and, if the Trustee shall determine to
make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and
premises of the Issuers, personally or by agent or attorney;
(7) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties
hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys and the Trustee shall not be
responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with
due care by it hereunder; and
(8) the Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers Certificate setting forth
the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified
actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers Certificate may be signed by any Person
authorized to sign an Officers Certificate, including any Person specified as so authorized in any
such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.
Section 604.
Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
The recitals contained herein and in the Securities, except the Trustees certificates of
authentication, shall be taken as the statements of the Issuers, and the Trustee or any
Authenticating Agent assumes no responsibility for their correctness. Neither the Trustee nor
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any Authenticating Agent makes any representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this
Indenture or of the Securities. Neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent shall be
accountable for the use or application by the Issuers of Securities or the proceeds thereof.
Section 605.
May Hold Securities
The Trustee, any Authenticating Agent, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other
agent of the Issuers, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of
Securities and, subject to Sections 608 and 613, may otherwise deal with the Issuers with the same
rights it would have if it were not Trustee, Authenticating Agent, Paying Agent, Security Registrar
or such other agent.
Section 606.
Money Held in Trust
Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds except to
the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money
received by it hereunder except as otherwise agreed with the Issuers.
Section 607.
Compensation and Reimbursement
The Issuers agree:
(1) to pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for all services rendered
by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the
compensation of a trustee of an express trust);
(2) to reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and
advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture
(including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and
counsel), except any such expense, disbursement or advance as may be attributable to its negligence
or bad faith; and
(3) to indemnify the Trustee for, and to hold it harmless against, any loss, liability or
expense incurred without negligence or bad faith on its part, arising out of or in connection with
the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder, including the costs and expenses
of defending itself against any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance
of any of its powers or duties hereunder.
The obligations of the Issuers under this Section to compensate the Trustee and to pay or
reimburse the Trustee for expenses, disbursements and advances shall constitute additional
indebtedness hereunder.
Without limiting any rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee
incurs expenses or renders services in connection with an Event of Default specified in Section
501(4) or Section 501(5), the expenses (including the reasonable charges and expenses of its
counsel) and the compensation for such services are intended to constitute expenses of
administration under any applicable Bankruptcy Law.
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The provisions of this Section shall survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture
and the defeasance of the Securities.
Section 608.
Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
If the Trustee has or shall acquire a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust
Indenture Act, the Trustee shall either eliminate such interest or resign, to the extent and in the
manner provided by, and subject to the provisions of, the Trust Indenture Act and this Indenture.
Section 609.
Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
There shall at all times be one or more Trustees hereunder with respect to the Securities of
each series, at least one of which shall be a Person that is eligible pursuant to the Trust
Indenture Act to act as such and has a combined capital and surplus required by the Trust Indenture
Act. If such Person publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the
requirements of a supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the
combined capital and surplus of such Person shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus
as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall
cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately
in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article.
Section 610.
Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to
this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee in
accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611.
The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by
giving written notice thereof to the Issuers. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor
Trustee required by Section 611 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after
the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such
series.
The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of
the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series,
delivered to the Trustee and to the Issuers. If an instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee
shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of
removal, the removed Trustee may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment
of a successor Trustee.
The Issuers may remove the Trustee if:
(1) the Trustee fails to comply with Section 608 or 609 hereof;
(2) the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with
respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;
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(3) a custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or
(4) the Trustee becomes incapable of acting.
If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall
occur in the office of Trustee for any cause, with respect to the Securities of one or more series,
the Issuers, by a Board Resolution, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with
respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor
Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and
that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any particular
series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 611. If, within one year
after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a successor
Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of Holders of a
majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the Issuers
and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its acceptance
of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611, become the
successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent supersede the
successor Trustee appointed by the Issuers.
If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so
appointed by the Issuers or Holders and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 611
within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the Holders of at least 10% in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series may petition, at the expense of the
Issuers, any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.
If the Trustee, after written request by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a
Security of such series for at least six months, fails to comply with Section 608 or 609, such
Holder may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect
to the Securities of such series.
The Issuers shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect
to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of any series to all Holders of Securities of such series in the manner provided in
Section 106. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of such series and the address of its Corporate Trust Office.
Section 611.
Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
(1) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to all
Securities, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the
Issuers and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the
resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee,
without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers,
trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on the request of the Issuers or the successor
Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of its charges, execute and deliver an
instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the
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retiring Trustee and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all
property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder.
(2) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities
of one or more (but not all) series, the Issuers, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee
with respect to the Securities of one or more series shall execute and deliver an indenture
supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (A)
shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to
vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee
with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor
Trustee relates, (B) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all Securities, shall
contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that all the rights,
powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those
series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested in the retiring
Trustee, and (C) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be
necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one
Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall constitute
such Trustees as co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be trustee of a
trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder administered by any
other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture the
resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent provided
therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become
vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the
Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates, but,
on request of the Issuers, or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of
its charges, duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and money
held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that or those series to
which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.
(3) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Issuers shall execute any and all
instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all
such rights, powers and trusts referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) of this Section, as the case may
be.
(4) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance
such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.
Section 612.
Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
Any Person into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be
consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Trustee shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust
business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder,
provided
such Person
shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of
any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities
shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by
merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication
and
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deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had
itself authenticated such Securities.
Section 613.
Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
If and when the Trustee shall be or become a creditor of an Issuer or any other obligor upon
the Securities, the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act regarding
the collection of claims against such Issuer or any such other obligor.
Section 614.
Appointment of Authenticating Agent
The Trustee (upon notice to the Issuers) may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Agents with
respect to one or more series of Securities which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the
Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series issued upon original issue (in accordance with
procedures acceptable to the Trustee) and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial
redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 306, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if
authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the
authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustees certificate of
authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the
Issuers and shall at all times be a Person organized and doing business under the laws of the
United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws
to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000
and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating
Agent publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of
said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined
capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and
surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time an
Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section,
such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in
this Section.
Any Person into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may
be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such
Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the
corporate agency or corporate trust business of such Authenticating Agent, shall continue to be an
Authenticating Agent, provided such Person shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without
the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or such
Authenticating Agent.
An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee
and to the Issuers. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by
giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to the Issuers. Upon receiving such
a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating
Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of
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this Section, the Trustee may appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be
acceptable to the Issuers. Any successor Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment
hereunder shall become vested with all the rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder,
with like effect as if originally named as an Authenticating Agent. No successor Authenticating
Agent shall be appointed unless eligible under the provisions of this Section.
Except with respect to an Authenticating Agent appointed at the request of the
Issuers
, the
Trustee agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time reasonable compensation for
its services under this Section.
If an appointment with respect to one or more series is made pursuant to this Section, the
Securities of such series may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustees certificate of
authentication, an alternative certificate of authentication in the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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Date:
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By:
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As Authenticating Agent
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Section 615.
Force Majeure
.
In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the
performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly,
forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts
of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of
God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and
hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are
consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as
practicable under the circumstances.
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ARTICLE VII
HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
Section 701.
Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
The Issuers will furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee
(1) semi-annually, not later than each Interest Payment Date in each year, a list for each
series of Securities, in such form as the Trustee may reasonably require, of the names and
addresses of the Holders of Securities of such series as of the preceding Regular Record Date, and
(2) at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, within 30 days after the
receipt by the Issuers of any such request, a list of similar form and content as of a date not
more than 15 days prior to the time such list is furnished;
provided, however
, that if and so long as the Trustee shall be the Security Registrar for
Securities of a series, no such list need be furnished with respect to such series of Securities.
Section 702.
Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder.
The Trustee shall comply with the obligations imposed upon it pursuant to Section 312 of the
Trust Indenture Act.
The rights of the Holders to communicate with other Holders with respect to their rights under
this Indenture or under the Securities, and the corresponding rights and privileges of the Trustee,
shall be as provided by the Trust Indenture Act.
Every Holder of Securities, by receiving and holding the same, agrees with the Issuers and the
Trustee that neither the Issuers nor the Trustee nor any agent of any of them shall be held
accountable by reason of any disclosure of information as to the names and addresses of Holders
made pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act.
Section 703.
Reports by Trustee
As promptly as practicable after each May 15 beginning with the May 15 following the date of
this Indenture, and in any event prior to July 15 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each
Holder a brief report dated as of May 15 that complies with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(a). The
Trustee also shall comply with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(b). Prior to delivery to the
Holders, the Trustee shall deliver to the Issuers a copy of any report it delivers to Holders
pursuant to this Section 703.
A copy of each such report shall, at the time of such transmission to Holders, be filed by the
Trustee with each stock exchange upon which any Securities are listed, with the Commission and with
the Issuers. The Issuers will notify the Trustee when any Securities are listed on any stock
exchange.
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Section 704.
Reports by Issuers
The Issuers shall:
(1) file with the Trustee, within 15 days after the Issuers is required to file the same with
the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the information, documents and other reports
(or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the Commission may from time to time by
rules and regulations prescribe) which the Issuers may be required to file with the Commission
pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act;
(2) file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations
prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such additional information, documents and reports
with respect to compliance by the Issuers with the conditions and covenants of this Indenture as
may be required from time to time by such rules and regulations; and
(3) transmit by mail to all Holders, as their names and addresses appear in the Security
Register, within 30 days after the filing thereof with the Trustee, such summaries of any
information, documents and reports required to be filed by the Issuers pursuant to paragraphs (1)
and (2) of this Section as may be required by rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by
the Commission.
ARTICLE VIII
CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
Section 801.
Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
The Partnership shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, unless:
(1) the Partnership is the surviving entity or the entity formed by or surviving the
transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made is a
corporation or partnership organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state
thereof or the District of Columbia;
(2) the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the
entity to which the sale was made assumes all the obligations of the Partnership in accordance with
a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee, under the Securities and
this Indenture;
(3) immediately after the transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists; and
(4) with respect to any series of Securities then Outstanding, at the time of the transaction
and after giving pro forma effect to it as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the
applicable four-quarter period, the Partnership or such other entity or survivor is
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permitted to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness (as such term may be defined with
respect to such series of Securities) under each covenant, if any, applicable to any series of
Outstanding Securities that restricts the ability of the Partnership to incur Indebtedness.
Finance Corp. shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, except under conditions similar to those described in the
paragraph above.
Section 802.
Successor Substituted
Upon any consolidation of an Issuer with, or merger of an Issuer into, any other Person or any
sale, transfer or lease of the properties and assets of an Issuer as, or substantially as, an
entirety in accordance with Section 801, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or into
which such Issuer is merged or to which such sale, transfer or lease is made shall succeed to, and
be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, such Issuer under this Indenture
with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named originally as such Issuer herein or
therein, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of
all obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.
ARTICLE IX
SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
Section 901.
Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
Without the consent of any Holders of Securities, the Issuers and the Trustee, at any time and
from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory
to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:
(1) to secure any of such Securities or to allow any guarantor to guarantee Securities of any
series;
(2) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities and the assumption by such successor Person of the obligations of the Issuers hereunder;
(3) to add covenants and Events of Default for the benefit of the Holders of all or any series
of such Securities or to surrender any right or power conferred by this Indenture upon the Issuers
or to make any change that does not adversely affect the legal rights hereunder of any Holder in
any material respect;
(4) to add to, change or eliminate any of the provisions of this Indenture,
provided
that any
such addition, change or elimination shall become effective only after there are no such Securities
of any series entitled to the benefit of such provision outstanding;
(5) to establish the forms or terms of the Securities of any series issued hereunder;
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(6) to cure any ambiguity or correct any defect or inconsistency in this Indenture;
(7) to evidence the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee with respect to one or
more series of Securities or otherwise;
(8) to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or maintain the
qualification of this Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;
(9) to provide for uncertificated securities in addition to certificated securities;
(10) to supplement any provisions of this Indenture necessary to permit or facilitate the
defeasance and discharge of any series of Securities,
provided
that such action does not adversely
affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of such series or any other series; and
(11) to comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated quotation
system on which any of the Securities may be listed or traded.
Section 902.
Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of
all Outstanding Securities affected by such supplemental indenture (voting as one class), the
Issuers and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the
purpose of adding any provisions to, or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions
of, this Indenture, or modifying in any manner the rights of Holders of Securities of such series
under this Indenture (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender
offer or exchange offer for the Securities);
provided
that the Issuers and the Trustee may not,
without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security affected thereby,
(1) change the Stated Maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or
interest, if any, on, any Security, or reduce the principal amount thereof or premium, if any, on
or the rate of interest thereon or alter the method of computation of interest;
(2) reduce the percentage in principal amount of Securities required for any such supplemental
indenture or for any waiver provided for in this Indenture;
(3) change the Issuers obligation to maintain an office or agency for payment of Securities
and the other matters specified herein;
(4) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of,
premium, if any, or interest on, any Security;
(5) modify any of the provisions of this Indenture relating to the execution of supplemental
indentures with the consent of Holders of Securities which are discussed in this Section or modify
any provisions relating to the waiver by Holders of Securities of past defaults and covenants,
except to increase any required percentage or to provide that other provisions of
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this Indenture cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each
Outstanding Security affected thereby; or
(6) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in the Security.
A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this
Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series
of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with
respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this
Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.
It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this Section to approve the particular
form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve
the substance thereof.
Section 903.
Execution of Supplemental Indentures
In executing, or accepting the additional trusts created by, any supplemental indenture
permitted by this Article or the modifications thereby of the trusts created by this Indenture, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 601) shall be fully protected in
relying upon, an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of such
supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture. The Trustee shall enter into
any supplemental indenture which does not adversely affect the Trustees own rights, duties or
immunities under this Indenture or otherwise. The Trustee may, but shall not be obligated to,
enter into any such supplemental indenture which adversely affects the Trustees own rights, duties
or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise.
Section 904.
Effect of Supplemental Indentures
Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be
modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this
Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated
and delivered hereunder shall be bound thereby.
Section 905.
Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the
requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.
Section 906.
Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental
indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in
form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the
Issuers shall so determine, new Securities of any series so modified as to conform, in the opinion
of the Trustee and the Issuers, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by
the Issuers and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in
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exchange for Outstanding Securities of such series. Failure to make a notation or issue a new
Security shall not affect the validity and effect of any amendment, supplement or waiver.
ARTICLE X
COVENANTS
Section 1001.
Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
The Issuers covenant and agree for the benefit of each series of Securities that it will duly
and punctually pay the principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities of that series
in accordance with the terms of the Securities and this Indenture.
Section 1002.
Maintenance of Office or Agency
The Issuers will maintain in each Place of Payment for any series of Securities an office or
agency where Securities of that series may be presented or surrendered for payment, where
Securities of that series may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where
notices and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of that series and this
Indenture may be served. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the
location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuers
shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with
the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at
the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Issuers hereby appoint the Trustee as their
agent to receive all such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands.
The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where
the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes
and may from time to time rescind such designations;
provided, however
, that no such designation or
rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuers of their obligation to maintain an office or
agency in each Place of Payment for Securities of any series for such purposes. The Issuers will
give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change
in the location of any such other office or agency.
Except as otherwise specified with respect to a series of Securities as contemplated by
Section 301, the Issuers hereby initially designate as the Place of Payment for each series of
Securities The City of New York, and initially appoint the Trustee as Paying Agent at its Corporate
Trust Office as the Issuers office or agency for each such purpose in such city.
Section 1003.
Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
If an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries shall at any time act as Paying Agent with respect to
any series of Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of or any premium or
interest on any of the Securities of that series, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of
the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal and any premium and interest so
becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein
provided and will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
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Whenever the Issuers shall have one or more Paying Agents for any series of Securities, it
will, on or prior to each due date of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities
of that series, deposit with a Paying Agent a sum sufficient to pay such amount, such sum to be
held as provided by the Trust Indenture Act, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the
Issuers will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
The Issuers will cause each Paying Agent for any series of Securities other than the Trustee
to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the
Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will (1) hold all sums
held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on
Securities of that series in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums
shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided; (2) give the Trustee
notice of any default by the Issuers (or any other obligor upon the Securities of that series) in
the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the Securities
of that series; and (3) during the continuance of any such default, upon the written request of the
Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums held in trust by such Paying Agent for payment in
respect of the Securities of that series.
The Issuers may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of
this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Issuer Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to
the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Issuers or such Paying Agent, such sums to be held by the
Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Issuers or such Paying
Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be
released from all further liability with respect to such money.
Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Issuers, in
trust for the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Security of any series
and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal, premium or interest has become due and
payable shall be paid to the Issuers on their request or (if then held by the Issuers) will be
discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter be permitted to look
only to the Issuers for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with
respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Issuers as trustee thereof, shall thereupon
cease;
provided, however,
that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any
such payment, may at the expense of the Issuers cause to be published once, in the New York Times
and The Wall Street Journal (national edition), notice that such money remains unclaimed and that,
after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such
publication, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be paid to the Issuers.
Section 1004.
Statement by Officers as to Default
The Issuers will deliver to the Trustee, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year of
the Issuers ending after the date hereof, an Officers Certificate, stating whether or not to the
best knowledge of the signer or signers thereof the Issuers are in default in the performance and
observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (without regard to any
period of grace or requirement of notice provided hereunder) and, if the Issuers shall be in
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default, specifying all such defaults and the nature and status thereof of which they may have
knowledge.
Section 1005.
Existence
Subject to Article VIII, the Issuers will do or cause to be done all things necessary to
preserve and keep in full force and effect their existence, rights (charter and statutory) and
franchises;
provided, however
, that the Issuers shall not be required to preserve any such right or
franchise if the Board of Directors of the applicable Issuer shall determine that the preservation
thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of its business.
Section 1006.
Waiver of Certain Covenants
The Issuers may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or
condition set forth in Section 1005 with respect to the Securities of any series if before the time
for such compliance Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding
Securities of all affected series (voting as one class) shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive
such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or
condition, but no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision or condition except to
the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective, the obligations of
the Issuers and the duties of the Trustee in respect of any such term, provision or condition shall
remain in full force and effect.
A waiver which changes or eliminates any term, provision or condition of this Indenture which
has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities,
or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such term,
provision or condition, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the
Holders of Securities of any other series.
Section 1007.
Limitation on Finance Corp.
Finance Corp. will not incur any Indebtedness unless:
(1) the Partnership is a co-obligor or guarantor of the Indebtedness; or
(2) the net proceeds of the Indebtedness are either lent to the Partnership,
used to acquire outstanding debt securities issued by the Partnership, or used,
directly or indirectly, to refinance or discharge Indebtedness permitted under the
limitation of this Section 1007.
Finance Corp. will not engage in any business not related, directly or indirectly, to
obtaining money or arranging financing for the Partnership.
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ARTICLE XI
REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
Section 1101.
Applicability of Article
Securities of any series which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable
in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301
for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article.
Section 1102.
Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
The election of the Issuers to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution.
In case of any redemption at the election of the Issuers of less than all the Securities of any
series, the Issuers shall, not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date
fixed by the Issuers (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the
Trustee of such Redemption Date, of the principal amount of Securities of such series to be
redeemed and, if applicable, of the tenor of the Securities to be redeemed. In the case of any
redemption of Securities (1) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided
in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture, or (2) pursuant to an election of
the Issuers which is subject to a condition specified in the terms of such Securities, the Issuers
shall furnish the Trustee with an Officers Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction
or condition.
Section 1103.
Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
If less than all the Securities of any series are to be redeemed (unless all the Securities of
such series and of a specified tenor are to be redeemed), the particular Securities to be redeemed
shall be selected not more than 45 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the
Outstanding Securities of such series not previously called for redemption, on a
pro rata
basis or
by any other method which the Trustee deems fair and appropriate and which complies with any
securities exchange or other applicable requirements for redemption of portions (equal to the
minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of
the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum
authorized denomination for Securities of that series.
The Trustee shall promptly notify the Issuers in writing of the Securities selected for
redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount
thereof to be redeemed.
For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions
relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to
be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been
or is to be redeemed.
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Section 1104.
Notice of Redemption
Notice of redemption shall be given by first-class mail (if international mail, by air mail),
postage prepaid, mailed not less than 10 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to
each Holder of Securities to be redeemed, at his address appearing in the Security Register.
All notices of redemption shall identify the Securities to be redeemed (including CUSIP
number(s)) and shall state:
(1) the Redemption Date,
(2) the Redemption Price,
(3) if less than all the Outstanding Securities of any series and of a specified tenor are to
be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of partial redemption of any Securities, the
principal amounts) of the particular Securities to be redeemed,
(4) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price will become due and payable upon each
such Security to be redeemed and that interest thereon will cease to accrue on and after said date,
(5) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the
Redemption Price,
(6) that the redemption is for a sinking fund, if such is the case; and
(7) that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number, if
any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities and that reliance may be placed only on the
other identification numbers printed on the Securities (and any such redemption shall not be
affected by any defect in or omission of such CUSIP numbers).
Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed shall be given by the Issuers or, at the
Issuers request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuers.
Section 1105.
Deposit of Redemption Price
On or prior to 10:30 a.m. New York City Time on any Redemption Date, the Issuers shall deposit
with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Issuers are acting as their own Paying Agent,
segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 1003) an amount of money sufficient to pay the
Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) accrued
interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.
Section 1106.
Securities Payable on Redemption Date
Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall,
on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified, and from
and after such date (unless the Issuers shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and
accrued interest) such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon
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surrender of any such Security for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Security
shall be paid by the Issuers at the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest to the
Redemption Date;
provided, however
, that, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section
301, installments of interest whose Stated Maturity is on or prior to the Redemption Date shall be
payable to the Holders of such Securities, or one or more Predecessor Securities, registered as
such at the close of business on the relevant Record Dates according to their terms and the
provisions of Section 307.
If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for
redemption, the principal and any premium shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date
at the rate prescribed therefor in the Security.
Section 1107.
Securities Redeemed in Part
Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part shall be surrendered at a Place of Payment
therefor (with, if the Issuers or the Trustee so requires, due endorsement by, or a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Trustee duly executed by, the
Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing), and the Issuers shall execute, and the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge, a new
Security or Securities of the same series and of like tenor, of any authorized denomination as
requested by such Holder, in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed
portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.
ARTICLE XII
SINKING FUNDS
Section 1201.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of
Securities of a series except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities
of such series.
The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any
series is herein referred to as a
mandatory sinking fund payment
, and any payment in excess of
such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as
an
optional sinking fund payment
. If provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, the
cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 1202.
Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of any series as
provided for by the terms of Securities of such series.
Section 1202.
Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
The Issuers (1) may deliver Outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously
called for redemption), and (2) may apply as a credit Securities of a series which have been
redeemed either at the election of the Issuers pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through
the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such
Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment with
respect
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to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such Securities
as provided for by the terms of such series;
provided
that such Securities have not been previously
so credited. Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the Trustee at the
Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of the sinking fund
and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.
Section 1203.
Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
Not less than 45 days prior to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities
(unless a shorter period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), the Issuers will deliver to the
Trustee an Officers Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for
that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be
satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by
delivering and crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 1202 and stating the basis
for such credit and that such Securities have not been previously so credited, and will also
deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered. Not less than 30 days before each such
sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking
fund payment date in the manner specified in Section 1103 and cause notice of the redemption
thereof to be given in the name of and at the expense of the Issuers in the manner provided in
Section 1104. Such notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made
upon the terms and in the manner stated in Sections 1106 and 1107.
ARTICLE XIII
DEFEASANCE
Section 1301.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to each series of Securities except as
otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series.
Section 1302.
Legal Defeasance
In addition to discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Section 401, the Issuers shall be deemed
to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness on all the Securities of such a series on the
91st day after the date of the deposit referred to in Clause (1) below, and the provisions of this
Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series shall no longer be in effect (except as to
(i) rights of registration of transfer and exchange of Securities of such series and the Issuers
right of optional redemption, if any, (ii) substitution of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Securities, (iii) rights of Holders of Securities to receive payments of principal thereof and
interest thereon, upon the original stated due dates therefor or on the specified redemption dates
therefor (but not upon acceleration), and remaining rights of the holders to receive mandatory
sinking fund payments, if any, (iv) the rights, obligations, duties and immunities of the Trustee
hereunder, and the Issuers obligations in connection therewith (including, but not limited to,
Section 607), (v) the rights, if any, to convert or exchange the Securities of such series, (vi)
the rights of Holders of Securities of such series as beneficiaries hereof with respect to the
property so deposited with the Trustee payable to all or any of them, (vii) the obligations of the
Issuers
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under Section 1002 and (viii) the legal defeasance provisions of this Article XIII), and the
Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers, shall, upon a Issuers Request, execute proper instruments
acknowledging the same, if the conditions set forth below are satisfied (hereinafter,
"
defeasance
):
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust, for the purposes of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, certified to be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of
independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the
Trustee, to pay (i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such
series on each date that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any
Redemption Date established pursuant to Clause (3) below, and (ii) any mandatory sinking fund
payments on the dates on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of
the Indenture and the Securities of such series;
(2) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel:
(A) based on the fact that (A) the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by,
the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date hereof, there has been a change in the
applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and such opinion shall
confirm that, Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit, defeasance and discharge and will be
subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times, as
would have been the case if such deposit, defeasance and discharge had not occurred; and
(B) stating that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will not
be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws
affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the
defeasance have been complied with and confirming other matters;
(3) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(4) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
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(5) Such defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within the
meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning of
such Act);
(6) Such defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default
under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of the
Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit constituting an
investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, unless
such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the defeasance
contemplated by this provision have been complied with.
For this purpose, such defeasance means that the Issuers, and any other obligor upon the
Securities of such series shall be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire debt represented
by the Securities of such series, which shall thereafter be deemed to be Outstanding only for the
purposes of Section 1304 and the rights and obligations referred to in Clauses (i) through (vii),
inclusive, of the first paragraph of this Section, and to have satisfied all its other obligations
under the Securities of such series and this Indenture insofar as the Securities of such series are
concerned.
Section 1303.
Covenant Defeasance
The Issuers and any other obligor shall be released on the 91st day after the date of the
deposit referred to in Clause (1) below from its obligations under Sections 704, 801 and 1005 with
respect to the Securities of any series on and after the date the conditions set forth below are
satisfied (hereinafter,
covenant defeasance
), and the Securities of such series shall thereafter
be deemed to be not Outstanding for the purposes of any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, waiver, consent or declaration or other action or Act of Holders (and the
consequences of any thereof) in connection with such covenants, but shall continue to be deemed
Outstanding for all other purposes hereunder. For this purpose, such covenant defeasance means
that, with respect to the Securities of such series, the Issuers may omit to comply with and shall
have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such Section,
whether directly or indirectly by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to such Section or by
reason of any reference in such Section to any other provision herein or in any other document and
such omission to comply shall not constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 501,
but, except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and the Securities of such series
shall be unaffected thereby. The following shall be the conditions to application of this Section
1303:
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such
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series, (A) cash in an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on
which may only be made in legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations,
maturing as to principal and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the
availability of cash, or (C) a combination thereof, sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally
recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof
delivered to the Trustee, to pay (i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all
Securities of such series on each date that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and
payable or on any Redemption Date established pursuant to Clause (2) below, and (ii) any mandatory
sinking fund payments on the day on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the
terms of the Indenture and the Securities of such series;
(2) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(3) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
(4) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel which shall:
(A) confirm that Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and covenant defeasance and will
be subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same time as
would have been the case if such deposit and covenant defeasance had not occurred; and
(B) state that that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will
not be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar
laws affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating
to the covenant defeasance have been complied with and confirm other matters;
(5) Such covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within
the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning
of such Act);
(6) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a
default under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of
the Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit
constituting an investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, unless such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration
thereunder; and
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(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and Opinion of Counsel
stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the covenant defeasance contemplated
by this provision have been complied with.
Section 1304.
Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all moneys or U.S. Government
Obligations deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303 (and all funds earned on
such moneys or U.S. Government Obligations) shall be held in trust and applied by it to the
payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as their own
Paying Agent), to Holders of the particular Securities of such series for the payment or redemption
of which such moneys have been deposited with the Trustee, of all sums due and to become due
thereon for principal and interest; but such money need not be segregated from other funds except
to the extent required by law. Subject to Sections 1302 and 1303, the Trustee shall promptly pay
to the Issuers upon Issuer Order any moneys held by it at any time, which, in the opinion of a
nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification
delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the defeasance with
respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
Section 1305.
Repayment to Issuers
The Trustee and any Paying Agent promptly shall pay or return to the Issuers upon Issuer
Request any money and U.S. Government Obligations held by them at any time that are not required
for the payment of the principal of and any interest on the Securities of any series for which
money or U.S. Government Obligations have been deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303, which,
in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a
written certification delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the
defeasance with respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
The provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall apply to any money held by the
Trustee or any Paying Agent under this Article that remains unclaimed for two years after the
Maturity of any series of Securities for which money or U.S. Government Obligations have been
deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303.
Section 1306.
Reinstatement
If the Trustee or the Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U. S. Government
Obligations in accordance with this Article by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any
order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise
prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities of the applicable series shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had
occurred pursuant to this Indenture until such time as the Trustee or the Paying Agent is permitted
to apply all such money or U. S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article;
provided,
however
, that if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of or interest on any Securities of
such series because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the
rights of Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government
Obligations held by the Trustee or the Paying Agent.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed in
multiple counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which shall together constitute but one and the same instrument, all as of the day and year first
above written.
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Exhibit 4.5
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
Issuers
and
Trustee
Indenture
Dated as of
SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THIS INDENTURE RELATING TO
SECTIONS 310 THROUGH 318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE
TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939:
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Trust Indenture
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Act Section
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Indenture Section
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§310(a)(1)
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609
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(a)(2)
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609
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(a)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(4)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(5)
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608; 609
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(b)
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608; 610
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(c)
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Not Applicable
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§311(a)
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613
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(b)
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613
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§312(a)
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701; 702
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(b)
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702
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(c)
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702
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§313(a)
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703
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(b)(1)
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Not Applicable
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(b)(2)
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703
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(c)
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703
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(d)
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703
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§314(a)
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704
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(b)
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Not Applicable
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(c)(1)
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102
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(c)(2)
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102
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(c)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(d)
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Not Applicable
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(e)
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102
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(f)
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Not Applicable
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§315(a)
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601, 603
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(b)
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602
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(c)
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601
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(d)
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601
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(e)
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514
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§316(a)
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101
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(a)(1)(A)
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502; 512
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(a)(1)(B)
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513
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(a)(2)
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Not Applicable
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(b)
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508
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(c)
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104
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§317(a)(1)
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503
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(a)(2)
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504
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(b)
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1003
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§318(a)
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107
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NOTE:
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This reconciliation and tie shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be a part of the
Indenture.
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-i-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
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ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
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1
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Section 101. Definitions
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1
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Section 102. Compliance Certificates and Opinions
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8
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Section 103. Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
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9
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Section 104. Acts of Holders; Record Dates
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9
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Section 105. Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
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11
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Section 106. Notice to Holders; Waiver
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11
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Section 107. Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
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11
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Section 108. Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
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12
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Section 109. Successors and Assigns
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12
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Section 110. Separability Clause
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12
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Section 111. Benefits of Indenture
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12
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Section 112. Governing Law
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12
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Section 113. Legal Holidays
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12
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Section 114. Language of Notices, Etc.
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12
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Section 115. Interest Limitation
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13
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Section 116. Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees,
Limited Partners or Shareholders
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13
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ARTICLE II SECURITY FORMS
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14
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Section 201. Forms Generally
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14
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Section 202. Form of Face of Security
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14
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Section 203. Form of Reverse of Security
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17
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Section 204. Global Securities
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22
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Section 205. Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
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23
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ARTICLE III THE SECURITIES
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23
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Section 301. Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
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23
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Section 302. Denominations
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26
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Section 303. Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
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27
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Section 304. Temporary Securities
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29
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Section 305. Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
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29
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-ii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 306. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
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31
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Section 307. Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
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31
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Section 308. Persons Deemed Owners
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33
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Section 309. Cancellation
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33
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Section 310. Computation of Interest
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33
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Section 311. CUSIP Numbers
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34
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ARTICLE IV SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
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34
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Section 401. Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
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34
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Section 402. Application of Trust Money
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35
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ARTICLE V REMEDIES
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35
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Section 501. Events of Default
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35
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Section 502. Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
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36
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Section 503. Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
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37
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Section 504. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
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37
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Section 505. Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
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38
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Section 506. Application of Money Collected
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38
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Section 507. Limitation on Suits
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38
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Section 508. Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
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39
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Section 509. Restoration of Rights and Remedies
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39
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Section 510. Rights and Remedies Cumulative
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39
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Section 511. Delay or Omission Not Waiver
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40
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Section 512. Control by Holders
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40
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Section 513. Waiver of Past Defaults
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40
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Section 514. Undertaking for Costs
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40
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ARTICLE VI THE TRUSTEE
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41
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Section 601. Certain Duties and Responsibilities
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41
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Section 602. Notice of Defaults
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42
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Section 603. Certain Rights of Trustee
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42
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Section 604. Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
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43
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-iii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 605. May Hold Securities
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43
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Section 606. Money Held in Trust
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44
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Section 607. Compensation and Reimbursement
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44
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Section 608. Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
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44
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Section 609. Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
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45
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Section 610. Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
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45
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Section 611. Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
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46
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Section 612. Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
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47
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Section 613. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
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47
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Section 614. Appointment of Authenticating Agent
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48
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Section 615. Force Majeure
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49
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ARTICLE VII HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
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49
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Section 701. Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
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49
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Section 702. Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder
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50
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Section 703. Reports by Trustee
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50
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Section 704. Reports by Issuers
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50
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ARTICLE VIII CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
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51
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Section 801. Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
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51
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Section 802. Successor Substituted
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51
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ARTICLE IX SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
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52
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Section 901. Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
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52
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Section 902. Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
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53
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Section 903. Execution of Supplemental Indentures
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54
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Section 904. Effect of Supplemental Indentures
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54
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Section 905. Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
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54
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Section 906. Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
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54
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ARTICLE X COVENANTS
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54
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Section 1001. Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
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54
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-iv-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 1002. Maintenance of Office or Agency
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55
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Section 1003. Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
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55
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Section 1004. Statement by Officers as to Default
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56
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Section 1005. Existence
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56
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Section 1006. Waiver of Certain Covenants
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57
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Section 1007. Limitation on Finance Corp.
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57
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ARTICLE XI REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
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57
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Section 1101. Applicability of Article
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57
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Section 1102. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
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57
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Section 1103. Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
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58
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Section 1104. Notice of Redemption
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58
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Section 1105. Deposit of Redemption Price
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59
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Section 1106. Securities Payable on Redemption Date
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59
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Section 1107. Securities Redeemed in Part
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59
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ARTICLE XII SINKING FUNDS
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60
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Section 1201. Applicability of Article
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60
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Section 1202. Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
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60
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Section 1203. Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
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60
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ARTICLE XIII DEFEASANCE
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61
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Section 1301. Applicability of Article
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61
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Section 1302. Legal Defeasance
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61
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Section 1303. Covenant Defeasance
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63
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Section 1304. Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
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64
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Section 1305. Repayment to Issuers
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65
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Section 1306. Reinstatement
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65
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ARTICLE XIV SUBORDINATION
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65
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Section 1401. Agreement to Subordinate
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65
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Section 1402. Liquidation, Dissolution, Bankruptcy
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65
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Section 1403. Default on Senior Indebtedness
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66
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-v-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 1404. Acceleration of Payment of Securities
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66
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Section 1405. When Distributions Must Be Paid Over
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67
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Section 1406. Subrogation
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67
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Section 1407. Relative Rights
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67
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Section 1408. Subordination May Not Be Impaired by Issuers
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67
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Section 1409. Rights of Trustee and Paying Agent
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67
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Section 1410. Distribution of Notice to Representative
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68
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Section 1411. Article XIV Not to Prevent Events of Default or Limit Rights to Accelerate
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68
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Section 1412. Trust Moneys Not Subordinated
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68
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Section 1413. Trustee Entitled to Rely
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68
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Section 1414. Trustee to Effectuate Subordination
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69
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Section 1415. Trustee Not Fiduciary for Holders of Senior Indebtedness
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69
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Section 1416. Reliance by Holders of Senior Indebtedness
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69
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-vi-
INDENTURE dated as of
, among FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (the
Partnership
), FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation
(
Finance Corp.
and, together with the Partnership, the
Issuers
), having their principal office
at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri, 64068, and
, as Trustee (the
"
Trustee
).
RECITALS
The Issuers have duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for
the issuance from time to time of their unsecured, subordinated debentures, notes or other
evidences of indebtedness (the
Securities
), to be issued in one or more series as provided in
this Indenture.
All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Issuers, in accordance
with its terms, have been done.
This Indenture is subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are required to be
a part of this Indenture and, to the extent applicable, shall be governed by such provisions.
NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:
For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders (as
defined below) thereof, it is mutually agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all
Holders of the Securities or of any series thereof, as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
Section 101.
Definitions
For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the
context otherwise requires:
(1) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article and
include the plural as well as the singular;
(2) the following Trust Indenture Act terms used in this Indenture have the following
meanings:
indenture securities
means the Securities;
indenture security Holder
means a Holder of a Security;
indenture to be qualified
means this Indenture;
indenture trustee
or
institutional trustee
means the Trustee; and
obligor
on the Securities means the Issuers and any successor obligor upon
the Securities;
(3) all other terms used herein which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act or by Commission
rule under the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings
assigned to them therein;
(4) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as
otherwise herein expressly provided, the term
generally accepted accounting principles
with
respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles as
are generally accepted in the United States at the date of such computation;
(5) the words
herein
,
hereof
and
hereunder
and other words of similar import refer to
this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision; and
(6) the words
Article
and
Section
refer to an Article and Section, respectively, of this
Indenture.
Act
, when used with respect to any Holder, has the meaning specified in Section 104.
Affiliate
of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling
or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the
purposes of this definition,
control
when used with respect to any specified Person means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct, or cause the direction of, the
management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by
agreement or otherwise;
provided
that beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the voting securities
of a person shall be deemed to be control. For purposes of this definition, the terms
"
controlling,
controlled by
and
under common control with
have meanings correlative to the
foregoing.
Authenticating Agent
means any Person authorized by the Trustee pursuant to Section 614 to
act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of one or more series.
Bankruptcy Law
means Title 11, U.S. Code, or any similar federal or state law for the relief
of debtors.
Blockage Notice
has the meaning specified in Section 1403.
Board of Directors
means:
(1) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the corporation;
(2) with respect to a partnership, the Board of Directors of the general
partner of the partnership; and
-2-
(3) with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such Person
serving a similar function.
Board Resolution
means resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors of each Issuer and
in full force and effect on the date certified and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to Section
201.
Business Day
, when used with respect to any Place of Payment or other location, means,
except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which
banking institutions in that Place of Payment or other location are authorized or obligated by law,
executive order or regulation to close.
Capital Interests
means any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other
equivalents (however designated) of capital stock, including, without limitation, with respect to
partnerships, partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any other interest or
participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of,
or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Commission
means the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted,
created under the Exchange Act or, if at any time after the execution of this instrument such
Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture
Act, then the body performing such duties at such time.
Corporate Trust Office
means the office of the Trustee at which at any particular time its
corporate trust business shall be principally administered, which at the date hereof is
.
covenant defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1303.
Custodian
means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator or similar official under any
Bankruptcy Law.
Default
means, with respect to a series of Securities, any event which is, or after notice
or lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default with respect to Securities of such
series.
Defaulted Interest
has the meaning specified in Section 307.
defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1302.
Definitive Security
means a Security other than a Global Security or a temporary Security.
Depositary
means, with respect to Securities of any series issuable in whole or in part in
the form of one or more Global Securities, a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act that
is designated to act as Depositary for such Securities as contemplated by Section 301, until a
successor Depositary shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
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Indenture, and thereafter shall mean or include each Person which is then a Depositary
hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person, shall be a collective reference
to such Persons.
Dollar
or
$
means the coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of
payment is legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.
Event of Default
has the meaning specified in Section 501.
Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and
any statute successor thereto.
Finance Corp.
means the Person named as Finance Corp. in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Finance Corp.
shall mean such successor Person.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
Global Security
means a Security in global form that evidences all or part of the Securities
of any series and is registered in the name of the Depositary for such Securities or a nominee
thereof.
Holder
means a Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Security Register.
Indebtedness
means any obligation created or assumed by any Person for the repayment of
money borrowed, any purchase money obligation created or assumed by such Person and any guarantee
of the foregoing, except that, for purposes of Section 801,
Indebtedness
has the meaning
specified in such Section.
Indenture
means this instrument as originally executed or as it may from time to time be
supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the
applicable provisions hereof, including, for all purposes of this instrument, and any such
supplemental indenture, the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are deemed to be a part of
and govern this instrument and any such supplemental indenture, respectively. The term
Indenture
also shall include the terms of particular series of Securities established as contemplated by
Section 301.
Interest
, when used with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security which by its terms
bears interest only after Maturity, means interest payable after Maturity.
Interest Payment Date
, when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of
an installment of interest on such Security.
Issuer Request
or
Issuer Order
means a written request or order signed on behalf of the
Issuers by two Officers of the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the
principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer.
Issuers
means the Partnership and Finance Corp.
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Maturity
, when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of
such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or herein provided,
whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise.
Notice of Default
means a written notice of the kind specified in Section 501(3).
Officer
means, with respect to any Person, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer,
any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary or any Vice
President of such Person or, if such Person is a partnership, of the general partner of such
Person.
Officers Certificate
means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuers by two Officers of
the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer,
the treasurer or the principal accounting officer, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and
103 hereof.
Opinion of Counsel
means an opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and 103 hereof. The counsel may be an
employee of or counsel to the Issuers, any Subsidiary of the Issuers or the Trustee.
Operating Partnership
means Ferrellgas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
Original Issue Discount Security
means any Security which provides for an amount less than
the stated principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the
Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 502.
Outstanding
, when used with respect to Securities, means, as of the date of determination,
all Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:
(i) Securities theretofore canceled by the Trustee or delivered to the Trustee for
cancellation;
(ii) Securities for whose payment or redemption money in the necessary amount has been
theretofore deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than an Issuer) in trust or set
aside and segregated in trust by an Issuer (if such Issuer shall act as Paying Agent for the
Issuers) for the Holders of such Securities;
provided, however
, that, if such Securities are to be
redeemed, notice of such redemption has been duly given pursuant to this Indenture or provision
therefor has been made;
(iii) Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 306 or in exchange for or in lieu of
which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture, other than
any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof
satisfactory to it that such Securities are held by a bona fide purchaser in whose hands such
Securities are valid obligations of the Issuers; and
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(iv) Securities, except to the extent provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, with respect to
which the Issuers have effected defeasance or covenant defeasance as provided in Article XIII;
provided, however
, that in determining whether the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or
waiver hereunder, (A) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security that shall be
deemed to be Outstanding shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable
as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Maturity thereof on such date
pursuant to Section 502, (B) the principal amount of a Security denominated in one or more
currencies or currency units other than U.S. dollars shall be the U.S. dollar equivalent of such
currencies or currency units, determined in the manner provided as contemplated by Section 301 on
the date of original issuance of such Security, of the principal amount (or, in the case of an
Original Issue Discount Security, the U.S. dollar equivalent (as so determined) on the date of
original issuance of such Security, of the amount determined as provided in Clause (A) above) of
such Security, and (C) Securities owned by an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities or
any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be
Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any
such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver, only Securities which
the Trustee knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded. Securities so owned as described in
Clause (C) above which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the
pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgees right so to act with respect
to such Securities and that the pledgee is not an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities
or any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor.
Partnership
means the Person named as the Partnership in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Partnership
shall mean such successor Person.
Paying Agent
means any Person authorized by the Issuers to pay the principal of or any
premium or interest on any Securities on behalf of the Issuers.
Payment Blockage Period
has the meaning specified in Section 1403.
Periodic Offering
means an offering of Securities of a series from time to time, the
specific terms of which Securities, including, without limitation, the rate or rates of interest or
formula for determining the rate or rates of interest thereon, if any, the Stated Maturity or
Stated Maturities thereof, the original issue date or dates thereof, the redemption provisions, if
any, with respect thereto, and any other terms specified as contemplated by Section 301 with
respect thereto, are to be determined by the Issuers upon the issuance of such Securities.
Person
means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company, association, joint-stock company, trust, other entity, unincorporated organization or
government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Place of Payment
, when used with respect to the Securities of any series, means, unless
otherwise specifically provided for with respect to such series as contemplated by Section 301,
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the office or agency of the Issuers in The City of New York and such other place or places
where, subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and any premium and interest on
the Securities of that series are payable as specified as contemplated by Section 301.
Predecessor Security
of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all
or a portion of the same Indebtedness as that evidenced by such particular Security; and, for the
purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered under Section 306 in exchange
for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be deemed to evidence the
same Indebtedness as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security.
Redemption Date
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed
for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.
Redemption Price
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at
which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture.
Regular Record Date
for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities
of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 301.
Representative
means any trustee, agent or representative (if any) for an issue of Senior
Indebtedness.
Securities
has the meaning stated in the first recital of this Indenture and more
particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.
Security Register
and
Security Registrar
have the respective meanings specified in Section
305.
Senior Indebtedness
means the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on, (i) all of the
Issuers other indebtedness for money borrowed, other than the Securities, whether outstanding on
the date of execution of this Indenture or thereafter created, assumed or incurred, except such
indebtedness as is by its terms expressly stated to be not superior in right of payment to the
Securities or to rank pari passu with the Securities and (ii) any deferrals, renewals or extensions
of any such Senior Indebtedness; provided, however, that Senior Indebtedness shall not include (1)
any obligation of the Issuers to any of their Subsidiaries, (2) any liability for Federal, state,
local or other taxes owed or owing by the Issuers, (3) any accounts payable or other liability to
trade creditors arising in the ordinary course of business (including guarantees thereof or
instruments evidencing such liabilities), (4) any indebtedness, guarantee or obligation of the
Issuers which is expressly subordinate or junior in right of payment in any respect to any other
indebtedness, guarantee or obligation of the Issuers, including any senior subordinated
Indebtedness and any other subordinated obligations, (5) any obligations with respect to any
Capital Interests, or (6) any Indebtedness incurred in violation of this Indenture. The term
"
indebtedness for money borrowed
as used herein shall include, without limitation, any obligation
of, or any obligation guaranteed by, the Issuers for the repayment of borrowed money, whether or
not evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other written instruments, and any deferred obligation
for the payment of the purchase price of property or assets.
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Special Record Date
for the payment of any Defaulted Interest means a date fixed by the
Trustee pursuant to Section 307.
Stated Maturity
, when used with respect to the principal of any Security or any installment
of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date specified in such Security as the fixed
date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due
and payable.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person of which more than 50% of the
total voting power of the Capital Interests of such Person entitled (without regard to the
occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof
or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the partners Capital Interests (considering all
partners Capital Interests as a single class), is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or a combination
thereof.
Trust Indenture Act
means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in
effect on the date on which this Indenture is qualified under the Trust Indenture Act, except as
provided in Section 905.
Trustee
means the Person named as the Trustee in the first paragraph of this instrument
until a successor Trustee shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter
Trustee
shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee
hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person,
Trustee
as used with respect to
the Securities of any series shall mean each Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.
U.S. Government Obligations
means securities which are (i) direct obligations of the United
States for the payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or (ii) obligations of a
Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States,
the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the
United States, each of which are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof.
Section 102.
Compliance Certificates and Opinions
Upon any application or request by the Issuers to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking
any action under any provision of this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee an
Officers Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in
the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this
Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with, and an Opinion of Counsel in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such
counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been complied with. Each such
certificate shall comply with the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act and any other
requirements set forth in this Indenture.
Every Officers Certificate or Opinion of Counsel (except for certificates provided for in
Section 1004) shall include:
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(1) a statement that each individual signing such certificate or opinion has read such
covenant or condition;
(2) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon
which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;
(3) a statement that, in the opinion of each such individual, he has made such examination or
investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not
such covenant or condition has been complied with; and
(4) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such individual, such condition or
covenant has been complied with.
Section 103.
Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion
of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by
the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document,
but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more
other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to
such matters in one or several documents.
Any certificate or opinion of an Officer of the Issuers may be based, insofar as it relates to
legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such
Officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion
or representations with respect to the matters upon which his certificate or opinion is based are
erroneous. Any such certificate or opinion of counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to
factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an Officer or Officers of
the Issuers stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession
of the Issuers unless such counsel knows that the certificate or opinion or representations with
respect to such matters are erroneous.
Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests,
consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may,
but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.
Section 104.
Acts of Holders; Record Dates
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided or permitted by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and
evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed (either physically or by
means of a facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is
transmitted through the facilities of a Depositary) by such Holders in person or by an agent duly
appointed in writing; and, except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become
effective when such instrument or instruments are delivered (either physically or by means of a
facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is transmitted
through the facilities of a Depositary) to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly
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required, to the Issuers. Such instrument or instruments (and the action embodied therein and
evidenced thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the
Act
of the Holders signing such
instrument or instruments. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing
any such agent shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 315 of
the Trust Indenture Act) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Issuers, if made in the manner
provided in this Section.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a Holder, including a Depositary that is a
Holder of a Global Security, may make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies, duly appointed in
writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders, and a Depositary that is a Holder
of a Global Security may provide its proxy or proxies to the beneficial owners of interests in any
such Global Security.
The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be
proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of a notary public or
other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual
signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution
is by a signer acting in a capacity other than his individual capacity, such certificate or
affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his authority. The fact and date of the
execution of any such instrument or writing or the authority of the Person executing the same, may
also be proved in any other manner which the Trustee deems sufficient.
The ownership, principal amount and serial numbers of Securities held by any Person, and the
date of commencement of such Persons holding the same, shall be proved by the Security Register.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action of the
Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every
Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu
thereof in respect of anything done, omitted or suffered to be done by the Trustee or the Issuers
in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.
Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled hereunder to give or take any action
hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the
principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents each of which may do so
pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any different part of such principal amount.
The Issuers may set any day as the record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of
Outstanding Securities of any series entitled to give or take any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided or permitted by this Indenture to be
given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series, but the Issuers shall have no obligation to
do so. With regard to any record date set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding
Securities of the relevant series on such record date (or their duly appointed agents), and only
such Persons, shall be entitled to give or take the relevant action, whether or not such Holders
remain Holders after such record date.
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Section 105.
Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or
other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or
filed with,
(1) the Trustee by any Holder or by the Issuers shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder if made in writing and actually received by the Trustee at its office at
, or at any other address previously furnished in writing by the
Trustee, or
(2) the Issuers by the Trustee or by any Holder shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class
postage prepaid, to the Partnership addressed to it at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068,
to the attention of the Chief Financial Officer, or at any other address previously furnished in
writing to the Trustee by the Issuers.
Section 106.
Notice to Holders; Waiver
Where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be
sufficiently given (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed,
first-class postage prepaid (if international mail, by air mail), to each Holder affected by such
event, at his address as it appears in the Security Register, not later than the latest date (if
any), and not earlier than the earliest date (if any), prescribed for the giving of such notice.
In any case where notice to Holders is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor
any defect in any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder shall affect the sufficiency of such
notice with respect to other Holders. Any notice mailed to a Holder in the manner herein
prescribed shall be conclusively deemed to have been received by such Holder, whether or not such
Holder actually receives such notice.
Where this Indenture provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing
by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver
shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the
Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in
reliance upon such waiver.
In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service or by reason of any other cause it
shall be impracticable to give such notice by mail, then such notification as shall be made with
the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient notification for every purpose hereunder.
Section 107.
Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
If any provision hereof limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Trust Indenture
Act that is required under such Act to be a part of and govern this Indenture, the latter provision
shall control. If any provision of this Indenture modifies or excludes any provision of the Trust
Indenture Act that may be so modified or excluded, the latter provision shall be deemed to apply to
this Indenture as so modified or excluded, as the case may be.
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Section 108.
Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
The Article and Section headings herein and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and
shall not affect the construction hereof.
Section 109.
Successors and Assigns
All covenants and agreements in this Indenture by the Issuers shall bind their successors and
assigns, whether so expressed or not.
Section 110.
Separability Clause
In case any provision in this Indenture or in the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in
any way be affected or impaired thereby.
Section 111.
Benefits of Indenture
Nothing in this Indenture or in the Securities, express or implied, shall give to any Person,
other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder, holders of Senior Indebtedness and
Holders, any benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.
Section 112.
Governing Law
This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the
law of the State of New York.
Section 113.
Legal Holidays
In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity of any
Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other
provision of this Indenture or of the Securities (other than a provision of the Securities of any
series which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section)) payment
of interest or principal (and premium, if any) need not be made at such Place of Payment on such
date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment with the same
force and effect as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated
Maturity,
provided
that no interest shall accrue for the period from and after such Interest
Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity, as the case may be.
Section 114.
Language of Notices, Etc.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act required or
permitted under this Indenture shall be in the English language, except that any published notice
may be in an official language of the country of publication.
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Section 115.
Interest Limitation
It is the intention of the Issuers to conform strictly to all applicable usury laws and any
subsequent revisions, repeals or judicial interpretations thereof. Accordingly, if the
transactions contemplated hereby would be usurious under any applicable law then, in that event,
notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Securities or this Indenture, it is agreed as
follows: (i) the aggregate of all consideration which constitutes interest under applicable law
with respect to a Security shall under no circumstances exceed the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall have been paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to
the extent permitted by applicable law; and (ii) in the event that the maturity of any Security is
accelerated or in the event of any redemption of such Security, then such consideration that
constitutes interest under applicable law may never include more than the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall be paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to the
extent permitted by applicable law. All calculations made to compute the rate of interest with
respect to a Security for the purpose of determining whether such rate exceeds the maximum amount
allowed by applicable law shall be made, to the extent permitted by such applicable law, by
allocating and spreading during the period of the full stated term of such Security all interest
any time contracted for, taken, reserved, charged or received by such Holder or by the Trustee on
behalf of any such Holder in connection therewith so that the amount or rate of interest charged
for any and all periods of time during the term of the Security does not exceed the maximum amount
or rate of interest allowed to be charged by law during the relevant period of time.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, if at any time applicable laws shall be changed so as to
permit a higher rate or amount of interest to be charged than that permitted prior to such change,
then unless prohibited by law, references in this Indenture or any Security to applicable law
when used in the context of determining the maximum interest or rate of interest that can be
charged shall be deemed to refer to such applicable law as so amended to allow the greater amount
or rate of interest.
The right to accelerate maturity of any Security does not include the right to accelerate any
interest which has not otherwise accrued to the date of such acceleration, provided, however, that
the foregoing shall not prohibit the continuing accrual after acceleration of interest in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and such Security.
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Section 116.
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Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees, Limited Partners or Shareholders
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Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General Partner),
and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General Partner. The
Trustee agrees, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance thereof will be deemed to have
agreed, in this Indenture that the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers
and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuers under this
Indenture or such Securities.
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No limited partner of the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or
stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any
obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture or the Securities or any claim based on, in respect
of or by reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the
federal securities laws and it is the view of the Commission that such waiver is against public
policy.
The agreements set forth in this Section are part of the consideration for the issuance of the
Securities.
ARTICLE II
SECURITY FORMS
Section 201.
Forms Generally
The Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form set forth in this Article, or
in such other form as shall be established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or in one or more
indentures supplemental hereto, in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions,
substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture, and may have
such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed
thereon as may be required to comply with applicable laws or the rules of any securities exchange
or automated quotation system on which the Securities of such series may be listed or traded or of
any Depositary therefor or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the Officers executing
such Securities, as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the form of Securities of
any series is established by action taken pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate
record of such action shall be certified by an authorized Officer or other authorized Person on
behalf of each Issuer and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Issuer Order
contemplated by Section 303 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities. Any form of
Security approved by or pursuant to a Board Resolution must be acceptable as to form by the
Trustee, such acceptance to be evidenced by the Trustees authentication of Securities in that
form.
The Definitive Securities shall be printed, lithographed or engraved on steel engraved borders
or may be produced in any other manner, all as determined by the Officers executing such
Securities, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
Section 202.
Form of Face of Security
.
[Insert any legend required by the United States Internal Revenue Code and the regulations
thereunder.]
[
If a Global Security,insert legend required by Section 204 of the Indenture] [If applicable,
insert
UNLESS THIS SECURITY IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST
COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION, TO THE ISSUERS OR THEIR AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER,
EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY SECURITY ISSUED IS
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REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH
OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY), ANY
TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL IN AS
MUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
[TITLE OF SECURITY]
[CUSIP No. ]
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (herein called the Partnership,
which term includes any successor person under the Indenture hereinafter referred to), and
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation (herein called Finance Corp., which
term includes any successor Person under the Indenture, and, together with the Partnership, herein
called the Issuers), for value received, hereby promises to pay to , or
registered assigns, the principal sum of United States Dollars [state
other currency] on [if the Security is to bear interest prior to Maturity,
insert, and to pay interest thereon from , or from the most recent Interest Payment
Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for, semi-annually on and
in each year, commencing , at the rate of % per annum,
until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment [if applicable, insert, and at
the rate of % per annum on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue installment
of interest]. [If applicable, insert The amount of interest payable for any period shall be
computed on the basis of twelve 30-day months and a 360-day year. The amount of interest payable
for any partial period shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and
the days elapsed in any partial month. In the event that any date on which interest is payable on
this Security is not a Business Day, then a payment of the interest payable on such date will be
made on the next succeeding day which is a Business Day (and without any interest or other payment
in respect of any such delay) with the same force and effect as if made on the date the payment was
originally payable. A Business Day shall mean, when used with respect to any Place of Payment,
each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which banking
institutions in that Place of Payment are authorized or obligated by law, executive order or
regulation to close.] The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any
Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this
Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the
Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the or
(whether or not a Business Day), as the case may be, next preceding such
Interest Payment Date. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to
the
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Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at
the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be
fixed by the Trustee, notice of which shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not
less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful
manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or automated quotation
system on which the Securities of this series may be listed or traded, and upon such notice as may
be required by such exchange or automated quotation system, all as more fully provided in the
Indenture].
[If the Security is not to bear interest prior to Maturity, insertThe principal of this
Security shall not bear interest except in the case of a default in payment of principal upon
acceleration, upon redemption or at Stated Maturity and in such case the overdue principal of this
Security shall bear interest at the rate of % per annum, which shall accrue from the date
of such default in payment to the date payment of such principal has been made or duly provided
for. Interest on any overdue principal shall be payable on demand. Any such interest on any
overdue principal that is not so paid on demand shall bear interest at the rate of % per
annum, which shall accrue from the date of such demand for payment to the date payment of such
interest has been made or duly provided for, and such interest shall also be payable on demand.]
[If a Global Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made by transfer of immediately
available funds to a bank account in designated by the Holder in such
coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for
payment of public and private debts [state other currency].]
[If a Definitive Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made at the office or agency of the
Issuers maintained for that purpose in , [in such coin or
currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of
public and private debts] [state other currency] [or subject to any laws or regulations applicable
thereto and to the right of the Issuers (as provided in the Indenture) to rescind the designation
of any such Paying Agent, at the [main] offices of in and
in , or at such other offices or agencies as the Issuers may
designate, by [United States Dollar] [state other currency] check drawn on, or transfer to a
[United States Dollar] account maintained by the payee with, a bank in The City of New York
[ ] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper transfer
instructions in writing at least [ ] days prior to the payment date)] [if applicable,
insert;
provided, however
, that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Issuers by
[United States Dollar] [state other currency] check mailed to the addresses of the Persons entitled
thereto as such addresses shall appear in the Security Register] [or by transfer to a [United
States Dollar] [state other currency] account maintained by the payee with a bank in The City of
New York [state other Place of Payment] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper
transfer instructions in writing by the Record Date prior to the applicable Interest Payment
Date)].]
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Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse
hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at
this place.
Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to
on the reverse hereof by manual signature, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under
the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuers have caused this instrument to be duly executed.
Dated:
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Section 203.
Form of Reverse of Security
This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Issuers (the
Securities), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture dated as of
(the Indenture), among the Issuers and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee, which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and
all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective
rights, limitations of rights, obligations, duties and immunities thereunder of the Issuers, the
Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are
to be, authenticated and delivered. As provided in the Indenture, the Securities may be issued in
one or more series, which different series may be issued in various aggregate principal amounts,
may mature at different times, may bear interest, if any, at different rates, may be subject to
different redemption provisions, if any, may be subject to different sinking, purchase or analogous
funds, if any, may be subject to different covenants and Events of Default and may otherwise vary
as in the Indenture provided or permitted. This Security is one of the series designated on the
face hereof [if applicable, insert, limited in aggregate principal amount to U.S.$ ].
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[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, [if applicable, insert(1) on in any year
commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking
fund for this series at a Redemption Price equal to 100% of the principal amount, and (2)] at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after , ], as a whole or in part, at the
election of the Issuers, at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the
principal amount): If redeemed [if applicable, inserton or before , %, and
if redeemed] during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Year
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Redemption Price
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Year
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Redemption Price
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in the
case of any such redemption [if applicable, insert(whether through operation of the sinking fund
or otherwise)] with accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated
Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities,
or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record
Dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, (1) on in any year commencing
with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for
this series at the Redemption Prices for redemption through operation of the sinking fund
(expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below, and (2) at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after ], as a whole or in part, at the election
of the Issuers, at the Redemption Prices for redemption otherwise than through operation of the
sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below: If
redeemed during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Otherwise
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Redemption Through
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Than Through Operation
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Year
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Operation of the Sinking Fund
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of the Sinking Fund
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in
the case of any such redemption (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise) with
accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated Maturity is on or
prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities, or one or more
Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record Dates referred to
on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
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[If applicable, insertThe sinking fund for this series provides for the redemption on
in each year beginning with the year and ending with the year of
[if applicable,not less than $ (mandatory sinking fund) and not more than]
$ aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series. Securities of this series
acquired or redeemed by the Issuers otherwise than through [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund
payments may be credited against subsequent [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund payments
otherwise required to be made [if applicable,in the inverse order in which they become due].]
[If the Security is subject to redemption in part of any kind, insertIn the event of
redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like
tenor for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of the Holder hereof upon the
cancellation hereof.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are not redeemable prior to Stated
Maturity.]
[If the Security is not an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default
with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture.]
[If the Security is an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default with
respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, an amount of principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture. Such amount shall be equal toinsert formula for determining the
amount. Upon payment (1) of the amount of principal so declared due and payable, and (2) of
interest on any overdue principal and overdue interest, all of the Issuers obligations in respect
of the payment of the principal of and interest, if any, on the Securities of this series shall
terminate.]
The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and
the modification of the rights and obligations of the Issuer and the rights of the Holders of the
Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Issuers and the
Trustee with the consent of not less than the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of all series to be affected (voting as one class). The Indenture
also contains provisions permitting the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of all affected series (voting as one class), on behalf of the Holders of
all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Issuers with certain provisions of the
Indenture. The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the Holders of a
majority in principal amount of Securities of any series then Outstanding to waive past defaults
under the Indenture with respect to such series and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver
by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future
Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in
exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon
this Security.
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As provided in and subject to the provisions of the Indenture, the Holder of this Security
shall not have the right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for the
appointment of a receiver or trustee or for any other remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall
have previously given the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to
the Securities of this series, the Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the
Securities of this series at the time Outstanding shall have made written request to the Trustee to
institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default as Trustee and offered the Trustee
reasonable indemnity and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in
principal amount of Securities of this series at the time Outstanding a direction inconsistent with
such request, and shall have failed to institute any such proceeding, for 60 days after receipt of
such notice, request and offer of indemnity. The foregoing shall not apply to any suit instituted
by the Holder of this Security for the enforcement of any payment of principal hereof or [any
premium or] interest hereon on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.
No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture
shall, without the consent of the Holder, alter or impair the obligation of the Issuers, which is
absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and [any premium and] interest on this Security
at the times, place(s) and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, except for Section
115 of the Indenture (which limits interest to the maximum amount permissible by law), the
provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[If a Global Security, insertThis Global Security or portion hereof may not be exchanged for
Definitive Securities of this series except in the limited circumstances provided in the Indenture.
The holders of beneficial interests in this Global Security will not be entitled to receive
physical delivery of Definitive Securities except as described in the Indenture and will not be
considered the Holders thereof for any purpose under the Indenture.]
[If a Definitive Security, insertAs provided in the Indenture and subject to certain
limitations therein set forth, the transfer of this Security is registerable in the Security
Register, upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of
the Issuers in [if applicable, insert any place where the principal of and any premium and
interest on this Security are payable] [if applicable, insert The City of New York [, or, subject
to any laws or regulations applicable thereto and to the right of the Issuers (limited as provided
in the Indenture) to rescind the designation of any such transfer agent, at the [main] offices of
in and in or at such
other offices or agencies as the Issuers may designate]], duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a
written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or
more new Securities of this series and of like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same
aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.]
The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without coupons in
denominations of U.S.$ [state other currency] and any integral multiple thereof. As provided in
the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this series are
-20-
exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series and of like
tenor of a different authorized denomination, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.
No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the
Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge
payable in connection therewith.
Prior to due presentment of this Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this
Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is
overdue, and neither the Issuers, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
This Security is subordinated in right of payment to Senior Indebtedness to the extent
provided in the Indenture.
Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General Partner),
and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General Partner. The
Trustee has agreed, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance hereof will be deemed to have
agreed, in the Indenture that the Operating Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers
and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuers under the
Indenture or such Securities, including this Security. No limited partner of the Partnership or
director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp.,
as such, will have any liability for any obligations of the Issuers under the Indenture or such
Securities, including this Security or any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of, such
obligations. Each Holder of a Security, including this Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability.
The Indenture contains provisions that relieve the Issuers from the obligation to comply with
certain restrictive covenants in the Indenture and for satisfaction and discharge at any time of
the entire indebtedness upon compliance by the Issuers with certain conditions set forth in the
Indenture.
This Security shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of
New York.
All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings
assigned to them in the Indenture.
[If a Definitive Security, insert as a separate page
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto
(Please Print or Typewrite Name and Address of Assignee) the
within instrument of FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. and FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. and does
hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint
Attorney to transfer said
instrument on the books of the within-named Issuers, with full power of substitution in the
premises.
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Please Insert Social Security or
Other Identifying Number of Assignee:
(Participant in a Recognized Signature
Guaranty Medallion Program)
NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the
face of the within instrument in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change
whatever.]
Section 204.
Global Securities
Every Global Security authenticated and delivered hereunder shall bear a legend in
substantially the following form:
THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE HEREINAFTER
REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF A DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF.
THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED TO, OR REGISTERED OR EXCHANGED FOR SECURITIES
REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF, ANY PERSON OTHER THAN THE DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF
AND NO SUCH TRANSFER MAY BE REGISTERED, EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES
DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE. EVERY SECURITY AUTHENTICATED AND DELIVERED UPON
REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR OR IN LIEU OF, THIS SECURITY SHALL
BE A GLOBAL SECURITY SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING, EXCEPT IN SUCH LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES.
If Securities of a series are issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global
Securities, as contemplated by Section 301, then, notwithstanding Clause (9) of Section 301 and the
provisions of Section 302, any Global Security shall represent such of the Outstanding Securities
of such series as shall be specified therein and may provide that it shall represent the aggregate
amount of Outstanding Securities from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate amount
of Outstanding Securities represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as the
case may be, to reflect exchanges. Any endorsement of a Global Security to reflect the amount, or
any reduction or increase in the amount, of Outstanding Securities represented thereby shall be
made in such manner and upon instructions given by such Person or Persons as shall be specified
therein or in an Issuer Order. Subject to the provisions of Sections 303, 304 and 305, the Trustee
shall deliver and redeliver any Global Security in the manner and upon instructions given by the
Person or Persons specified therein or in the applicable Issuer Order. Any instructions by the
Issuers with respect to endorsement or delivery
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or redelivery of a Global Security shall be in an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel).
The provisions of the last sentence of Section 303 shall apply to any Security represented by
a Global Security if such Security was never issued and sold by the Issuers and the Issuers deliver
to the Trustee the Global Security together with an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) with regard to the reduction or
increase, as the case may be, in the principal amount of Securities represented thereby, together
with the written statement contemplated by the last sentence of Section 303.
Section 205.
Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
The Trustees certificates of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Trustee
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By:
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Authorized Signatory
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ARTICLE III
THE SECURITIES
Section 301.
Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under
this Indenture is unlimited.
The Securities may be issued in one or more series. There shall be established in or pursuant
to a Board Resolution (and, subject to Section 303, to the extent established pursuant to rather
than set forth in a Board Resolution, in an Officers Certificate or Issuer Order setting forth, or
determining the manner of, such establishment) or established in one or more indentures
supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of Securities of any series,
(1) the form and title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities
of the series from Securities of any other series);
(2) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series which may be
authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities
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authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu
of, other Securities of the series pursuant to Section 304, 305, 306, 906 or 1107 and except for
any Securities which, pursuant to Section 303, are deemed never to have been authenticated and
delivered hereunder);
(3) the Person to whom any interest on a Security of the series shall be payable, if other
than the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered
at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest;
(4) the date or dates on which the Securities will be issued and on which the principal of,
and premium, if any, on the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination
thereof;
(5) the rate or rates (which may be fixed or variable) at which the Securities of the series
shall bear interest, if any, or the method of determination thereof, the date or dates from which
such interest shall accrue, or the method of determination thereof, the Interest Payment Dates on
which any such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date for any interest payable on
any Interest Payment Date;
(6) the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and
any premium and interest on Securities of the series shall be payable, Securities of the series may
be surrendered for registration of transfer, Securities of the series may be surrendered for
exchange and notices, and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of the series
and this Indenture may be served;
(7) the period or periods, if any, within which, the price or prices at which and the terms
and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the
option of the Issuers or otherwise, if the Issuers are to have that option;
(8) the obligation, if any, and the option, if any, of the Issuers to redeem, purchase or
repay, or make an offer to the same, Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or
analogous provisions or upon the happening of a specified event, including any change of control
event, or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or
prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series shall be redeemed,
purchased or repaid, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation;
(9) if other than denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof, the denominations
in which Securities of the series shall be issuable;
(10) whether payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the
Securities of the series shall be without deduction for taxes, assessments or governmental charges
paid by Holders of the series;
(11) the currency, currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any
premium and interest on any Securities of the series shall be denominated, payable, redeemable or
purchasable if other than the currency of the United States of America and the manner of
determining the equivalent thereof in the currency of the United States of America for purposes of
the definition of Outstanding in Section 101;
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(12) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, the manner in which such amounts shall be
determined;
(13) if the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of the series is to be
payable, at the election of the Issuers or a Holder thereof, in one or more currencies or currency
units other than that or those in which the Securities are stated to be payable, the currency,
currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any premium and interest on
Securities of such series as to which such election is made shall be payable, and the periods
within which and the terms and conditions upon which such election is to be made;
(14) the right, if any, of the Issuers to defer payments of interest by extending the interest
payment periods and specify the duration of such extension, the Interest Payment Dates on which
such interest shall be payable and whether and under what circumstances additional interest on
amounts deferred shall be payable;
(15) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of
Securities of the series which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity
thereof pursuant to Section 502 or provable in bankruptcy pursuant to Section 504 or the method of
determination thereof;
(16) if and as applicable, that the Securities of the series shall be issuable in whole or in
part in the form of one or more Global Securities (and whether in temporary or permanent global
form) and, in such case, the Depositary or Depositaries for such Global Security or Global
Securities and any circumstances other than those set forth in Section 305 in which any such Global
Security may be transferred to, and registered and exchanged for Securities registered in the name
of, a Person other than the Depositary for such Global Security or a nominee thereof and in which
any such transfer may be registered;
(17) any deletions from, modifications of or additions to the Events of Default set forth in
Section 501 or the covenants of the Issuers set forth in Article X pertaining to the Securities of
the series;
(18) if and the terms and conditions upon which any Securities of the series may be converted
into or exchanged for securities, which may include, without limitation, capital stock, of any
class or series of the Issuers or any other issuer;
(19) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, including, but not limited to an index
based on a currency or currencies other than that in which the Securities of that series are
payable, or any other type of index, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;
(20) if other than as provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, the terms and conditions upon which
and the manner in which such series of Securities may be defeased or discharged;
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(21) if other than the Trustee, the identity of any other trustee, the Security Registrar and
any Paying Agent;
(22) whether the Securities will be guaranteed by any Person;
(23) any restrictions or other provisions with respect to the transfer or exchange of the
Securities; and
(24) any other terms of the Securities of the series (which terms shall not be inconsistent
with the provisions of this Indenture, except as permitted by Section 901(4)).
All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination
and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to the Board Resolution or Officers
Certificate referred to above or in any such indenture supplemental hereto.
Any such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate referred to above with respect to
Securities of any series filed with the Trustee on or before the initial issuance of the Securities
of such series shall be incorporated herein by reference with respect to Securities of such series
and shall thereafter be deemed to be a part of the Indenture for all purposes relating to
Securities of such series as fully as if such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate were set
forth herein in full.
All Securities of any one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless otherwise
provided, a series may be reopened, without the consent of the Holders, for increases in the
aggregate principal amount of such series of Securities and issuances of additional Securities of
such series or for the establishment of additional terms with respect to the Securities of such
series.
If any of the terms of the series are established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy
of such Board Resolution shall be certified by an authorized officer or other authorized person of
the Issuers and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officers Certificate
setting forth, or providing the manner for determining, the terms of the series.
With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, such Board Resolution
or Officers Certificate may provide general terms for Securities of such series and provide either
that the specific terms of particular Securities of such series shall be specified in an Issuer
Order, or that such terms shall be determined by the Issuers, or one or more of the Issuers agents
designated in an Officers Certificate, in accordance with an Issuer Order.
Section 302.
Denominations
The Securities of each series shall be issuable only in registered form without coupons in
such denominations as shall be specified as contemplated by Section 301. In the absence of any
such specified denomination with respect to the Securities of any series, the Securities of such
series shall be issuable in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.
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Section 303.
Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
The Securities shall be executed on behalf of each Issuer by an Officer thereof who is the
Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President
or any Vice President and need not be attested. The signature of any of these Officers on the
Securities may be manual or facsimile.
Securities bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at any time the
proper Officers of the Issuers shall bind the Issuers, notwithstanding that such individuals or any
of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such
Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.
At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the
Issuers may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Issuers to the Trustee for
authentication, together with an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of such
Securities, and the Trustee in accordance with the Issuer Order shall authenticate and deliver such
Securities;
provided, however
, that in the case of Securities offered in a Periodic Offering, the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver such Securities from time to time in accordance with such
other procedures (including, without limitation, the receipt by the Trustee of oral or electronic
instructions from the Issuers or its duly authorized agents, thereafter promptly confirmed in
writing) acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified by or pursuant to an Issuer Order delivered
to the Trustee prior to the time of the first authentication of Securities of such series. If the
form or terms of the Securities of the series have been established in or pursuant to one or more
Board Resolutions as permitted by Sections 201 and 301, in authenticating such Securities, and
accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, in addition to any Officers Certificate and Opinion of
Counsel required to be furnished to the Trustee pursuant to Section 102, and (subject to Section
601) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating,
(1) The form and terms (or the manner of determining the terms) of such Securities have been
established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as permitted by Section 201, that such form or
forms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;
(2) if the terms of such Securities have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as
permitted by Section 301, that such terms have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established in conformity with the provisions of this
Indenture, subject, in the case of Securities of a series offered in a Periodic Offering, to any
conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel (which conditions are reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee); and
(3) that such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the
Issuers in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, which
conditions are reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, will constitute valid and legally binding
obligations of the Issuers enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of
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general applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and to general equity
principles and entitled to the benefits of this Indenture, equally and ratably with all other
Securities, if any, of such series Outstanding; and
(4) such other matters as the Trustee may reasonably request;
and, if the authentication and delivery relates to a new series of Securities created by an
indenture supplemental hereto, also stating that all conditions precedent to the execution of the
supplemental indenture with respect to that series of Securities have been complied with, the
Issuers have the power to execute and deliver any such supplemental indenture and have taken all
necessary action for those purposes and any such supplemental indenture has been executed and
delivered and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers enforceable in
accordance with its terms (subject, as to enforcement of remedies, to applicable bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium or other laws and legal principles
affecting creditors rights generally from time to time in effect and to general equitable
principles, whether applied in an action at law or in equity).
If such form or forms or terms have been so established, the Trustee shall not be required to
authenticate such Securities if the issue of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will affect
the Trustees own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise
in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 301 and of the preceding paragraph, if all
Securities of a series are not to be originally issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to
deliver the Officers Certificate otherwise required pursuant to Section 301 or the Issuers Order
and Opinion of Counsel or Board Resolution or supplemental indenture otherwise required pursuant to
such preceding paragraph at or prior to the time of authentication of each Security of such series
if such documents are delivered at or prior to the authentication upon original issuance of the
first Security of such series to be issued.
With respect to Securities of a series not to be originally issued at one time, the Trustee
may rely upon the Opinion of Counsel and the other documents delivered pursuant to Sections 201 and
301 and this Section, as applicable, in connection with the first authentication of Securities of
such series and any subsequent request by the Issuers to the Trustee to authenticate Securities of
such series upon original issuance shall constitute a representation and warranty by the Issuers
that as of the date of such request, the statements made in the Officers Certificate shall be true
and correct as if made on such date.
Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.
No Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory
for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially
in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee by manual signature of an authorized
signatory, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only
evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and is entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security shall have been
authenticated and delivered hereunder but never issued and sold by the Issuers, and the Issuers
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shall deliver such Security to the Trustee for cancellation as provided in Section 309, for
all purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and
delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture.
Section 304.
Temporary Securities
Pending the preparation of Definitive Securities of any series, the Issuers may execute, and
upon receipt of the documents required by Section 303, together with an Issuer Order, the Trustee
shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten,
mimeographed or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of
the Definitive Securities of like series in lieu of which they are issued and with such appropriate
insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities
may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
If temporary Securities of any series are issued, the Issuers will cause Definitive Securities
of that series to be prepared without unreasonable delay. After the preparation of Definitive
Securities of such series, the temporary Securities of such series shall be exchangeable for
Definitive Securities of such series upon surrender of the temporary Securities of such series at
the office or agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for the purpose of
exchanges of Securities of such series, without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for
cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities of any series the Issuers shall execute and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor one or more Definitive Securities
of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and
tenor. Until so exchanged the temporary Securities of any series shall in all respects be entitled
to the same benefits under this Indenture as Definitive Securities of such series and tenor.
Section 305.
Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
The Issuers shall cause to be kept at an office or agency of the Security Registrar in The
City of New York a register (the register maintained in such office or in any other office or
agency of the Issuers in a Place of Payment being herein sometimes referred to as the
Security
Register
) in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the Issuers shall
provide for the registration of Securities and of transfers of Securities. The Issuers shall,
prior to the issuance of any Securities hereunder, appoint the Trustee as the initial
Security
Registrar
for the purpose of registering Securities and transfers of Securities as herein provided
and its Corporate Trust Office which, at the date hereof, is located at
, as
the initial office or agency in The City of New York where the Security Register will be
maintained. The Issuers may at any time replace such Security Registrar, change such office or
agency or act as its own Security Registrar. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the
Trustee of any change of the Security Registrar or of the location of such office or agency. At
all reasonable times the Security Register shall be available for inspection by the Trustee.
Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of any series at the office or
agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for such purpose, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee
or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and
of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor.
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At the option of the Holder, Securities of any series (except a Global Security) may be
exchanged for other Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like
aggregate principal amount and tenor, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at such
office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the
exchange is entitled to receive.
All Securities issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be the
valid obligations of the Issuers, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under
this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.
Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall (if
so required by the Issuers or the Trustee) be duly endorsed, or be accompanied by a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed, by the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing.
No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities,
but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental
charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of
Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Section 304 or 1107 not involving any transfer.
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuers shall be required (1) to issue, register the transfer of
or exchange Securities of any series (or of any series and specified tenor, as the case may be)
during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of mailing of a notice
of redemption of Securities of that series selected for redemption under Section 1103 and ending at
the close of business on the day of such mailing, or (2) to register the transfer of or exchange
any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any
Security being redeemed in part.
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture and except as otherwise specified as
contemplated by Section 301, no Global Security may be transferred to, or registered or exchanged
for Securities registered in the name of, any Person other than the Depositary for such Global
Security or any nominee thereof, and no such transfer may be registered, except as provided in this
paragraph. Every Security authenticated and delivered upon registration or transfer of, or in
exchange for or in lieu of, a Global Security shall be a Global Security, except as provided in
this paragraph. If (1) (A) the Depositary for a Global Security notifies the Issuers that it is
unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for such Global Security or ceases to be a clearing
agency registered under the Exchange Act, and (B) a successor Depositary is not appointed by the
Issuers within 120 days, (2) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to the
Securities of such series and the Security Registrar has received a request from the Depositary to
issue certificated securities in lieu of all or a portion of the Global Securities of such series
(in which case the Issuers shall deliver certificated securities within 30 days of such request) or
(3) the Issuers determines in its sole discretion that Securities of a series issued in global form
shall no longer be represented by a Global Security, then such Global Security may be exchanged by
such Depositary for Definitive Securities of the same series, of any authorized denomination and of
a like aggregate principal amount and tenor, registered in
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the names of, and the transfer of such Global Security or portion thereof may be registered
to, such Persons as such Depositary shall direct.
Section 306.
Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, together with such security or
indemnity as may be required by the Issuers or the Trustee to save each of them and any agent of
either of them harmless, the Issuers shall execute and upon its request the Trustee shall
authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a new Security of the same series and of like tenor
and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding.
If there shall be delivered to the Issuers and the Trustee (1) evidence to their satisfaction
of the destruction, loss or theft of any Security and (2) such security or indemnity as may be
required by them to save each of them and any agent of either of them harmless, then, in the
absence of notice to the Issuers or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a bona fide
purchaser, the Issuers shall execute and upon their request the Trustee shall authenticate and
deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series
and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding. If,
after the delivery of such new Security, a bona fide purchaser of the original Security in lieu of
which such new Security was issued presents for payment or registration such original Security, the
Trustee shall be entitled to recover such new Security from the party to whom it was delivered or
any party taking therefrom, except a bona fide purchaser, and shall be entitled to recover upon the
security or indemnity provided therefor to the extent of any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred
by the Issuers and the Trustee in connection therewith.
In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to
become due and payable, the Issuers in their discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay
such Security.
Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Issuers may require the payment
of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation
thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected
therewith. Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this Section in exchange for any
mutilated Security or in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an
original additional contractual obligation of the Issuers, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed,
lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and shall be entitled to all
the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of
that series duly issued hereunder.
The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all
other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen Securities.
Section 307.
Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for,
on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one
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or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record
Date for such interest.
Any interest on any Security of any series which is payable, but is not punctually paid or
duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date (herein called
Defaulted Interest
) shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the relevant Regular Record Date by virtue of having
been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Issuers, at its election in each
case, as provided in Clause (1) or (2) below:
(1) The Issuers may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose
names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at
the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which
shall be fixed in the following manner. The Issuers shall notify the Trustee in writing of the
amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of
the proposed payment, and at the same time the Issuers shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of
money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or
shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the
proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons
entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this Clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a
Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days
and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment and not less than 10 days after
the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly
notify the Issuers of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Issuers,
shall cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor to be mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder of Securities of such series at
his address as it appears in the Security Register, not less than 10 days prior to such Special
Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor having been so mailed, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names
the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the
close of business on such Special Record Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the
following Clause (2).
(2) The Issuers may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in
any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or
automated quotation system on which such Securities may be listed or traded, and upon such notice
as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Issuers to the Trustee of the
proposed payment pursuant to this Clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the
Trustee.
Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and Section 305, each Security delivered
under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other
Security, shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried
by such other Security.
For each series of Securities, the Issuers shall, prior to 10:30 a.m. (New York City time) on
each payment date for principal and premium, if any, and interest, if any, deposit with the
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Trustee money in immediately available funds sufficient to make cash payments due on the
applicable payment date.
Section 308.
Persons Deemed Owners
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, prior to due presentment of a Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such
Security is registered as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of
principal of and any premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) any interest on such Security
and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and neither the
Issuers, the Trustee nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
No holder of any beneficial interest in any Global Security held on its behalf by a Depositary
shall have any rights under this Indenture with respect to such Global Security, and such
Depositary may be treated by the Issuers, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee
as the owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever. None of the Issuers, the Trustee
nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any
aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests of
a Global Security or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such
beneficial ownership interests.
Section 309.
Cancellation
All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange or
for credit against any sinking fund payment shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the
Trustee, be delivered to the Trustee and shall be promptly canceled by it. The Issuers may at any
time deliver to the Trustee for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered
hereunder which the Issuers may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, and may deliver to the
Trustee (or to any other Person for delivery to the Trustee) for cancellation any Securities
previously authenticated hereunder which the Issuers have not issued and sold, and all Securities
so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Trustee. No Securities shall be authenticated in
lieu of or in exchange for any Securities canceled as provided in this Section, except as expressly
permitted by this Indenture. All canceled Securities held by the Trustee shall be disposed of in
accordance with its customary procedures, and the Trustee shall thereafter deliver to the Issuers a
certificate with respect to such disposition.
Section 310.
Computation of Interest
Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series,
interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of
twelve 30-day months and interest on the Securities of each series for any partial period shall be
computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and the number of days elapsed in
any partial month.
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Section 311.
CUSIP Numbers
The Issuers in issuing the Securities may use CUSIP numbers (in addition to the other
identification numbers printed on the Securities), and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP
numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders. The Issuers will promptly notify the
Trustee of any change in the CUSIP numbers.
ARTICLE IV
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
Section 401.
Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
This Indenture shall upon an Issuer Request cease to be of further effect with respect to
Securities of any series (except as to any surviving rights of registration of transfer or exchange
of such Securities herein expressly provided for), and the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers,
shall execute proper instruments acknowledging satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with
respect to such Securities, when
(1) either
(A) all such Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered (other than (i) such
Securities which have been destroyed, lost or stolen and which have been replaced or paid as
provided in Section 306, and (ii) such Securities for whose payment money has theretofore been
deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and thereafter repaid to the
Issuers or discharged from such trust, as provided in Section 1003) have been delivered to the
Trustee for cancellation; or
(B) all such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation
(i) have become due and payable,
(ii) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year, or
(iii) are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the
Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of
the Issuers,
and the Issuers in the case of (i), (ii) or (iii) above, have irrevocably deposited or caused to be
deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for this purpose an amount of money in the
currency or currency units in which such Securities are payable sufficient to pay and discharge the
entire indebtedness on such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation,
for principal and any premium and interest to the date of such deposit (in the case of Securities
which have become due and payable) or to the Stated Maturity or Redemption Date, as the case may
be;
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(2) the Issuers have paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable hereunder by the Issuers
with respect to such Securities; and
(3) the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to the
satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to such Securities have been complied
with.
Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to Securities of
any series, (i) the obligations of the Issuers to the Trustee under Section 607, the obligations of
the Trustee to any Authenticating Agent under Section 614 and the right of the Trustee to resign
under Section 610 shall survive, and (ii) if money shall have been deposited with the Trustee
pursuant to subclause (B) of Clause (1) of this Section, the obligations of the Issuers and/or the
Trustee under Sections 402, 606, 701 and 1002 and the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall survive.
Section 402.
Application of Trust Money
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all money deposited with the
Trustee pursuant to Section 401 shall be held in trust and applied by it, in accordance with the
provisions of the Securities and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any
Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as its own Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine,
to the Persons entitled thereto, of the principal and any premium and interest for whose payment
such money has been deposited with the Trustee.
ARTICLE V
REMEDIES
Section 501.
Events of Default
Event of Default
, wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any
one of the following events (whatever the reason for such Event of Default and whether it shall be
voluntary or involuntary or be effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or
order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body):
(1) default in the payment of any interest upon any Security of that series when it becomes
due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 30 days (whether or not such
payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article XIV); or
(2) default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security of that
series at its Maturity (whether or not such payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article
XIV); or
(3) default in the performance, or breach, of any term, covenant or warranty of the Issuers in
this Indenture (other than a term, covenant or warranty a default in whose performance or whose
breach is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has
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expressly been included in this Indenture solely for the benefit of series of Securities other
than that series), and continuance of such default or breach for a period of 45 days after there
has been given, by registered or certified mail, to the Issuers by the Trustee or to the Issuers
and the Trustee by Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of
that series a written notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and
stating that such notice is a
Notice of Default
hereunder; or
(4) either of the Issuers pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law
(A) commences a voluntary case, (B) consents to the entry of any order for relief against it in an
involuntary case, (C) consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for all or substantially
all of its property, or (D) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or
(5) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that
(A) is for relief against either of the Issuers in an involuntary case, (B) appoints a Custodian of
either of the Issuers or for all or substantially all of its property, or (C) orders the
liquidation of either of the Issuers; and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60
days; or
(6) any other Event of Default provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to
Securities of that series.
Section 502.
Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
If an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5) of Section 501 occurs, the principal
amount of all outstanding Securities shall become due an payable immediately without further action
or notice. If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5)
of Section 501) with respect to Securities of any series at the time Outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then in every such case the Trustee or Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of that series may declare the principal amount of (or, if any of the
Securities of that series are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal
amount of such Securities as may be specified in the terms thereof) all of the Securities of that
series to be due and payable immediately, by a notice in writing to the Issuers (and to the Trustee
if given by Holders), and upon any such declaration such principal amount (or specified amount)
shall become immediately due and payable.
At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series
has been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained by the
Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of that series, by written notice to the Issuers and the Trustee, may
rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if the rescission would not conflict with
any judgment or decree and if all existing Events of Default with respect to Securities of that
series (except nonpayment of principal, interest or premium of Securities of that series that has
become due solely because of the acceleration) have been cured or waived as provided in Section
513.
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No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 503.
Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
The Issuers covenant that if
(1) default is made in the payment of any interest on any Security when such interest becomes
due and payable and such default continues for a period of 30 days (whether or not such payment is
prohibited by the provisions of Article XIV), or
(2) default is made in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security
at the Maturity thereof (whether or not such payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article
XIV),
the Issuers will, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of Holders of such
Securities, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium
and interest and, to the extent that payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable,
interest on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue interest, at the rate or rates
prescribed therefor in such Securities, and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be
sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation,
expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.
If the Issuers fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own
name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of
the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may
enforce the same against the Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities and collect the
moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the
Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.
If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series occurs and is continuing, the
Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the
Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall
deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of
any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein,
or to enforce any other proper remedy.
Section 504.
Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
In case of any judicial proceeding relative to the Issuers, or any other obligor upon the
Securities, their property or their creditors, the Trustee shall be entitled and empowered, by
intervention in such proceeding or otherwise, to take any and all actions authorized under the
Trust Indenture Act in order to have claims of Holders and the Trustee allowed in any such
proceeding. In particular, the Trustee shall be authorized to collect and receive any moneys or
other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same; and any
custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any
such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee
and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to
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Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the
Trustee under Section 607.
No provision of this Indenture shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or
consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement,
adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to
authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.
Section 505.
Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and
enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof
in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be
brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after
provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of
the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of Holders of the Securities in
respect of which such judgment has been recovered.
Section 506.
Application of Money Collected
Any money or property collected or to be applied by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall
be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the
distribution of such money or property on account of principal or any premium or interest, upon
presentation of the Securities and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and
upon surrender thereof if fully paid:
FIRST: To the payment of all amounts due the Trustee under Section 607;
SECOND: Subject to Article XIV, to the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid for
principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit
of which such money has been collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind,
according to the amounts due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium and
interest, respectively; and
THIRD: The balance, if any, to the Issuers.
Section 507.
Limitation on Suits
No Holder of any Security of any series shall have any right to institute any proceeding,
judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture or a Security, or for the appointment of a
receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless
(1) such Holder has previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of
Default with respect to the Securities of that series;
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(2) Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that
series shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such
Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;
(3) such Holder or Holders have offered and, if requested, provided to the Trustee reasonable
security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with
such request;
(4) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer and, if
requested, provision of security or indemnity has failed to institute any such proceeding; and
(5) no direction inconsistent with such written request has been given to the Trustee during
such 60-day period by Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of
that series;
it being understood and intended that no one or more of such Holders shall have any right in any
manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb
or prejudice the rights of any other of such Holders, or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or
preference over any other of such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in
the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all of such Holders.
Section 508.
Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have
the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and any
premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) interest on such Security on the respective Stated
Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and
to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired
without the consent of such Holder.
Section 509.
Restoration of Rights and Remedies
If the Trustee or any Holder has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy
under this Indenture and such proceeding has been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or has
been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then in every such case, subject to any
determination in such proceeding, the Issuers, the Trustee and Holders shall be restored severally
and respectively to their former positions hereunder, and thereafter all rights and remedies of the
Trustee and Holders shall continue as though no such proceeding had been instituted.
Section 510.
Rights and Remedies Cumulative
Except as otherwise provided with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated,
destroyed, lost or stolen Securities in the last paragraph of Section 306, no right or remedy
herein conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to Holders is intended to be exclusive of any
other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be
cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter
existing at
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law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder,
or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other appropriate
right or remedy.
Section 511.
Delay or Omission Not Waiver
No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder of any Securities to exercise any right
or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a
waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by
this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders may be exercised from time to time, and as
often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders, as the case may be.
Section 512.
Control by Holders
Subject to the provisions of Section 603, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of any series shall have the right to direct the time, method and
place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust
or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series;
provided,
however
, that the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this
Indenture that Trustee determines may be unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Holders of
Securities or that may subject the Trustee to personal liability.
Section 513.
Waiver of Past Defaults
Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series may on behalf of Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default
hereunder with respect to such series and its consequences, except
(1) a continuing default in the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any
Security of such series, or
(2) a default in respect of a covenant or provision hereof which under Article IX cannot be
modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series
affected.
Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising
therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture, but no such
waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 514.
Undertaking for Costs
In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit
against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, a court may require
any party litigant in such suit to file an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and may
assess costs against any such party litigant, in the manner and to the extent provided in the Trust
Indenture Act;
provided, however
, that neither this Section nor the Trust Indenture Act shall be
deemed to authorize any court to require such an undertaking or to make such an assessment in
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any suit instituted by the Trustee, in any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders,
holding in the aggregate more than 10% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series to which the suit relates, or in any suit instituted by any Holder for the enforcement of
the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Security on or after the
respective Stated Maturity expressed by such Security (or, in the case of redemption or repayment,
on or after the Redemption Date).
ARTICLE VI
THE TRUSTEE
Section 601.
Certain Duties and Responsibilities
(a) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any series of
Securities,
(1) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are
specifically set forth in this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series, and
no implied covenants or obligations shall read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and
(2) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may, with respect to
Securities of such series, conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the
correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to
the Trustee conforming to the requirements of this Indenture; but in the case of any such
certificates or opinions which by any provision hereof are specifically required to be
furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall be under a duty to examine the same to
determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture.
(b) In case an Event of Default with respect to any series of Securities has occurred and is
continuing, the Trustee shall exercise with respect to the Securities of such series such rights
and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their
exercise, as a prudent Person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such
persons own affairs.
(c) No provisions of this Indenture shall be construed to relieve the Trustee from liability
for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct,
except that
(1) this Subsection shall not be construed to limit the effect of Subsection (a) of
this Section;
(2) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a
responsible officer, unless it shall be proved that the Trustee was negligent in
ascertaining the pertinent facts;
(3) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action taken or omitted to be
taken by it in good faith in accordance with the direction of the Holders or a
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majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series relating to
the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the
Trustee, or exercising any trust or power conferred upon the Trustee, under this Indenture
with respect to the Securities of such series; and
(4) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own
funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties
hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable
grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk
or liability is not reasonably assured to it.
(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating
to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be
subject to the provisions of this Section.
Section 602.
Notice of Defaults
If a Default occurs and is continuing with respect to the Securities of any series, the
Trustee shall, within 90 days after it occurs, transmit, in the manner and to the extent provided
in Section 313(c) of the Trust Indenture Act, notice of all uncured or unwaived Defaults known to
it;
provided, however
, that, except in the case of a Default in payment on the Securities of any
series, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding the notice if and so long as the board of
directors, the executive committee or a trust committee of directors or responsible officers of the
Trustee determine in good faith that withholding such notice is in the interests of Holders of
Securities of such series;
provided, further, however
, that, in the case of any default or breach
of the character specified in Section 501(3) with respect to the Securities of such series, no such
notice to Holders shall be given until at least 60 days after the occurrence thereof.
Section 603.
Certain Rights of Trustee
Subject to the provisions of Section 601:
(1) the Trustee may rely on and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon
any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document
believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties;
(2) any request, direction, order or demand of the Issuers mentioned herein shall be
sufficiently evidenced by an Issuer Request or Issuer Order (or in the case of a Periodic Offering,
as agreed in procedures set forth in an Issuer Order pursuant to Section 303) and any resolution of
the Board of Directors shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;
(3) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that
a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder, the
Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the absence of bad faith
on its part, rely upon an Officers Certificate;
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(4) the Trustee may consult with counsel and the written advice of such counsel or any Opinion
of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken,
suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;
(5) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in
it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture,
unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it
against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such
request or direction;
(6) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated
in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document,
but the Trustee, in its discretion, may, without obligation to do so, make such further inquiry or
investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit; and, if the Trustee shall determine to
make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and
premises of the Issuers, personally or by agent or attorney;
(7) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties
hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys and the Trustee shall not be
responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with
due care by it hereunder; and
(8) the Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers Certificate setting forth
the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified
actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers Certificate may be signed by any Person
authorized to sign an Officers Certificate, including any Person specified as so authorized in any
such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.
Section 604.
Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
The recitals contained herein and in the Securities, except the Trustees certificates of
authentication, shall be taken as the statements of the Issuers, and the Trustee or any
Authenticating Agent assumes no responsibility for their correctness. Neither the Trustee nor any
Authenticating Agent makes any representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Indenture
or of the Securities. Neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent shall be accountable for
the use or application by the Issuers of Securities or the proceeds thereof.
Section 605.
May Hold Securities
The Trustee, any Authenticating Agent, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other
agent of the Issuers, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of
Securities and, subject to Sections 608 and 613, may otherwise deal with the Issuers with the same
rights it would have if it were not Trustee, Authenticating Agent, Paying Agent, Security Registrar
or such other agent.
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Section 606.
Money Held in Trust
Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds except to
the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money
received by it hereunder except as otherwise agreed with the Issuers.
Section 607.
Compensation and Reimbursement
The Issuers agree:
(1) to pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for all services rendered
by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the
compensation of a trustee of an express trust);
(2) to reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and
advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture
(including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and
counsel), except any such expense, disbursement or advance as may be attributable to its negligence
or bad faith; and
(3) to indemnify the Trustee for, and to hold it harmless against, any loss, liability or
expense incurred without negligence or bad faith on its part, arising out of or in connection with
the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder, including the costs and expenses
of defending itself against any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance
of any of its powers or duties hereunder.
The obligations of the Issuers under this Section to compensate the Trustee and to pay or
reimburse the Trustee for expenses, disbursements and advances shall constitute additional
indebtedness hereunder.
Without limiting any rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee
incurs expenses or renders services in connection with an Event of Default specified in Section
501(4) or Section 501(5), the expenses (including the reasonable charges and expenses of its
counsel) and the compensation for such services are intended to constitute expenses of
administration under any applicable Bankruptcy Law.
The provisions of this Section shall survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture
and the defeasance of the Securities.
Section 608.
Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
If the Trustee has or shall acquire a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust
Indenture Act, the Trustee shall either eliminate such interest or resign, to the extent and in the
manner provided by, and subject to the provisions of, the Trust Indenture Act and this Indenture.
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Section 609.
Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
There shall at all times be one or more Trustees hereunder with respect to the Securities of
each series, at least one of which shall be a Person that is eligible pursuant to the Trust
Indenture Act to act as such and has a combined capital and surplus required by the Trust Indenture
Act. If such Person publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the
requirements of a supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the
combined capital and surplus of such Person shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus
as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall
cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately
in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article.
Section 610.
Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to
this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee in
accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611.
The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by
giving written notice thereof to the Issuers. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor
Trustee required by Section 611 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after
the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such
series.
The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of
the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series,
delivered to the Trustee and to the Issuers. If an instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee
shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of
removal, the removed Trustee may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment
of a successor Trustee.
The Issuers may remove the Trustee if:
(1) the Trustee fails to comply with Section 608 or 609 hereof;
(2) the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with
respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;
(3) a custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or
(4) the Trustee becomes incapable of acting.
If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall
occur in the office of Trustee for any cause, with respect to the Securities of one or more series,
the Issuers, by a Board Resolution, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with
respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor
Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and
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that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any
particular series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 611. If, within
one year after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a
successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of Holders
of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the
Issuers and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its
acceptance of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611,
become the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent
supersede the successor Trustee appointed by the Issuers.
If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so
appointed by the Issuers or Holders and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 611
within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the Holders of at least 10% in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series may petition, at the expense of the
Issuers, any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.
If the Trustee, after written request by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a
Security of such series for at least six months, fails to comply with Section 608 or 609, such
Holder may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect
to the Securities of such series.
The Issuers shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect
to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of any series to all Holders of Securities of such series in the manner provided in
Section 106. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of such series and the address of its Corporate Trust Office.
Section 611.
Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
(1) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to all
Securities, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the
Issuers and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the
resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee,
without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers,
trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on the request of the Issuers or the successor
Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of its charges, execute and deliver an
instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the retiring
Trustee and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and
money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder.
(2) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities
of one or more (but not all) series, the Issuers, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee
with respect to the Securities of one or more series shall execute and deliver an indenture
supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (A)
shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to
vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring
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Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of
such successor Trustee relates, (B) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all
Securities, shall contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that
all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of
that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested
in the retiring Trustee, and (C) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as
shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more
than one Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall
constitute such Trustees as co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be
trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder
administered by any other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental
indenture the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent
provided therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance,
shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with
respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor
Trustee relates, but, on request of the Issuers, or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee
shall, upon payment of its charges, duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all
property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that
or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.
(3) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Issuers shall execute any and all
instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all
such rights, powers and trusts referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) of this Section, as the case may
be.
(4) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance
such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.
Section 612.
Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
Any Person into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be
consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Trustee shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust
business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder,
provided
such Person
shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of
any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities
shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by
merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication
and deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had
itself authenticated such Securities.
Section 613.
Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
If and when the Trustee shall be or become a creditor of an Issuer or any other obligor upon
the Securities, the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act regarding
the collection of claims against such Issuer or any such other obligor.
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Section 614.
Appointment of Authenticating Agent
The Trustee (upon notice to the Issuers) may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Agents with
respect to one or more series of Securities which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the
Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series issued upon original issue (in accordance with
procedures acceptable to the Trustee) and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial
redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 306, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if
authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the
authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustees certificate of
authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the
Issuers and shall at all times be a Person organized and doing business under the laws of the
United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws
to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000
and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating
Agent publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of
said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined
capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and
surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time an
Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section,
such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in
this Section.
Any Person into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may
be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such
Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the
corporate agency or corporate trust business of such Authenticating Agent, shall continue to be an
Authenticating Agent, provided such Person shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without
the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or such
Authenticating Agent.
An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee
and to the Issuers. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by
giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to the Issuers. Upon receiving such
a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating
Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, the Trustee may
appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be acceptable to the Issuers. Any successor
Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment hereunder shall become vested with all the
rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder, with like effect as if originally named as
an Authenticating Agent. No successor Authenticating Agent shall be appointed unless eligible
under the provisions of this Section.
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Except with respect to an Authenticating Agent appointed at the request of the
Issuers
, the
Trustee agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time reasonable compensation for
its services under this Section.
If an appointment with respect to one or more series is made pursuant to this Section, the
Securities of such series may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustees certificate of
authentication, an alternative certificate of authentication in the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Authenticating Agent
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Authorized Signatory
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Section 615.
Force Majeure
.
In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the
performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly,
forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts
of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of
God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and
hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are
consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as
practicable under the circumstances.
ARTICLE VII
HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
Section 701.
Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
The Issuers will furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee
(1) semi-annually, not later than each Interest Payment Date in each year, a list for each
series of Securities, in such form as the Trustee may reasonably require, of the names and
addresses of the Holders of Securities of such series as of the preceding Regular Record Date, and
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(2) at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, within 30 days after the
receipt by the Issuers of any such request, a list of similar form and content as of a date not
more than 15 days prior to the time such list is furnished;
provided, however
, that if and so long as the Trustee shall be the Security Registrar for
Securities of a series, no such list need be furnished with respect to such series of Securities.
Section 702.
Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder.
The Trustee shall comply with the obligations imposed upon it pursuant to Section 312 of the
Trust Indenture Act.
The rights of the Holders to communicate with other Holders with respect to their rights under
this Indenture or under the Securities, and the corresponding rights and privileges of the Trustee,
shall be as provided by the Trust Indenture Act.
Every Holder of Securities, by receiving and holding the same, agrees with the Issuers and the
Trustee that neither the Issuers nor the Trustee nor any agent of any of them shall be held
accountable by reason of any disclosure of information as to the names and addresses of Holders
made pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act.
Section 703.
Reports by Trustee
As promptly as practicable after each May 15 beginning with the May 15 following the date of
this Indenture, and in any event prior to July 15 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each
Holder a brief report dated as of May 15 that complies with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(a). The
Trustee also shall comply with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(b). Prior to delivery to the
Holders, the Trustee shall deliver to the Issuers a copy of any report it delivers to Holders
pursuant to this Section 703.
A copy of each such report shall, at the time of such transmission to Holders, be filed by the
Trustee with each stock exchange upon which any Securities are listed, with the Commission and with
the Issuers. The Issuers will notify the Trustee when any Securities are listed on any stock
exchange.
Section 704.
Reports by Issuers
The Issuers shall:
(1) file with the Trustee, within 15 days after the Issuers is required to file the same with
the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the information, documents and other reports
(or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the Commission may from time to time by
rules and regulations prescribe) which the Issuers may be required to file with the Commission
pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act;
(2) file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations
prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such additional information, documents and reports
with respect to compliance by the Issuers with the conditions and
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covenants of this Indenture as may be required from time to time by such rules and
regulations; and
(3) transmit by mail to all Holders, as their names and addresses appear in the Security
Register, within 30 days after the filing thereof with the Trustee, such summaries of any
information, documents and reports required to be filed by the Issuers pursuant to paragraphs (1)
and (2) of this Section as may be required by rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by
the Commission.
ARTICLE VIII
CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
Section 801.
Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
The Partnership shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, unless:
(1) the Partnership is the surviving entity or the entity formed by or surviving the
transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made is a
corporation or partnership organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state
thereof or the District of Columbia;
(2) the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the
entity to which the sale was made assumes all the obligations of the Partnership in accordance with
a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee, under the Securities and
this Indenture;
(3) immediately after the transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists; and
(4) with respect to any series of Securities then Outstanding, at the time of the transaction
and after giving pro forma effect to it as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the
applicable four-quarter period, the Partnership or such other entity or survivor is permitted to
incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness (as such term may be defined with respect to such
series of Securities) under each covenant, if any, applicable to any series of Outstanding
Securities that restricts the ability of the Partnership to incur Indebtedness.
Finance Corp. shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, except under conditions similar to those described in the
paragraph above.
Section 802.
Successor Substituted
Upon any consolidation of an Issuer with, or merger of an Issuer into, any other Person or any
sale, transfer or lease of the properties and assets of an Issuer as, or substantially as, an
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entirety in accordance with Section 801, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or
into which such Issuer is merged or to which such sale, transfer or lease is made shall succeed to,
and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, such Issuer under this Indenture
with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named originally as such Issuer herein or
therein, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of
all obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.
ARTICLE IX
SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
Section 901.
Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
Without the consent of any Holders of Securities, the Issuers and the Trustee, at any time and
from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory
to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:
(1) to allow any guarantor to guarantee Securities of any series;
(2) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities and the assumption by such successor Person of the obligations of the Issuers hereunder;
(3) to add covenants and Events of Default for the benefit of the Holders of all or any series
of such Securities or to surrender any right or power conferred by this Indenture upon the Issuers
or to make any change that does not adversely affect the legal rights hereunder of any Holder in
any material respect;
(4) to add to, change or eliminate any of the provisions of this Indenture,
provided
that any
such addition, change or elimination shall become effective only after there are no such Securities
of any series entitled to the benefit of such provision outstanding;
(5) to establish the forms or terms of the Securities of any series issued hereunder;
(6) to cure any ambiguity or correct any defect or inconsistency in this Indenture;
(7) to evidence the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee with respect to one or
more series of Securities or otherwise;
(8) to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or maintain the
qualification of this Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;
(9) to provide for uncertificated securities in addition to certificated securities;
(10) to supplement any provisions of this Indenture necessary to permit or facilitate the
defeasance and discharge of any series of Securities,
provided
that such action does
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not adversely affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of such series or any other
series; and
(11) to comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated quotation
system on which any of the Securities may be listed or traded.
Section 902.
Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of
all Outstanding Securities affected by such supplemental indenture (voting as one class), the
Issuers and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the
purpose of adding any provisions to, or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions
of, this Indenture, or modifying in any manner the rights of Holders of Securities of such series
under this Indenture (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender
offer or exchange offer for the Securities);
provided
that the Issuers and the Trustee may not,
without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security affected thereby,
(1) change the Stated Maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or
interest, if any, on, any Security, or reduce the principal amount thereof or premium, if any, on
or the rate of interest thereon or alter the method of computation of interest;
(2) reduce the percentage in principal amount of Securities required for any such supplemental
indenture or for any waiver provided for in this Indenture;
(3) change the Issuers obligation to maintain an office or agency for payment of Securities
and the other matters specified herein;
(4) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of,
premium, if any, or interest on, any Security;
(5) modify the provisions of this Indenture with respect to the subordination of any Security
in a manner adverse to the holders thereof;
(6) modify any of the provisions of this Indenture relating to the execution of supplemental
indentures with the consent of Holders of Securities which are discussed in this Section or modify
any provisions relating to the waiver by Holders of Securities of past defaults and covenants,
except to increase any required percentage or to provide that other provisions of this Indenture
cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security
affected thereby; or
(7) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in the Security.
A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this
Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series
of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with
respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this
Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.
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It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this Section to approve the particular
form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve
the substance thereof.
Section 903.
Execution of Supplemental Indentures
In executing, or accepting the additional trusts created by, any supplemental indenture
permitted by this Article or the modifications thereby of the trusts created by this Indenture, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 601) shall be fully protected in
relying upon, an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of such
supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture. The Trustee shall enter into
any supplemental indenture which does not adversely affect the Trustees own rights, duties or
immunities under this Indenture or otherwise. The Trustee may, but shall not be obligated to,
enter into any such supplemental indenture which adversely affects the Trustees own rights, duties
or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise.
Section 904.
Effect of Supplemental Indentures
Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be
modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this
Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated
and delivered hereunder shall be bound thereby.
Section 905.
Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the
requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.
Section 906.
Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental
indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in
form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the
Issuers shall so determine, new Securities of any series so modified as to conform, in the opinion
of the Trustee and the Issuers, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by
the Issuers and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities
of such series. Failure to make a notation or issue a new Security shall not affect the validity
and effect of any amendment, supplement or waiver.
ARTICLE X
COVENANTS
Section 1001.
Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
The Issuers covenant and agree for the benefit of each series of Securities that it will duly
and punctually pay the principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities of that series
in accordance with the terms of the Securities and this Indenture.
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Section 1002.
Maintenance of Office or Agency
The Issuers will maintain in each Place of Payment for any series of Securities an office or
agency where Securities of that series may be presented or surrendered for payment, where
Securities of that series may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where
notices and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of that series and this
Indenture may be served. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the
location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuers
shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with
the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at
the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Issuers hereby appoint the Trustee as their
agent to receive all such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands.
The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where
the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes
and may from time to time rescind such designations;
provided, however
, that no such designation or
rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuers of their obligation to maintain an office or
agency in each Place of Payment for Securities of any series for such purposes. The Issuers will
give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change
in the location of any such other office or agency.
Except as otherwise specified with respect to a series of Securities as contemplated by
Section 301, the Issuers hereby initially designate as the Place of Payment for each series of
Securities The City of New York, and initially appoint the Trustee as Paying Agent at its Corporate
Trust Office as the Issuers office or agency for each such purpose in such city.
Section 1003.
Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
If an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries shall at any time act as Paying Agent with respect to
any series of Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of or any premium or
interest on any of the Securities of that series, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of
the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal and any premium and interest so
becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein
provided and will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
Whenever the Issuers shall have one or more Paying Agents for any series of Securities, it
will, on or prior to each due date of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities
of that series, deposit with a Paying Agent a sum sufficient to pay such amount, such sum to be
held as provided by the Trust Indenture Act, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the
Issuers will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
The Issuers will cause each Paying Agent for any series of Securities other than the Trustee
to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the
Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will (1) hold all sums
held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on
Securities of that series in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums
shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided; (2) give the
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Trustee notice of any default by the Issuers (or any other obligor upon the Securities of that
series) in the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the
Securities of that series; and (3) during the continuance of any such default, upon the written
request of the Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums held in trust by such Paying Agent
for payment in respect of the Securities of that series.
The Issuers may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of
this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Issuer Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to
the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Issuers or such Paying Agent, such sums to be held by the
Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Issuers or such Paying
Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be
released from all further liability with respect to such money.
Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Issuers, in
trust for the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Security of any series
and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal, premium or interest has become due and
payable shall be paid to the Issuers on their request or (if then held by the Issuers) will be
discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter be permitted to look
only to the Issuers for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with
respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Issuers as trustee thereof, shall thereupon
cease;
provided, however,
that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any
such payment, may at the expense of the Issuers cause to be published once, in the New York Times
and The Wall Street Journal (national edition), notice that such money remains unclaimed and that,
after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such
publication, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be paid to Issuers.
Section 1004.
Statement by Officers as to Default
The Issuers will deliver to the Trustee, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year of
the Issuers ending after the date hereof, an Officers Certificate, stating whether or not to the
best knowledge of the signer or signers thereof the Issuers are in default in the performance and
observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (without regard to any
period of grace or requirement of notice provided hereunder) and, if the Issuers shall be in
default, specifying all such defaults and the nature and status thereof of which they may have
knowledge.
Section 1005.
Existence
Subject to Article VIII, the Issuers will do or cause to be done all things necessary to
preserve and keep in full force and effect their existence, rights (charter and statutory) and
franchises;
provided, however
, that the Issuers shall not be required to preserve any such right or
franchise if the Board of Directors of the applicable Issuer shall determine that the preservation
thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of its business.
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Section 1006.
Waiver of Certain Covenants
The Issuers may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or
condition set forth in Section 1005 with respect to the Securities of any series if before the time
for such compliance Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding
Securities of all affected series (voting as one class) shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive
such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or
condition, but no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision or condition except to
the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective, the obligations of
the Issuers and the duties of the Trustee in respect of any such term, provision or condition shall
remain in full force and effect.
A waiver which changes or eliminates any term, provision or condition of this Indenture which
has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities,
or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such term,
provision or condition, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the
Holders of Securities of any other series.
Section 1007.
Limitation on Finance Corp.
Finance Corp. will not incur any Indebtedness unless:
(1) the Partnership is a co-obligor or guarantor of the Indebtedness; or
(2) the net proceeds of the Indebtedness are either lent to the Partnership,
used to acquire outstanding debt securities issued by the Partnership, or used,
directly or indirectly, to refinance or discharge Indebtedness permitted under the
limitation of this Section 1007.
Finance Corp. will not engage in any business not related, directly or indirectly, to
obtaining money or arranging financing for the Partnership.
ARTICLE XI
REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
Section 1101.
Applicability of Article
Securities of any series which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable
in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301
for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article.
Section 1102.
Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
The election of the Issuers to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution.
In case of any redemption at the election of the Issuers of less than all the Securities of any
series, the Issuers shall, not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date
fixed by the Issuers (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the
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Trustee of such Redemption Date, of the principal amount of Securities of such series to be
redeemed and, if applicable, of the tenor of the Securities to be redeemed. In the case of any
redemption of Securities (1) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided
in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture, or (2) pursuant to an election of
the Issuers which is subject to a condition specified in the terms of such Securities, the Issuers
shall furnish the Trustee with an Officers Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction
or condition.
Section 1103.
Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
If less than all the Securities of any series are to be redeemed (unless all the Securities of
such series and of a specified tenor are to be redeemed), the particular Securities to be redeemed
shall be selected not more than 45 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the
Outstanding Securities of such series not previously called for redemption, on a
pro rata
basis or
by any other method which the Trustee deems fair and appropriate and which complies with any
securities exchange or other applicable requirements for redemption of portions (equal to the
minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of
the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum
authorized denomination for Securities of that series.
The Trustee shall promptly notify the Issuers in writing of the Securities selected for
redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount
thereof to be redeemed.
For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions
relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to
be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been
or is to be redeemed.
Section 1104.
Notice of Redemption
Notice of redemption shall be given by first-class mail (if international mail, by air mail),
postage prepaid, mailed not less than 10 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to
each Holder of Securities to be redeemed, at his address appearing in the Security Register.
All notices of redemption shall identify the Securities to be redeemed (including CUSIP
number(s)) and shall state:
(1) the Redemption Date,
(2) the Redemption Price,
(3) if less than all the Outstanding Securities of any series and of a specified tenor are to
be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of partial redemption of any Securities, the
principal amounts) of the particular Securities to be redeemed,
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(4) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price will become due and payable upon each
such Security to be redeemed and that interest thereon will cease to accrue on and after said date,
(5) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the
Redemption Price,
(6) that the redemption is for a sinking fund, if such is the case; and
(7) that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number, if
any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities and that reliance may be placed only on the
other identification numbers printed on the Securities (and any such redemption shall not be
affected by any defect in or omission of such CUSIP numbers).
Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed shall be given by the Issuers or, at the
Issuers request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuers.
Section 1105.
Deposit of Redemption Price
On or prior to 10:30 a.m. New York City Time on any Redemption Date, the Issuers shall deposit
with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Issuers are acting as their own Paying Agent,
segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 1003) an amount of money sufficient to pay the
Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) accrued
interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.
Section 1106.
Securities Payable on Redemption Date
Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall,
on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified, and from
and after such date (unless the Issuers shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and
accrued interest) such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such
Security for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Security shall be paid by the Issuers
at the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest to the Redemption Date;
provided, however
,
that, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301, installments of interest whose
Stated Maturity is on or prior to the Redemption Date shall be payable to the Holders of such
Securities, or one or more Predecessor Securities, registered as such at the close of business on
the relevant Record Dates according to their terms and the provisions of Section 307.
If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for
redemption, the principal and any premium shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date
at the rate prescribed therefor in the Security.
Section 1107.
Securities Redeemed in Part
Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part shall be surrendered at a Place of Payment
therefor (with, if the Issuers or the Trustee so requires, due endorsement by, or a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Trustee duly executed by, the
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Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing), and the Issuers shall execute, and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge, a
new Security or Securities of the same series and of like tenor, of any authorized denomination as
requested by such Holder, in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed
portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.
ARTICLE XII
SINKING FUNDS
Section 1201.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of
Securities of a series except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities
of such series.
The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any
series is herein referred to as a
mandatory sinking fund payment
, and any payment in excess of
such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as
an
optional sinking fund payment
. If provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, the
cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 1202.
Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of any series as
provided for by the terms of Securities of such series.
Section 1202.
Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
The Issuers (1) may deliver Outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously
called for redemption), and (2) may apply as a credit Securities of a series which have been
redeemed either at the election of the Issuers pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through
the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such
Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment with
respect to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such
Securities as provided for by the terms of such series;
provided
that such Securities have not been
previously so credited. Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the
Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of
the sinking fund and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.
Section 1203.
Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
Not less than 45 days prior to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities
(unless a shorter period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), the Issuers will deliver to the
Trustee an Officers Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for
that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be
satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by
delivering and crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 1202 and stating the basis
for such credit and that such Securities have not been previously so credited, and will also
deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered. Not less than 30 days before each such
sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking
fund payment date
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in the manner specified in Section 1103 and cause notice of the redemption thereof to be given
in the name of and at the expense of the Issuers in the manner provided in Section 1104. Such
notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made upon the terms and
in the manner stated in Sections 1106 and 1107.
ARTICLE XIII
DEFEASANCE
Section 1301.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to each series of Securities except as
otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series.
Section 1302.
Legal Defeasance
In addition to discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Section 401, the Issuers shall be deemed
to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness on all the Securities of such a series on the
91st day after the date of the deposit referred to in Clause (1) below, and the provisions of this
Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series shall no longer be in effect (except as to
(i) rights of registration of transfer and exchange of Securities of such series and the Issuers
right of optional redemption, if any, (ii) substitution of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Securities, (iii) rights of Holders of Securities to receive payments of principal thereof and
interest thereon, upon the original stated due dates therefor or on the specified redemption dates
therefor (but not upon acceleration), and remaining rights of the holders to receive mandatory
sinking fund payments, if any, (iv) the rights, obligations, duties and immunities of the Trustee
hereunder, and the Issuers obligations in connection therewith (including, but not limited to,
Section 607), (v) the rights, if any, to convert or exchange the Securities of such series, (vi)
the rights of Holders of Securities of such series as beneficiaries hereof with respect to the
property so deposited with the Trustee payable to all or any of them, (vii) the obligations of the
Issuers under Section 1002 and (viii) the legal defeasance provisions of this Article XIII), and
the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers, shall, upon a Issuers Request, execute proper
instruments acknowledging the same, if the conditions set forth below are satisfied (hereinafter,
"
defeasance
):
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust, for the purposes of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, certified to be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of
independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the
Trustee, to pay (i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such
series on each date that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any
Redemption Date established pursuant to Clause (3) below, and (ii) any
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mandatory sinking fund payments on the dates on which such payments are due and payable in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and the Securities of such series;
(2) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel:
(A) based on the fact that (A) the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by,
the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date hereof, there has been a change in the
applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and such opinion shall
confirm that, Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit, defeasance and discharge and will be
subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times, as
would have been the case if such deposit, defeasance and discharge had not occurred; and
(B) stating that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will not
be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws
affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the
defeasance have been complied with and confirming other matters;
(3) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(4) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
(5) Such defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within the
meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning of
such Act);
(6) Such defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default
under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of the
Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit constituting an
investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, unless
such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the defeasance
contemplated by this provision have been complied with.
For this purpose, such defeasance means that the Issuers, and any other obligor upon the
Securities of such series shall be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire debt represented
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by the Securities of such series, which shall thereafter be deemed to be Outstanding only
for the purposes of Section 1304 and the rights and obligations referred to in Clauses (i) through
(vii), inclusive, of the first paragraph of this Section, and to have satisfied all its other
obligations under the Securities of such series and this Indenture insofar as the Securities of
such series are concerned.
Section 1303.
Covenant Defeasance
The Issuers and any other obligor shall be released on the 91st day after the date of the
deposit referred to in Clause (1) below from its obligations under Sections 704, 801 and 1005 with
respect to the Securities of any series on and after the date the conditions set forth below are
satisfied (hereinafter,
covenant defeasance
), and the Securities of such series shall thereafter
be deemed to be not Outstanding for the purposes of any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, waiver, consent or declaration or other action or Act of Holders (and the
consequences of any thereof) in connection with such covenants, but shall continue to be deemed
Outstanding for all other purposes hereunder. For this purpose, such covenant defeasance means
that, with respect to the Securities of such series, the Issuers may omit to comply with and shall
have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such Section,
whether directly or indirectly by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to such Section or by
reason of any reference in such Section to any other provision herein or in any other document and
such omission to comply shall not constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 501,
but, except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and the Securities of such series
shall be unaffected thereby. The following shall be the conditions to application of this Section
1303:
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series, (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent
public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, to pay
(i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such series on each date
that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any Redemption Date
established pursuant to Clause (2) below, and (ii) any mandatory sinking fund payments on the day
on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of the Indenture and the
Securities of such series;
(2) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(3) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such
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deposit or insofar as Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are
concerned, at any time in the period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such
deposit;
(4) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel which shall:
(A) confirm that Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and covenant defeasance and will
be subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same time as
would have been the case if such deposit and covenant defeasance had not occurred; and
(B) state that that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will
not be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar
laws affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating
to the covenant defeasance have been complied with and confirm other matters;
(5) Such covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within
the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning
of such Act);
(6) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a
default under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of
the Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit
constituting an investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, unless such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration
thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and Opinion of Counsel
stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the covenant defeasance contemplated
by this provision have been complied with.
Section 1304.
Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all moneys or U.S. Government
Obligations deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303 (and all funds earned on
such moneys or U.S. Government Obligations) shall be held in trust and applied by it to the
payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as their own
Paying Agent), to Holders of the particular Securities of such series for the payment or redemption
of which such moneys have been deposited with the Trustee, of all sums due and to become due
thereon for principal and interest; but such money need not be segregated from other funds except
to the extent required by law. Subject to Sections 1302 and 1303, the Trustee shall promptly pay
to the Issuers upon Issuer Order any moneys held by it at any time, which, in the opinion of a
nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification
delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the defeasance with
respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
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Section 1305.
Repayment to Issuers
The Trustee and any Paying Agent promptly shall pay or return to the Issuers upon Issuer
Request any money and U.S. Government Obligations held by them at any time that are not required
for the payment of the principal of and any interest on the Securities of any series for which
money or U.S. Government Obligations have been deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303, which,
in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a
written certification delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the
defeasance with respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
The provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall apply to any money held by the
Trustee or any Paying Agent under this Article that remains unclaimed for two years after the
Maturity of any series of Securities for which money or U.S. Government Obligations have been
deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303.
Section 1306.
Reinstatement
If the Trustee or the Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U. S. Government
Obligations in accordance with this Article by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any
order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise
prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities of the applicable series shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had
occurred pursuant to this Indenture until such time as the Trustee or the Paying Agent is permitted
to apply all such money or U. S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article;
provided,
however
, that if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of or interest on any Securities of
such series because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the
rights of Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government
Obligations held by the Trustee or the Paying Agent.
ARTICLE XIV
SUBORDINATION
Section 1401.
Agreement to Subordinate
Each of the Issuers agrees, and each Holder by accepting a Security agrees, that the
Indebtedness evidenced by the Securities is subordinated in right of payment, to the extent and in
the manner provided in this Article XIV, to the prior payment of all Senior Indebtedness, and that
such subordination is for the benefit of and enforceable by the holders of Senior Indebtedness.
Only indebtedness of the Issuers that is Senior Indebtedness shall rank senior to the Securities in
accordance with the provisions set forth herein. All provisions of this Article XIV shall be
subject to Section 1412.
Section 1402.
Liquidation, Dissolution, Bankruptcy
Upon any payment or distribution of the assets of either of the Issuers to creditors upon a
total or partial liquidation or a total or partial dissolution of such Issuers or in a bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding relating to the either of the
Issuers
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or their respective properties: (1) holders of Senior Indebtedness shall be entitled to
receive payment in full of the Senior Indebtedness before the Holders of Securities shall be
entitled to receive any payment of principal of or interest on or other amounts with respect to the
Securities; and (2) until the Senior Indebtedness is paid in full, any distribution to which the
Holders of Securities would be entitled but for this Article XIV shall be made to holders of Senior
Indebtedness as their interests may appear, except that Holders of Securities may receive shares of
stock and any debt securities that are subordinated to Senior Indebtedness to at least the same
extent as the Securities and do not provide for the payment of principal prior to the Stated
Maturity of all Senior Indebtedness.
Section 1403.
Default on Senior Indebtedness
The Issuers may not pay the principal of or interest on or other amounts with respect to the
Securities, make any deposit pursuant to Section 1003 or repurchase, redeem or otherwise retire any
Securities (collectively, pay the Securities) if (i) any Senior Indebtedness is not paid when due
or (ii) any other default on Senior Indebtedness occurs and the maturity of such Senior
Indebtedness is accelerated in accordance with its terms unless, in either case, (x) the default
has been cured or waived and any such acceleration has been rescinded or (y) such Senior
Indebtedness has been paid in full; provided, however, that the Issuers may pay the Securities
without regard to the foregoing if the Issuers and the Trustee receive written notice approving
such payment from the Representatives of the Senior Indebtedness with respect to which either of
the events set forth in clause (i) or (ii) of the immediately preceding sentence has occurred or is
continuing. During the continuance of any default (other than a default described in clause (i) or
(ii) of the preceding sentence) with respect to any Senior Indebtedness, pursuant to which the
maturity thereof may be accelerated immediately without further notice (except such notice as may
be required to effect such acceleration) or the expiration of any applicable grace periods, the
Issuers may not pay the Securities for a period (a Payment Blockage Period) commencing upon the
receipt by the Trustee (with a copy to the Issuers) of written notice (a Blockage Notice) of such
default from the Representative of such Senior Indebtedness specifying an election to effect a
Payment Blockage Period and ending 179 days thereafter (or earlier if such Payment Blockage Period
is terminated (i) by written notice to the Trustee and the Issuers from the Person or Persons who
gave such Blockage Notice, (ii) by repayment in full of such Senior Indebtedness, or (iii) because
the default giving rise to such Blockage Notice is no longer continuing). Notwithstanding the
provisions described in the immediately preceding sentence (but subject to the provisions contained
in the first sentence of this Section), unless the holders of such Senior Indebtedness or the
Representative of such holders shall have accelerated the maturity of such Senior Indebtedness, the
Issuers may resume payments on the Securities after such Payment Blockage Period. Not more than
one Blockage Notice may be given in any consecutive 360-day period, irrespective of the number of
defaults with respect to Senior Indebtedness during such period.
Section 1404.
Acceleration of Payment of Securities
If payment of the Securities is accelerated because of an Event of Default, the Issuers or the
Trustee shall promptly notify the holders of the Senior Indebtedness (or their Representatives) of
the acceleration. If any Senior Indebtedness is outstanding, the Issuers may not pay the
Securities until five Business Days after Representatives of the Senior Indebtedness
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receive notice of such acceleration and, thereafter, may pay the Securities only if this
Article XIV otherwise permits payments at that time.
Section 1405.
When Distributions Must Be Paid Over
If a distribution is made to the Holders of Securities that because of this Article XIV should
not have been made to them, the Holders of Securities who receive the distribution shall hold it in
trust for holders of Senior Indebtedness and pay it over to them as their interests may appear.
Section 1406.
Subrogation
After all Senior Indebtedness is paid in full and until the Securities are paid in full,
Holders of Securities shall be subrogated to the rights of holders of Senior Indebtedness to
receive distributions applicable to Senior Indebtedness. A distribution made under this Article
XIV to holders of Senior Indebtedness which otherwise would have been made to Holders of Securities
is not, as between the Issuers and Holders of Securities, a payment by the Issuers on Senior
Indebtedness.
Section 1407.
Relative Rights
This Article XIV defines the relative rights of Holders of Securities and holders of Senior
Indebtedness. Nothing in this Indenture shall: (1) impair, as between the Issuers and Holders of
Securities, the obligation of the Issuers, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay principal of
and interest on the Securities in accordance with their terms; or (2) prevent the Trustee or any
Holder of Securities from exercising its available remedies upon an Event of Default, subject to
the rights of holders of Senior Indebtedness to receive distributions otherwise payable to Holders
of Securities.
Section 1408.
Subordination May Not Be Impaired by Issuers
No right of any holder of Senior Indebtedness to enforce the subordination of the indebtedness
evidenced by the Securities shall be impaired by any act or failure to act by the Issuers or by the
failure of the Issuers to comply with this Indenture.
Section 1409.
Rights of Trustee and Paying Agent
Notwithstanding Section 1403, the Trustee or Paying Agent may continue to make payments on the
Securities and shall not be charged with knowledge of the existence of facts that would prohibit
the making of any such payments unless, not less than two Business Days prior to the date of such
payment, a trust officer of the Trustee receives notice satisfactory to it that payments may not be
made under this Article XIV. The Issuers, the Registrar or co- registrar, the Paying Agent, a
Representative or a holder of Senior Indebtedness may give the notice; provided, however, that, if
a Holder of Senior Indebtedness has a Representative, only the Representative may give the notice.
The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may hold Senior Indebtedness with the same
rights it would have if it were not Trustee. The Registrar and co-registrar and the Paying Agent
may do the same with like rights. The Trustee shall be entitled to all the rights set forth in
this Article XIV with respect to any Senior Indebtedness, which may
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at any time be held by it, to the same extent as any other holder of Senior Indebtedness; and
nothing in Article VI shall deprive the Trustee of any of its rights as such holder. Nothing in
this Article XIV shall apply to claims of, or payments to, the Trustee under or pursuant to Article
VI.
Section 1410.
Distribution of Notice to Representative
Whenever a distribution is to be made or a notice given to holders of Senior Indebtedness, the
distribution may be made and the notice given to their Representatives (if any).
Section 1411.
Article XIV Not to Prevent Events of Default or Limit Rights to Accelerate
The failure to make a payment pursuant to the Securities by reason of any provision in this
Article XIV shall not be construed as preventing the occurrence of an Event of Default. Nothing in
this Article XIV shall have any effect on the right of the Holders of Securities or the Trustee to
accelerate the maturity of the Securities.
Section 1412.
Trust Moneys Not Subordinated
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, payments from money or the proceeds
of U.S. government obligations held in trust under Section 1003 by the Trustee for the payment of
principal of and interest on the Securities shall not be subordinated to the prior payment of any
Senior Indebtedness, or subject to the restrictions set forth in this Article XIV, and none of the
Holders of Securities shall be obligated to pay over any such amount to the Issuers, or any holder
of Senior Indebtedness of the Issuers or any other creditor of the Issuers.
Section 1413.
Trustee Entitled to Rely
Upon any payment or distribution pursuant to this Article XIV, the Trustee and the Holders of
Securities shall be entitled to rely (i) upon any order or decree of a court of competent
jurisdiction in which any proceedings of the nature referred to in Section 1402 are pending, (ii)
upon a certificate of the liquidating trustee or agent or other Person making such payment or
distribution to the Trustee or to the Holders of Securities or (iii) upon the Representatives for
the holders of Senior Indebtedness for the purpose of ascertaining the Persons entitled to
participate in such payment or distribution, the holders of the Senior Indebtedness, and other
indebtedness of the Issuers, the amount thereof or payable thereon, the amount or amounts paid or
distributed thereon and all other facts pertinent thereto or to this Article XIV. In the event
that the Trustee determines, in good faith, that evidence is required with respect to the right of
any Person as a holder of Senior Indebtedness to participate in any payment or distribution
pursuant to this Article XIV, the Trustee may request such Person to furnish evidence to the
reasonable satisfaction of the Trustee as to the amount of Senior Indebtedness held by such Person,
the extent to which such Person is entitled to participate in such payment or distribution and
other facts pertinent to the rights of such Person under this Article XIV, and, if such evidence is
not furnished, the Trustee may defer any payment to such Person pending judicial determination as
to the right of such Person to receive such payment.
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Section 1414.
Trustee to Effectuate Subordination
Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security authorizes and directs the Trustee on his
behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to acknowledge or effectuate the
subordination between the Holders of Securities and the holders of Senior Indebtedness as provided
in this Article XIV and appoints the Trustee as attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.
Section 1415.
Trustee Not Fiduciary for Holders of Senior Indebtedness
The Trustee shall not be deemed to owe any fiduciary duty to the holders of Senior
Indebtedness and shall not be liable to any such holders if it shall mistakenly pay over or
distribute to Holders of Securities, the Issuers or any other Person, money or assets to which any
holders of Senior Indebtedness shall be entitled by virtue of this Article XIV or otherwise.
Section 1416.
Reliance by Holders of Senior Indebtedness
Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security acknowledges and agrees that the foregoing
subordination provisions are, and are intended to be, an inducement and a consideration to each
holder of any Senior Indebtedness, whether such Senior Indebtedness was created or acquired before
or after the issuance of the Securities, to acquire and continue to hold, or to continue to hold,
such Senior Indebtedness, and such holder of Senior Indebtedness shall be deemed conclusively to
have relied on such subordination provisions in acquiring and continuing to hold, or in continuing
to hold, such Senior Indebtedness.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed in
multiple counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which shall together constitute but one and the same instrument, all as of the day and year first
above written.
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Exhibit 4.6
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
Issuers
Trustee
Indenture
Dated as of
SENIOR DEBT SECURITIES
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THIS INDENTURE RELATING TO
SECTIONS 310 THROUGH 318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE
TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939:
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Trust Indenture
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Act Section
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Indenture Section
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§310(a)(1)
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609
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(a)(2)
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609
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(a)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(4)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(5)
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608;609
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(b)
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608; 610
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(c)
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Not Applicable
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§311(a)
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613
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(b)
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613
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§312(a)
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701; 702
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(b)
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702
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(c)
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702
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§313(a)
|
|
703
|
(b)(1)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
(b)(2)
|
|
703
|
(c)
|
|
703
|
(d)
|
|
703
|
§314(a)
|
|
704
|
(b)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
(c)(1)
|
|
102
|
(c)(2)
|
|
102
|
(c)(3)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
(d)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
(e)
|
|
102
|
(f)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
§315(a)
|
|
601, 603
|
(b)
|
|
602
|
(c)
|
|
601
|
(d)
|
|
601
|
(e)
|
|
514
|
§316(a)
|
|
101
|
(a)(1)(A)
|
|
502;512
|
(a)(1)(B)
|
|
513
|
(a)(2)
|
|
Not Applicable
|
(b)
|
|
508
|
(c) 104
|
|
|
§317(a)(1)
|
|
503
|
(a)(2)
|
|
504
|
(b)
|
|
1003
|
§318(a)
|
|
107
|
|
|
|
NOTE:
|
|
This reconciliation and tie shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be a part of the Indenture.
|
-i-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page
|
|
ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
|
|
|
1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 101. Definitions
|
|
|
1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 102. Compliance Certificates and Opinions
|
|
|
8
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 103. Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
|
|
|
8
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 104. Acts of Holders; Record Dates
|
|
|
9
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 105. Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
|
|
|
10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 106. Notice to Holders; Waiver
|
|
|
10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 107. Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 108. Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 109. Successors and Assigns
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 110. Separability Clause
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 111. Benefits of Indenture
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 112. Governing Law
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 113. Legal Holidays
|
|
|
12
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 114. Language of Notices, Etc
|
|
|
12
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 115. Interest Limitation
|
|
|
12
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 116. Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability
of Officers, Directors, Employees,
Limited Partners or Shareholders
|
|
|
13
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE II SECURITY FORMS
|
|
|
13
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 201. Forms Generally
|
|
|
13
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 202. Form of Face of Security
|
|
|
14
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 203. Form of Reverse of Security
|
|
|
16
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 204. Global Securities
|
|
|
21
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 205. Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
|
|
|
22
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE III THE SECURITIES
|
|
|
22
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 301. Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
|
|
|
22
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 302. Denominations
|
|
|
26
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 303. Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
|
|
|
26
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 304. Temporary Securities
|
|
|
28
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 305. Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
|
|
|
28
|
|
Table of Contents
(continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page
|
|
Section 306. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
|
|
|
30
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 307. Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
|
|
|
31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 308. Persons Deemed Owners
|
|
|
32
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 309. Cancellation
|
|
|
32
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 310. Computation of Interest
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 311. CUSIP Numbers
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE IV SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 401. Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 402. Application of Trust Money
|
|
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE V REMEDIES
|
|
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 501. Events of Default
|
|
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 502. Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
|
|
|
35
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 503. Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
|
|
|
36
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 504. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
|
|
|
36
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 505. Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
|
|
|
37
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 506. Application of Money Collected
|
|
|
37
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 507. Limitation on Suits
|
|
|
37
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 508. Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and
Interest
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 509. Restoration of Rights and Remedies
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 510. Rights and Remedies Cumulative
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 511. Delay or Omission Not Waiver
|
|
|
39
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 512. Control by Holders
|
|
|
39
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 513. Waiver of Past Defaults
|
|
|
39
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 514. Undertaking for Costs
|
|
|
39
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE VI THE TRUSTEE
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 601. Certain Duties and Responsibilities
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 602. Notice of Defaults
|
|
|
41
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 603. Certain Rights of Trustee
|
|
|
41
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 604. Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
|
|
|
42
|
|
-iii-
Table of Contents
(continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page
|
|
Section 605. May Hold Securities
|
|
|
42
|
|
|
Section 606. Money Held in Trust
|
|
|
43
|
|
|
Section 607. Compensation and Reimbursement
|
|
|
43
|
|
|
Section 608. Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
|
|
|
43
|
|
|
Section 609. Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
|
|
|
44
|
|
|
Section 610. Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
|
|
|
44
|
|
|
Section 611. Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
|
|
|
45
|
|
|
Section 612. Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
|
|
|
46
|
|
|
Section 613. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
|
|
|
46
|
|
|
Section 614. Appointment of Authenticating Agent
|
|
|
47
|
|
|
Section 615. Force Majeure
|
|
|
48
|
|
|
ARTICLE VII HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
|
|
|
48
|
|
|
Section 701. Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
|
|
|
48
|
|
|
Section 702. Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
Section 703. Reports by Trustee
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
Section 704. Reports by Issuers
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
ARTICLE VIII CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
Section 801. Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
Section 802. Successor Substituted
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
ARTICLE IX SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
Section 901. Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
Section 902. Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
|
|
|
52
|
|
|
Section 903. Execution of Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
52
|
|
|
Section 904. Effect of Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 905. Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 906. Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
ARTICLE X COVENANTS
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 1001. Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
Section 1002. Maintenance of Office or Agency
|
|
|
53
|
|
-iv-
Table of Contents
(continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page
|
|
Section 1003. Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1004. Statement by Officers as to Default
|
|
|
55
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1005. Existence
|
|
|
55
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1006. Waiver of Certain Covenants
|
|
|
55
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1007. Limitation on Finance Corp.
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XI REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1101. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1102. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1103. Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1104. Notice of Redemption
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1105. Deposit of Redemption Price
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1106. Securities Payable on Redemption Date
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1107. Securities Redeemed in Part
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XII SINKING FUNDS
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1201. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1202. Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1203. Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARTICLE XIII DEFEASANCE
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1301. Applicability of Article
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1302. Legal Defeasance
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1303. Covenant Defeasance
|
|
|
62
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1304. Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
|
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1305. Repayment to Issuers
|
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Section 1306. Reinstatement
|
|
|
64
|
|
-v-
INDENTURE dated as of
, among FERRELLGAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership
(the
Partnership
), FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation (
Finance Corp.
and,
together with the Partnership, the
Issuers
), having their principal office at One Liberty Plaza,
Liberty, Missouri, 64068, and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee
).
RECITALS
The Issuers have duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for
the issuance from time to time of their debentures, notes or other evidences of indebtedness (the
"
Securities
), to be issued in one or more series as provided in this Indenture.
All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Issuers, in accordance
with its terms, have been done.
This Indenture is subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are required to be
a part of this Indenture and, to the extent applicable, shall be governed by such provisions.
NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:
For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders (as
defined below) thereof, it is mutually agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all
Holders of the Securities or of any series thereof, as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
Section 101.
Definitions
For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the
context otherwise requires:
(1) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article and
include the plural as well as the singular;
(2) the following Trust Indenture Act terms used in this Indenture have the following
meanings:
indenture securities
means the Securities;
indenture security Holder
means a Holder of a Security;
indenture to be qualified
means this Indenture;
indenture trustee
or
institutional trustee
means the Trustee; and
obligor
on the Securities means the Issuers and any successor obligor upon
the Securities;
(3) all other terms used herein which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act or by Commission
rule under the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings
assigned to them therein;
(4) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as
otherwise herein expressly provided, the term
generally accepted accounting principles
with
respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles as
are generally accepted in the United States at the date of such computation;
(5) the words
herein
,
hereof
and
hereunder
and other words of similar import refer to
this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision; and
(6) the words
Article
and
Section
refer to an Article and Section, respectively, of this
Indenture.
Act
, when used with respect to any Holder, has the meaning specified in Section 104.
Affiliate
of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling
or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the
purposes of this definition,
control
when used with respect to any specified Person means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct, or cause the direction of, the
management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by
agreement or otherwise;
provided
that beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the voting securities
of a person shall be deemed to be control. For purposes of this definition, the terms
"
controlling,
controlled by
and
under common control with
have meanings correlative to the
foregoing.
Authenticating Agent
means any Person authorized by the Trustee pursuant to Section 614 to
act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of one or more series.
Bankruptcy Law
means Title 11, U.S. Code, or any similar federal or state law for the relief
of debtors.
Board of Directors
means:
(1) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the corporation;
(2) with respect to a partnership, the Board of Directors of the general
partner of the partnership; and
(3) with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such Person
serving a similar function.
-2-
Board Resolution
means resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors of each Issuer and
in full force and effect on the date certified and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to Section
201.
Business Day
, when used with respect to any Place of Payment or other location, means,
except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which
banking institutions in that Place of Payment or other location are authorized or obligated by law,
executive order or regulation to close.
Capital Interests
means any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other
equivalents (however designated) of capital stock, including, without limitation, with respect to
partnerships, partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any other interest or
participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of,
or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Commission
means the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted,
created under the Exchange Act or, if at any time after the execution of this instrument such
Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture
Act, then the body performing such duties at such time.
Corporate Trust Office
means the office of the Trustee at which at any particular time its
corporate trust business shall be principally administered, which at the date hereof is
.
covenant defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1303.
Custodian
means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator or similar official under any
Bankruptcy Law.
Default
means, with respect to a series of Securities, any event which is, or after notice
or lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default with respect to Securities of such
series.
Defaulted Interest
has the meaning specified in Section 307.
defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1302.
Definitive Security
means a Security other than a Global Security or a temporary Security.
Depositary
means, with respect to Securities of any series issuable in whole or in part in
the form of one or more Global Securities, a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act that
is designated to act as Depositary for such Securities as contemplated by Section 301, until a
successor Depositary shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter shall mean or include each Person which is then a Depositary hereunder,
and if at any time there is more than one such Person, shall be a collective reference to such
Persons.
-3-
Dollar
or
$
means the coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of
payment is legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.
Event of Default
has the meaning specified in Section 501.
Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and
any statute successor thereto.
Finance Corp.
means the Person named as Finance Corp. in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Finance Corp.
shall mean such successor Person.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
Global Security
means a Security in global form that evidences all or part of the Securities
of any series and is registered in the name of the Depositary for such Securities or a nominee
thereof.
Holder
means a Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Security Register.
Indebtedness
means any obligation created or assumed by any Person for the repayment of
money borrowed, any purchase money obligation created or assumed by such Person and any guarantee
of the foregoing, except that, for purposes of Section 801,
Indebtedness
has the meaning
specified in such Section.
Indenture
means this instrument as originally executed or as it may from time to time be
supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the
applicable provisions hereof, including, for all purposes of this instrument, and any such
supplemental indenture, the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are deemed to be a part of
and govern this instrument and any such supplemental indenture, respectively. The term
Indenture
also shall include the terms of particular series of Securities established as contemplated by
Section 301.
Interest
, when used with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security which by its terms
bears interest only after Maturity, means interest payable after Maturity.
Interest Payment Date
, when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of
an installment of interest on such Security.
Issuer Request
or
Issuer Order
means a written request or order signed on behalf of the
Issuers by two Officers of the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the
principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer.
Issuers
means the Partnership and Finance Corp.
Master Limited Partnership
means Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
-4-
Maturity
, when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of
such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or herein provided,
whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise.
Notice of Default
means a written notice of the kind specified in Section 501(3).
Officer
means, with respect to any Person, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer,
any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary or any Vice
President of such Person or, if such Person is a partnership, of the general partner of such
Person.
Officers Certificate
means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuers by two Officers of
the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer,
the treasurer or the principal accounting officer, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and
103 hereof.
Opinion of Counsel
means an opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and 103 hereof. The counsel may be an
employee of or counsel to the Issuers, any Subsidiary of the Issuers or the Trustee.
Original Issue Discount Security
means any Security which provides for an amount less than
the stated principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the
Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 502.
Outstanding
, when used with respect to Securities, means, as of the date of determination,
all Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:
(i) Securities theretofore canceled by the Trustee or delivered to the Trustee for
cancellation;
(ii) Securities for whose payment or redemption money in the necessary amount has been
theretofore deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than an Issuer) in trust or set
aside and segregated in trust by an Issuer (if such Issuer shall act as Paying Agent for the
Issuers) for the Holders of such Securities;
provided, however
, that, if such Securities are to be
redeemed, notice of such redemption has been duly given pursuant to this Indenture or provision
therefor has been made;
(iii) Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 306 or in exchange for or in lieu of
which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture, other than
any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof
satisfactory to it that such Securities are held by a bona fide purchaser in whose hands such
Securities are valid obligations of the Issuers; and
(iv) Securities, except to the extent provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, with respect to
which the Issuers have effected defeasance or covenant defeasance as provided in Article XIII;
-5-
provided, however
, that in determining whether the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or
waiver hereunder, (A) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security that shall be
deemed to be Outstanding shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable
as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Maturity thereof on such date
pursuant to Section 502, (B) the principal amount of a Security denominated in one or more
currencies or currency units other than U.S. dollars shall be the U.S. dollar equivalent of such
currencies or currency units, determined in the manner provided as contemplated by Section 301 on
the date of original issuance of such Security, of the principal amount (or, in the case of an
Original Issue Discount Security, the U.S. dollar equivalent (as so determined) on the date of
original issuance of such Security, of the amount determined as provided in Clause (A) above) of
such Security, and (C) Securities owned by an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities or
any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be
Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any
such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver, only Securities which
the Trustee knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded. Securities so owned as described in
Clause (C) above which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the
pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgees right so to act with respect
to such Securities and that the pledgee is not an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities
or any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor.
Partnership
means the Person named as the Partnership in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Partnership
shall mean such successor Person.
Paying Agent
means any Person authorized by the Issuers to pay the principal of or any
premium or interest on any Securities on behalf of the Issuers.
Periodic Offering
means an offering of Securities of a series from time to time, the
specific terms of which Securities, including, without limitation, the rate or rates of interest or
formula for determining the rate or rates of interest thereon, if any, the Stated Maturity or
Stated Maturities thereof, the original issue date or dates thereof, the redemption provisions, if
any, with respect thereto, and any other terms specified as contemplated by Section 301 with
respect thereto, are to be determined by the Issuers upon the issuance of such Securities.
Person
means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company, association, joint-stock company, trust, other entity, unincorporated organization or
government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Place of Payment
, when used with respect to the Securities of any series, means, unless
otherwise specifically provided for with respect to such series as contemplated by Section 301, the
office or agency of the Issuers in The City of New York and such other place or places where,
subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and any premium and interest on the
Securities of that series are payable as specified as contemplated by Section 301.
Predecessor Security
of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all
or a portion of the same Indebtedness as that evidenced by such particular
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Security; and, for the purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered
under Section 306 in exchange for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security
shall be deemed to evidence the same Indebtedness as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Security.
Redemption Date
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed
for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.
Redemption Price
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at
which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture.
Regular Record Date
for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities
of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 301.
Securities
has the meaning stated in the first recital of this Indenture and more
particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.
Security Register
and
Security Registrar
have the respective meanings specified in Section
305.
Special Record Date
for the payment of any Defaulted Interest means a date fixed by the
Trustee pursuant to Section 307.
Stated Maturity
, when used with respect to the principal of any Security or any installment
of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date specified in such Security as the fixed
date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due
and payable.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person of which more than 50% of the
total voting power of the Capital Interests of such Person entitled (without regard to the
occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof
or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the partners Capital Interests (considering all
partners Capital Interests as a single class), is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or a combination
thereof.
Trust Indenture Act
means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in
effect on the date on which this Indenture is qualified under the Trust Indenture Act, except as
provided in Section 905.
Trustee
means the Person named as the Trustee in the first paragraph of this instrument
until a successor Trustee shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter
Trustee
shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee
hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person,
Trustee
as used with respect to
the Securities of any series shall mean each Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.
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U.S. Government Obligations
means securities which are (i) direct obligations of the United
States for the payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or (ii) obligations of a
Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States,
the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the
United States, each of which are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof.
Section 102.
Compliance Certificates and Opinions
Upon any application or request by the Issuers to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking
any action under any provision of this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee an
Officers Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in
the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this
Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with, and an Opinion of Counsel in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such
counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been complied with. Each such
certificate shall comply with the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act and any other
requirements set forth in this Indenture.
Every Officers Certificate or Opinion of Counsel (except for certificates provided for in
Section 1004) shall include:
(1) a statement that each individual signing such certificate or opinion has read such
covenant or condition;
(2) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon
which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;
(3) a statement that, in the opinion of each such individual, he has made such examination or
investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not
such covenant or condition has been complied with; and
(4) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such individual, such condition or
covenant has been complied with.
Section 103.
Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion
of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by
the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document,
but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more
other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to
such matters in one or several documents.
Any certificate or opinion of an Officer of the Issuers may be based, insofar as it relates to
legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such
Officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion
or representations with respect to the matters upon which his certificate or opinion is based are
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erroneous. Any such certificate or opinion of counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to
factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an Officer or Officers of
the Issuers stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession
of the Issuers unless such counsel knows that the certificate or opinion or representations with
respect to such matters are erroneous.
Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests,
consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may,
but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.
Section 104.
Acts of Holders; Record Dates
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided or permitted by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and
evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed (either physically or by
means of a facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is
transmitted through the facilities of a Depositary) by such Holders in person or by an agent duly
appointed in writing; and, except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become
effective when such instrument or instruments are delivered (either physically or by means of a
facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is transmitted
through the facilities of a Depositary) to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly required,
to the Issuers. Such instrument or instruments (and the action embodied therein and evidenced
thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the
Act
of the Holders signing such instrument or
instruments. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent
shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 315 of the Trust
Indenture Act) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Issuers, if made in the manner provided
in this Section.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a Holder, including a Depositary that is a
Holder of a Global Security, may make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies, duly appointed in
writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders, and a Depositary that is a Holder
of a Global Security may provide its proxy or proxies to the beneficial owners of interests in any
such Global Security.
The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be
proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of a notary public or
other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual
signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution
is by a signer acting in a capacity other than his individual capacity, such certificate or
affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his authority. The fact and date of the
execution of any such instrument or writing or the authority of the Person executing the same, may
also be proved in any other manner which the Trustee deems sufficient.
The ownership, principal amount and serial numbers of Securities held by any Person, and the
date of commencement of such Persons holding the same, shall be proved by the Security Register.
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Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action of the
Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every
Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu
thereof in respect of anything done, omitted or suffered to be done by the Trustee or the Issuers
in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.
Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled hereunder to give or take any action
hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the
principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents each of which may do so
pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any different part of such principal amount.
The Issuers may set any day as the record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of
Outstanding Securities of any series entitled to give or take any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided or permitted by this Indenture to be
given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series, but the Issuers shall have no obligation to
do so. With regard to any record date set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding
Securities of the relevant series on such record date (or their duly appointed agents), and only
such Persons, shall be entitled to give or take the relevant action, whether or not such Holders
remain Holders after such record date.
Section 105.
Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or
other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or
filed with,
(1) the Trustee by any Holder or by the Issuers shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder if made in writing and actually received by the Trustee at its office at
, or at any other address previously furnished in writing by the
Trustee, or
(2) the Issuers by the Trustee or by any Holder shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class
postage prepaid, to the Partnership addressed to it at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068,
to the attention of the Chief Financial Officer, or at any other address previously furnished in
writing to the Trustee by the Issuers.
Section 106.
Notice to Holders; Waiver
Where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be
sufficiently given (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed,
first-class postage prepaid (if international mail, by air mail), to each Holder affected by such
event, at his address as it appears in the Security Register, not later than the latest date (if
any), and not earlier than the earliest date (if any), prescribed for the giving of such notice.
In any case where notice to Holders is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor
any defect in any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder shall affect the sufficiency of such
notice with respect to other Holders. Any notice mailed to a Holder in the manner herein
prescribed shall be
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conclusively deemed to have been received by such Holder, whether or not such Holder actually
receives such notice.
Where this Indenture provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing
by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver
shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the
Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in
reliance upon such waiver.
In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service or by reason of any other cause it
shall be impracticable to give such notice by mail, then such notification as shall be made with
the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient notification for every purpose hereunder.
Section 107.
Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
If any provision hereof limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Trust Indenture
Act that is required under such Act to be a part of and govern this Indenture, the latter provision
shall control. If any provision of this Indenture modifies or excludes any provision of the Trust
Indenture Act that may be so modified or excluded, the latter provision shall be deemed to apply to
this Indenture as so modified or excluded, as the case may be.
Section 108.
Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
The Article and Section headings herein and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and
shall not affect the construction hereof.
Section 109.
Successors and Assigns
All covenants and agreements in this Indenture by the Issuers shall bind their successors and
assigns, whether so expressed or not.
Section 110.
Separability Clause
In case any provision in this Indenture or in the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in
any way be affected or impaired thereby.
Section 111.
Benefits of Indenture
Nothing in this Indenture or in the Securities, express or implied, shall give to any Person,
other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder and Holders, any benefit or any legal or
equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.
Section 112.
Governing Law
This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the
law of the State of New York.
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Section 113.
Legal Holidays
In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity of any
Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other
provision of this Indenture or of the Securities (other than a provision of the Securities of any
series which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section)) payment
of interest or principal (and premium, if any) need not be made at such Place of Payment on such
date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment with the same
force and effect as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated
Maturity,
provided
that no interest shall accrue for the period from and after such Interest
Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity, as the case may be.
Section 114.
Language of Notices, Etc.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act required or
permitted under this Indenture shall be in the English language, except that any published notice
may be in an official language of the country of publication.
Section 115.
Interest Limitation
It is the intention of the Issuers to conform strictly to all applicable usury laws and any
subsequent revisions, repeals or judicial interpretations thereof. Accordingly, if the
transactions contemplated hereby would be usurious under any applicable law then, in that event,
notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Securities or this Indenture, it is agreed as
follows: (i) the aggregate of all consideration which constitutes interest under applicable law
with respect to a Security shall under no circumstances exceed the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall have been paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to
the extent permitted by applicable law; and (ii) in the event that the maturity of any Security is
accelerated or in the event of any redemption of such Security, then such consideration that
constitutes interest under applicable law may never include more than the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall be paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to the
extent permitted by applicable law. All calculations made to compute the rate of interest with
respect to a Security for the purpose of determining whether such rate exceeds the maximum amount
allowed by applicable law shall be made, to the extent permitted by such applicable law, by
allocating and spreading during the period of the full stated term of such Security all interest
any time contracted for, taken, reserved, charged or received by such Holder or by the Trustee on
behalf of any such Holder in connection therewith so that the amount or rate of interest charged
for any and all periods of time during the term of the Security does not exceed the maximum amount
or rate of interest allowed to be charged by law during the relevant period of time.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, if at any time applicable laws shall be changed so as to
permit a higher rate or amount of interest to be charged than that permitted prior to such change,
then unless prohibited by law, references in this Indenture or any Security to applicable law
when used in the context of determining the maximum interest or rate of interest that can be
charged shall be deemed to refer to such applicable law as so amended to allow the greater amount
or rate of interest.
-12-
The right to accelerate maturity of any Security does not include the right to accelerate any
interest which has not otherwise accrued to the date of such acceleration, provided, however, that
the foregoing shall not prohibit the continuing accrual after acceleration of interest in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and such Security.
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Section 116.
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Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees, Limited
Partners or Shareholders
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Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General
Partner), and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General
Partner. The Trustee agrees, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance thereof will be
deemed to have agreed, in this Indenture that the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates
(other than the Issuers and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of
the Issuers under this Indenture or such Securities.
No limited partner of the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or
stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any
obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture or the Securities or any claim based on, in respect
of or by reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the
federal securities laws and it is the view of the Commission that such waiver is against public
policy.
The agreements set forth in this Section are part of the consideration for the issuance of the
Securities.
ARTICLE II
SECURITY FORMS
Section 201.
Forms Generally
The Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form set forth in this Article, or
in such other form as shall be established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or in one or more
indentures supplemental hereto, in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions,
substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture, and may have
such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed
thereon as may be required to comply with applicable laws or the rules of any securities exchange
or automated quotation system on which the Securities of such series may be listed or traded or of
any Depositary therefor or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the Officers executing
such Securities, as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the form of Securities of
any series is established by action taken pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate
record of such action shall be certified by an authorized Officer or other authorized Person on
behalf of each Issuer and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Issuer Order
contemplated by Section 303 for the authentication and delivery of such
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Securities. Any form of Security approved by or pursuant to a Board Resolution must be
acceptable as to form by the Trustee, such acceptance to be evidenced by the Trustees
authentication of Securities in that form.
The Definitive Securities shall be printed, lithographed or engraved on steel engraved borders
or may be produced in any other manner, all as determined by the Officers executing such
Securities, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
Section 202.
Form of Face of Security
.
[Insert any legend required by the United States Internal Revenue Code and the regulations
thereunder.]
[
If a Global Security,insert legend required by Section 204 of the Indenture] [If applicable,
insert
UNLESS THIS SECURITY IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST
COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION, TO THE ISSUERS OR THEIR AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER,
EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY SECURITY ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER
NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY (AND ANY
PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE
OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL IN AS MUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO.,
HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
[TITLE OF SECURITY]
[CUSIP No. ]
FERRELLGAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (herein called the Partnership, which term
includes any successor person under the Indenture hereinafter referred to), and FERRELLGAS FINANCE
CORP., a Delaware corporation (herein called Finance Corp., which term includes any successor
Person under the Indenture, and, together with the Partnership, herein called the Issuers), for
value received, hereby promises to pay to , or registered assigns, the
principal sum of United States Dollars [state other currency] on
[if the Security is to bear interest prior to Maturity, insert, and to pay
interest thereon from , or from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which
interest has been paid or duly provided for, semi-annually on and
in each year, commencing , at the rate of % per annum,
until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment [if applicable, insert, and at
the rate of % per annum on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue installment
of
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interest]. [If applicable, insert The amount of interest payable for any period shall be
computed on the basis of twelve 30-day months and a 360-day year. The amount of interest payable
for any partial period shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and
the days elapsed in any partial month. In the event that any date on which interest is payable on
this Security is not a Business Day, then a payment of the interest payable on such date will be
made on the next succeeding day which is a Business Day (and without any interest or other payment
in respect of any such delay) with the same force and effect as if made on the date the payment was
originally payable. A Business Day shall mean, when used with respect to any Place of Payment,
each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which banking
institutions in that Place of Payment are authorized or obligated by law, executive order or
regulation to close.] The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any
Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this
Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the
Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the or
(whether or not a Business Day), as the case may be, next preceding such
Interest Payment Date. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to
the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the
close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be fixed
by the Trustee, notice of which shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not less
than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner
not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on
which the Securities of this series may be listed or traded, and upon such notice as may be
required by such exchange or automated quotation system, all as more fully provided in the
Indenture].
[If the Security is not to bear interest prior to Maturity, insertThe principal of this
Security shall not bear interest except in the case of a default in payment of principal upon
acceleration, upon redemption or at Stated Maturity and in such case the overdue principal of this
Security shall bear interest at the rate of % per annum, which shall accrue from the date
of such default in payment to the date payment of such principal has been made or duly provided
for. Interest on any overdue principal shall be payable on demand. Any such interest on any
overdue principal that is not so paid on demand shall bear interest at the rate of % per
annum, which shall accrue from the date of such demand for payment to the date payment of such
interest has been made or duly provided for, and such interest shall also be payable on demand.]
[If a Global Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made by transfer of immediately
available funds to a bank account in designated by the Holder in such
coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for
payment of public and private debts [state other currency].]
[If a Definitive Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made at the office or agency of the
Issuers maintained for that purpose in , [in such coin or
currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of
public and
-15-
private debts] [state other currency] [or subject to any laws or regulations applicable
thereto and to the right of the Issuers (as provided in the Indenture) to rescind the designation
of any such Paying Agent, at the [main] offices of in and
in , or at such other offices or agencies as the Issuers may
designate, by [United States Dollar] [state other currency] check drawn on, or transfer to a
[United States Dollar] account maintained by the payee with, a bank in The City of New York
[ ] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper transfer
instructions in writing at least [ ] days prior to the payment date)] [if applicable,
insert;
provided, however
, that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Issuers by
[United States Dollar] [state other currency] check mailed to the addresses of the Persons entitled
thereto as such addresses shall appear in the Security Register] [or by transfer to a [United
States Dollar] [state other currency] account maintained by the payee with a bank in The City of
New York [state other Place of Payment] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper
transfer instructions in writing by the Record Date prior to the applicable Interest Payment
Date)].]
Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse
hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at
this place.
Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to
on the reverse hereof by manual signature, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under
the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuers have caused this instrument to be duly executed.
Dated:
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FERRELLGAS, L.P.,
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Section 203.
Form of Reverse of Security
This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Issuers (the
Securities), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture dated as of
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(the Indenture), among the Issuers and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee, which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and
all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective
rights, limitations of rights, obligations, duties and immunities thereunder of the Issuers, the
Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are
to be, authenticated and delivered. As provided in the Indenture, the Securities may be issued in
one or more series, which different series may be issued in various aggregate principal amounts,
may mature at different times, may bear interest, if any, at different rates, may be subject to
different redemption provisions, if any, may be subject to different sinking, purchase or analogous
funds, if any, may be subject to different covenants and Events of Default and may otherwise vary
as in the Indenture provided or permitted. This Security is one of the series designated on the
face hereof [if applicable, insert, limited in aggregate principal amount to U.S.$ ].
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, [if applicable, insert(1) on in any year
commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking
fund for this series at a Redemption Price equal to 100% of the principal amount, and (2)] at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after , ], as a whole or in part, at the
election of the Issuers, at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the
principal amount): If redeemed [if applicable, inserton or before , %, and
if redeemed] during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Year
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Redemption Price
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Year
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Redemption Price
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in the
case of any such redemption [if applicable, insert(whether through operation of the sinking fund
or otherwise)] with accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated
Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities,
or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record
Dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, (1) on in any year commencing
with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for
this series at the Redemption Prices for redemption through operation of the sinking fund
(expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below, and (2) at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after ], as a whole or in part, at the election
of the Issuers, at the Redemption Prices for redemption otherwise than through operation of the
sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below: If
redeemed during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
-17-
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Otherwise
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Redemption Through
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Than Through Operation
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Year
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Operation of the Sinking Fund
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of the Sinking Fund
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in
the case of any such redemption (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise) with
accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated Maturity is on or
prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities, or one or more
Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record Dates referred to
on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe sinking fund for this series provides for the redemption on
in each year beginning with the year and ending with the year of
[if applicable,not less than $ (mandatory sinking fund) and not more than]
$ aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series. Securities of this series
acquired or redeemed by the Issuers otherwise than through [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund
payments may be credited against subsequent [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund payments
otherwise required to be made [if applicable,in the inverse order in which they become due].]
[If the Security is subject to redemption in part of any kind, insertIn the event of
redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like
tenor for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of the Holder hereof upon the
cancellation hereof.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are not redeemable prior to Stated
Maturity.]
[If the Security is not an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default
with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture.]
[If the Security is an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default with
respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, an amount of principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture. Such amount shall be equal toinsert formula for determining the
amount. Upon payment (1) of the amount of principal so declared due and payable, and (2) of
interest on any overdue principal and overdue interest, all of the Issuers obligations in respect
of the payment of the principal of and interest, if any, on the Securities of this series shall
terminate.]
-18-
The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and
the modification of the rights and obligations of the Issuer and the rights of the Holders of the
Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Issuers and the
Trustee with the consent of not less than the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of all series to be affected (voting as one class). The Indenture
also contains provisions permitting the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of all affected series (voting as one class), on behalf of the Holders of
all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Issuers with certain provisions of the
Indenture. The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the Holders of a
majority in principal amount of Securities of any series then Outstanding to waive past defaults
under the Indenture with respect to such series and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver
by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future
Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in
exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon
this Security.
As provided in and subject to the provisions of the Indenture, the Holder of this Security
shall not have the right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for the
appointment of a receiver or trustee or for any other remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall
have previously given the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to
the Securities of this series, the Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the
Securities of this series at the time Outstanding shall have made written request to the Trustee to
institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default as Trustee and offered the Trustee
reasonable indemnity and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in
principal amount of Securities of this series at the time Outstanding a direction inconsistent with
such request, and shall have failed to institute any such proceeding, for 60 days after receipt of
such notice, request and offer of indemnity. The foregoing shall not apply to any suit instituted
by the Holder of this Security for the enforcement of any payment of principal hereof or [any
premium or] interest hereon on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.
No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture
shall, without the consent of the Holder, alter or impair the obligation of the Issuers, which is
absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and [any premium and] interest on this Security
at the times, place(s) and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, except for Section
115 of the Indenture (which limits interest to the maximum amount permissible by law), the
provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[If a Global Security, insertThis Global Security or portion hereof may not be exchanged for
Definitive Securities of this series except in the limited circumstances provided in the Indenture.
The holders of beneficial interests in this Global Security will not be entitled to receive
physical delivery of Definitive Securities except as described in the Indenture and will not be
considered the Holders thereof for any purpose under the Indenture.]
[If a Definitive Security, insertAs provided in the Indenture and subject to certain
limitations therein set forth, the transfer of this Security is registerable in the Security
Register,
-19-
upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of the
Issuers in [if applicable, insert any place where the principal of and any premium and interest
on this Security are payable] [if applicable, insert The City of New York [, or, subject to any
laws or regulations applicable thereto and to the right of the Issuers (limited as provided in the
Indenture) to rescind the designation of any such transfer agent, at the [main] offices of
in and in or at such
other offices or agencies as the Issuers may designate]], duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a
written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or
more new Securities of this series and of like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same
aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.]
The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without coupons in
denominations of U.S.$ [state other currency] and any integral multiple thereof. As provided in
the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this series are
exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series and of like tenor
of a different authorized denomination, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.
No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the
Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge
payable in connection therewith.
Prior to due presentment of this Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this
Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is
overdue, and neither the Issuers, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General
Partner), and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General
Partner. The Trustee has agreed, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance hereof will be
deemed to have agreed, in the Indenture that the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates
(other than the Issuers and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of
the Issuers under the Indenture or such Securities, including this Security. No limited partner of
the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of the General Partner
or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any obligations of the Issuers under the
Indenture or such Securities, including this Security or any claim based on, in respect of or by
reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, including this Security, by its acceptance
thereof, waives and releases all such liability.
The Indenture contains provisions that relieve the Issuers from the obligation to comply with
certain restrictive covenants in the Indenture and for satisfaction and discharge at any time of
the entire indebtedness upon compliance by the Issuers with certain conditions set forth in the
Indenture.
-20-
This Security shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of
New York.
All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings
assigned to them in the Indenture.
[If a Definitive Security, insert as a separate page
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto
(Please Print or Typewrite Name and Address of Assignee) the
within instrument of FERRELLGAS, L.P. and FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. and does hereby irrevocably
constitute and appoint
Attorney to transfer said instrument on the books
of the within-named Issuers, with full power of substitution in the premises.
Please Insert Social Security or
Other Identifying Number of Assignee:
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Signature Guarantee:
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(Participant in a Recognized Signature
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Guaranty Medallion Program)
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NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the
face of the within instrument in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change
whatever.]
Section 204.
Global Securities
Every Global Security authenticated and delivered hereunder shall bear a legend in
substantially the following form:
THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE HEREINAFTER
REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF A DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF.
THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED TO, OR REGISTERED OR EXCHANGED FOR SECURITIES
REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF, ANY PERSON OTHER THAN THE DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF
AND NO SUCH TRANSFER MAY BE REGISTERED, EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES
DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE. EVERY SECURITY AUTHENTICATED AND DELIVERED UPON
REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR OR IN LIEU OF, THIS SECURITY SHALL
BE A GLOBAL SECURITY SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING, EXCEPT IN SUCH LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES.
-21-
If Securities of a series are issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global
Securities, as contemplated by Section 301, then, notwithstanding Clause (9) of Section 301 and the
provisions of Section 302, any Global Security shall represent such of the Outstanding Securities
of such series as shall be specified therein and may provide that it shall represent the aggregate
amount of Outstanding Securities from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate amount
of Outstanding Securities represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as the
case may be, to reflect exchanges. Any endorsement of a Global Security to reflect the amount, or
any reduction or increase in the amount, of Outstanding Securities represented thereby shall be
made in such manner and upon instructions given by such Person or Persons as shall be specified
therein or in an Issuer Order. Subject to the provisions of Sections 303, 304 and 305, the Trustee
shall deliver and redeliver any Global Security in the manner and upon instructions given by the
Person or Persons specified therein or in the applicable Issuer Order. Any instructions by the
Issuers with respect to endorsement or delivery or redelivery of a Global Security shall be in an
Issuer Order (which need not comply with Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of
Counsel).
The provisions of the last sentence of Section 303 shall apply to any Security represented by
a Global Security if such Security was never issued and sold by the Issuers and the Issuers deliver
to the Trustee the Global Security together with an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) with regard to the reduction or
increase, as the case may be, in the principal amount of Securities represented thereby, together
with the written statement contemplated by the last sentence of Section 303.
Section 205.
Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
The Trustees certificates of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Trustee
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By:
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Authorized Signatory
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ARTICLE III
THE SECURITIES
Section 301.
Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under
this Indenture is unlimited.
-22-
The Securities may be issued in one or more series. There shall be established in or pursuant
to a Board Resolution (and, subject to Section 303, to the extent established pursuant to rather
than set forth in a Board Resolution, in an Officers Certificate or Issuer Order setting forth, or
determining the manner of, such establishment) or established in one or more indentures
supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of Securities of any series,
(1) the form and title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities
of the series from Securities of any other series);
(2) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series which may be
authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered
upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of the series
pursuant to Section 304, 305, 306, 906 or 1107 and except for any Securities which, pursuant to
Section 303, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder);
(3) the Person to whom any interest on a Security of the series shall be payable, if other
than the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered
at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest;
(4) the date or dates on which the Securities will be issued and on which the principal of,
and premium, if any, on the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination
thereof;
(5) the rate or rates (which may be fixed or variable) at which the Securities of the series
shall bear interest, if any, or the method of determination thereof, the date or dates from which
such interest shall accrue, or the method of determination thereof, the Interest Payment Dates on
which any such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date for any interest payable on
any Interest Payment Date;
(6) the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and
any premium and interest on Securities of the series shall be payable, Securities of the series may
be surrendered for registration of transfer, Securities of the series may be surrendered for
exchange and notices, and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of the series
and this Indenture may be served;
(7) the period or periods, if any, within which, the price or prices at which and the terms
and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the
option of the Issuers or otherwise, if the Issuers are to have that option;
(8) the obligation, if any, and the option, if any, of the Issuers to redeem, purchase or
repay, or make an offer to the same, Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or
analogous provisions or upon the happening of a specified event, including any change of control
event, or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or
prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series shall be redeemed,
purchased or repaid, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation;
-23-
(9) if other than denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof, the denominations
in which Securities of the series shall be issuable;
(10) whether payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the
Securities of the series shall be without deduction for taxes, assessments or governmental charges
paid by Holders of the series;
(11) the currency, currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any
premium and interest on any Securities of the series shall be denominated, payable, redeemable or
purchasable if other than the currency of the United States of America and the manner of
determining the equivalent thereof in the currency of the United States of America for purposes of
the definition of Outstanding in Section 101;
(12) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, the manner in which such amounts shall be
determined;
(13) if the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of the series is to be
payable, at the election of the Issuers or a Holder thereof, in one or more currencies or currency
units other than that or those in which the Securities are stated to be payable, the currency,
currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any premium and interest on
Securities of such series as to which such election is made shall be payable, and the periods
within which and the terms and conditions upon which such election is to be made;
(14) the right, if any, of the Issuers to defer payments of interest by extending the interest
payment periods and specify the duration of such extension, the Interest Payment Dates on which
such interest shall be payable and whether and under what circumstances additional interest on
amounts deferred shall be payable;
(15) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of
Securities of the series which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity
thereof pursuant to Section 502 or provable in bankruptcy pursuant to Section 504 or the method of
determination thereof;
(16) if and as applicable, that the Securities of the series shall be issuable in whole or in
part in the form of one or more Global Securities (and whether in temporary or permanent global
form) and, in such case, the Depositary or Depositaries for such Global Security or Global
Securities and any circumstances other than those set forth in Section 305 in which any such Global
Security may be transferred to, and registered and exchanged for Securities registered in the name
of, a Person other than the Depositary for such Global Security or a nominee thereof and in which
any such transfer may be registered;
(17) any deletions from, modifications of or additions to the Events of Default set forth in
Section 501 or the covenants of the Issuers set forth in Article X pertaining to the Securities of
the series;
-24-
(18) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, including, but not limited to an index
based on a currency or currencies other than that in which the Securities of that series are
payable, or any other type of index, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;
(19) if other than as provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, the terms and conditions upon which
and the manner in which such series of Securities may be defeased or discharged;
(20) if other than the Trustee, the identity of any other trustee, the Security Registrar and
any Paying Agent;
(21) whether the Securities will be guaranteed by any Person;
(22) any terms relating to the pledge or mortgage of any assets as security for the payment of
obligations under the Securities;
(23) any restrictions or other provisions with respect to the transfer or exchange of the
Securities; and
(24) any other terms of the Securities of the series (which terms shall not be inconsistent
with the provisions of this Indenture, except as permitted by Section 901(4)).
All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination
and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to the Board Resolution or Officers
Certificate referred to above or in any such indenture supplemental hereto.
Any such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate referred to above with respect to
Securities of any series filed with the Trustee on or before the initial issuance of the Securities
of such series shall be incorporated herein by reference with respect to Securities of such series
and shall thereafter be deemed to be a part of the Indenture for all purposes relating to
Securities of such series as fully as if such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate were set
forth herein in full.
All Securities of any one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless otherwise
provided, a series may be reopened, without the consent of the Holders, for increases in the
aggregate principal amount of such series of Securities and issuances of additional Securities of
such series or for the establishment of additional terms with respect to the Securities of such
series.
If any of the terms of the series are established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy
of such Board Resolution shall be certified by an authorized officer or other authorized person of
the Issuers and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officers Certificate
setting forth, or providing the manner for determining, the terms of the series.
With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, such Board Resolution
or Officers Certificate may provide general terms for Securities of such series and
-25-
provide either that the specific terms of particular Securities of such series shall be
specified in an Issuer Order, or that such terms shall be determined by the Issuers, or one or more
of the Issuers agents designated in an Officers Certificate, in accordance with an Issuer Order.
Section 302.
Denominations
The Securities of each series shall be issuable only in registered form without coupons in
such denominations as shall be specified as contemplated by Section 301. In the absence of any
such specified denomination with respect to the Securities of any series, the Securities of such
series shall be issuable in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.
Section 303.
Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
The Securities shall be executed on behalf of each Issuer by an Officer thereof who is the
Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President
or any Vice President and need not be attested. The signature of any of these Officers on the
Securities may be manual or facsimile.
Securities bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at any time the
proper Officers of the Issuers shall bind the Issuers, notwithstanding that such individuals or any
of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such
Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.
At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the
Issuers may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Issuers to the Trustee for
authentication, together with an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of such
Securities, and the Trustee in accordance with the Issuer Order shall authenticate and deliver such
Securities;
provided, however
, that in the case of Securities offered in a Periodic Offering, the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver such Securities from time to time in accordance with such
other procedures (including, without limitation, the receipt by the Trustee of oral or electronic
instructions from the Issuers or its duly authorized agents, thereafter promptly confirmed in
writing) acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified by or pursuant to an Issuer Order delivered
to the Trustee prior to the time of the first authentication of Securities of such series. If the
form or terms of the Securities of the series have been established in or pursuant to one or more
Board Resolutions as permitted by Sections 201 and 301, in authenticating such Securities, and
accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, in addition to any Officers Certificate and Opinion of
Counsel required to be furnished to the Trustee pursuant to Section 102, and (subject to Section
601) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating,
(1) The form and terms (or the manner of determining the terms) of such Securities have been
established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as permitted by Section 201, that such form or
forms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;
(2) if the terms of such Securities have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as
permitted by Section 301, that such terms have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
-26-
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established in conformity with the provisions of this
Indenture, subject, in the case of Securities of a series offered in a Periodic Offering, to any
conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel (which conditions are reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee); and
(3) that such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the
Issuers in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, which
conditions are reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, will constitute valid and legally binding
obligations of the Issuers enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general
applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and to general equity principles and
entitled to the benefits of this Indenture, equally and ratably with all other Securities, if any,
of such series Outstanding; and
(4) such other matters as the Trustee may reasonably request;
and, if the authentication and delivery relates to a new series of Securities created by an
indenture supplemental hereto, also stating that all conditions precedent to the execution of the
supplemental indenture with respect to that series of Securities have been complied with, the
Issuers have the power to execute and deliver any such supplemental indenture and have taken all
necessary action for those purposes and any such supplemental indenture has been executed and
delivered and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers enforceable in
accordance with its terms (subject, as to enforcement of remedies, to applicable bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium or other laws and legal principles
affecting creditors rights generally from time to time in effect and to general equitable
principles, whether applied in an action at law or in equity).
If such form or forms or terms have been so established, the Trustee shall not be required to
authenticate such Securities if the issue of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will affect
the Trustees own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise
in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 301 and of the preceding paragraph, if all
Securities of a series are not to be originally issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to
deliver the Officers Certificate otherwise required pursuant to Section 301 or the Issuers Order
and Opinion of Counsel or Board Resolution or supplemental indenture otherwise required pursuant to
such preceding paragraph at or prior to the time of authentication of each Security of such series
if such documents are delivered at or prior to the authentication upon original issuance of the
first Security of such series to be issued.
With respect to Securities of a series not to be originally issued at one time, the Trustee
may rely upon the Opinion of Counsel and the other documents delivered pursuant to Sections 201 and
301 and this Section, as applicable, in connection with the first authentication of Securities of
such series and any subsequent request by the Issuers to the Trustee to authenticate Securities of
such series upon original issuance shall constitute a representation and warranty by the Issuers
that as of the date of such request, the statements made in the Officers Certificate shall be true
and correct as if made on such date.
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Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.
No Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory
for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially
in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee by manual signature of an authorized
signatory, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only
evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and is entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security shall have been
authenticated and delivered hereunder but never issued and sold by the Issuers, and the Issuers
shall deliver such Security to the Trustee for cancellation as provided in Section 309, for all
purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and
delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture.
Section 304.
Temporary Securities
Pending the preparation of Definitive Securities of any series, the Issuers may execute, and
upon receipt of the documents required by Section 303, together with an Issuer Order, the Trustee
shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten,
mimeographed or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of
the Definitive Securities of like series in lieu of which they are issued and with such appropriate
insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities
may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
If temporary Securities of any series are issued, the Issuers will cause Definitive Securities
of that series to be prepared without unreasonable delay. After the preparation of Definitive
Securities of such series, the temporary Securities of such series shall be exchangeable for
Definitive Securities of such series upon surrender of the temporary Securities of such series at
the office or agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for the purpose of
exchanges of Securities of such series, without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for
cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities of any series the Issuers shall execute and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor one or more Definitive Securities
of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and
tenor. Until so exchanged the temporary Securities of any series shall in all respects be entitled
to the same benefits under this Indenture as Definitive Securities of such series and tenor.
Section 305.
Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
The Issuers shall cause to be kept at an office or agency of the Security Registrar in The
City of New York a register (the register maintained in such office or in any other office or
agency of the Issuers in a Place of Payment being herein sometimes referred to as the
Security
Register
) in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the Issuers shall
provide for the registration of Securities and of transfers of Securities. The Issuers shall,
prior to the issuance of any Securities hereunder, appoint the Trustee as the initial
Security
Registrar
for the purpose of registering Securities and transfers of Securities as herein provided
and its Corporate Trust Office which, at the date hereof, is located at
, as
the initial office or agency in The City of New York where the Security Register will be
maintained. The Issuers may at any time replace such Security Registrar, change such office or
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agency or act as its own Security Registrar. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to
the Trustee of any change of the Security Registrar or of the location of such office or agency.
At all reasonable times the Security Register shall be available for inspection by the Trustee.
Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of any series at the office or
agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for such purpose, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee
or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and
of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor.
At the option of the Holder, Securities of any series (except a Global Security) may be
exchanged for other Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like
aggregate principal amount and tenor, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at such
office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the
exchange is entitled to receive.
All Securities issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be the
valid obligations of the Issuers, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under
this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.
Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall (if
so required by the Issuers or the Trustee) be duly endorsed, or be accompanied by a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed, by the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing.
No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities,
but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental
charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of
Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Section 304 or 1107 not involving any transfer.
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuers shall be required (1) to issue, register the transfer of
or exchange Securities of any series (or of any series and specified tenor, as the case may be)
during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of mailing of a notice
of redemption of Securities of that series selected for redemption under Section 1103 and ending at
the close of business on the day of such mailing, or (2) to register the transfer of or exchange
any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any
Security being redeemed in part.
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture and except as otherwise specified as
contemplated by Section 301, no Global Security may be transferred to, or registered or exchanged
for Securities registered in the name of, any Person other than the Depositary for such Global
Security or any nominee thereof, and no such transfer may be registered, except as provided in this
paragraph. Every Security authenticated and delivered upon registration or transfer of, or in
exchange for or in lieu of, a Global Security shall be a Global Security, except as provided in
this paragraph. If (1) (A) the Depositary for a Global Security notifies the Issuers that it is
unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for such Global Security or ceases to be a
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clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act, and (B) a successor Depositary is not
appointed by the Issuers within 120 days, (2) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing
with respect to the Securities of such series and the Security Registrar has received a request
from the Depositary to issue certificated securities in lieu of all or a portion of the Global
Securities of such series (in which case the Issuers shall deliver certificated securities within
30 days of such request) or (3) the Issuers determines in its sole discretion that Securities of a
series issued in global form shall no longer be represented by a Global Security, then such Global
Security may be exchanged by such Depositary for Definitive Securities of the same series, of any
authorized denomination and of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor, registered in the names
of, and the transfer of such Global Security or portion thereof may be registered to, such Persons
as such Depositary shall direct.
Section 306.
Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, together with such security or
indemnity as may be required by the Issuers or the Trustee to save each of them and any agent of
either of them harmless, the Issuers shall execute and upon its request the Trustee shall
authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a new Security of the same series and of like tenor
and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding.
If there shall be delivered to the Issuers and the Trustee (1) evidence to their satisfaction
of the destruction, loss or theft of any Security and (2) such security or indemnity as may be
required by them to save each of them and any agent of either of them harmless, then, in the
absence of notice to the Issuers or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a bona fide
purchaser, the Issuers shall execute and upon their request the Trustee shall authenticate and
deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series
and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding. If,
after the delivery of such new Security, a bona fide purchaser of the original Security in lieu of
which such new Security was issued presents for payment or registration such original Security, the
Trustee shall be entitled to recover such new Security from the party to whom it was delivered or
any party taking therefrom, except a bona fide purchaser, and shall be entitled to recover upon the
security or indemnity provided therefor to the extent of any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred
by the Issuers and the Trustee in connection therewith.
In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to
become due and payable, the Issuers in their discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay
such Security.
Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Issuers may require the payment
of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation
thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected
therewith. Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this Section in exchange for any
mutilated Security or in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an
original additional contractual obligation of the Issuers, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed,
lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and shall be entitled to all
the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of
that series duly issued hereunder.
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The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all
other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen Securities.
Section 307.
Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for,
on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one or
more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for
such interest.
Any interest on any Security of any series which is payable, but is not punctually paid or
duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date (herein called
Defaulted Interest
) shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the relevant Regular Record Date by virtue of having
been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Issuers, at its election in each
case, as provided in Clause (1) or (2) below:
(1) The Issuers may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose
names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at
the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which
shall be fixed in the following manner. The Issuers shall notify the Trustee in writing of the
amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of
the proposed payment, and at the same time the Issuers shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of
money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or
shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the
proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons
entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this Clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a
Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days
and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment and not less than 10 days after
the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly
notify the Issuers of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Issuers,
shall cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor to be mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder of Securities of such series at
his address as it appears in the Security Register, not less than 10 days prior to such Special
Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor having been so mailed, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names
the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the
close of business on such Special Record Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the
following Clause (2).
(2) The Issuers may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in
any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or
automated quotation system on which such Securities may be listed or traded, and upon such notice
as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Issuers to the Trustee of the
proposed payment pursuant to this Clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the
Trustee.
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Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and Section 305, each Security delivered
under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other
Security, shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried
by such other Security.
For each series of Securities, the Issuers shall, prior to 10:30 a.m. (New York City time) on
each payment date for principal and premium, if any, and interest, if any, deposit with the Trustee
money in immediately available funds sufficient to make cash payments due on the applicable payment
date.
Section 308.
Persons Deemed Owners
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, prior to due presentment of a Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such
Security is registered as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of
principal of and any premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) any interest on such Security
and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and neither the
Issuers, the Trustee nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
No holder of any beneficial interest in any Global Security held on its behalf by a Depositary
shall have any rights under this Indenture with respect to such Global Security, and such
Depositary may be treated by the Issuers, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee
as the owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever. None of the Issuers, the Trustee
nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any
aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests of
a Global Security or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such
beneficial ownership interests.
Section 309.
Cancellation
All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange or
for credit against any sinking fund payment shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the
Trustee, be delivered to the Trustee and shall be promptly canceled by it. The Issuers may at any
time deliver to the Trustee for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered
hereunder which the Issuers may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, and may deliver to the
Trustee (or to any other Person for delivery to the Trustee) for cancellation any Securities
previously authenticated hereunder which the Issuers have not issued and sold, and all Securities
so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Trustee. No Securities shall be authenticated in
lieu of or in exchange for any Securities canceled as provided in this Section, except as expressly
permitted by this Indenture. All canceled Securities held by the Trustee shall be disposed of in
accordance with its customary procedures, and the Trustee shall thereafter deliver to the Issuers a
certificate with respect to such disposition.
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Section 310.
Computation of Interest
Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series,
interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of
twelve 30-day months and interest on the Securities of each series for any partial period shall be
computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and the number of days elapsed in
any partial month.
Section 311.
CUSIP Numbers
The Issuers in issuing the Securities may use CUSIP numbers (in addition to the other
identification numbers printed on the Securities), and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP
numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders. The Issuers will promptly notify the
Trustee of any change in the CUSIP numbers.
ARTICLE IV
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
Section 401.
Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
This Indenture shall upon an Issuer Request cease to be of further effect with respect to
Securities of any series (except as to any surviving rights of registration of transfer or exchange
of such Securities herein expressly provided for), and the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers,
shall execute proper instruments acknowledging satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with
respect to such Securities, when
(1) either
(A) all such Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered (other than (i) such
Securities which have been destroyed, lost or stolen and which have been replaced or paid as
provided in Section 306, and (ii) such Securities for whose payment money has theretofore been
deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and thereafter repaid to the
Issuers or discharged from such trust, as provided in Section 1003) have been delivered to the
Trustee for cancellation; or
(B) all such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation
(i) have become due and payable,
(ii) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year, or
(iii) are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the
Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of
the Issuers,
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and the Issuers in the case of (i), (ii) or (iii) above, have irrevocably deposited or caused to be
deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for this purpose an amount of money in the
currency or currency units in which such Securities are payable sufficient to pay and discharge the
entire indebtedness on such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation,
for principal and any premium and interest to the date of such deposit (in the case of Securities
which have become due and payable) or to the Stated Maturity or Redemption Date, as the case may
be;
(2) the Issuers have paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable hereunder by the Issuers
with respect to such Securities; and
(3) the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to the
satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to such Securities have been complied
with.
Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to Securities of
any series, (i) the obligations of the Issuers to the Trustee under Section 607, the obligations of
the Trustee to any Authenticating Agent under Section 614 and the right of the Trustee to resign
under Section 610 shall survive, and (ii) if money shall have been deposited with the Trustee
pursuant to subclause (B) of Clause (1) of this Section, the obligations of the Issuers and/or the
Trustee under Sections 402, 606, 701 and 1002 and the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall survive.
Section 402.
Application of Trust Money
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all money deposited with the
Trustee pursuant to Section 401 shall be held in trust and applied by it, in accordance with the
provisions of the Securities and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any
Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as its own Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine,
to the Persons entitled thereto, of the principal and any premium and interest for whose payment
such money has been deposited with the Trustee.
ARTICLE V
REMEDIES
Section 501.
Events of Default
Event of Default
, wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any
one of the following events (whatever the reason for such Event of Default and whether it shall be
voluntary or involuntary or be effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or
order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body):
(1) default in the payment of any interest upon any Security of that series when it becomes
due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 30 days; or
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(2) default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security of that
series at its Maturity; or
(3) default in the performance, or breach, of any term, covenant or warranty of the Issuers in
this Indenture (other than a term, covenant or warranty a default in whose performance or whose
breach is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has expressly been included in
this Indenture solely for the benefit of series of Securities other than that series), and
continuance of such default or breach for a period of 45 days after there has been given, by
registered or certified mail, to the Issuers by the Trustee or to the Issuers and the Trustee by
Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series a written
notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and stating that such
notice is a
Notice of Default
hereunder; or
(4) either of the Issuers pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law
(A) commences a voluntary case, (B) consents to the entry of any order for relief against it in an
involuntary case, (C) consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for all or substantially
all of its property, or (D) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or
(5) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that
(A) is for relief against either of the Issuers in an involuntary case, (B) appoints a Custodian of
either of the Issuers or for all or substantially all of its property, or (C) orders the
liquidation of either of the Issuers; and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60
days; or
(6) any other Event of Default provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to
Securities of that series.
Section 502.
Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
If an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5) of Section 501 occurs, the principal
amount of all outstanding Securities shall become due an payable immediately without further action
or notice. If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5)
of Section 501) with respect to Securities of any series at the time Outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then in every such case the Trustee or Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of that series may declare the principal amount of (or, if any of the
Securities of that series are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal
amount of such Securities as may be specified in the terms thereof) all of the Securities of that
series to be due and payable immediately, by a notice in writing to the Issuers (and to the Trustee
if given by Holders), and upon any such declaration such principal amount (or specified amount)
shall become immediately due and payable.
At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series
has been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained by the
Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of that series, by written notice to the Issuers and the Trustee, may
rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if the rescission would not
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conflict with any judgment or decree and if all existing Events of Default with respect to
Securities of that series (except nonpayment of principal, interest or premium of Securities of
that series that has become due solely because of the acceleration) have been cured or waived as
provided in Section 513.
No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 503.
Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
The Issuers covenant that if
(1) default is made in the payment of any interest on any Security when such interest becomes
due and payable and such default continues for a period of 30 days, or
(2) default is made in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security
at the Maturity thereof,
the Issuers will, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of Holders of such
Securities, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium
and interest and, to the extent that payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable,
interest on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue interest, at the rate or rates
prescribed therefor in such Securities, and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be
sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation,
expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.
If the Issuers fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own
name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of
the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may
enforce the same against the Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities and collect the
moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the
Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.
If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series occurs and is continuing, the
Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the
Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall
deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of
any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein,
or to enforce any other proper remedy.
Section 504.
Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
In case of any judicial proceeding relative to the Issuers, or any other obligor upon the
Securities, their property or their creditors, the Trustee shall be entitled and empowered, by
intervention in such proceeding or otherwise, to take any and all actions authorized under the
Trust Indenture Act in order to have claims of Holders and the Trustee allowed in any such
proceeding. In particular, the Trustee shall be authorized to collect and receive any moneys or
other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same; and any
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custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in
any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the
Trustee and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to
Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the
Trustee under Section 607.
No provision of this Indenture shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or
consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement,
adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to
authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.
Section 505.
Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and
enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof
in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be
brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after
provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of
the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of Holders of the Securities in
respect of which such judgment has been recovered.
Section 506.
Application of Money Collected
Any money or property collected or to be applied by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall
be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the
distribution of such money or property on account of principal or any premium or interest, upon
presentation of the Securities and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and
upon surrender thereof if fully paid:
FIRST: To the payment of all amounts due the Trustee under Section 607;
SECOND: To the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid for principal of and any premium
and interest on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money has been
collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and
payable on such Securities for principal and any premium and interest, respectively; and
THIRD: The balance, if any, to the Issuers.
Section 507.
Limitation on Suits
No Holder of any Security of any series shall have any right to institute any proceeding,
judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture or a Security, or for the appointment of a
receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless
(1) such Holder has previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of
Default with respect to the Securities of that series;
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(2) Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that
series shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such
Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;
(3) such Holder or Holders have offered and, if requested, provided to the Trustee reasonable
security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with
such request;
(4) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer and, if
requested, provision of security or indemnity has failed to institute any such proceeding; and
(5) no direction inconsistent with such written request has been given to the Trustee during
such 60-day period by Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of
that series;
it being understood and intended that no one or more of such Holders shall have any right in any
manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb
or prejudice the rights of any other of such Holders, or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or
preference over any other of such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in
the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all of such Holders.
Section 508.
Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have
the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and any
premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) interest on such Security on the respective Stated
Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and
to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired
without the consent of such Holder.
Section 509.
Restoration of Rights and Remedies
If the Trustee or any Holder has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy
under this Indenture and such proceeding has been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or has
been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then in every such case, subject to any
determination in such proceeding, the Issuers, the Trustee and Holders shall be restored severally
and respectively to their former positions hereunder, and thereafter all rights and remedies of the
Trustee and Holders shall continue as though no such proceeding had been instituted.
Section 510.
Rights and Remedies Cumulative
Except as otherwise provided with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated,
destroyed, lost or stolen Securities in the last paragraph of Section 306, no right or remedy
herein conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to Holders is intended to be exclusive of any
other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be
cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter
existing at
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law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder,
or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other appropriate
right or remedy.
Section 511.
Delay or Omission Not Waiver
No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder of any Securities to exercise any right
or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a
waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by
this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders may be exercised from time to time, and as
often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders, as the case may be.
Section 512.
Control by Holders
Subject to the provisions of Section 603, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of any series shall have the right to direct the time, method and
place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust
or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series;
provided,
however
, that the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this
Indenture that Trustee determines may be unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Holders of
Securities or that may subject the Trustee to personal liability.
Section 513.
Waiver of Past Defaults
Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series may on behalf of Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default
hereunder with respect to such series and its consequences, except
(1) a continuing default in the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any
Security of such series, or
(2) a default in respect of a covenant or provision hereof which under Article IX cannot be
modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series
affected.
Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising
therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture, but no such
waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 514.
Undertaking for Costs
In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit
against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, a court may require
any party litigant in such suit to file an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and may
assess costs against any such party litigant, in the manner and to the extent provided in the Trust
Indenture Act;
provided, however
, that neither this Section nor the Trust Indenture Act shall be
deemed to authorize any court to require such an undertaking or to make such an assessment in
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any suit instituted by the Trustee, in any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders,
holding in the aggregate more than 10% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series to which the suit relates, or in any suit instituted by any Holder for the enforcement of
the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Security on or after the
respective Stated Maturity expressed by such Security (or, in the case of redemption or repayment,
on or after the Redemption Date).
ARTICLE VI
THE TRUSTEE
Section 601.
Certain Duties and Responsibilities
(a) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any series of
Securities,
(1) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are
specifically set forth in this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series, and
no implied covenants or obligations shall read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and
(2) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may, with respect to
Securities of such series, conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the
correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to
the Trustee conforming to the requirements of this Indenture; but in the case of any such
certificates or opinions which by any provision hereof are specifically required to be
furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall be under a duty to examine the same to
determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture.
(b) In case an Event of Default with respect to any series of Securities has occurred and is
continuing, the Trustee shall exercise with respect to the Securities of such series such rights
and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their
exercise, as a prudent Person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such
persons own affairs.
(c) No provisions of this Indenture shall be construed to relieve the Trustee from liability
for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct,
except that
(1) this Subsection shall not be construed to limit the effect of Subsection (a) of
this Section;
(2) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a
responsible officer, unless it shall be proved that the Trustee was negligent in
ascertaining the pertinent facts;
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(3) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action taken or omitted to be
taken by it in good faith in accordance with the direction of the Holders or a majority in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series relating to the time, method
and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or
exercising any trust or power conferred upon the Trustee, under this Indenture with respect
to the Securities of such series; and
(4) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own
funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties
hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable
grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk
or liability is not reasonably assured to it.
(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating
to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be
subject to the provisions of this Section.
Section 602.
Notice of Defaults
If a Default occurs and is continuing with respect to the Securities of any series, the
Trustee shall, within 90 days after it occurs, transmit, in the manner and to the extent provided
in Section 313(c) of the Trust Indenture Act, notice of all uncured or unwaived Defaults known to
it;
provided, however
, that, except in the case of a Default in payment on the Securities of any
series, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding the notice if and so long as the board of
directors, the executive committee or a trust committee of directors or responsible officers of the
Trustee determine in good faith that withholding such notice is in the interests of Holders of
Securities of such series;
provided, further, however
, that, in the case of any default or breach
of the character specified in Section 501(3) with respect to the Securities of such series, no such
notice to Holders shall be given until at least 60 days after the occurrence thereof.
Section 603.
Certain Rights of Trustee
Subject to the provisions of Section 601:
(1) the Trustee may rely on and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon
any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document
believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties;
(2) any request, direction, order or demand of the Issuers mentioned herein shall be
sufficiently evidenced by an Issuer Request or Issuer Order (or in the case of a Periodic Offering,
as agreed in procedures set forth in an Issuer Order pursuant to Section 303) and any resolution of
the Board of Directors shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;
(3) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that
a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action
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hereunder, the Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the
absence of bad faith on its part, rely upon an Officers Certificate;
(4) the Trustee may consult with counsel and the written advice of such counsel or any Opinion
of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken,
suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;
(5) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in
it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture,
unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it
against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such
request or direction;
(6) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated
in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document,
but the Trustee, in its discretion, may, without obligation to do so, make such further inquiry or
investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit; and, if the Trustee shall determine to
make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and
premises of the Issuers, personally or by agent or attorney;
(7) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties
hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys and the Trustee shall not be
responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with
due care by it hereunder; and
(8) the Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers Certificate setting forth
the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified
actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers Certificate may be signed by any Person
authorized to sign an Officers Certificate, including any Person specified as so authorized in any
such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.
Section 604.
Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
The recitals contained herein and in the Securities, except the Trustees certificates of
authentication, shall be taken as the statements of the Issuers, and the Trustee or any
Authenticating Agent assumes no responsibility for their correctness. Neither the Trustee nor any
Authenticating Agent makes any representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Indenture
or of the Securities. Neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent shall be accountable for
the use or application by the Issuers of Securities or the proceeds thereof.
Section 605.
May Hold Securities
The Trustee, any Authenticating Agent, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other
agent of the Issuers, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of
Securities and, subject to Sections 608 and 613, may otherwise deal with the Issuers
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with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee, Authenticating Agent, Paying Agent,
Security Registrar or such other agent.
Section 606.
Money Held in Trust
Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds except to
the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money
received by it hereunder except as otherwise agreed with the Issuers.
Section 607.
Compensation and Reimbursement
The Issuers agree:
(1) to pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for all services rendered
by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the
compensation of a trustee of an express trust);
(2) to reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and
advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture
(including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and
counsel), except any such expense, disbursement or advance as may be attributable to its negligence
or bad faith; and
(3) to indemnify the Trustee for, and to hold it harmless against, any loss, liability or
expense incurred without negligence or bad faith on its part, arising out of or in connection with
the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder, including the costs and expenses
of defending itself against any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance
of any of its powers or duties hereunder.
The obligations of the Issuers under this Section to compensate the Trustee and to pay or
reimburse the Trustee for expenses, disbursements and advances shall constitute additional
indebtedness hereunder.
Without limiting any rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee
incurs expenses or renders services in connection with an Event of Default specified in Section
501(4) or Section 501(5), the expenses (including the reasonable charges and expenses of its
counsel) and the compensation for such services are intended to constitute expenses of
administration under any applicable Bankruptcy Law.
The provisions of this Section shall survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture
and the defeasance of the Securities.
Section 608.
Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
If the Trustee has or shall acquire a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust
Indenture Act, the Trustee shall either eliminate such interest or resign, to the extent and in the
manner provided by, and subject to the provisions of, the Trust Indenture Act and this Indenture.
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Section 609.
Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
There shall at all times be one or more Trustees hereunder with respect to the Securities of
each series, at least one of which shall be a Person that is eligible pursuant to the Trust
Indenture Act to act as such and has a combined capital and surplus required by the Trust Indenture
Act. If such Person publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the
requirements of a supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the
combined capital and surplus of such Person shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus
as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall
cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately
in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article.
Section 610.
Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to
this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee in
accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611.
The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by
giving written notice thereof to the Issuers. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor
Trustee required by Section 611 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after
the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such
series.
The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of
the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series,
delivered to the Trustee and to the Issuers. If an instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee
shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of
removal, the removed Trustee may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment
of a successor Trustee.
The Issuers may remove the Trustee if:
(1) the Trustee fails to comply with Section 608 or 609 hereof;
(2) the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with
respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;
(3) a custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or
(4) the Trustee becomes incapable of acting.
If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall
occur in the office of Trustee for any cause, with respect to the Securities of one or more series,
the Issuers, by a Board Resolution, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with
respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor
Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and
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that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any
particular series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 611. If, within
one year after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a
successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of Holders
of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the
Issuers and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its
acceptance of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611,
become the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent
supersede the successor Trustee appointed by the Issuers.
If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so
appointed by the Issuers or Holders and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 611
within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the Holders of at least 10% in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series may petition, at the expense of the
Issuers, any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.
If the Trustee, after written request by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a
Security of such series for at least six months, fails to comply with Section 608 or 609, such
Holder may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect
to the Securities of such series.
The Issuers shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect
to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of any series to all Holders of Securities of such series in the manner provided in
Section 106. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of such series and the address of its Corporate Trust Office.
Section 611.
Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
(1) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to all
Securities, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the
Issuers and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the
resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee,
without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers,
trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on the request of the Issuers or the successor
Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of its charges, execute and deliver an
instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the retiring
Trustee and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and
money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder.
(2) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities
of one or more (but not all) series, the Issuers, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee
with respect to the Securities of one or more series shall execute and deliver an indenture
supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (A)
shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to
vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring
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Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of
such successor Trustee relates, (B) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all
Securities, shall contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that
all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of
that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested
in the retiring Trustee, and (C) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as
shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more
than one Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall
constitute such Trustees as co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be
trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder
administered by any other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental
indenture the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent
provided therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance,
shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with
respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor
Trustee relates, but, on request of the Issuers, or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee
shall, upon payment of its charges, duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all
property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that
or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.
(3) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Issuers shall execute any and all
instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all
such rights, powers and trusts referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) of this Section, as the case may
be.
(4) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance
such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.
Section 612.
Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
Any Person into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be
consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Trustee shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust
business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder,
provided
such Person
shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of
any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities
shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by
merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication
and deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had
itself authenticated such Securities.
Section 613.
Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
If and when the Trustee shall be or become a creditor of an Issuer or any other obligor upon
the Securities, the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act regarding
the collection of claims against such Issuer or any such other obligor.
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Section 614.
Appointment of Authenticating Agent
The Trustee (upon notice to the Issuers) may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Agents with
respect to one or more series of Securities which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the
Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series issued upon original issue (in accordance with
procedures acceptable to the Trustee) and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial
redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 306, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if
authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the
authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustees certificate of
authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the
Issuers and shall at all times be a Person organized and doing business under the laws of the
United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws
to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000
and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating
Agent publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of
said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined
capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and
surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time an
Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section,
such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in
this Section.
Any Person into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may
be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such
Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the
corporate agency or corporate trust business of such Authenticating Agent, shall continue to be an
Authenticating Agent, provided such Person shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without
the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or such
Authenticating Agent.
An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee
and to the Issuers. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by
giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to the Issuers. Upon receiving such
a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating
Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, the Trustee may
appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be acceptable to the Issuers. Any successor
Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment hereunder shall become vested with all the
rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder, with like effect as if originally named as
an Authenticating Agent. No successor Authenticating Agent shall be appointed unless eligible
under the provisions of this Section.
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Except with respect to an Authenticating Agent appointed at the request of the
Issuers
, the
Trustee agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time reasonable compensation for
its services under this Section.
If an appointment with respect to one or more series is made pursuant to this Section, the
Securities of such series may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustees certificate of
authentication, an alternative certificate of authentication in the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Trustee
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Date:
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By:
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As Authenticating Agent
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Authorized Signatory
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Section 615.
Force Majeure
.
In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the
performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly,
forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts
of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of
God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and
hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are
consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as
practicable under the circumstances.
ARTICLE VII
HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
Section 701.
Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
The Issuers will furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee
(1) semi-annually, not later than each Interest Payment Date in each year, a list for each
series of Securities, in such form as the Trustee may reasonably require, of the names and
addresses of the Holders of Securities of such series as of the preceding Regular Record Date, and
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(2) at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, within 30 days after the
receipt by the Issuers of any such request, a list of similar form and content as of a date not
more than 15 days prior to the time such list is furnished;
provided, however
, that if and so long as the Trustee shall be the Security Registrar for
Securities of a series, no such list need be furnished with respect to such series of Securities.
Section 702.
Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder.
The Trustee shall comply with the obligations imposed upon it pursuant to Section 312 of the
Trust Indenture Act.
The rights of the Holders to communicate with other Holders with respect to their rights under
this Indenture or under the Securities, and the corresponding rights and privileges of the Trustee,
shall be as provided by the Trust Indenture Act.
Every Holder of Securities, by receiving and holding the same, agrees with the Issuers and the
Trustee that neither the Issuers nor the Trustee nor any agent of any of them shall be held
accountable by reason of any disclosure of information as to the names and addresses of Holders
made pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act.
Section 703.
Reports by Trustee
As promptly as practicable after each May 15 beginning with the May 15 following the date of
this Indenture, and in any event prior to July 15 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each
Holder a brief report dated as of May 15 that complies with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(a). The
Trustee also shall comply with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(b). Prior to delivery to the
Holders, the Trustee shall deliver to the Issuers a copy of any report it delivers to Holders
pursuant to this Section 703.
A copy of each such report shall, at the time of such transmission to Holders, be filed by the
Trustee with each stock exchange upon which any Securities are listed, with the Commission and with
the Issuers. The Issuers will notify the Trustee when any Securities are listed on any stock
exchange.
Section 704.
Reports by Issuers
The Issuers shall:
(1) file with the Trustee, within 15 days after the Issuers is required to file the same with
the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the information, documents and other reports
(or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the Commission may from time to time by
rules and regulations prescribe) which the Issuers may be required to file with the Commission
pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act;
(2) file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations
prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such additional information, documents and reports
with respect to compliance by the Issuers with the conditions and
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covenants of this Indenture as may be required from time to time by such rules and
regulations; and
(3) transmit by mail to all Holders, as their names and addresses appear in the Security
Register, within 30 days after the filing thereof with the Trustee, such summaries of any
information, documents and reports required to be filed by the Issuers pursuant to paragraphs (1)
and (2) of this Section as may be required by rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by
the Commission.
ARTICLE VIII
CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
Section 801.
Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
The Partnership shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, unless:
(1) the Partnership is the surviving entity or the entity formed by or surviving the
transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made is a
corporation or partnership organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state
thereof or the District of Columbia;
(2) the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the
entity to which the sale was made assumes all the obligations of the Partnership in accordance with
a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee, under the Securities and
this Indenture; and
(3) immediately after the transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists.
Finance Corp. shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, except under conditions similar to those described in the
paragraph above.
Section 802.
Successor Substituted
Upon any consolidation of an Issuer with, or merger of an Issuer into, any other Person or any
sale, transfer or lease of the properties and assets of an Issuer as, or substantially as, an
entirety in accordance with Section 801, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or into
which such Issuer is merged or to which such sale, transfer or lease is made shall succeed to, and
be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, such Issuer under this Indenture
with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named originally as such Issuer herein or
therein, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of
all obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.
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ARTICLE IX
SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
Section 901.
Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
Without the consent of any Holders of Securities, the Issuers and the Trustee, at any time and
from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory
to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:
(1) to secure any of such Securities or to allow any guarantor to guarantee Securities of any
series;
(2) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities and the assumption by such successor Person of the obligations of the Issuers hereunder;
(3) to add covenants and Events of Default for the benefit of the Holders of all or any series
of such Securities or to surrender any right or power conferred by this Indenture upon the Issuers
or to make any change that does not adversely affect the legal rights hereunder of any Holder in
any material respect;
(4) to add to, change or eliminate any of the provisions of this Indenture,
provided
that any
such addition, change or elimination shall become effective only after there are no such Securities
of any series entitled to the benefit of such provision outstanding;
(5) to establish the forms or terms of the Securities of any series issued hereunder;
(6) to cure any ambiguity or correct any defect or inconsistency in this Indenture;
(7) to evidence the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee with respect to one or
more series of Securities or otherwise;
(8) to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or maintain the
qualification of this Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;
(9) to provide for uncertificated securities in addition to certificated securities;
(10) to supplement any provisions of this Indenture necessary to permit or facilitate the
defeasance and discharge of any series of Securities,
provided
that such action does not adversely
affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of such series or any other series; and
(11) to comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated quotation
system on which any of the Securities may be listed or traded.
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Section 902.
Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of
all Outstanding Securities affected by such supplemental indenture (voting as one class), the
Issuers and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the
purpose of adding any provisions to, or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions
of, this Indenture, or modifying in any manner the rights of Holders of Securities of such series
under this Indenture (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender
offer or exchange offer for the Securities);
provided
that the Issuers and the Trustee may not,
without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security affected thereby,
(1) change the Stated Maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or
interest, if any, on, any Security, or reduce the principal amount thereof or premium, if any, on
or the rate of interest thereon or alter the method of computation of interest;
(2) reduce the percentage in principal amount of Securities required for any such supplemental
indenture or for any waiver provided for in this Indenture;
(3) change the Issuers obligation to maintain an office or agency for payment of Securities
and the other matters specified herein;
(4) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of,
premium, if any, or interest on, any Security;
(5) modify any of the provisions of this Indenture relating to the execution of supplemental
indentures with the consent of Holders of Securities which are discussed in this Section or modify
any provisions relating to the waiver by Holders of Securities of past defaults and covenants,
except to increase any required percentage or to provide that other provisions of this Indenture
cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security
affected thereby or
(6) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in the Security.
A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this
Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series
of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with
respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this
Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.
It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this Section to approve the particular
form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve
the substance thereof.
Section 903.
Execution of Supplemental Indentures
In executing, or accepting the additional trusts created by, any supplemental indenture
permitted by this Article or the modifications thereby of the trusts created by this Indenture, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 601) shall be fully protected in
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relying upon, an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of
such supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture. The Trustee shall enter
into any supplemental indenture which does not adversely affect the Trustees own rights, duties or
immunities under this Indenture or otherwise. The Trustee may, but shall not be obligated to,
enter into any such supplemental indenture which adversely affects the Trustees own rights, duties
or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise.
Section 904.
Effect of Supplemental Indentures
Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be
modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this
Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated
and delivered hereunder shall be bound thereby.
Section 905.
Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the
requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.
Section 906.
Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental
indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in
form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the
Issuers shall so determine, new Securities of any series so modified as to conform, in the opinion
of the Trustee and the Issuers, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by
the Issuers and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities
of such series. Failure to make a notation or issue a new Security shall not affect the validity
and effect of any amendment, supplement or waiver.
ARTICLE X
COVENANTS
Section 1001.
Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
The Issuers covenant and agree for the benefit of each series of Securities that it will duly
and punctually pay the principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities of that series
in accordance with the terms of the Securities and this Indenture.
Section 1002.
Maintenance of Office or Agency
The Issuers will maintain in each Place of Payment for any series of Securities an office or
agency where Securities of that series may be presented or surrendered for payment, where
Securities of that series may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where
notices and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of that series and this
Indenture may be served. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the
location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuers
shall
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fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with
the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at
the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Issuers hereby appoint the Trustee as their
agent to receive all such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands.
The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where
the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes
and may from time to time rescind such designations;
provided, however
, that no such designation or
rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuers of their obligation to maintain an office or
agency in each Place of Payment for Securities of any series for such purposes. The Issuers will
give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change
in the location of any such other office or agency.
Except as otherwise specified with respect to a series of Securities as contemplated by
Section 301, the Issuers hereby initially designate as the Place of Payment for each series of
Securities The City of New York, and initially appoint the Trustee as Paying Agent at its Corporate
Trust Office as the Issuers office or agency for each such purpose in such city.
Section 1003.
Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
If an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries shall at any time act as Paying Agent with respect to
any series of Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of or any premium or
interest on any of the Securities of that series, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of
the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal and any premium and interest so
becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein
provided and will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
Whenever the Issuers shall have one or more Paying Agents for any series of Securities, it
will, on or prior to each due date of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities
of that series, deposit with a Paying Agent a sum sufficient to pay such amount, such sum to be
held as provided by the Trust Indenture Act, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the
Issuers will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
The Issuers will cause each Paying Agent for any series of Securities other than the Trustee
to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the
Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will (1) hold all sums
held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on
Securities of that series in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums
shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided; (2) give the Trustee
notice of any default by the Issuers (or any other obligor upon the Securities of that series) in
the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the Securities
of that series; and (3) during the continuance of any such default, upon the written request of the
Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums held in trust by such Paying Agent for payment in
respect of the Securities of that series.
The Issuers may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of
this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Issuer Order direct any Paying Agent to
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pay, to the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Issuers or such Paying Agent, such sums to
be held by the Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Issuers
or such Paying Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent
shall be released from all further liability with respect to such money.
Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Issuers, in
trust for the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Security of any series
and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal, premium or interest has become due and
payable shall be paid to the Issuers on their request or (if then held by the Issuers) will be
discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter be permitted to look
only to the Issuers for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with
respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Issuers as trustee thereof, shall thereupon
cease;
provided, however,
that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any
such payment, may at the expense of the Issuers cause to be published once, in the New York Times
and The Wall Street Journal (national edition), notice that such money remains unclaimed and that,
after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such
publication, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be paid to the Issuers.
Section 1004.
Statement by Officers as to Default
The Issuers will deliver to the Trustee, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year of
the Issuers ending after the date hereof, an Officers Certificate, stating whether or not to the
best knowledge of the signer or signers thereof the Issuers are in default in the performance and
observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (without regard to any
period of grace or requirement of notice provided hereunder) and, if the Issuers shall be in
default, specifying all such defaults and the nature and status thereof of which they may have
knowledge.
Section 1005.
Existence
Subject to Article VIII, the Issuers will do or cause to be done all things necessary to
preserve and keep in full force and effect their existence, rights (charter and statutory) and
franchises;
provided, however
, that the Issuers shall not be required to preserve any such right or
franchise if the Board of Directors of the applicable Issuer shall determine that the preservation
thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of its business.
Section 1006.
Waiver of Certain Covenants
The Issuers may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or
condition set forth in Section 1005 with respect to the Securities of any series if before the time
for such compliance Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding
Securities of all affected series (voting as one class) shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive
such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or
condition, but no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision or condition except to
the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective,
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the obligations of the Issuers and the duties of the Trustee in respect of any such term,
provision or condition shall remain in full force and effect.
A waiver which changes or eliminates any term, provision or condition of this Indenture which
has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities,
or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such term,
provision or condition, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the
Holders of Securities of any other series.
Section 1007.
Limitation on Finance Corp.
Finance Corp. will not incur any Indebtedness unless:
(1) the Partnership is a co-obligor or guarantor of the Indebtedness; or
(2) the net proceeds of the Indebtedness are either lent to the Partnership,
used to acquire outstanding debt securities issued by the Partnership, or used,
directly or indirectly, to refinance or discharge Indebtedness permitted under the
limitation of this Section 1007.
Finance Corp. will not engage in any business not related, directly or indirectly, to
obtaining money or arranging financing for the Partnership.
ARTICLE XI
REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
Section 1101.
Applicability of Article
Securities of any series which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable
in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301
for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article.
Section 1102.
Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
The election of the Issuers to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution.
In case of any redemption at the election of the Issuers of less than all the Securities of any
series, the Issuers shall, not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date
fixed by the Issuers (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the
Trustee of such Redemption Date, of the principal amount of Securities of such series to be
redeemed and, if applicable, of the tenor of the Securities to be redeemed. In the case of any
redemption of Securities (1) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided
in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture, or (2) pursuant to an election of
the Issuers which is subject to a condition specified in the terms of such Securities, the Issuers
shall furnish the Trustee with an Officers Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction
or condition.
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Section 1103.
Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
If less than all the Securities of any series are to be redeemed (unless all the Securities of
such series and of a specified tenor are to be redeemed), the particular Securities to be redeemed
shall be selected not more than 45 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the
Outstanding Securities of such series not previously called for redemption, on a
pro rata
basis or
by any other method which the Trustee deems fair and appropriate and which complies with any
securities exchange or other applicable requirements for redemption of portions (equal to the
minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of
the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum
authorized denomination for Securities of that series.
The Trustee shall promptly notify the Issuers in writing of the Securities selected for
redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount
thereof to be redeemed.
For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions
relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to
be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been
or is to be redeemed.
Section 1104.
Notice of Redemption
Notice of redemption shall be given by first-class mail (if international mail, by air mail),
postage prepaid, mailed not less than 10 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to
each Holder of Securities to be redeemed, at his address appearing in the Security Register.
All notices of redemption shall identify the Securities to be redeemed (including CUSIP
number(s)) and shall state:
(1) the Redemption Date,
(2) the Redemption Price,
(3) if less than all the Outstanding Securities of any series and of a specified tenor are to
be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of partial redemption of any Securities, the
principal amounts) of the particular Securities to be redeemed,
(4) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price will become due and payable upon each
such Security to be redeemed and that interest thereon will cease to accrue on and after said date,
(5) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the
Redemption Price,
(6) that the redemption is for a sinking fund, if such is the case; and
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(7) that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number, if
any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities and that reliance may be placed only on the
other identification numbers printed on the Securities (and any such redemption shall not be
affected by any defect in or omission of such CUSIP numbers).
Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed shall be given by the Issuers or, at the
Issuers request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuers.
Section 1105.
Deposit of Redemption Price
On or prior to 10:30 a.m. New York City Time on any Redemption Date, the Issuers shall deposit
with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Issuers are acting as their own Paying Agent,
segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 1003) an amount of money sufficient to pay the
Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) accrued
interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.
Section 1106.
Securities Payable on Redemption Date
Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall,
on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified, and from
and after such date (unless the Issuers shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and
accrued interest) such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such
Security for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Security shall be paid by the Issuers
at the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest to the Redemption Date;
provided, however
,
that, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301, installments of interest whose
Stated Maturity is on or prior to the Redemption Date shall be payable to the Holders of such
Securities, or one or more Predecessor Securities, registered as such at the close of business on
the relevant Record Dates according to their terms and the provisions of Section 307.
If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for
redemption, the principal and any premium shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date
at the rate prescribed therefor in the Security.
Section 1107.
Securities Redeemed in Part
Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part shall be surrendered at a Place of Payment
therefor (with, if the Issuers or the Trustee so requires, due endorsement by, or a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Trustee duly executed by, the
Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing), and the Issuers shall execute, and the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge, a new
Security or Securities of the same series and of like tenor, of any authorized denomination as
requested by such Holder, in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed
portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.
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ARTICLE XII
SINKING FUNDS
Section 1201.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of
Securities of a series except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities
of such series.
The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any
series is herein referred to as a
mandatory sinking fund payment
, and any payment in excess of
such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as
an
optional sinking fund payment
. If provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, the
cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 1202.
Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of any series as
provided for by the terms of Securities of such series.
Section 1202.
Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
The Issuers (1) may deliver Outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously
called for redemption), and (2) may apply as a credit Securities of a series which have been
redeemed either at the election of the Issuers pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through
the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such
Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment with
respect to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such
Securities as provided for by the terms of such series;
provided
that such Securities have not been
previously so credited. Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the
Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of
the sinking fund and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.
Section 1203.
Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
Not less than 45 days prior to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities
(unless a shorter period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), the Issuers will deliver to the
Trustee an Officers Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for
that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be
satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by
delivering and crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 1202 and stating the basis
for such credit and that such Securities have not been previously so credited, and will also
deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered. Not less than 30 days before each such
sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking
fund payment date in the manner specified in Section 1103 and cause notice of the redemption
thereof to be given in the name of and at the expense of the Issuers in the manner provided in
Section 1104. Such notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made
upon the terms and in the manner stated in Sections 1106 and 1107.
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ARTICLE XIII
DEFEASANCE
Section 1301.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to each series of Securities except as
otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series.
Section 1302.
Legal Defeasance
In addition to discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Section 401, the Issuers shall be deemed
to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness on all the Securities of such a series on the
91st day after the date of the deposit referred to in Clause (1) below, and the provisions of this
Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series shall no longer be in effect (except as to
(i) rights of registration of transfer and exchange of Securities of such series and the Issuers
right of optional redemption, if any, (ii) substitution of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Securities, (iii) rights of Holders of Securities to receive payments of principal thereof and
interest thereon, upon the original stated due dates therefor or on the specified redemption dates
therefor (but not upon acceleration), and remaining rights of the holders to receive mandatory
sinking fund payments, if any, (iv) the rights, obligations, duties and immunities of the Trustee
hereunder, and the Issuers obligations in connection therewith (including, but not limited to,
Section 607), (v) the rights, if any, to convert or exchange the Securities of such series, (vi)
the rights of Holders of Securities of such series as beneficiaries hereof with respect to the
property so deposited with the Trustee payable to all or any of them, (vii) the obligations of the
Issuers under Section 1002 and (viii) the legal defeasance provisions of this Article XIII), and
the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers, shall, upon a Issuers Request, execute proper
instruments acknowledging the same, if the conditions set forth below are satisfied (hereinafter,
"
defeasance
):
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust, for the purposes of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, certified to be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of
independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the
Trustee, to pay (i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such
series on each date that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any
Redemption Date established pursuant to Clause (3) below, and (ii) any mandatory sinking fund
payments on the dates on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of
the Indenture and the Securities of such series;
(2) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel:
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(A) based on the fact that (A) the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by,
the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date hereof, there has been a change in the
applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and such opinion shall
confirm that, Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit, defeasance and discharge and will be
subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times, as
would have been the case if such deposit, defeasance and discharge had not occurred; and
(B) stating that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will not
be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws
affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the
defeasance have been complied with and confirming other matters;
(3) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(4) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
(5) Such defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within the
meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning of
such Act);
(6) Such defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default
under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of the
Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit constituting an
investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, unless
such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the defeasance
contemplated by this provision have been complied with.
For this purpose, such defeasance means that the Issuers, and any other obligor upon the
Securities of such series shall be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire debt represented
by the Securities of such series, which shall thereafter be deemed to be Outstanding only for the
purposes of Section 1304 and the rights and obligations referred to in Clauses (i) through (vii),
inclusive, of the first paragraph of this Section, and to have satisfied all its other obligations
under the Securities of such series and this Indenture insofar as the Securities of such series are
concerned.
-61-
Section 1303.
Covenant Defeasance
The Issuers and any other obligor shall be released on the 91st day after the date of the
deposit referred to in Clause (1) below from its obligations under Sections 704, 801 and 1005 with
respect to the Securities of any series on and after the date the conditions set forth below are
satisfied (hereinafter,
covenant defeasance
), and the Securities of such series shall thereafter
be deemed to be not Outstanding for the purposes of any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, waiver, consent or declaration or other action or Act of Holders (and the
consequences of any thereof) in connection with such covenants, but shall continue to be deemed
Outstanding for all other purposes hereunder. For this purpose, such covenant defeasance means
that, with respect to the Securities of such series, the Issuers may omit to comply with and shall
have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such Section,
whether directly or indirectly by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to such Section or by
reason of any reference in such Section to any other provision herein or in any other document and
such omission to comply shall not constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 501,
but, except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and the Securities of such series
shall be unaffected thereby. The following shall be the conditions to application of this Section
1303:
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series, (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent
public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, to pay
(i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such series on each date
that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any Redemption Date
established pursuant to Clause (2) below, and (ii) any mandatory sinking fund payments on the day
on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of the Indenture and the
Securities of such series;
(2) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(3) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
(4) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel which shall:
-62-
(A) confirm that Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and covenant defeasance and will
be subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same time as
would have been the case if such deposit and covenant defeasance had not occurred; and
(B) state that that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will
not be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar
laws affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating
to the covenant defeasance have been complied with and confirm other matters;
(5) Such covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within
the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning
of such Act);
(6) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a
default under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of
the Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit
constituting an investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, unless such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration
thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and Opinion of Counsel
stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the covenant defeasance contemplated
by this provision have been complied with.
Section 1304.
Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all moneys or U.S. Government
Obligations deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303 (and all funds earned on
such moneys or U.S. Government Obligations) shall be held in trust and applied by it to the
payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as their own
Paying Agent), to Holders of the particular Securities of such series for the payment or redemption
of which such moneys have been deposited with the Trustee, of all sums due and to become due
thereon for principal and interest; but such money need not be segregated from other funds except
to the extent required by law. Subject to Sections 1302 and 1303, the Trustee shall promptly pay
to the Issuers upon Issuer Order any moneys held by it at any time, which, in the opinion of a
nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification
delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the defeasance with
respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
Section 1305.
Repayment to Issuers
The Trustee and any Paying Agent promptly shall pay or return to the Issuers upon Issuer
Request any money and U.S. Government Obligations held by them at any time that are not required
for the payment of the principal of and any interest on the Securities of any series for
-63-
which money or U.S. Government Obligations have been deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or
1303, which, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants
expressed in a written certification delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts
required to effect the defeasance with respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
The provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall apply to any money held by the
Trustee or any Paying Agent under this Article that remains unclaimed for two years after the
Maturity of any series of Securities for which money or U.S. Government Obligations have been
deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303.
Section 1306.
Reinstatement
If the Trustee or the Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U. S. Government
Obligations in accordance with this Article by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any
order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise
prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities of the applicable series shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had
occurred pursuant to this Indenture until such time as the Trustee or the Paying Agent is permitted
to apply all such money or U. S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article;
provided,
however
, that if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of or interest on any Securities of
such series because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the
rights of Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government
Obligations held by the Trustee or the Paying Agent.
-64-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed in
multiple counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which shall together constitute but one and the same instrument, all as of the day and year first
above written.
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FERRELLGAS, L.P.
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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-65-
Exhibit 4.7
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
Issuers
and
Trustee
Indenture
Dated as of
SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THIS INDENTURE RELATING TO
SECTIONS 310 THROUGH 318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE
TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939:
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Trust Indenture
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Act Section
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Indenture Section
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§310(a)(1)
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609
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(a)(2)
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609
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(a)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(4)
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Not Applicable
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(a)(5)
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608; 609
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(b)
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608; 610
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(c)
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Not Applicable
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§311(a)
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613
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(b)
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613
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§312(a)
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701; 702
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(b)
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702
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(c)
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702
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§313(a)
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703
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(b)(1)
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Not Applicable
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(b)(2)
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703
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(c)
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703
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(d)
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703
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§314(a)
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704
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(b)
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Not Applicable
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(c)(1)
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102
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(c)(2)
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102
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(c)(3)
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Not Applicable
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(d)
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Not Applicable
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(e)
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102
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(f)
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Not Applicable
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§315(a)
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601, 603
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(b)
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602
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(c)
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601
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(d)
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601
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(e)
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514
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§316(a)
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101
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(a)(1)(A)
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502; 512
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(a)(1)(B)
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513
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(a)(2)
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Not Applicable
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(b)
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508
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(c)
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104
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§317(a)(1)
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503
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(a)(2)
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504
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(b)
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1003
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§318(a)
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107
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NOTE:
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This reconciliation and tie shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be a part of the
Indenture.
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-i-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
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ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
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1
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Section 101. Definitions
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1
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Section 102. Compliance Certificates and Opinions
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8
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Section 103. Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
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9
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Section 104. Acts of Holders; Record Dates
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9
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Section 105. Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
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11
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Section 106. Notice to Holders; Waiver
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11
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Section 107. Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
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11
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Section 108. Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
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12
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Section 109. Successors and Assigns
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12
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Section 110. Separability Clause
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12
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Section 111. Benefits of Indenture
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12
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Section 112. Governing Law
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12
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Section 113. Legal Holidays
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12
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Section 114. Language of Notices, Etc
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12
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Section 115. Interest Limitation
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13
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Section 116. Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees,
Limited Partners or Shareholders
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13
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ARTICLE II SECURITY FORMS
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14
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Section 201. Forms Generally
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14
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Section 202. Form of Face of Security
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14
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Section 203. Form of Reverse of Security
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17
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Section 204. Global Securities
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22
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Section 205. Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
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23
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ARTICLE III THE SECURITIES
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23
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Section 301. Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
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23
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Section 302. Denominations
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26
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Section 303. Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
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27
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Section 304. Temporary Securities
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29
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Section 305. Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
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29
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-ii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 306. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
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31
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Section 307. Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
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31
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Section 308. Persons Deemed Owners
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33
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Section 309. Cancellation
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33
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Section 310. Computation of Interest
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33
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Section 311. CUSIP Numbers
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34
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ARTICLE IV SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
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34
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Section 401. Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
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34
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Section 402. Application of Trust Money
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35
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ARTICLE V REMEDIES
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35
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Section 501. Events of Default
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35
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Section 502. Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
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36
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Section 503. Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
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37
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Section 504. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
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37
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Section 505. Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
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38
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Section 506. Application of Money Collected
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38
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Section 507. Limitation on Suits
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38
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Section 508. Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and
Interest
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39
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Section 509. Restoration of Rights and Remedies
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39
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Section 510. Rights and Remedies Cumulative
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39
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Section 511. Delay or Omission Not Waiver
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40
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Section 512. Control by Holders
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40
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Section 513. Waiver of Past Defaults
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40
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Section 514. Undertaking for Costs
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40
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ARTICLE VI THE TRUSTEE
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41
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Section 601. Certain Duties and Responsibilities
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41
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Section 602. Notice of Defaults
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42
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Section 603. Certain Rights of Trustee
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42
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Section 604. Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
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43
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-iii-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 605. May Hold Securities
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43
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Section 606. Money Held in Trust
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44
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Section 607. Compensation and Reimbursement
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44
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Section 608. Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
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44
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Section 609. Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
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45
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Section 610. Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
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45
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Section 611. Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
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46
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Section 612. Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
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47
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Section 613. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
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47
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Section 614. Appointment of Authenticating Agent
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48
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Section 615. Force Majeure
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49
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ARTICLE VII HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
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49
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Section 701. Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
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49
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Section 702. Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder
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50
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Section 703. Reports by Trustee
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50
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Section 704. Reports by Issuers
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50
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ARTICLE VIII CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
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51
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Section 801. Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
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51
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Section 802. Successor Substituted
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51
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ARTICLE IX SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
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52
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Section 901. Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
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52
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Section 902. Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
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53
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Section 903. Execution of Supplemental Indentures
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54
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Section 904. Effect of Supplemental Indentures
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54
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Section 905. Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
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54
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Section 906. Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
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54
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ARTICLE X COVENANTS
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54
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Section 1001. Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
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54
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Section 1002. Maintenance of Office or Agency
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55
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-iv-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
|
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Page
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Section 1003. Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
|
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55
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Section 1004. Statement by Officers as to Default
|
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56
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|
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Section 1005. Existence
|
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56
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Section 1006. Waiver of Certain Covenants
|
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57
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Section 1007. Limitation on Finance Corp.
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57
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ARTICLE XI REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
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57
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Section 1101. Applicability of Article
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57
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Section 1102. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
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57
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Section 1103. Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
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58
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Section 1104. Notice of Redemption
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58
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Section 1105. Deposit of Redemption Price
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59
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Section 1106. Securities Payable on Redemption Date
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59
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Section 1107. Securities Redeemed in Part
|
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59
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ARTICLE XII SINKING FUNDS
|
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60
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Section 1201. Applicability of Article
|
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60
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|
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Section 1202. Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
|
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60
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Section 1203. Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
|
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60
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ARTICLE XIII DEFEASANCE
|
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61
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Section 1301. Applicability of Article
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61
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Section 1302. Legal Defeasance
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61
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Section 1303. Covenant Defeasance
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63
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Section 1304. Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
|
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64
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Section 1305. Repayment to Issuers
|
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65
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Section 1306. Reinstatement
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65
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ARTICLE XIV SUBORDINATION
|
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65
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Section 1401. Agreement to Subordinate
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65
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Section 1402. Liquidation, Dissolution, Bankruptcy
|
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65
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Section 1403. Default on Senior Indebtedness
|
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66
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Section 1404. Acceleration of Payment of Securities
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67
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-v-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
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Page
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Section 1405. When Distributions Must Be Paid Over
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67
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Section 1406. Subrogation
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67
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Section 1407. Relative Rights
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67
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Section 1408. Subordination May Not Be Impaired by Issuers
|
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67
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Section 1409. Rights of Trustee and Paying Agent
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67
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Section 1410. Distribution of Notice to Representative
|
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68
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Section 1411. Article XIV Not to Prevent Events of Default or Limit Rights to
Accelerate
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68
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Section 1412. Trust Moneys Not Subordinated
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68
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Section 1413. Trustee Entitled to Rely
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68
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Section 1414. Trustee to Effectuate Subordination
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69
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Section 1415. Trustee Not Fiduciary for Holders of Senior Indebtedness
|
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69
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Section 1416. Reliance by Holders of Senior Indebtedness
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69
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-vi-
INDENTURE dated as of
, among FERRELLGAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership
(the
Partnership
), FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP., a Delaware corporation (
Finance Corp.
and,
together with the Partnership, the
Issuers
), having their principal office at One Liberty Plaza,
Liberty, Missouri, 64068, and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee
).
RECITALS
The Issuers have duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for
the issuance from time to time of their unsecured, subordinated debentures, notes or other
evidences of indebtedness (the
Securities
), to be issued in one or more series as provided in
this Indenture.
All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Issuers, in accordance
with its terms, have been done.
This Indenture is subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are required to be
a part of this Indenture and, to the extent applicable, shall be governed by such provisions.
NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:
For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders (as
defined below) thereof, it is mutually agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all
Holders of the Securities or of any series thereof, as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
Section 101.
Definitions
For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the
context otherwise requires:
(1) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article and
include the plural as well as the singular;
(2) the following Trust Indenture Act terms used in this Indenture have the following
meanings:
indenture securities
means the Securities;
indenture security Holder
means a Holder of a Security;
indenture to be qualified
means this Indenture;
indenture trustee
or
institutional trustee
means the Trustee; and
obligor
on the Securities means the Issuers and any successor obligor upon
the Securities;
(3) all other terms used herein which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act or by Commission
rule under the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings
assigned to them therein;
(4) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as
otherwise herein expressly provided, the term
generally accepted accounting principles
with
respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles as
are generally accepted in the United States at the date of such computation;
(5) the words
herein
,
hereof
and
hereunder
and other words of similar import refer to
this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision; and
(6) the words
Article
and
Section
refer to an Article and Section, respectively, of this
Indenture.
Act
, when used with respect to any Holder, has the meaning specified in Section 104.
Affiliate
of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling
or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the
purposes of this definition,
control
when used with respect to any specified Person means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct, or cause the direction of, the
management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by
agreement or otherwise;
provided
that beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the voting securities
of a person shall be deemed to be control. For purposes of this definition, the terms
"
controlling,
controlled by
and
under common control with
have meanings correlative to the
foregoing.
Authenticating Agent
means any Person authorized by the Trustee pursuant to Section 614 to
act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of one or more series.
Bankruptcy Law
means Title 11, U.S. Code, or any similar federal or state law for the relief
of debtors.
Blockage Notice
has the meaning specified in Section 1403.
Board of Directors
means:
(1) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the corporation;
(2) with respect to a partnership, the Board of Directors of the general
partner of the partnership; and
-2-
(3) with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such Person
serving a similar function.
Board Resolution
means resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors of each Issuer and
in full force and effect on the date certified and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to Section
201.
Business Day
, when used with respect to any Place of Payment or other location, means,
except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which
banking institutions in that Place of Payment or other location are authorized or obligated by law,
executive order or regulation to close.
Capital Interests
means any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other
equivalents (however designated) of capital stock, including, without limitation, with respect to
partnerships, partnership interests (whether general or limited) and any other interest or
participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of,
or distributions of assets of, such partnership.
Commission
means the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted,
created under the Exchange Act or, if at any time after the execution of this instrument such
Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture
Act, then the body performing such duties at such time.
Corporate Trust Office
means the office of the Trustee at which at any particular time its
corporate trust business shall be principally administered, which at the date hereof is
.
covenant defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1303.
Custodian
means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator or similar official under any
Bankruptcy Law.
Default
means, with respect to a series of Securities, any event which is, or after notice
or lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default with respect to Securities of such
series.
Defaulted Interest
has the meaning specified in Section 307.
defeasance
has the meaning specified in Section 1302.
Definitive Security
means a Security other than a Global Security or a temporary Security.
Depositary
means, with respect to Securities of any series issuable in whole or in part in
the form of one or more Global Securities, a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act that
is designated to act as Depositary for such Securities as contemplated by Section 301, until a
successor Depositary shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
-3-
Indenture, and thereafter shall mean or include each Person which is then a Depositary hereunder,
and if at any time there is more than one such Person, shall be a collective reference to such
Persons.
Dollar
or
$
means the coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of
payment is legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.
Event of Default
has the meaning specified in Section 501.
Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and
any statute successor thereto.
Finance Corp.
means the Person named as Finance Corp. in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Finance Corp.
shall mean such successor Person.
General Partner
means Ferrellgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
Global Security
means a Security in global form that evidences all or part of the Securities
of any series and is registered in the name of the Depositary for such Securities or a nominee
thereof.
Holder
means a Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Security Register.
Indebtedness
means any obligation created or assumed by any Person for the repayment of
money borrowed, any purchase money obligation created or assumed by such Person and any guarantee
of the foregoing, except that, for purposes of Section 801,
Indebtedness
has the meaning
specified in such Section.
Indenture
means this instrument as originally executed or as it may from time to time be
supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the
applicable provisions hereof, including, for all purposes of this instrument, and any such
supplemental indenture, the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act that are deemed to be a part of
and govern this instrument and any such supplemental indenture, respectively. The term
Indenture
also shall include the terms of particular series of Securities established as contemplated by
Section 301.
Interest
, when used with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security which by its terms
bears interest only after Maturity, means interest payable after Maturity.
Interest Payment Date
, when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of
an installment of interest on such Security.
Issuer Request
or
Issuer Order
means a written request or order signed on behalf of the
Issuers by two Officers of the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the
principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer.
Issuers
means the Partnership and Finance Corp.
-4-
Master Limited Partnership
means Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
Maturity
, when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of
such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or herein provided,
whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise.
Notice of Default
means a written notice of the kind specified in Section 501(3).
Officer
means, with respect to any Person, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer,
any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary or any Vice
President of such Person or, if such Person is a partnership, of the general partner of such
Person.
Officers Certificate
means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuers by two Officers of
the Issuers, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer,
the treasurer or the principal accounting officer, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and
103 hereof.
Opinion of Counsel
means an opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the
Trustee, that meets the requirements of Sections 102 and 103 hereof. The counsel may be an
employee of or counsel to the Issuers, any Subsidiary of the Issuers or the Trustee.
Original Issue Discount Security
means any Security which provides for an amount less than
the stated principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the
Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 502.
Outstanding
, when used with respect to Securities, means, as of the date of determination,
all Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:
(i) Securities theretofore canceled by the Trustee or delivered to the Trustee for
cancellation;
(ii) Securities for whose payment or redemption money in the necessary amount has been
theretofore deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than an Issuer) in trust or set
aside and segregated in trust by an Issuer (if such Issuer shall act as Paying Agent for the
Issuers) for the Holders of such Securities;
provided, however
, that, if such
Securities are to be redeemed, notice of such redemption has been duly given pursuant to this
Indenture or provision therefor has been made;
(iii) Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 306 or in exchange for or in lieu of
which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture, other than
any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof
satisfactory to it that such Securities are held by a bona fide purchaser in whose hands such
Securities are valid obligations of the Issuers; and
-5-
(iv) Securities, except to the extent provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, with respect to
which the Issuers have effected defeasance or covenant defeasance as provided in Article XIII;
provided, however
, that in determining whether the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or
waiver hereunder, (A) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security that shall be
deemed to be Outstanding shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable
as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Maturity thereof on such date
pursuant to Section 502, (B) the principal amount of a Security denominated in one or more
currencies or currency units other than U.S. dollars shall be the U.S. dollar equivalent of such
currencies or currency units, determined in the manner provided as contemplated by Section 301 on
the date of original issuance of such Security, of the principal amount (or, in the case of an
Original Issue Discount Security, the U.S. dollar equivalent (as so determined) on the date of
original issuance of such Security, of the amount determined as provided in Clause (A) above) of
such Security, and (C) Securities owned by an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities or
any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be
Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any
such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver, only Securities which
the Trustee knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded. Securities so owned as described in
Clause (C) above which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the
pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgees right so to act with respect
to such Securities and that the pledgee is not an Issuer or any other obligor upon the Securities
or any Affiliate of an Issuer or of such other obligor.
Partnership
means the Person named as the Partnership in the first paragraph of this
instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of
this Indenture, and thereafter
Partnership
shall mean such successor Person.
Paying Agent
means any Person authorized by the Issuers to pay the principal of or any
premium or interest on any Securities on behalf of the Issuers.
Payment Blockage Period
has the meaning specified in Section 1403.
Periodic Offering
means an offering of Securities of a series from time to time, the
specific terms of which Securities, including, without limitation, the rate or rates of interest or
formula for determining the rate or rates of interest thereon, if any, the Stated Maturity or
Stated Maturities thereof, the original issue date or dates thereof, the redemption provisions, if
any, with respect thereto, and any other terms specified as contemplated by Section 301 with
respect thereto, are to be determined by the Issuers upon the issuance of such Securities.
Person
means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability
company, association, joint-stock company, trust, other entity, unincorporated organization or
government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Place of Payment
, when used with respect to the Securities of any series, means, unless
otherwise specifically provided for with respect to such series as contemplated by Section 301,
-6-
the
office or agency of the Issuers in The City of New York and such other place or places where,
subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and any premium and interest on the
Securities of that series are payable as specified as contemplated by Section 301.
Predecessor Security
of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all
or a portion of the same Indebtedness as that evidenced by such particular Security; and, for the
purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered under Section 306 in exchange
for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be deemed to evidence the
same Indebtedness as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security.
Redemption Date
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed
for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.
Redemption Price
, when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at
which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture.
Regular Record Date
for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities
of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 301.
Representative
means any trustee, agent or representative (if any) for an issue of Senior
Indebtedness.
Securities
has the meaning stated in the first recital of this Indenture and more
particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.
Security Register
and
Security Registrar
have the respective meanings specified in Section
305.
Senior Indebtedness
means the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on, (i) all of the
Issuers other indebtedness for money borrowed, other than the Securities, whether outstanding on
the date of execution of this Indenture or thereafter created, assumed or incurred, except such
indebtedness as is by its terms expressly stated to be not superior in right of payment to the
Securities or to rank pari passu with the Securities and (ii) any deferrals, renewals or extensions
of any such Senior Indebtedness; provided, however, that Senior Indebtedness shall
not include (1) any obligation of the Issuers to any of their Subsidiaries, (2) any liability
for Federal, state, local or other taxes owed or owing by the Issuers, (3) any accounts payable or
other liability to trade creditors arising in the ordinary course of business (including guarantees
thereof or instruments evidencing such liabilities), (4) any indebtedness, guarantee or obligation
of the Issuers which is expressly subordinate or junior in right of payment in any respect to any
other indebtedness, guarantee or obligation of the Issuers, including any senior subordinated
Indebtedness and any other subordinated obligations, (5) any obligations with respect to any
Capital Interests, or (6) any Indebtedness incurred in violation of this Indenture. The term
"
indebtedness for money borrowed
as used herein shall include, without limitation, any obligation
of, or any obligation guaranteed by, the Issuers for the repayment of borrowed money, whether or
not evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other written instruments, and any deferred obligation
for the payment of the purchase price of property or assets.
-7-
Special Record Date
for the payment of any Defaulted Interest means a date fixed by the
Trustee pursuant to Section 307.
Stated Maturity
, when used with respect to the principal of any Security or any installment
of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date specified in such Security as the fixed
date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due
and payable.
Subsidiary
means, with respect to any Person, any other Person of which more than 50% of the
total voting power of the Capital Interests of such Person entitled (without regard to the
occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof
or, in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the partners Capital Interests (considering all
partners Capital Interests as a single class), is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or a combination
thereof.
Trust Indenture Act
means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in
effect on the date on which this Indenture is qualified under the Trust Indenture Act, except as
provided in Section 905.
Trustee
means the Person named as the Trustee in the first paragraph of this instrument
until a successor Trustee shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this
Indenture, and thereafter
Trustee
shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee
hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person,
Trustee
as used with respect to
the Securities of any series shall mean each Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.
U.S. Government Obligations
means securities which are (i) direct obligations of the United
States for the payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or (ii) obligations of a
Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States,
the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the
United States, each of which are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof.
Section 102.
Compliance Certificates and Opinions
Upon any application or request by the Issuers to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking
any action under any provision of this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee an
Officers Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in
the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this
Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with, and an Opinion of Counsel in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such
counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been complied with. Each such
certificate shall comply with the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act and any other
requirements set forth in this Indenture.
Every Officers Certificate or Opinion of Counsel (except for certificates provided for in
Section 1004) shall include:
-8-
(1) a statement that each individual signing such certificate or opinion has read such
covenant or condition;
(2) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon
which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;
(3) a statement that, in the opinion of each such individual, he has made such examination or
investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not
such covenant or condition has been complied with; and
(4) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such individual, such condition or
covenant has been complied with.
Section 103.
Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee
In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion
of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by
the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document,
but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more
other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to
such matters in one or several documents.
Any certificate or opinion of an Officer of the Issuers may be based, insofar as it relates to
legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such
Officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion
or representations with respect to the matters upon which his certificate or opinion is based are
erroneous. Any such certificate or opinion of counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to
factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an Officer or Officers of
the Issuers stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession
of the Issuers unless such counsel knows that the certificate or opinion or representations with
respect to such matters are erroneous.
Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests,
consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may,
but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.
Section 104.
Acts of Holders; Record Dates
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided or permitted by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and
evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed (either physically or by
means of a facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is
transmitted through the facilities of a Depositary) by such Holders in person or by an agent duly
appointed in writing; and, except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become
effective when such instrument or instruments are delivered (either physically or by means of a
facsimile or an electronic transmission,
provided
that such electronic transmission is transmitted
through the facilities of a Depositary) to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly
-9-
required,
to the Issuers. Such instrument or instruments (and the action embodied therein and evidenced
thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the
Act
of the Holders signing such instrument or
instruments. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent
shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 315 of the Trust
Indenture Act) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Issuers, if made in the manner provided
in this Section.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a Holder, including a Depositary that is a
Holder of a Global Security, may make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies, duly appointed in
writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action
provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders, and a Depositary that is a Holder
of a Global Security may provide its proxy or proxies to the beneficial owners of interests in any
such Global Security.
The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be
proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of a notary public or
other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual
signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution
is by a signer acting in a capacity other than his individual capacity, such certificate or
affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his authority. The fact and date of the
execution of any such instrument or writing or the authority of the Person executing the same, may
also be proved in any other manner which the Trustee deems sufficient.
The ownership, principal amount and serial numbers of Securities held by any Person, and the
date of commencement of such Persons holding the same, shall be proved by the Security Register.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action of the
Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every
Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu
thereof in respect of anything done, omitted or suffered to be done by the Trustee or the Issuers
in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.
Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled hereunder to give or take any action
hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the
principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents each of which may do so
pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any different part of such principal amount.
The Issuers may set any day as the record date for the purpose of determining the Holders of
Outstanding Securities of any series entitled to give or take any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided or permitted by this Indenture to be
given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series, but the Issuers shall have no obligation to
do so. With regard to any record date set pursuant to this paragraph, the Holders of Outstanding
Securities of the relevant series on such record date (or their duly appointed agents), and only
such Persons, shall be entitled to give or take the relevant action, whether or not such Holders
remain Holders after such record date.
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Section 105.
Notices, Etc., to Trustee and Issuers
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act of Holders or
other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or
filed with,
(1) the Trustee by any Holder or by the Issuers shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder if made in writing and actually received by the Trustee at its office at
, or at any other address previously furnished in writing by the
Trustee, or
(2) the Issuers by the Trustee or by any Holder shall be sufficient for every purpose
hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class
postage prepaid, to the Partnership addressed to it at One Liberty Plaza, Liberty, Missouri 64068,
to the attention of the Chief Financial Officer, or at any other address previously furnished in
writing to the Trustee by the Issuers.
Section 106.
Notice to Holders; Waiver
Where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be
sufficiently given (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed,
first-class postage prepaid (if international mail, by air mail), to each Holder affected by such
event, at his address as it appears in the Security Register, not later than the latest date (if
any), and not earlier than the earliest date (if any), prescribed for the giving of such notice.
In any case where
notice to Holders is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor any defect in
any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder shall affect the sufficiency of such notice with
respect to other Holders. Any notice mailed to a Holder in the manner herein prescribed shall be
conclusively deemed to have been received by such Holder, whether or not such Holder actually
receives such notice.
Where this Indenture provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing
by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver
shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the
Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in
reliance upon such waiver.
In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service or by reason of any other cause it
shall be impracticable to give such notice by mail, then such notification as shall be made with
the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient notification for every purpose hereunder.
Section 107.
Conflict with Trust Indenture Act
If any provision hereof limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of the Trust Indenture
Act that is required under such Act to be a part of and govern this Indenture, the latter provision
shall control. If any provision of this Indenture modifies or excludes any provision of the Trust
Indenture Act that may be so modified or excluded, the latter provision shall be deemed to apply to
this Indenture as so modified or excluded, as the case may be.
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Section 108.
Effect of Headings and Table of Contents
The Article and Section headings herein and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and
shall not affect the construction hereof.
Section 109.
Successors and Assigns
All covenants and agreements in this Indenture by the Issuers shall bind their successors and
assigns, whether so expressed or not.
Section 110.
Separability Clause
In case any provision in this Indenture or in the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in
any way be affected or impaired thereby.
Section 111.
Benefits of Indenture
Nothing in this Indenture or in the Securities, express or implied, shall give to any Person,
other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder, holders of Senior Indebtedness and
Holders, any benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.
Section 112.
Governing Law
This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the
law of the State of New York.
Section 113.
Legal Holidays
In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity of any
Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other
provision of this Indenture or of the Securities (other than a provision of the Securities of any
series which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section)) payment
of interest or principal (and premium, if any) need not be made at such Place of Payment on such
date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment with the same
force and effect as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated
Maturity,
provided
that no interest shall accrue for the period from and after such Interest
Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity, as the case may be.
Section 114.
Language of Notices, Etc.
Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or Act required or
permitted under this Indenture shall be in the English language, except that any published notice
may be in an official language of the country of publication.
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Section 115.
Interest Limitation
It is the intention of the Issuers to conform strictly to all applicable usury laws and any
subsequent revisions, repeals or judicial interpretations thereof. Accordingly, if the
transactions contemplated hereby would be usurious under any applicable law then, in that event,
notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Securities or this Indenture, it is agreed as
follows: (i) the aggregate of all consideration which constitutes interest under applicable law
with respect to a Security shall under no circumstances exceed the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall have been paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to
the extent permitted by applicable law; and (ii) in the event that the maturity of any Security is
accelerated or in the event of any redemption of such Security, then such consideration that
constitutes interest under applicable law may never include more than the maximum amount allowed by
applicable law, and any excess shall be credited to the principal amount of such Security (or, if
the principal amount of such Security shall be paid in full, refunded to the Issuers), to the
extent permitted by applicable law. All calculations made to compute the rate of interest with
respect to a Security for the purpose of determining whether such rate exceeds the maximum amount
allowed by applicable law shall be made, to the extent permitted by such applicable law, by
allocating and spreading during the period of the full stated term of such Security all interest
any time contracted for, taken, reserved, charged or received by such Holder or by the Trustee on
behalf of any such Holder in connection therewith so that the amount or rate of interest charged
for any and all periods of time during the term of the Security does not exceed
the maximum amount or rate of interest allowed to be charged by law during the relevant period
of time. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, if at any time applicable laws shall be changed so
as to permit a higher rate or amount of interest to be charged than that permitted prior to such
change, then unless prohibited by law, references in this Indenture or any Security to applicable
law when used in the context of determining the maximum interest or rate of interest that can be
charged shall be deemed to refer to such applicable law as so amended to allow the greater amount
or rate of interest.
The right to accelerate maturity of any Security does not include the right to accelerate any
interest which has not otherwise accrued to the date of such acceleration, provided, however, that
the foregoing shall not prohibit the continuing accrual after acceleration of interest in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and such Security.
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Section 116.
Non-Recourse; No Personal Liability of Officers, Directors, Employees, Limited
Partners or Shareholders
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Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General
Partner), and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General
Partner. The Trustee agrees, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance thereof will be
deemed to have agreed, in this Indenture that the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates
(other than the Issuers and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of
the Issuers under this Indenture or such Securities.
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No limited partner of the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or
stockholder of the General Partner or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any
obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture or the Securities or any claim based on, in respect
of or by reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, by its acceptance thereof, waives
and releases all such liability. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the
federal securities laws and it is the view of the Commission that such waiver is against public
policy.
The agreements set forth in this Section are part of the consideration for the issuance of the
Securities.
ARTICLE II
SECURITY FORMS
Section 201.
Forms Generally
The Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form set forth in this Article, or
in such other form as shall be established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or in one or more
indentures supplemental hereto, in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions,
substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture, and may
have such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed
thereon as may be required to comply with applicable laws or the rules of any securities exchange
or automated quotation system on which the Securities of such series may be listed or traded or of
any Depositary therefor or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the Officers executing
such Securities, as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the form of Securities of
any series is established by action taken pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate
record of such action shall be certified by an authorized Officer or other authorized Person on
behalf of each Issuer and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Issuer Order
contemplated by Section 303 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities. Any form of
Security approved by or pursuant to a Board Resolution must be acceptable as to form by the
Trustee, such acceptance to be evidenced by the Trustees authentication of Securities in that
form.
The Definitive Securities shall be printed, lithographed or engraved on steel engraved borders
or may be produced in any other manner, all as determined by the Officers executing such
Securities, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
Section 202.
Form of Face of Security
.
[Insert any legend required by the United States Internal Revenue Code and the regulations
thereunder.]
[
If a Global Security,insert legend required by Section 204 of the Indenture] [If applicable,
insert
UNLESS THIS SECURITY IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST
COMPANY, A NEW YORK
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CORPORATION, TO THE ISSUERS OR THEIR AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER,
EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY SECURITY ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER
NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY (AND ANY
PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE
OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL IN AS MUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO.,
HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
[TITLE OF SECURITY]
[CUSIP No. ]
FERRELLGAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (herein called the Partnership, which term
includes any successor person under the Indenture hereinafter referred to), and FERRELLGAS FINANCE
CORP., a Delaware corporation (herein called Finance Corp., which term includes any successor
Person under the Indenture, and, together with the Partnership, herein called the Issuers), for
value received, hereby promises to pay to , or registered assigns, the
principal sum of United States Dollars [state other currency] on
[if the Security is to bear interest prior to Maturity, insert, and to pay
interest thereon from , or from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which
interest has been paid or duly provided for, semi-annually on and
in each year, commencing , at the rate of % per annum,
until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment [if applicable, insert, and at
the rate of % per annum on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue installment
of interest]. [If applicable, insert The amount of interest payable for any period shall be
computed on the basis of twelve 30-day months and a 360-day year. The amount of interest payable
for any partial period shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and
the days elapsed in any partial month. In the event that any date on which interest is payable on
this Security is not a Business Day, then a payment of the interest payable on such date will be
made on the next succeeding day which is a Business Day (and without any interest or other payment
in respect of any such delay) with the same force and effect as if made on the date the payment was
originally payable. A Business Day shall mean, when used with respect to any Place of Payment,
each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which banking
institutions in that Place of Payment are authorized or obligated by law, executive order or
regulation to close.] The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any
Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this
Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the
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close of business on the
Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the or
(whether or not a Business Day), as the case may be, next preceding such
Interest Payment Date. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to
the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the
close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be fixed
by the Trustee, notice of which shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not less
than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner
not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or automated quotation system on
which the Securities of this series may be listed or traded, and upon such notice as may be
required by such exchange or automated quotation system, all as more fully provided in the
Indenture].
[If the Security is not to bear interest prior to Maturity, insertThe principal of this
Security shall not bear interest except in the case of a default in payment of principal upon
acceleration, upon redemption or at Stated Maturity and in such case the overdue principal of this
Security shall bear interest at the rate of % per annum, which shall accrue from the date
of such default in payment to the date payment of such principal has been made or duly provided
for. Interest on any overdue principal shall be payable on demand. Any such interest on any
overdue principal that is not so paid on demand shall bear interest at the rate of % per
annum, which shall accrue from the date of such demand for payment to the date payment of such
interest has been made or duly provided for, and such interest shall also be payable on demand.]
[If a Global Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made by transfer of immediately
available funds to a bank account in designated by the Holder in such
coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for
payment of public and private debts [state other currency].]
[If a Definitive Security, insertPayment of the principal of [(and premium, if any)] and [if
applicable, insertany such] interest on this Security will be made at the office or agency of the
Issuers maintained for that purpose in , [in such coin or
currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of
public and private debts] [state other currency] [or subject to any laws or regulations applicable
thereto and to the right of the Issuers (as provided in the Indenture) to rescind the designation
of any such Paying Agent, at the [main] offices of in and
in , or at such other offices or agencies as the Issuers may
designate, by [United States Dollar] [state other currency] check drawn on, or transfer to a
[United States Dollar] account maintained by the payee with, a bank in The City of New York
[ ] (so long as the applicable Paying Agent has received proper transfer
instructions in writing at least [ ] days prior to the payment date)] [if applicable,
insert;
provided, however
, that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Issuers by
[United States Dollar] [state other currency] check mailed to the addresses of the Persons entitled
thereto as such addresses shall appear in the Security Register] [or by transfer to a [United
States Dollar] [state other currency] account maintained by the payee with a bank in The City of
New York [state other Place of Payment] (so long as the applicable
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Paying Agent has received proper
transfer instructions in writing by the Record Date prior to the applicable Interest Payment
Date)].]
Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse
hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at
this place.
Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to
on the reverse hereof by manual signature, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under
the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuers have caused this instrument to be duly executed.
Dated:
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FERRELLGAS, L.P.,
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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Section 203.
Form of Reverse of Security
This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Issuers (the
Securities), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture dated as of
(the Indenture), among the Issuers and
, as Trustee (the
Trustee, which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and
all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective
rights, limitations of rights, obligations, duties and immunities thereunder of the Issuers, the
Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are
to be, authenticated and delivered. As provided in the Indenture, the Securities may be issued in
one or more series, which different series may be issued in various aggregate principal amounts,
may mature at different times, may bear interest, if any, at different rates, may be subject to
different redemption provisions, if any, may be subject to different sinking, purchase or analogous
funds, if any, may be subject to different covenants and Events of Default and may otherwise vary
as in the Indenture provided or permitted. This Security is one of the
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series designated on the
face hereof [if applicable, insert, limited in aggregate principal amount to U.S.$ ].
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, [if applicable, insert(1) on in any year
commencing with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking
fund for this series at a Redemption Price equal to 100% of the principal amount, and (2)] at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after , ], as a whole or in part, at the
election of the Issuers, at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the
principal amount): If redeemed [if applicable, inserton or before , %, and
if redeemed] during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Year
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Redemption Price
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Year
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Redemption Price
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in the
case of any such redemption [if applicable, insert(whether through operation of the sinking fund
or otherwise)] with accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated
Maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities,
or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record
Dates referred to on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are subject to redemption upon not less
than 10 nor more than 60 days notice by mail, (1) on in any year commencing
with the year and ending with the year through operation of the sinking fund for
this series at the Redemption Prices for redemption through operation of the sinking fund
(expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below, and (2) at any
time [if applicable, inserton or after ], as a whole or in part, at the election
of the Issuers, at the Redemption Prices for redemption otherwise than through operation of the
sinking fund (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth in the table below: If
redeemed during the 12-month period beginning of the years indicated,
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Price for
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Redemption Otherwise
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Redemption Through Operation
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Than Through Operation
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of the Sinking Fund
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of the Sinking Fund
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and thereafter at a Redemption Price equal to % of the principal amount, together in
the case of any such redemption (whether through operation of the sinking fund or otherwise) with
accrued interest to the Redemption Date, but interest installments whose Stated Maturity is on or
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prior to such Redemption Date will be payable to the Holders of such Securities, or one or more
Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Record Dates referred to
on the face hereof, all as provided in the Indenture.]
[If applicable, insertThe sinking fund for this series provides for the redemption on
in each year beginning with the year and ending with the year of
[if applicable,not less than $ (mandatory sinking fund) and not more than]
$ aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series. Securities of this series
acquired or redeemed by the Issuers otherwise than through [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund
payments may be credited against subsequent [if applicable,mandatory] sinking fund
payments otherwise required to be made [if applicable,in the inverse order in which they
become due].]
[If the Security is subject to redemption in part of any kind, insertIn the event of
redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like
tenor for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of the Holder hereof upon the
cancellation hereof.]
[If applicable, insertThe Securities of this series are not redeemable prior to Stated
Maturity.]
[If the Security is not an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default
with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture.]
[If the Security is an Original Issue Discount Security, insertIf an Event of Default with
respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, an amount of principal of the
Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect
provided in the Indenture. Such amount shall be equal toinsert formula for determining the
amount. Upon payment (1) of the amount of principal so declared due and payable, and (2) of
interest on any overdue principal and overdue interest, all of the Issuers obligations in respect
of the payment of the principal of and interest, if any, on the Securities of this series shall
terminate.]
The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and
the modification of the rights and obligations of the Issuer and the rights of the Holders of the
Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Issuers and the
Trustee with the consent of not less than the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of all series to be affected (voting as one class). The Indenture
also contains provisions permitting the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of all affected series (voting as one class), on behalf of the Holders of
all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Issuers with certain provisions of the
Indenture. The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the Holders of a
majority in principal amount of Securities of any series then Outstanding to waive past defaults
under the Indenture with respect to such series and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver
by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive
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and binding upon such Holder and upon all future
Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in
exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon
this Security.
As provided in and subject to the provisions of the Indenture, the Holder of this Security
shall not have the right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for the
appointment of a receiver or trustee or for any other remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall
have previously given the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to
the Securities of this series, the Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the
Securities of this series at the time Outstanding shall have made written request to the Trustee to
institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default as Trustee and offered the Trustee
reasonable indemnity and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in
principal amount of Securities of this series at the time Outstanding a direction inconsistent with
such request, and shall have failed to institute any such proceeding, for 60 days after receipt of
such notice, request and offer of indemnity. The foregoing shall not apply to any suit instituted
by the Holder of this Security for the enforcement of any payment of principal hereof or [any
premium or] interest hereon on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.
No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture
shall, without the consent of the Holder, alter or impair the obligation of the Issuers, which is
absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and [any premium and] interest on this Security
at the times, place(s) and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, except for Section
115 of the Indenture (which limits interest to the maximum amount permissible by law), the
provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[If a Global Security, insertThis Global Security or portion hereof may not be exchanged for
Definitive Securities of this series except in the limited circumstances provided in the Indenture.
The holders of beneficial interests in this Global Security will not be entitled to receive
physical delivery of Definitive Securities except as described in the Indenture and will not be
considered the Holders thereof for any purpose under the Indenture.]
[If a Definitive Security, insertAs provided in the Indenture and subject to certain
limitations therein set forth, the transfer of this Security is registerable in the Security
Register, upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of
the Issuers in [if applicable, insert any place where the principal of and any premium and
interest on this Security are payable] [if applicable, insert The City of New York [, or, subject
to any laws or regulations applicable thereto and to the right of the Issuers (limited as provided
in the Indenture) to rescind the designation of any such transfer agent, at the [main] offices of
in and in or at such
other offices or agencies as the Issuers may designate]], duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a
written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or
more new Securities of this series and of like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same
aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.]
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The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without coupons in
denominations of U.S.$ [state other currency] and any integral multiple thereof. As provided in
the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this series are
exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series and of like tenor
of a different authorized denomination, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.
No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the
Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge
payable in connection therewith.
Prior to due presentment of this Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this
Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is
overdue, and neither the Issuers, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
This Security is subordinated in right of payment to Senior Indebtedness to the extent
provided in the Indenture.
Obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the Securities hereunder are non-recourse
to the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates (other than the Issuers and the General
Partner), and are payable only out of the cash flow and assets of the Issuers and the General
Partner. The Trustee has agreed, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance hereof will be
deemed to have agreed, in the Indenture that the Master Limited Partnership and its Affiliates
(other than the Issuers and the General Partner) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of
the Issuers under the Indenture or such Securities, including this Security. No limited partner of
the Partnership or director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of the General Partner
or Finance Corp., as such, will have any liability for any obligations of the Issuers under the
Indenture or such Securities, including this Security or any claim based on, in respect of or by
reason of, such obligations. Each Holder of a Security, including this Security, by its acceptance
thereof, waives and releases all such liability.
The Indenture contains provisions that relieve the Issuers from the obligation to comply with
certain restrictive covenants in the Indenture and for satisfaction and discharge at any time of
the entire indebtedness upon compliance by the Issuers with certain conditions set forth in the
Indenture.
This Security shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of
New York.
All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings
assigned to them in the Indenture.
[If a Definitive Security, insert as a separate page
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto
(Please Print or Typewrite Name and Address of Assignee) the
within instrument of FERRELLGAS, L.P. and FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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and does hereby irrevocably
constitute and appoint
Attorney to transfer said instrument on the books
of the within-named Issuers, with full power of substitution in the premises.
Please Insert Social Security or
Other Identifying Number of Assignee:
(Participant in a Recognized Signature
Guaranty Medallion Program)
NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the
face of the within instrument in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change
whatever.]
Section 204.
Global Securities
Every Global Security authenticated and delivered hereunder shall bear a legend in
substantially the following form:
THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE HEREINAFTER
REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF A DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF.
THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED TO, OR REGISTERED OR EXCHANGED FOR SECURITIES
REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF, ANY PERSON OTHER THAN THE DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE THEREOF
AND NO SUCH TRANSFER MAY BE REGISTERED, EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES
DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE. EVERY SECURITY AUTHENTICATED AND DELIVERED UPON
REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR OR IN LIEU OF, THIS SECURITY SHALL
BE A GLOBAL SECURITY SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING, EXCEPT IN SUCH LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES.
If Securities of a series are issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global
Securities, as contemplated by Section 301, then, notwithstanding Clause (9) of Section 301 and the
provisions of Section 302, any Global Security shall represent such of the Outstanding Securities
of such series as shall be specified therein and may provide that it shall represent the aggregate
amount of Outstanding Securities from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate amount
of Outstanding Securities represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as the
case may be, to reflect exchanges. Any endorsement of a Global Security to reflect the amount, or
any reduction or increase in the amount, of Outstanding Securities represented thereby shall be
made in such manner and upon instructions given by such Person or Persons as shall be specified
therein or in an Issuer Order. Subject to the provisions of Sections 303, 304 and 305, the Trustee
shall deliver and redeliver any Global Security in the manner and upon instructions given by the
Person or Persons specified therein or in the
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applicable Issuer Order. Any instructions by the
Issuers with respect to endorsement or delivery
or redelivery of a Global Security shall be in an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel).
The provisions of the last sentence of Section 303 shall apply to any Security represented by
a Global Security if such Security was never issued and sold by the Issuers and the Issuers deliver
to the Trustee the Global Security together with an Issuer Order (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) with regard to the reduction or
increase, as the case may be, in the principal amount of Securities represented thereby, together
with the written statement contemplated by the last sentence of Section 303.
Section 205.
Form of Trustees Certificate and Authorization
The Trustees certificates of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Trustee
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By:
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Authorized Signatory
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ARTICLE III
THE SECURITIES
Section 301.
Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under
this Indenture is unlimited.
The Securities may be issued in one or more series. There shall be established in or pursuant
to a Board Resolution (and, subject to Section 303, to the extent established pursuant to rather
than set forth in a Board Resolution, in an Officers Certificate or Issuer Order setting forth, or
determining the manner of, such establishment) or established in one or more indentures
supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of Securities of any series,
(1) the form and title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities
of the series from Securities of any other series);
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(2) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series which may be
authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered
upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of the series
pursuant to Section 304, 305, 306, 906 or 1107 and except for any Securities which, pursuant to
Section 303, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder);
(3) the Person to whom any interest on a Security of the series shall be payable, if other
than the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered
at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest;
(4) the date or dates on which the Securities will be issued and on which the principal of,
and premium, if any, on the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination
thereof;
(5) the rate or rates (which may be fixed or variable) at which the Securities of the series
shall bear interest, if any, or the method of determination thereof, the date or dates from which
such interest shall accrue, or the method of determination thereof, the Interest Payment Dates on
which any such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date for any interest payable on
any Interest Payment Date;
(6) the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 1002, the principal of and
any premium and interest on Securities of the series shall be payable, Securities of the series may
be surrendered for registration of transfer, Securities of the series may be surrendered for
exchange and notices, and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of the series
and this Indenture may be served;
(7) the period or periods, if any, within which, the price or prices at which and the terms
and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the
option of the Issuers or otherwise, if the Issuers are to have that option;
(8) the obligation, if any, and the option, if any, of the Issuers to redeem, purchase or
repay, or make an offer to the same, Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or
analogous provisions or upon the happening of a specified event, including any change of control
event, or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or
prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series shall be redeemed,
purchased or repaid, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation;
(9) if other than denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof, the denominations
in which Securities of the series shall be issuable;
(10) whether payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the
Securities of the series shall be without deduction for taxes, assessments or governmental charges
paid by Holders of the series;
(11) the currency, currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any
premium and interest on any Securities of the series shall be denominated, payable, redeemable or
purchasable if other than the currency of the United States of America
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and the manner of determining the equivalent thereof in the currency of the United States of America for purposes of
the definition of Outstanding in Section 101;
(12) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, the manner in which such amounts shall be
determined;
(13) if the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of the series is to be
payable, at the election of the Issuers or a Holder thereof, in one or more currencies or currency
units other than that or those in which the Securities are stated to be payable, the currency,
currencies or currency units in which payment of the principal of and any premium and interest on
Securities of such series as to which such election is made shall be payable, and the periods
within which and the terms and conditions upon which such election is to be made;
(14) the right, if any, of the Issuers to defer payments of interest by extending the interest
payment periods and specify the duration of such extension, the Interest Payment Dates on which
such interest shall be payable and whether and under what circumstances additional interest on
amounts deferred shall be payable;
(15) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of
Securities of the series which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity
thereof pursuant to Section 502 or provable in bankruptcy pursuant to Section 504 or the method of
determination thereof;
(16) if and as applicable, that the Securities of the series shall be issuable in whole or in
part in the form of one or more Global Securities (and whether in temporary or permanent global
form) and, in such case, the Depositary or Depositaries for such Global Security or Global
Securities and any circumstances other than those set forth in Section 305 in which any such Global
Security may be transferred to, and registered and exchanged for Securities registered in the name
of, a Person other than the Depositary for such Global Security or a nominee thereof and in which
any such transfer may be registered;
(17) any deletions from, modifications of or additions to the Events of Default set forth in
Section 501 or the covenants of the Issuers set forth in Article X pertaining to the Securities of
the series;
(18) if the amount of payments of principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities of
the series may be determined with reference to an index, including, but not limited to an index
based on a currency or currencies other than that in which the Securities of that series are
payable, or any other type of index, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;
(19) if other than as provided in Sections 1302 and 1303, the terms and conditions upon which
and the manner in which such series of Securities may be defeased or discharged;
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(20) if other than the Trustee, the identity of any other trustee, the Security Registrar and
any Paying Agent;
(21) whether the Securities will be guaranteed by any Person;
(22) any restrictions or other provisions with respect to the transfer or exchange of the
Securities; and
(23) any other terms of the Securities of the series (which terms shall not be inconsistent
with the provisions of this Indenture, except as permitted by Section 901(4)).
All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination
and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to the Board Resolution or Officers
Certificate referred to above or in any such indenture supplemental hereto.
Any such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate referred to above with respect to
Securities of any series filed with the Trustee on or before the initial issuance of the Securities
of such series shall be incorporated herein by reference with respect to Securities of such series
and shall thereafter be deemed to be a part of the Indenture for all purposes relating to
Securities of such series as fully as if such Board Resolution or Officers Certificate were set
forth herein in full.
All Securities of any one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless otherwise
provided, a series may be reopened, without the consent of the Holders, for increases in the
aggregate principal amount of such series of Securities and issuances of additional Securities of
such series or for the establishment of additional terms with respect to the Securities of such
series.
If any of the terms of the series are established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy
of such Board Resolution shall be certified by an authorized officer or other authorized person of
the Issuers and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officers Certificate
setting forth, or providing the manner for determining, the terms of the series.
With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, such Board Resolution
or Officers Certificate may provide general terms for Securities of such series and provide either
that the specific terms of particular Securities of such series shall be specified in an Issuer
Order, or that such terms shall be determined by the Issuers, or one or more of the Issuers agents
designated in an Officers Certificate, in accordance with an Issuer Order.
Section 302.
Denominations
The Securities of each series shall be issuable only in registered form without coupons in
such denominations as shall be specified as contemplated by Section 301. In the absence of any
such specified denomination with respect to the Securities of any series, the Securities of such
series shall be issuable in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.
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Section 303.
Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
The Securities shall be executed on behalf of each Issuer by an Officer thereof who is the
Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President
or any Vice President and need not be attested. The signature of any of these Officers on the
Securities may be manual or facsimile.
Securities bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at any time the
proper Officers of the Issuers shall bind the Issuers, notwithstanding that such individuals or any
of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such
Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.
At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the
Issuers may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Issuers to the Trustee for
authentication, together with an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of such
Securities, and the Trustee in accordance with the Issuer Order shall authenticate and deliver such
Securities;
provided, however
, that in the case of Securities offered in a Periodic Offering, the
Trustee shall authenticate and deliver such Securities from time to time in accordance with such
other procedures (including, without limitation, the receipt by the Trustee of oral or electronic
instructions from the Issuers or its duly authorized agents, thereafter promptly confirmed in
writing) acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified by or pursuant to an Issuer Order delivered
to the Trustee prior to the time of the first authentication of Securities of such series. If the
form or terms of the Securities of the series have been established in or pursuant to one or more
Board Resolutions as permitted by Sections 201 and 301, in authenticating such Securities, and
accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, in addition to any Officers Certificate and Opinion of
Counsel required to be furnished to the Trustee pursuant to Section 102, and (subject to Section
601) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating,
(1) The form and terms (or the manner of determining the terms) of such Securities have been
established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as permitted by Section 201, that such form or
forms have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;
(2) if the terms of such Securities have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution as
permitted by Section 301, that such terms have been, or in the case of Securities of a series
offered in a Periodic Offering will be, established in conformity with the provisions of this
Indenture, subject, in the case of Securities of a series offered in a Periodic Offering, to
any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel (which conditions are reasonably acceptable to
the Trustee); and
(3) that such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the
Issuers in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, which
conditions are reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, will constitute valid and legally binding
obligations of the Issuers enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to bankruptcy,
insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of
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general applicability relating to or affecting creditors rights and to general equity principles and
entitled to the benefits of this Indenture, equally and ratably with all other Securities, if any,
of such series Outstanding; and
(4) such other matters as the Trustee may reasonably request;
and, if the authentication and delivery relates to a new series of Securities created by an
indenture supplemental hereto, also stating that all conditions precedent to the execution of the
supplemental indenture with respect to that series of Securities have been complied with, the
Issuers have the power to execute and deliver any such supplemental indenture and have taken all
necessary action for those purposes and any such supplemental indenture has been executed and
delivered and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers enforceable in
accordance with its terms (subject, as to enforcement of remedies, to applicable bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium or other laws and legal principles
affecting creditors rights generally from time to time in effect and to general equitable
principles, whether applied in an action at law or in equity).
If such form or forms or terms have been so established, the Trustee shall not be required to
authenticate such Securities if the issue of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will affect
the Trustees own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise
in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 301 and of the preceding paragraph, if all
Securities of a series are not to be originally issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to
deliver the Officers Certificate otherwise required pursuant to Section 301 or the Issuers Order
and Opinion of Counsel or Board Resolution or supplemental indenture otherwise required pursuant to
such preceding paragraph at or prior to the time of authentication of each Security of such series
if such documents are delivered at or prior to the authentication upon original issuance of the
first Security of such series to be issued.
With respect to Securities of a series not to be originally issued at one time, the Trustee
may rely upon the Opinion of Counsel and the other documents delivered pursuant to Sections 201 and
301 and this Section, as applicable, in connection with the first authentication of Securities of
such series and any subsequent request by the Issuers to the Trustee to authenticate Securities of
such series upon original issuance shall constitute a representation and
warranty by the Issuers that as of the date of such request, the statements made in the
Officers Certificate shall be true and correct as if made on such date.
Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.
No Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory
for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially
in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee by manual signature of an authorized
signatory, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only
evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and is entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security shall have been
authenticated and delivered hereunder but never issued and sold by the Issuers, and the Issuers
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shall deliver such Security to the Trustee for cancellation as provided in Section 309, for all
purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and
delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture.
Section 304.
Temporary Securities
Pending the preparation of Definitive Securities of any series, the Issuers may execute, and
upon receipt of the documents required by Section 303, together with an Issuer Order, the Trustee
shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten,
mimeographed or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of
the Definitive Securities of like series in lieu of which they are issued and with such appropriate
insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities
may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities.
If temporary Securities of any series are issued, the Issuers will cause Definitive Securities
of that series to be prepared without unreasonable delay. After the preparation of Definitive
Securities of such series, the temporary Securities of such series shall be exchangeable for
Definitive Securities of such series upon surrender of the temporary Securities of such series at
the office or agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for the purpose of
exchanges of Securities of such series, without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for
cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities of any series the Issuers shall execute and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor one or more Definitive Securities
of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like aggregate principal amount and
tenor. Until so exchanged the temporary Securities of any series shall in all respects be entitled
to the same benefits under this Indenture as Definitive Securities of such series and tenor.
Section 305.
Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange
The Issuers shall cause to be kept at an office or agency of the Security Registrar in The
City of New York a register (the register maintained in such office or in any other office or
agency of the Issuers in a Place of Payment being herein sometimes referred to as the
Security
Register
) in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the Issuers shall
provide for the registration of Securities and of transfers of Securities. The Issuers shall,
prior to
the issuance of any Securities hereunder, appoint the Trustee as the initial
Security
Registrar
for the purpose of registering Securities and transfers of Securities as herein provided
and its Corporate Trust Office which, at the date hereof, is located at
, as
the initial office or agency in The City of New York where the Security Register will be
maintained. The Issuers may at any time replace such Security Registrar, change such office or
agency or act as its own Security Registrar. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the
Trustee of any change of the Security Registrar or of the location of such office or agency. At
all reasonable times the Security Register shall be available for inspection by the Trustee.
Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of any series at the office or
agency of the Issuers maintained pursuant to Section 1002 for such purpose, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee
or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and
of a like aggregate principal amount and tenor.
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At the option of the Holder, Securities of any series (except a Global Security) may be
exchanged for other Securities of the same series, of any authorized denominations and of a like
aggregate principal amount and tenor, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at such
office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Issuers shall
execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the
exchange is entitled to receive.
All Securities issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be the
valid obligations of the Issuers, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under
this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.
Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall (if
so required by the Issuers or the Trustee) be duly endorsed, or be accompanied by a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Security Registrar duly
executed, by the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing.
No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities,
but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental
charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of
Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Section 304 or 1107 not involving any transfer.
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuers shall be required (1) to issue, register the transfer of
or exchange Securities of any series (or of any series and specified tenor, as the case may be)
during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of mailing of a notice
of redemption of Securities of that series selected for redemption under Section 1103 and ending at
the close of business on the day of such mailing, or (2) to register the transfer of or exchange
any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any
Security being redeemed in part.
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture and except as otherwise specified as
contemplated by Section 301, no Global Security may be transferred to, or registered or exchanged
for Securities registered in the name of, any Person other than the Depositary for such Global
Security or any nominee thereof, and no such transfer may be registered, except as provided in this
paragraph. Every Security authenticated and delivered upon registration or transfer of, or in
exchange for or in lieu of, a Global Security shall be a Global Security, except as provided in
this paragraph. If (1) (A) the Depositary for a Global Security notifies the Issuers that it is
unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for such Global Security or ceases to be a clearing
agency registered under the Exchange Act, and (B) a successor Depositary is not appointed by the
Issuers within 120 days, (2) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to the
Securities of such series and the Security Registrar has received a request from the Depositary to
issue certificated securities in lieu of all or a portion of the Global Securities of such series
(in which case the Issuers shall deliver certificated securities within 30 days of such request) or
(3) the Issuers determines in its sole discretion that Securities of a series issued in global form
shall no longer be represented by a Global Security, then such Global Security may be exchanged by
such Depositary for Definitive Securities of the same series, of any authorized denomination and of
a like aggregate principal amount and tenor, registered in
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the names of, and the transfer of such
Global Security or portion thereof may be registered to, such Persons as such Depositary shall
direct.
Section 306.
Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities
If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, together with such security or
indemnity as may be required by the Issuers or the Trustee to save each of them and any agent of
either of them harmless, the Issuers shall execute and upon its request the Trustee shall
authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a new Security of the same series and of like tenor
and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding.
If there shall be delivered to the Issuers and the Trustee (1) evidence to their satisfaction
of the destruction, loss or theft of any Security and (2) such security or indemnity as may be
required by them to save each of them and any agent of either of them harmless, then, in the
absence of notice to the Issuers or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a bona fide
purchaser, the Issuers shall execute and upon their request the Trustee shall authenticate and
deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series
and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously Outstanding. If,
after the delivery of such new Security, a bona fide purchaser of the original Security in lieu of
which such new Security was issued presents for payment or registration such original Security, the
Trustee shall be entitled to recover such new Security from the party to whom it was delivered or
any party taking therefrom, except a bona fide purchaser, and shall be entitled to recover upon the
security or indemnity provided therefor to the extent of any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred
by the Issuers and the Trustee in connection therewith.
In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to
become due and payable, the Issuers in their discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay
such Security.
Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Issuers may require the payment
of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation
thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected
therewith. Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this Section in exchange for any
mutilated Security or in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an
original additional contractual obligation of the Issuers, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed,
lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and shall be entitled to all
the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of
that series duly issued hereunder.
The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all
other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen Securities.
Section 307.
Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for,
on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one
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or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record
Date for such interest.
Any interest on any Security of any series which is payable, but is not punctually paid or
duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date (herein called
Defaulted Interest
) shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the relevant Regular Record Date by virtue of having
been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Issuers, at its election in each
case, as provided in Clause (1) or (2) below:
(1) The Issuers may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose
names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at
the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which
shall be fixed in the following manner. The Issuers shall notify the Trustee in writing of the
amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of
the proposed payment, and at the same time the Issuers shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of
money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or
shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the
proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons
entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this Clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a
Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days
and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment and not less than 10 days after
the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly
notify the Issuers of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Issuers,
shall cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor to be mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder of Securities of such series at
his address as it appears in the Security Register, not less than 10 days prior to such Special
Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date
therefor having been so mailed, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names
the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the
close of business on such Special Record Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the
following Clause (2).
(2) The Issuers may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in
any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange or
automated quotation system on which such Securities may be listed or traded, and upon such notice
as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Issuers to the Trustee of the
proposed payment pursuant to this Clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the
Trustee.
Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and Section 305, each Security delivered
under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other
Security, shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried
by such other Security.
For each series of Securities, the Issuers shall, prior to 10:30 a.m. (New York City time) on
each payment date for principal and premium, if any, and interest, if any, deposit with the
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Trustee money in immediately available funds sufficient to make cash payments due on the
applicable payment date.
Section 308.
Persons Deemed Owners
Except as otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of
Securities, prior to due presentment of a Security for registration of transfer, the Issuers, the
Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such
Security is registered as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of
principal of and any premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) any interest on such Security
and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and neither the
Issuers, the Trustee nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the
contrary.
No holder of any beneficial interest in any Global Security held on its behalf by a Depositary
shall have any rights under this Indenture with respect to such Global Security, and such
Depositary may be treated by the Issuers, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee
as the owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever. None of the Issuers, the Trustee
nor any agent of the Issuers or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any
aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests of
a Global Security or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such
beneficial ownership interests.
Section 309.
Cancellation
All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange or
for credit against any sinking fund payment shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the
Trustee, be delivered to the Trustee and shall be promptly canceled by it. The Issuers may at any
time deliver to the Trustee for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered
hereunder which the Issuers may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, and may deliver to the
Trustee (or to any other Person for delivery to the Trustee) for cancellation any Securities
previously authenticated hereunder which the Issuers have not issued and sold, and all Securities
so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Trustee. No Securities shall be authenticated in
lieu of or in exchange for any Securities canceled as provided in this Section, except as expressly
permitted by this Indenture. All canceled Securities held by the Trustee shall be disposed of in
accordance with its customary procedures, and the Trustee shall thereafter deliver to the Issuers a
certificate with respect to such disposition.
Section 310.
Computation of Interest
Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series,
interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of
twelve 30-day months and interest on the Securities of each series for any partial period shall be
computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and the number of days elapsed in
any partial month.
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Section 311.
CUSIP Numbers
The Issuers in issuing the Securities may use CUSIP numbers (in addition to the other
identification numbers printed on the Securities), and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP
numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders. The Issuers will promptly notify the
Trustee of any change in the CUSIP numbers.
ARTICLE IV
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE
Section 401.
Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture
This Indenture shall upon an Issuer Request cease to be of further effect with respect to
Securities of any series (except as to any surviving rights of registration of transfer or exchange
of such Securities herein expressly provided for), and the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers,
shall execute proper instruments acknowledging satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with
respect to such Securities, when
(1) either
(A) all such Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered (other than (i) such
Securities which have been destroyed, lost or stolen and which have been replaced or paid as
provided in Section 306, and (ii) such Securities for whose payment money has theretofore been
deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and thereafter repaid to the
Issuers or discharged from such trust, as provided in Section 1003) have been delivered to the
Trustee for cancellation; or
(B) all such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation
(i) have become due and payable,
(ii) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year, or
(iii) are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the
Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of
the Issuers,
and the Issuers in the case of (i), (ii) or (iii) above, have irrevocably deposited or caused to be
deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for this purpose an amount of money in the
currency or currency units in which such Securities are payable sufficient to pay and discharge the
entire indebtedness on such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation,
for principal and any premium and interest to the date of such deposit (in the case
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of Securities which have become due and payable) or to the Stated Maturity or Redemption Date, as
the case may be;
(2) the Issuers have paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable hereunder by the Issuers
with respect to such Securities; and
(3) the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to the
satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to such Securities have been complied
with.
Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to Securities of
any series, (i) the obligations of the Issuers to the Trustee under Section 607, the obligations of
the Trustee to any Authenticating Agent under Section 614 and the right of the Trustee to resign
under Section 610 shall survive, and (ii) if money shall have been deposited with the Trustee
pursuant to subclause (B) of Clause (1) of this Section, the obligations of the Issuers and/or the
Trustee under Sections 402, 606, 701 and 1002 and the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall survive.
Section 402.
Application of Trust Money
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all money deposited with the
Trustee pursuant to Section 401 shall be held in trust and applied by it, in accordance with the
provisions of the Securities and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any
Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as its own Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine,
to the Persons entitled thereto, of the principal and any premium and interest for whose payment
such money has been deposited with the Trustee.
ARTICLE V
REMEDIES
Section 501.
Events of Default
Event of Default
, wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any
one of the following events (whatever the reason for such Event of Default and whether it shall be
voluntary or involuntary or be effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or
order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body):
(1) default in the payment of any interest upon any Security of that series when it becomes
due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 30 days (whether or not such
payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article XIV); or
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(2) default in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security of that
series at its Maturity (whether or not such payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article
XIV); or
(3) default in the performance, or breach, of any term, covenant or warranty of the Issuers in
this Indenture (other than a term, covenant or warranty a default in whose performance or whose
breach is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has expressly been included in
this Indenture solely for the benefit of series of Securities other than that series), and
continuance of such default or breach for a period of 45 days after there has been given, by
registered or certified mail, to the Issuers by the Trustee or to the Issuers and the Trustee by
Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that series a written
notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and stating that such
notice is a
Notice of Default
hereunder; or
(4) either of the Issuers pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law
(A) commences a voluntary case, (B) consents to the entry of any order for relief against it in an
involuntary case, (C) consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for all or substantially
all of its property, or (D) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or
(5) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that
(A) is for relief against either of the Issuers in an involuntary case, (B) appoints a Custodian of
either of the Issuers or for all or substantially all of its property, or (C) orders the
liquidation of either of the Issuers; and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60
days; or
(6) any other Event of Default provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to
Securities of that series.
Section 502.
Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment
If an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5) of Section 501 occurs, the principal
amount of all outstanding Securities shall become due an payable immediately without further action
or notice. If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Clause (4) or (5)
of Section 501) with respect to Securities of any series at the time Outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then in every such case the Trustee or Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of that series may declare the principal amount of (or, if any of the
Securities of that series are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal
amount of such Securities as may be specified in the terms thereof) all of the Securities of that
series to be due and payable immediately, by a notice in writing to the Issuers (and to the Trustee
if given by Holders), and upon any such declaration such principal amount (or specified amount)
shall become immediately due and payable.
At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series
has been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained by the
Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the
Outstanding Securities of that series, by written notice to the Issuers and the
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Trustee, may rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if the rescission would not
conflict with any judgment or decree and if all existing Events of Default with respect to
Securities of that series (except nonpayment of principal, interest or premium of Securities of
that series that has become due solely because of the acceleration) have been cured or waived as
provided in Section 513.
No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 503.
Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee
The Issuers covenant that if
(1) default is made in the payment of any interest on any Security when such interest becomes
due and payable and such default continues for a period of 30 days (whether or not such payment is
prohibited by the provisions of Article XIV), or
(2) default is made in the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Security
at the Maturity thereof (whether or not such payment is prohibited by the provisions of Article
XIV),
the Issuers will, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of Holders of such
Securities, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium
and interest and, to the extent that payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable,
interest on any overdue principal and premium and on any overdue interest, at the rate or rates
prescribed therefor in such Securities, and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be
sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation,
expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.
If the Issuers fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own
name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of
the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may
enforce the same against the Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities and collect the
moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the
Issuers, or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.
If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series occurs and is continuing, the
Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the
Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall
deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of
any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein,
or to enforce any other proper remedy.
Section 504.
Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
In case of any judicial proceeding relative to the Issuers, or any other obligor upon the
Securities, their property or their creditors, the Trustee shall be entitled and empowered, by
intervention in such proceeding or otherwise, to take any and all actions authorized under the
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Trust Indenture Act in order to have claims of Holders and the Trustee allowed in any such
proceeding. In particular, the Trustee shall be authorized to collect and receive any moneys or
other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same; and any
custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any
such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee
and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to
Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the
Trustee under Section 607.
No provision of this Indenture shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or
consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement,
adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to
authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.
Section 505.
Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities
All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and
enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof
in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be
brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after
provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of
the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of Holders of the Securities in
respect of which such judgment has been recovered.
Section 506.
Application of Money Collected
Any money or property collected or to be applied by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall
be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the
distribution of such money or property on account of principal or any premium or interest, upon
presentation of the Securities and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and
upon surrender thereof if fully paid:
FIRST: To the payment of all amounts due the Trustee under Section 607;
SECOND: Subject to Article XIV, to the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid for
principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit
of which such money has been collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind,
according to the amounts due and payable on such Securities for principal and any premium and
interest, respectively; and
THIRD: The balance, if any, to the Issuers.
Section 507.
Limitation on Suits
No Holder of any Security of any series shall have any right to institute any proceeding,
judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture or a Security, or for the appointment of a
receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless
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(1) such Holder has previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of
Default with respect to the Securities of that series;
(2) Holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of that
series shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such
Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;
(3) such Holder or Holders have offered and, if requested, provided to the Trustee reasonable
security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with
such request;
(4) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer and, if
requested, provision of security or indemnity has failed to institute any such proceeding; and
(5) no direction inconsistent with such written request has been given to the Trustee during
such 60-day period by Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of
that series;
it being understood and intended that no one or more of such Holders shall have any right in any
manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb
or prejudice the rights of any other of such Holders, or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or
preference over any other of such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in
the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all of such Holders.
Section 508.
Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest
Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have
the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and any
premium and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) interest on such Security on the respective Stated
Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and
to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired
without the consent of such Holder.
Section 509.
Restoration of Rights and Remedies
If the Trustee or any Holder has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy
under this Indenture and such proceeding has been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or has
been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then in every such case, subject to any
determination in such proceeding, the Issuers, the Trustee and Holders shall be restored severally
and respectively to their former positions hereunder, and thereafter all rights and remedies of the
Trustee and Holders shall continue as though no such proceeding had been instituted.
Section 510.
Rights and Remedies Cumulative
Except as otherwise provided with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated,
destroyed, lost or stolen Securities in the last paragraph of Section 306, no right or remedy
herein
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conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to Holders is intended to be exclusive of any
other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be
cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter
existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy
hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other
appropriate right or remedy.
Section 511.
Delay or Omission Not Waiver
No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder of any Securities to exercise any right
or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a
waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by
this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders may be exercised from time to time, and as
often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders, as the case may be.
Section 512.
Control by Holders
Subject to the provisions of Section 603, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount
of the Outstanding Securities of any series shall have the right to direct the time, method and
place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust
or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series;
provided,
however
, that the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this
Indenture that Trustee determines may be unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Holders of
Securities or that may subject the Trustee to personal liability.
Section 513.
Waiver of Past Defaults
Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any
series may on behalf of Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default
hereunder with respect to such series and its consequences, except
(1) a continuing default in the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any
Security of such series, or
(2) a default in respect of a covenant or provision hereof which under Article IX cannot be
modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series
affected.
Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising
therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture, but no such
waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.
Section 514.
Undertaking for Costs
In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit
against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, a court may require
any party litigant in such suit to file an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and may
assess
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costs against any such party litigant, in the manner and to the extent provided in the Trust
Indenture Act;
provided, however
, that neither this Section nor the Trust Indenture Act shall be
deemed to authorize any court to require such an undertaking or to make such an assessment in any
suit instituted by the Trustee, in any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders, holding
in the aggregate more than 10% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series to
which the suit relates, or in any suit instituted by any Holder for the enforcement of the payment
of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Security on or after the respective
Stated Maturity expressed by such Security (or, in the case of redemption or repayment, on or after
the Redemption Date).
ARTICLE VI
THE TRUSTEE
Section 601.
Certain Duties and Responsibilities
(a) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any series of
Securities,
(1) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are
specifically set forth in this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series, and
no implied covenants or obligations shall read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and
(2) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may, with respect to
Securities of such series, conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the
correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to
the Trustee conforming to the requirements of this Indenture; but in the case of any such
certificates or opinions which by any provision hereof are specifically required to be
furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall be under a duty to examine the same to
determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture.
(b) In case an Event of Default with respect to any series of Securities has occurred and is
continuing, the Trustee shall exercise with respect to the Securities of such series such rights
and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their
exercise, as a prudent Person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such
persons own affairs.
(c) No provisions of this Indenture shall be construed to relieve the Trustee from liability
for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct,
except that
(1) this Subsection shall not be construed to limit the effect of Subsection (a) of
this Section;
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(2) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a
responsible officer, unless it shall be proved that the Trustee was negligent in
ascertaining the pertinent facts;
(3) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action taken or omitted to be
taken by it in good faith in accordance with the direction of the Holders or a majority in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series relating to the time, method
and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or
exercising any trust or power conferred upon the Trustee, under this Indenture with respect
to the Securities of such series; and
(4) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own
funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties
hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable
grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk
or liability is not reasonably assured to it.
(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating
to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be
subject to the provisions of this Section.
Section 602.
Notice of Defaults
If a Default occurs and is continuing with respect to the Securities of any series, the
Trustee shall, within 90 days after it occurs, transmit, in the manner and to the extent provided
in Section 313(c) of the Trust Indenture Act, notice of all uncured or unwaived Defaults known to
it;
provided, however
, that, except in the case of a Default in payment on the Securities of any
series, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding the notice if and so long as the board of
directors, the executive committee or a trust committee of directors or responsible officers of the
Trustee determine in good faith that withholding such notice is in the interests of Holders of
Securities of such series;
provided, further, however
, that, in the case of any default or breach
of the character specified in Section 501(3) with respect to the Securities of such series, no such
notice to Holders shall be given until at least 60 days after the occurrence thereof.
Section 603.
Certain Rights of Trustee
Subject to the provisions of Section 601:
(1) the Trustee may rely on and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon
any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document
believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties;
(2) any request, direction, order or demand of the Issuers mentioned herein shall be
sufficiently evidenced by an Issuer Request or Issuer Order (or in the case of a Periodic Offering,
as agreed in procedures set forth in an Issuer Order pursuant to Section 303) and any resolution of
the Board of Directors shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;
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(3) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that
a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder, the
Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the absence of bad faith
on its part, rely upon an Officers Certificate;
(4) the Trustee may consult with counsel and the written advice of such counsel or any Opinion
of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken,
suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;
(5) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in
it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture,
unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to it
against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such
request or direction;
(6) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated
in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction,
consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document,
but the Trustee, in its discretion, may, without obligation to do so, make such further inquiry or
investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit; and, if the Trustee shall determine to
make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and
premises of the Issuers, personally or by agent or attorney;
(7) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties
hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys and the Trustee shall not be
responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with
due care by it hereunder; and
(8) the Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers Certificate setting forth
the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified
actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers Certificate may be signed by any Person
authorized to sign an Officers Certificate, including any Person specified as so authorized in any
such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.
Section 604.
Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities
The recitals contained herein and in the Securities, except the Trustees certificates of
authentication, shall be taken as the statements of the Issuers, and the Trustee or any
Authenticating Agent assumes no responsibility for their correctness. Neither the Trustee nor any
Authenticating Agent makes any representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Indenture
or of the Securities. Neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent shall be accountable for
the use or application by the Issuers of Securities or the proceeds thereof.
Section 605.
May Hold Securities
The Trustee, any Authenticating Agent, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other
agent of the Issuers, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or
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pledgee of Securities and, subject to Sections 608 and 613, may otherwise deal with the
Issuers with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee, Authenticating Agent, Paying
Agent, Security Registrar or such other agent.
Section 606.
Money Held in Trust
Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds except to
the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money
received by it hereunder except as otherwise agreed with the Issuers.
Section 607.
Compensation and Reimbursement
The Issuers agree:
(1) to pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for all services rendered
by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the
compensation of a trustee of an express trust);
(2) to reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and
advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture
(including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and
counsel), except any such expense, disbursement or advance as may be attributable to its negligence
or bad faith; and
(3) to indemnify the Trustee for, and to hold it harmless against, any loss, liability or
expense incurred without negligence or bad faith on its part, arising out of or in connection with
the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder, including the costs and expenses
of defending itself against any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance
of any of its powers or duties hereunder.
The obligations of the Issuers under this Section to compensate the Trustee and to pay or
reimburse the Trustee for expenses, disbursements and advances shall constitute additional
indebtedness hereunder.
Without limiting any rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee
incurs expenses or renders services in connection with an Event of Default specified in Section
501(4) or Section 501(5), the expenses (including the reasonable charges and expenses of its
counsel) and the compensation for such services are intended to constitute expenses of
administration under any applicable Bankruptcy Law.
The provisions of this Section shall survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture
and the defeasance of the Securities.
Section 608.
Disqualification; Conflicting Interests
If the Trustee has or shall acquire a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust
Indenture Act, the Trustee shall either eliminate such interest or resign, to the extent and in the
manner provided by, and subject to the provisions of, the Trust Indenture Act and this Indenture.
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Section 609.
Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility
There shall at all times be one or more Trustees hereunder with respect to the Securities of
each series, at least one of which shall be a Person that is eligible pursuant to the Trust
Indenture Act to act as such and has a combined capital and surplus required by the Trust Indenture
Act. If such Person publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the
requirements of a supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the
combined capital and surplus of such Person shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus
as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall
cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately
in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article.
Section 610.
Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor
No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to
this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee in
accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611.
The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by
giving written notice thereof to the Issuers. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor
Trustee required by Section 611 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after
the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such
series.
The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of
the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series,
delivered to the Trustee and to the Issuers. If an instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee
shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of
removal, the removed Trustee may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment
of a successor Trustee.
The Issuers may remove the Trustee if:
(1) the Trustee fails to comply with Section 608 or 609 hereof;
(2) the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with
respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;
(3) a custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or
(4) the Trustee becomes incapable of acting.
If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall
occur in the office of Trustee for any cause, with respect to the Securities of one or more series,
the Issuers, by a Board Resolution, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with
respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor
Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and
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that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any
particular series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 611. If, within
one year after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a
successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of Holders
of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the
Issuers and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its
acceptance of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 611,
become the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent
supersede the successor Trustee appointed by the Issuers.
If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so
appointed by the Issuers or Holders and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 611
within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the Holders of at least 10% in
principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series may petition, at the expense of the
Issuers, any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.
If the Trustee, after written request by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a
Security of such series for at least six months, fails to comply with Section 608 or 609, such
Holder may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent
jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect
to the Securities of such series.
The Issuers shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect
to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of any series to all Holders of Securities of such series in the manner provided in
Section 106. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the
Securities of such series and the address of its Corporate Trust Office.
Section 611.
Acceptance of Appointment by Successor
(1) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to all
Securities, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the
Issuers and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the
resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee,
without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers,
trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on the request of the Issuers or the successor
Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of its charges, execute and deliver an
instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the retiring
Trustee and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and
money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder.
(2) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities
of one or more (but not all) series, the Issuers, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee
with respect to the Securities of one or more series shall execute and deliver an indenture
supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (A)
shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to
vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring
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Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of
such successor Trustee relates, (B) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all
Securities, shall contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that
all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of
that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested
in the retiring Trustee, and (C) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as
shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more
than one Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall
constitute such Trustees as co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be
trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder
administered by any other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental
indenture the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent
provided therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance,
shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with
respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor
Trustee relates, but, on request of the Issuers, or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee
shall, upon payment of its charges, duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all
property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that
or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.
(3) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Issuers shall execute any and all
instruments for more fully and certainly vesting in and confirming to such successor Trustee all
such rights, powers and trusts referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) of this Section, as the case may
be.
(4) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance
such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.
Section 612.
Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business
Any Person into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be
consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Trustee shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust
business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder,
provided
such Person
shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of
any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities
shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by
merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication
and deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had
itself authenticated such Securities.
Section 613.
Preferential Collection of Claims Against Issuers
If and when the Trustee shall be or become a creditor of an Issuer or any other obligor upon
the Securities, the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act regarding
the collection of claims against such Issuer or any such other obligor.
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Section 614.
Appointment of Authenticating Agent
The Trustee (upon notice to the Issuers) may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Agents with
respect to one or more series of Securities which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the
Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series issued upon original issue (in accordance with
procedures acceptable to the Trustee) and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial
redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 306, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to
the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if
authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the
authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustees certificate of
authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of
the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the
Issuers and shall at all times be a Person organized and doing business under the laws of the
United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws
to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000
and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating
Agent publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of
said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined
capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and
surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time an
Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section,
such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in
this Section.
Any Person into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may
be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such
Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the
corporate agency or corporate trust business of such Authenticating Agent, shall continue to be an
Authenticating Agent, provided such Person shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without
the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or such
Authenticating Agent.
An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee
and to the Issuers. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by
giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to the Issuers. Upon receiving such
a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating
Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, the Trustee may
appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be acceptable to the Issuers. Any successor
Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment hereunder shall become vested with all the
rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder, with like effect as if originally named as
an Authenticating Agent. No successor Authenticating Agent shall be appointed unless eligible
under the provisions of this Section.
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Except with respect to an Authenticating Agent appointed at the request of the
Issuers
, the
Trustee agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time reasonable compensation for
its services under this Section.
If an appointment with respect to one or more series is made pursuant to this Section, the
Securities of such series may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustees certificate of
authentication, an alternative certificate of authentication in the following form:
This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the
within-mentioned Indenture.
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As Trustee
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As Authenticating Agent
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Authorized Signatory
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Section 615.
Force Majeure
.
In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the
performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly,
forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts
of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of
God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and
hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are
consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as
practicable under the circumstances.
ARTICLE VII
HOLDERS LISTS AND REPORTS BY TRUSTEE AND ISSUERS
Section 701.
Issuers to Furnish Trustee Names and Addresses of Holders
The Issuers will furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee
(1) semi-annually, not later than each Interest Payment Date in each year, a list for each
series of Securities, in such form as the Trustee may reasonably require, of the names and
addresses of the Holders of Securities of such series as of the preceding Regular Record Date, and
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(2) at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, within 30 days after the
receipt by the Issuers of any such request, a list of similar form and content as of a date not
more than 15 days prior to the time such list is furnished;
provided, however
, that if and so long as the Trustee shall be the Security Registrar for
Securities of a series, no such list need be furnished with respect to such series of Securities.
Section 702.
Preservation of Information; Communications to Holder.
The Trustee shall comply with the obligations imposed upon it pursuant to Section 312 of the
Trust Indenture Act.
The rights of the Holders to communicate with other Holders with respect to their rights under
this Indenture or under the Securities, and the corresponding rights and privileges of the Trustee,
shall be as provided by the Trust Indenture Act.
Every Holder of Securities, by receiving and holding the same, agrees with the Issuers and the
Trustee that neither the Issuers nor the Trustee nor any agent of any of them shall be held
accountable by reason of any disclosure of information as to the names and addresses of Holders
made pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act.
Section 703.
Reports by Trustee
As promptly as practicable after each May 15 beginning with the May 15 following the date of
this Indenture, and in any event prior to July 15 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each
Holder a brief report dated as of May 15 that complies with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(a). The
Trustee also shall comply with Trust Indenture Act Section 313(b). Prior to delivery to the
Holders, the Trustee shall deliver to the Issuers a copy of any report it delivers to Holders
pursuant to this Section 703.
A copy of each such report shall, at the time of such transmission to Holders, be filed by the
Trustee with each stock exchange upon which any Securities are listed, with the Commission and with
the Issuers. The Issuers will notify the Trustee when any Securities are listed on any stock
exchange.
Section 704.
Reports by Issuers
The Issuers shall:
(1) file with the Trustee, within 15 days after the Issuers is required to file the same with
the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the information, documents and other reports
(or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the Commission may from time to time by
rules and regulations prescribe) which the Issuers may be required to file with the Commission
pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act;
(2) file with the Trustee and the Commission, in accordance with rules and regulations
prescribed from time to time by the Commission, such additional information, documents and reports
with respect to compliance by the Issuers with the conditions and
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covenants of this Indenture as may be required from time to time by such rules and
regulations; and
(3) transmit by mail to all Holders, as their names and addresses appear in the Security
Register, within 30 days after the filing thereof with the Trustee, such summaries of any
information, documents and reports required to be filed by the Issuers pursuant to paragraphs (1)
and (2) of this Section as may be required by rules and regulations prescribed from time to time by
the Commission.
ARTICLE VIII
CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, CONVEYANCE, TRANSFER OR LEASE
Section 801.
Issuers May Consolidate, Etc., Only on Certain Terms
The Partnership shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, unless:
(1) the Partnership is the surviving entity or the entity formed by or surviving the
transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the entity to which the sale was made is a
corporation or partnership organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state
thereof or the District of Columbia;
(2) the entity formed by or surviving the transaction, if other than the Partnership, or the
entity to which the sale was made assumes all the obligations of the Partnership in accordance with
a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee, under the Securities and
this Indenture; and
(3) immediately after the transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists.
Finance Corp. shall not consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease
convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more
related transactions to, any Person, except under conditions similar to those described in the
paragraph above.
Section 802.
Successor Substituted
Upon any consolidation of an Issuer with, or merger of an Issuer into, any other Person or any
sale, transfer or lease of the properties and assets of an Issuer as, or substantially as, an
entirety in accordance with Section 801, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or into
which such Issuer is merged or to which such sale, transfer or lease is made shall succeed to, and
be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, such Issuer under this Indenture
with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named originally as such Issuer herein or
therein, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of
all obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities.
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ARTICLE IX
SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES
Section 901.
Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders
Without the consent of any Holders of Securities, the Issuers and the Trustee, at any time and
from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory
to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:
(1) to allow any guarantor to guarantee Securities of any series;
(2) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities and the assumption by such successor Person of the obligations of the Issuers hereunder;
(3) to add covenants and Events of Default for the benefit of the Holders of all or any series
of such Securities or to surrender any right or power conferred by this Indenture upon the Issuers
or to make any change that does not adversely affect the legal rights hereunder of any Holder in
any material respect;
(4) to add to, change or eliminate any of the provisions of this Indenture,
provided
that any
such addition, change or elimination shall become effective only after there are no such Securities
of any series entitled to the benefit of such provision outstanding;
(5) to establish the forms or terms of the Securities of any series issued hereunder;
(6) to cure any ambiguity or correct any defect or inconsistency in this Indenture;
(7) to evidence the acceptance of appointment by a successor Trustee with respect to one or
more series of Securities or otherwise;
(8) to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or maintain the
qualification of this Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act;
(9) to provide for uncertificated securities in addition to certificated securities;
(10) to supplement any provisions of this Indenture necessary to permit or facilitate the
defeasance and discharge of any series of Securities,
provided
that such action does not adversely
affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of such series or any other series; and
(11) to comply with the rules or regulations of any securities exchange or automated quotation
system on which any of the Securities may be listed or traded.
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Section 902.
Supplemental Indentures with Consent of Holders
With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of
all Outstanding Securities affected by such supplemental indenture (voting as one class), the
Issuers and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the
purpose of adding any provisions to, or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions
of, this Indenture, or modifying in any manner the rights of Holders of Securities of such series
under this Indenture (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender
offer or exchange offer for the Securities);
provided
that the Issuers and the Trustee may not,
without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security affected thereby,
(1) change the Stated Maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or
interest, if any, on, any Security, or reduce the principal amount thereof or premium, if any, on
or the rate of interest thereon or alter the method of computation of interest;
(2) reduce the percentage in principal amount of Securities required for any such supplemental
indenture or for any waiver provided for in this Indenture;
(3) change the Issuers obligation to maintain an office or agency for payment of Securities
and the other matters specified herein;
(4) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of,
premium, if any, or interest on, any Security;
(5) modify the provisions of this Indenture with respect to the subordination of any Security
in a manner adverse to the holders thereof; or
(6) modify any of the provisions of this Indenture relating to the execution of supplemental
indentures with the consent of Holders of Securities which are discussed in this Section or modify
any provisions relating to the waiver by Holders of Securities of past defaults and covenants,
except to increase any required percentage or to provide that other provisions of this Indenture
cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security
affected thereby; or
(7) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in the Security.
A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this
Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series
of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with
respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this
Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.
It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this Section to approve the particular
form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve
the substance thereof.
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Section 903.
Execution of Supplemental Indentures
In executing, or accepting the additional trusts created by, any supplemental indenture
permitted by this Article or the modifications thereby of the trusts created by this Indenture, the
Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 601) shall be fully protected in
relying upon, an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of such
supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture. The Trustee shall enter into
any supplemental indenture which does not adversely affect the Trustees own rights, duties or
immunities under this Indenture or otherwise. The Trustee may, but shall not be obligated to,
enter into any such supplemental indenture which adversely affects the Trustees own rights, duties
or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise.
Section 904.
Effect of Supplemental Indentures
Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be
modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this
Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated
and delivered hereunder shall be bound thereby.
Section 905.
Conformity with Trust Indenture Act
Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the
requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.
Section 906.
Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures
Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental
indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in
form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the
Issuers shall so determine, new Securities of any series so modified as to conform, in the opinion
of the Trustee and the Issuers, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by
the Issuers and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities
of such series. Failure to make a notation or issue a new Security shall not affect the validity
and effect of any amendment, supplement or waiver.
ARTICLE X
COVENANTS
Section 1001.
Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest
The Issuers covenant and agree for the benefit of each series of Securities that it will duly
and punctually pay the principal of and any premium and interest on the Securities of that series
in accordance with the terms of the Securities and this Indenture.
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Section 1002.
Maintenance of Office or Agency
The Issuers will maintain in each Place of Payment for any series of Securities an office or
agency where Securities of that series may be presented or surrendered for payment, where
Securities of that series may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where
notices and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Securities of that series and this
Indenture may be served. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the
location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuers
shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with
the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at
the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Issuers hereby appoint the Trustee as their
agent to receive all such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands.
The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where
the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes
and may from time to time rescind such designations;
provided, however
, that no such designation or
rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuers of their obligation to maintain an office or
agency in each Place of Payment for Securities of any series for such purposes. The Issuers will
give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change
in the location of any such other office or agency.
Except as otherwise specified with respect to a series of Securities as contemplated by
Section 301, the Issuers hereby initially designate as the Place of Payment for each series of
Securities The City of New York, and initially appoint the Trustee as Paying Agent at its Corporate
Trust Office as the Issuers office or agency for each such purpose in such city.
Section 1003.
Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust
If an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries shall at any time act as Paying Agent with respect to
any series of Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of or any premium or
interest on any of the Securities of that series, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of
the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal and any premium and interest so
becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein
provided and will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
Whenever the Issuers shall have one or more Paying Agents for any series of Securities, it
will, on or prior to each due date of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Securities
of that series, deposit with a Paying Agent a sum sufficient to pay such amount, such sum to be
held as provided by the Trust Indenture Act, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the
Issuers will promptly notify the Trustee of its action or failure so to act.
The Issuers will cause each Paying Agent for any series of Securities other than the Trustee
to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the
Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will (1) hold all sums
held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on
Securities of that series in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums
shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided; (2) give the
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Trustee notice of any default by the Issuers (or any other obligor upon the Securities of that
series) in the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the
Securities of that series; and (3) during the continuance of any such default, upon the written
request of the Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums held in trust by such Paying Agent
for payment in respect of the Securities of that series.
The Issuers may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of
this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Issuer Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to
the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Issuers or such Paying Agent, such sums to be held by the
Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Issuers or such Paying
Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be
released from all further liability with respect to such money.
Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Issuers, in
trust for the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on any Security of any series
and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal, premium or interest has become due and
payable shall be paid to the Issuers on their request or (if then held by the Issuers) will be
discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter be permitted to look
only to the Issuers for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with
respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Issuers as trustee thereof, shall thereupon
cease;
provided, however,
that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any
such payment, may at the expense of the Issuers cause to be published once, in the New York Times
and The Wall Street Journal (national edition), notice that such money remains unclaimed and that,
after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such
publication, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be paid to the Issuers.
Section 1004.
Statement by Officers as to Default
The Issuers will deliver to the Trustee, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year of
the Issuers ending after the date hereof, an Officers Certificate, stating whether or not to the
best knowledge of the signer or signers thereof the Issuers are in default in the performance and
observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (without regard to any
period of grace or requirement of notice provided hereunder) and, if the Issuers shall be in
default, specifying all such defaults and the nature and status thereof of which they may have
knowledge.
Section 1005.
Existence
Subject to Article VIII, the Issuers will do or cause to be done all things necessary to
preserve and keep in full force and effect their existence, rights (charter and statutory) and
franchises;
provided, however
, that the Issuers shall not be required to preserve any such right or
franchise if the Board of Directors of the applicable Issuer shall determine that the preservation
thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of its business.
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Section 1006.
Waiver of Certain Covenants
The Issuers may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or
condition set forth in Section 1005 with respect to the Securities of any series if before the time
for such compliance Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding
Securities of all affected series (voting as one class) shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive
such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or
condition, but no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision or condition except to
the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective, the obligations of
the Issuers and the duties of the Trustee in respect of any such term, provision or condition shall
remain in full force and effect.
A waiver which changes or eliminates any term, provision or condition of this Indenture which
has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities,
or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such term,
provision or condition, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the
Holders of Securities of any other series.
Section 1007.
Limitation on Finance Corp.
Finance Corp. will not incur any Indebtedness unless:
(1) the Partnership is a co-obligor or guarantor of the Indebtedness; or
(2) the net proceeds of the Indebtedness are either lent to the Partnership,
used to acquire outstanding debt securities issued by the Partnership, or used,
directly or indirectly, to refinance or discharge Indebtedness permitted under the
limitation of this Section 1007.
Finance Corp. will not engage in any business not related, directly or indirectly, to
obtaining money or arranging financing for the Partnership.
ARTICLE XI
REDEMPTION OF SECURITIES
Section 1101.
Applicability of Article
Securities of any series which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable
in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301
for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article.
Section 1102.
Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee
The election of the Issuers to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution.
In case of any redemption at the election of the Issuers of less than all the Securities of any
series, the Issuers shall, not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date
fixed by the Issuers (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the
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Trustee of such Redemption Date, of the principal amount of Securities of such series to be
redeemed and, if applicable, of the tenor of the Securities to be redeemed. In the case of any
redemption of Securities (1) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided
in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture, or (2) pursuant to an election of
the Issuers which is subject to a condition specified in the terms of such Securities, the Issuers
shall furnish the Trustee with an Officers Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction
or condition.
Section 1103.
Selection by Trustee of Securities to be Redeemed
If less than all the Securities of any series are to be redeemed (unless all the Securities of
such series and of a specified tenor are to be redeemed), the particular Securities to be redeemed
shall be selected not more than 45 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the
Outstanding Securities of such series not previously called for redemption, on a
pro rata
basis or
by any other method which the Trustee deems fair and appropriate and which complies with any
securities exchange or other applicable requirements for redemption of portions (equal to the
minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of
the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum
authorized denomination for Securities of that series.
The Trustee shall promptly notify the Issuers in writing of the Securities selected for
redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount
thereof to be redeemed.
For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions
relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to
be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been
or is to be redeemed.
Section 1104.
Notice of Redemption
Notice of redemption shall be given by first-class mail (if international mail, by air mail),
postage prepaid, mailed not less than 10 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to
each Holder of Securities to be redeemed, at his address appearing in the Security Register.
All notices of redemption shall identify the Securities to be redeemed (including CUSIP
number(s)) and shall state:
(1) the Redemption Date,
(2) the Redemption Price,
(3) if less than all the Outstanding Securities of any series and of a specified tenor are to
be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of partial redemption of any Securities, the
principal amounts) of the particular Securities to be redeemed,
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(4) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price will become due and payable upon each
such Security to be redeemed and that interest thereon will cease to accrue on and after said date,
(5) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the
Redemption Price,
(6) that the redemption is for a sinking fund, if such is the case; and
(7) that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number, if
any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities and that reliance may be placed only on the
other identification numbers printed on the Securities (and any such redemption shall not be
affected by any defect in or omission of such CUSIP numbers).
Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed shall be given by the Issuers or, at the
Issuers request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuers.
Section 1105.
Deposit of Redemption Price
On or prior to 10:30 a.m. New York City Time on any Redemption Date, the Issuers shall deposit
with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Issuers are acting as their own Paying Agent,
segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 1003) an amount of money sufficient to pay the
Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) accrued
interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.
Section 1106.
Securities Payable on Redemption Date
Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall,
on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified, and from
and after such date (unless the Issuers shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and
accrued interest) such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such
Security for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Security shall be paid by the Issuers
at the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest to the Redemption Date;
provided, however
,
that, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301, installments of interest whose
Stated Maturity is on or prior to the Redemption Date shall be payable to the Holders of such
Securities, or one or more Predecessor Securities, registered as such at the close of business on
the relevant Record Dates according to their terms and the provisions of Section 307.
If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for
redemption, the principal and any premium shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date
at the rate prescribed therefor in the Security.
Section 1107.
Securities Redeemed in Part
Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part shall be surrendered at a Place of Payment
therefor (with, if the Issuers or the Trustee so requires, due endorsement by, or a written
instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Issuers and the Trustee duly executed by, the
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Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing), and the Issuers shall execute, and
the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge, a
new Security or Securities of the same series and of like tenor, of any authorized denomination as
requested by such Holder, in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed
portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.
ARTICLE XII
SINKING FUNDS
Section 1201.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of
Securities of a series except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities
of such series.
The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any
series is herein referred to as a
mandatory sinking fund payment
, and any payment in excess of
such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as
an
optional sinking fund payment
. If provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, the
cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 1202.
Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of any series as
provided for by the terms of Securities of such series.
Section 1202.
Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
The Issuers (1) may deliver Outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously
called for redemption), and (2) may apply as a credit Securities of a series which have been
redeemed either at the election of the Issuers pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through
the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such
Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment with
respect to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such
Securities as provided for by the terms of such series;
provided
that such Securities have not been
previously so credited. Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the
Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of
the sinking fund and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.
Section 1203.
Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
Not less than 45 days prior to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities
(unless a shorter period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), the Issuers will deliver to the
Trustee an Officers Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for
that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be
satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by
delivering and crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 1202 and stating the basis
for such credit and that such Securities have not been previously so credited, and will also
deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered. Not less than 30 days before each such
sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking
fund payment date
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in the manner specified in Section 1103 and cause notice of the redemption thereof to be given
in the name of and at the expense of the Issuers in the manner provided in Section 1104. Such
notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made upon the terms and
in the manner stated in Sections 1106 and 1107.
ARTICLE XIII
DEFEASANCE
Section 1301.
Applicability of Article
The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to each series of Securities except as
otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series.
Section 1302.
Legal Defeasance
In addition to discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Section 401, the Issuers shall be deemed
to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness on all the Securities of such a series on the
91st day after the date of the deposit referred to in Clause (1) below, and the provisions of this
Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series shall no longer be in effect (except as to
(i) rights of registration of transfer and exchange of Securities of such series and the Issuers
right of optional redemption, if any, (ii) substitution of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen
Securities, (iii) rights of Holders of Securities to receive payments of principal thereof and
interest thereon, upon the original stated due dates therefor or on the specified redemption dates
therefor (but not upon acceleration), and remaining rights of the holders to receive mandatory
sinking fund payments, if any, (iv) the rights, obligations, duties and immunities of the Trustee
hereunder, and the Issuers obligations in connection therewith (including, but not limited to,
Section 607), (v) the rights, if any, to convert or exchange the Securities of such series, (vi)
the rights of Holders of Securities of such series as beneficiaries hereof with respect to the
property so deposited with the Trustee payable to all or any of them, (vii) the obligations of the
Issuers under Section 1002 and (viii) the legal defeasance provisions of this Article XIII), and
the Trustee, at the expense of the Issuers, shall, upon a Issuers Request, execute proper
instruments acknowledging the same, if the conditions set forth below are satisfied (hereinafter,
"
defeasance
):
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust, for the purposes of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, certified to be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of
independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the
Trustee, to pay (i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such
series on each date that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any
Redemption Date established pursuant to Clause (3) below, and (ii) any
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mandatory sinking fund payments on the dates on which such payments are due and payable in
accordance with the terms of the Indenture and the Securities of such series;
(2) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel:
(A) based on the fact that (A) the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by,
the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (B) since the date hereof, there has been a change in the
applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and such opinion shall
confirm that, Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit, defeasance and discharge and will be
subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times, as
would have been the case if such deposit, defeasance and discharge had not occurred; and
(B) stating that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will not
be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws
affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the
defeasance have been complied with and confirming other matters;
(3) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(4) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as
Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are concerned, at any time in the
period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such deposit;
(5) Such defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within the
meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning of
such Act);
(6) Such defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default
under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of the
Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit constituting an
investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, unless
such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an Opinion of
Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the defeasance
contemplated by this provision have been complied with.
For this purpose, such defeasance means that the Issuers, and any other obligor upon the
Securities of such series shall be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire debt represented
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by the Securities of such series, which shall thereafter be deemed to be Outstanding only
for the purposes of Section 1304 and the rights and obligations referred to in Clauses (i) through
(vii), inclusive, of the first paragraph of this Section, and to have satisfied all its other
obligations under the Securities of such series and this Indenture insofar as the Securities of
such series are concerned.
Section 1303.
Covenant Defeasance
The Issuers and any other obligor shall be released on the 91st day after the date of the
deposit referred to in Clause (1) below from its obligations under Sections 704, 801 and 1005 with
respect to the Securities of any series on and after the date the conditions set forth below are
satisfied (hereinafter,
covenant defeasance
), and the Securities of such series shall thereafter
be deemed to be not Outstanding for the purposes of any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, waiver, consent or declaration or other action or Act of Holders (and the
consequences of any thereof) in connection with such covenants, but shall continue to be deemed
Outstanding for all other purposes hereunder. For this purpose, such covenant defeasance means
that, with respect to the Securities of such series, the Issuers may omit to comply with and shall
have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such Section,
whether directly or indirectly by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to such Section or by
reason of any reference in such Section to any other provision herein or in any other document and
such omission to comply shall not constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 501,
but, except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and the Securities of such series
shall be unaffected thereby. The following shall be the conditions to application of this Section
1303:
(1) The Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust
funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security
for, and dedicated solely to, the benefit of Holders of the Securities of such series, (A) cash in
an amount, or (B) in the case of any series of Securities the payments on which may only be made in
legal coin or currency of the United States, U.S. Government Obligations, maturing as to principal
and interest at such times and in such amounts as will insure the availability of cash, or (C) a
combination thereof, sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent
public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, to pay
(i) the principal and interest and premium, if any, on all Securities of such series on each date
that such principal, interest or premium, if any, is due and payable or on any Redemption Date
established pursuant to Clause (2) below, and (ii) any mandatory sinking fund payments on the day
on which such payments are due and payable in accordance with the terms of the Indenture and the
Securities of such series;
(2) If the Securities are to be redeemed prior to Stated Maturity (other than from mandatory
sinking fund payments or analogous payments), notice of such redemption shall have been duly given
pursuant to this Indenture or provision therefor satisfactory to the Trustee shall have been made;
(3) No Event of Default or event which with notice or lapse of time or both would become an
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such
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deposit or insofar as Events of Default described in Section 501(4) or 501(5) hereof are
concerned, at any time in the period ending on the 91
st
day after the date of such
deposit;
(4) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel which shall:
(A) confirm that Holders of the Securities of such series will not recognize income, gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and covenant defeasance and will
be subject to federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same time as
would have been the case if such deposit and covenant defeasance had not occurred; and
(B) state that that after the 91
st
day following the deposit the trust funds will
not be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar
laws affecting creditors rights generally, and all conditions precedent provided for or relating
to the covenant defeasance have been complied with and confirm other matters;
(5) Such covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within
the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Securities are in default within the meaning
of such Act);
(6) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a
default under, any material agreement or instrument (other than this Indenture) to which either of
the Issuers is a party or by which it is bound;
(7) Such covenant defeasance shall not result in the trust arising from such deposit
constituting an investment company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, unless such trust shall be registered under such Act or exempt from registration
thereunder; and
(8) The Issuers have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and Opinion of Counsel
stating that all conditions precedent provided for relating to the covenant defeasance contemplated
by this provision have been complied with.
Section 1304.
Application by Trustee of Funds Deposited for Payment of Securities
Subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003, all moneys or U.S. Government
Obligations deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303 (and all funds earned on
such moneys or U.S. Government Obligations) shall be held in trust and applied by it to the
payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including the Issuers acting as their own
Paying Agent), to Holders of the particular Securities of such series for the payment or redemption
of which such moneys have been deposited with the Trustee, of all sums due and to become due
thereon for principal and interest; but such money need not be segregated from other funds except
to the extent required by law. Subject to Sections 1302 and 1303, the Trustee shall promptly pay
to the Issuers upon Issuer Order any moneys held by it at any time, which, in the opinion of a
nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification
delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the defeasance with
respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
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Section 1305.
Repayment to Issuers
The Trustee and any Paying Agent promptly shall pay or return to the Issuers upon Issuer
Request any money and U.S. Government Obligations held by them at any time that are not required
for the payment of the principal of and any interest on the Securities of any series for which
money or U.S. Government Obligations have been deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303, which,
in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a
written certification delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amounts required to effect the
defeasance with respect to the Outstanding Securities in question.
The provisions of the last paragraph of Section 1003 shall apply to any money held by the
Trustee or any Paying Agent under this Article that remains unclaimed for two years after the
Maturity of any series of Securities for which money or U.S. Government Obligations have been
deposited pursuant to Section 1302 or 1303.
Section 1306.
Reinstatement
If the Trustee or the Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U. S. Government
Obligations in accordance with this Article by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any
order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise
prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Issuers under this Indenture and the
Securities of the applicable series shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had
occurred pursuant to this Indenture until such time as the Trustee or the Paying Agent is permitted
to apply all such money or U. S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article;
provided,
however
, that if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of or interest on any Securities of
such series because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the
rights of Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government
Obligations held by the Trustee or the Paying Agent.
ARTICLE XIV
SUBORDINATION
Section 1401.
Agreement to Subordinate
Each of the Issuers agrees, and each Holder by accepting a Security agrees, that the
Indebtedness evidenced by the Securities is subordinated in right of payment, to the extent and in
the manner provided in this Article XIV, to the prior payment of all Senior Indebtedness, and that
such subordination is for the benefit of and enforceable by the holders of Senior Indebtedness.
Only indebtedness of the Issuers that is Senior Indebtedness shall rank senior to the Securities in
accordance with the provisions set forth herein. All provisions of this Article XIV shall be
subject to Section 1412.
Section 1402.
Liquidation, Dissolution, Bankruptcy
Upon any payment or distribution of the assets of either of the Issuers to creditors upon a
total or partial liquidation or a total or partial dissolution of such Issuers or in a bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding relating to the either of the
Issuers
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or their respective properties: (1) holders of Senior Indebtedness shall be entitled to
receive payment in full of the Senior Indebtedness before the Holders of Securities shall be
entitled to receive any payment of principal of or interest on or other amounts with respect to the
Securities; and (2) until the Senior Indebtedness is paid in full, any distribution to which the
Holders of Securities would be entitled but for this Article XIV shall be made to holders of Senior
Indebtedness as their interests may appear, except that Holders of Securities may receive shares of
stock and any debt securities that are subordinated to Senior Indebtedness to at least the same
extent as the Securities and do not provide for the payment of principal prior to the Stated
Maturity of all Senior Indebtedness.
Section 1403.
Default on Senior Indebtedness
The Issuers may not pay the principal of or interest on or other amounts with respect to the
Securities, make any deposit pursuant to Section 1003 or repurchase, redeem or otherwise retire any
Securities (collectively, pay the Securities) if (i) any Senior Indebtedness is not paid when due
or (ii) any other default on Senior Indebtedness occurs and the maturity of such Senior
Indebtedness is accelerated in accordance with its terms unless, in either case, (x) the default
has been cured or waived and any such acceleration has been rescinded or (y) such Senior
Indebtedness has been paid in full; provided, however, that the Issuers may pay the Securities
without regard to the foregoing if the Issuers and the Trustee receive written notice approving
such payment from the Representatives of the Senior Indebtedness with respect to which either of
the events set forth in clause (i) or (ii) of the immediately preceding sentence has occurred or is
continuing. During the continuance of any default (other than a default described in clause (i) or
(ii) of the preceding sentence) with respect to any Senior Indebtedness, pursuant to which the
maturity thereof may be accelerated immediately without further notice (except such notice as may
be required to effect such acceleration) or the expiration of any applicable grace periods, the
Issuers may not pay the Securities for a period (a Payment Blockage Period) commencing upon the
receipt by the Trustee (with a copy to the Issuers) of written notice (a Blockage Notice) of such
default from the Representative of such Senior Indebtedness specifying an election to effect a
Payment Blockage Period and ending 179 days thereafter (or earlier if such Payment Blockage Period
is terminated (i) by written notice to the Trustee and the Issuers from the Person or Persons who
gave such Blockage Notice, (ii) by repayment in full of such Senior Indebtedness, or (iii) because
the default giving rise to such Blockage Notice is no longer continuing). Notwithstanding the
provisions described in the immediately preceding sentence (but subject to the provisions contained
in the first sentence of this Section), unless the holders of such Senior Indebtedness or the
Representative of such holders shall have accelerated the maturity of such Senior Indebtedness, the
Issuers may resume payments on the Securities after such Payment Blockage Period. Not more than
one Blockage Notice may be given in any consecutive 360-day period, irrespective of the number of
defaults with respect to Senior Indebtedness during such period.
Section 1404.
Acceleration of Payment of Securities
If payment of the Securities is accelerated because of an Event of Default, the Issuers or the
Trustee shall promptly notify the holders of the Senior Indebtedness (or their Representatives) of
the acceleration. If any Senior Indebtedness is outstanding, the Issuers may not pay the
Securities until five Business Days after Representatives of the Senior Indebtedness
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receive notice of such acceleration and, thereafter, may pay the Securities only if this
Article XIV otherwise permits payments at that time.
Section 1405.
When Distributions Must Be Paid Over
If a distribution is made to the Holders of Securities that because of this Article XIV should
not have been made to them, the Holders of Securities who receive the distribution shall hold it in
trust for holders of Senior Indebtedness and pay it over to them as their interests may appear.
Section 1406.
Subrogation
After all Senior Indebtedness is paid in full and until the Securities are paid in full,
Holders of Securities shall be subrogated to the rights of holders of Senior Indebtedness to
receive distributions applicable to Senior Indebtedness. A distribution made under this Article
XIV to holders of Senior Indebtedness which otherwise would have been made to Holders of Securities
is not, as between the Issuers and Holders of Securities, a payment by the Issuers on Senior
Indebtedness.
Section 1407.
Relative Rights
This Article XIV defines the relative rights of Holders of Securities and holders of Senior
Indebtedness. Nothing in this Indenture shall: (1) impair, as between the Issuers and Holders of
Securities, the obligation of the Issuers, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay principal of
and interest on the Securities in accordance with their terms; or (2) prevent the Trustee or any
Holder of Securities from exercising its available remedies upon an Event of Default, subject to
the rights of holders of Senior Indebtedness to receive distributions otherwise payable to Holders
of Securities.
Section 1408.
Subordination May Not Be Impaired by Issuers
No right of any holder of Senior Indebtedness to enforce the subordination of the indebtedness
evidenced by the Securities shall be impaired by any act or failure to act by the Issuers or by the
failure of the Issuers to comply with this Indenture.
Section 1409.
Rights of Trustee and Paying Agent
Notwithstanding Section 1403, the Trustee or Paying Agent may continue to make payments on the
Securities and shall not be charged with knowledge of the existence of facts that would prohibit
the making of any such payments unless, not less than two Business Days prior to the date of such
payment, a trust officer of the Trustee receives notice satisfactory to it that payments may not be
made under this Article XIV. The Issuers, the Registrar or co- registrar, the Paying Agent, a
Representative or a holder of Senior Indebtedness may give the notice; provided, however, that, if
a Holder of Senior Indebtedness has a Representative, only the Representative may give the notice.
The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may hold Senior Indebtedness with the same
rights it would have if it were not Trustee. The Registrar and co-registrar and the Paying Agent
may do the same with like rights. The Trustee shall be entitled to all the rights set forth in
this Article XIV with respect to any Senior Indebtedness, which may
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at any time be held by it, to the same extent as any other holder of Senior Indebtedness; and
nothing in Article VI shall deprive the Trustee of any of its rights as such holder. Nothing in
this Article XIV shall apply to claims of, or payments to, the Trustee under or pursuant to Article
VI.
Section 1410.
Distribution of Notice to Representative
Whenever a distribution is to be made or a notice given to holders of Senior Indebtedness, the
distribution may be made and the notice given to their Representatives (if any).
Section 1411.
Article XIV Not to Prevent Events of Default or Limit Rights to Accelerate
The failure to make a payment pursuant to the Securities by reason of any provision in this
Article XIV shall not be construed as preventing the occurrence of an Event of Default. Nothing in
this Article XIV shall have any effect on the right of the Holders of Securities or the Trustee to
accelerate the maturity of the Securities.
Section 1412.
Trust Moneys Not Subordinated
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, payments from money or the proceeds
of U.S. government obligations held in trust under Section 1003 by the Trustee for the payment of
principal of and interest on the Securities shall not be subordinated to the prior payment of any
Senior Indebtedness, or subject to the restrictions set forth in this Article XIV, and none of the
Holders of Securities shall be obligated to pay over any such amount to the Issuers, or any holder
of Senior Indebtedness of the Issuers or any other creditor of the Issuers.
Section 1413.
Trustee Entitled to Rely
Upon any payment or distribution pursuant to this Article XIV, the Trustee and the Holders of
Securities shall be entitled to rely (i) upon any order or decree of a court of competent
jurisdiction in which any proceedings of the nature referred to in Section 1402 are pending, (ii)
upon a certificate of the liquidating trustee or agent or other Person making such payment or
distribution to the Trustee or to the Holders of Securities or (iii) upon the Representatives for
the holders of Senior Indebtedness for the purpose of ascertaining the Persons entitled to
participate in such payment or distribution, the holders of the Senior Indebtedness, and other
indebtedness of the Issuers, the amount thereof or payable thereon, the amount or amounts paid or
distributed thereon and all other facts pertinent thereto or to this Article XIV. In the event
that the Trustee determines, in good faith, that evidence is required with respect to the right of
any Person as a holder of Senior Indebtedness to participate in any payment or distribution
pursuant to this Article XIV, the Trustee may request such Person to furnish evidence to the
reasonable satisfaction of the Trustee as to the amount of Senior Indebtedness held by such Person,
the extent to which such Person is entitled to participate in such payment or distribution and
other facts pertinent to the rights of such Person under this Article XIV, and, if such evidence is
not furnished, the Trustee may defer any payment to such Person pending judicial determination as
to the right of such Person to receive such payment.
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Section 1414.
Trustee to Effectuate Subordination
Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security authorizes and directs the Trustee on his
behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to acknowledge or effectuate the
subordination between the Holders of Securities and the holders of Senior Indebtedness as provided
in this Article XIV and appoints the Trustee as attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.
Section 1415.
Trustee Not Fiduciary for Holders of Senior Indebtedness
The Trustee shall not be deemed to owe any fiduciary duty to the holders of Senior
Indebtedness and shall not be liable to any such holders if it shall mistakenly pay over or
distribute to Holders of Securities, the Issuers or any other Person, money or assets to which any
holders of Senior Indebtedness shall be entitled by virtue of this Article XIV or otherwise.
Section 1416.
Reliance by Holders of Senior Indebtedness
Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security acknowledges and agrees that the foregoing
subordination provisions are, and are intended to be, an inducement and a consideration to each
holder of any Senior Indebtedness, whether such Senior Indebtedness was created or acquired before
or after the issuance of the Securities, to acquire and continue to hold, or to continue to hold,
such Senior Indebtedness, and such holder of Senior Indebtedness shall be deemed conclusively to
have relied on such subordination provisions in acquiring and continuing to hold, or in continuing
to hold, such Senior Indebtedness.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed in
multiple counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which shall together constitute but one and the same instrument, all as of the day and year first
above written.
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FERRELLGAS, L.P.
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By:
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Ferrellgas, Inc.,
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its General Partner
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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By:
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Name:
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Title:
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