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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 24, 2009

Registration No. 333-162184

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO

FORM S-11

FOR REGISTRATION UNDER

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OF SECURITIES

OF CERTAIN REAL ESTATE COMPANIES

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Governing Instruments)

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

(201) 970-2559

(Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrant’s Principal Executive Offices)

Douglas W. Vicari, Chief Financial Officer

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

(201) 970-2559

(Name, Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Agent for Service)

Copies to:

 

James E. Showen, Esq.

Kevin L. Vold, Esq.

Hogan & Hartson LLP

555 Thirteenth Street, N.W.

Washington, DC 20004

Phone: (202) 637-5600

Facsimile: (202) 637-5910

 

Jay L. Bernstein, Esq.

Andrew S. Epstein, Esq.

Clifford Chance US LLP

31 West 52 nd Street

New York, NY 10019-6131

Phone: (212) 878-8000

Facsimile: (212) 878-8375

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:     As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.

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, check the following box.   ¨

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.   ¨

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(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.   ¨

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.   ¨

If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434, check the following box.   ¨

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. (Check One):

 

Large accelerated filer  ¨   Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer  þ   Smaller reporting company  ¨
(do not check if a 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.

 

 

 


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The information in this preliminary 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 preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and we are not soliciting offers to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale of the securities is not permitted.

 

Subject to Completion, dated November 24, 2009

Prospectus

12,500,000 Common Shares of Beneficial Interest

 

LOGO      CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

Chesapeake Lodging Trust is a recently-formed, self-advised hotel investment company that was organized to take advantage of current and future lodging-related investment opportunities.

This is our initial public offering, or IPO, of our common shares of beneficial interest, or common shares. No public market currently exists for our common shares. All of the shares offered by this prospectus are being sold by us.

We have applied to list our common shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CHSP.” We expect the IPO price of our common shares to be $20.00 per share.

Concurrently with the offering, in separate private placements, we will sell (1) up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares, to Hyatt Hotels Corporation or its affiliates, or Hyatt, and (2) up to 9.8% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $25 million of our common shares, to an institutional fund advised by BAMCO, Inc. on behalf of its investment advisory client, the Baron Small Cap Fund, or Baron, in each case, excluding common shares that may be sold pursuant to the underwriters’ overallotment option, and at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%. We also will sell an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to our non-executive Chairman, our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary at the public offering price shown below.

We intend to elect and qualify to be taxed as a real estate investment trust, or REIT, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. To assist us in qualifying as a REIT, shareholders are generally restricted from owning more than 9.8% by value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of our outstanding common or preferred shares of beneficial interest. See “Description of shares of beneficial interest—Restrictions on ownership and transfer.”

See “ Risk factors ” beginning on page 11 of this prospectus for certain risk factors relevant to an investment in our common shares, including, among others:

 

 

We have no operating history and may not be able to successfully operate our business or generate sufficient operating cash flows to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that we will be able to invest the proceeds of the offering on acceptable terms, or at all.

 

 

We currently own no properties and have not committed any portion of the net proceeds of the offering to any specific acquisition, making this a blind pool investment opportunity. Investors will not be able to evaluate the economic merits of any acquisitions we make with the net proceeds of the offering. In addition, we can change our investment policy at any time without seeking approval from our shareholders.

 

 

Failure of the U.S. economy and the lodging industry to improve may adversely affect our ability to execute our business plan. There can be no assurance as to whether, or when, lodging industry fundamentals will in fact improve, or to what extent they will improve.

 

 

Our failure to qualify as a REIT would have significant adverse consequences to us, the value of our common shares and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

 

 

While we intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties, our governing documents contain no limitations on the amount of debt we may incur, and our board of trustees may change our financing policy at any time without shareholder approval.

 

 

We depend on the efforts and expertise of our president and chief executive officer and our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary to manage our day-to-day operations and strategic business direction. The loss of their services, and our inability to find suitable replacements, could have an adverse effect on our operations.

 

       Per Share    Total

Public offering price

   $                 $                         

Underwriting discount (1)

   $      $  

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $      $  

 

(1)   The underwriters will be entitled to receive $         per share from us at closing. The underwriters will forego the receipt of payment of $         per share, subject to the following. We will agree to pay the $        per share to the underwriters when the capital deployment hurdle (as described herein) is satisfied. If this requirement is not satisfied, the aggregate underwriting discount paid by us, based on $        per share (or         % of the public offering price) would be $        . The underwriting discount excludes a discretionary structuring fee, payable in our sole discretion only upon satisfaction of the capital deployment hurdle, of $        , or         % of the public offering price in the aggregate, to J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. See “Underwriting.”

The underwriters may also purchase up to an additional 1,875,000 common shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, within 30 days from the date of this prospectus solely to cover overallotments, if any.

The underwriters are offering our common shares as described in “Underwriting.” We expect to deliver the common shares on or about                     , 2009.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission 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.

Joint Book-Running Managers

 

J.P. Morgan   Deutsche Bank Securities

Lead-Manager

FBR Capital Markets

Co-Managers

KeyBanc Capital Markets

 

Baird  

 

JMP Securities

The date of this prospectus is                     , 2009.

 


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Table of contents

 

     Page

Prospectus summary

   1

Risk factors

   11

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

   34

Use of proceeds

   36

Capitalization

   38

Distribution policy

   39

U.S. lodging industry

   40

Our business

   44

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations

   57

Management

   63

Investment policies and policies with respect to certain activities

   79

Prior Performance of Highland Hospitality Corporation

   83

Principal shareholders

   89

Certain relationships and related transactions

   90

Description of shares of beneficial interest

   91

Shares eligible for future sale

   96

Certain provisions of Maryland law and of our declaration of trust and bylaws

   98

Partnership agreement

   103

Material U.S. federal income tax considerations

   108

ERISA considerations

   141

Underwriting

   143

Experts

   149

Legal matters

   149

Where you can find more information

   149

Reports to shareholders

   149

Index to financial statements

   F-1

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus, any free writing prospectus prepared by us or information to which we have referred you. We have not, and the underwriters have not, authorized anyone to provide you with additional information or information different from that contained in this prospectus. We are offering to sell, and seeking offers to buy, our common shares only in jurisdictions where offers and sales are permitted. The information contained in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date of this prospectus, regardless of the time of delivery of this prospectus or of any sale of our common shares.

Through and including                     , 2009 (the 25th day after the date of this prospectus), all dealers that effect transactions in our common shares, whether or not participating in the offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealers’ obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as underwriters and with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.


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Prospectus summary

The following summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary is not complete and does not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in our common shares. You should read the entire prospectus, including “Risk factors,” before making a decision to invest in our common shares. In this prospectus, references to “our company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” mean Chesapeake Lodging Trust and our subsidiaries, and references to our “operating partnership” mean Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. Unless otherwise indicated, the information contained in this prospectus assumes (1) the sale of 12,500,000 common shares in the offering at $20.00 per share, (2) the sale in concurrent private placements to Hyatt and Baron of up to 4.9% and 9.8%, respectively, of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, in each case, at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%, (3) the sale of an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers at the IPO price per share and (4) no exercise by the underwriters of their overallotment option to purchase up to an additional 1,875,000 common shares.

Overview

We are a self-advised hotel investment company organized in June 2009. We intend to focus our investments primarily in upper upscale hotels in major business, airport and convention markets and, on a selective basis, in premium select-service hotels in urban settings or unique locations in the United States. We believe current industry dynamics will create attractive opportunities to acquire high quality hotel properties, at prices well below replacement costs, with attractive yields on investment and significant upside potential.

Our senior executive officers have extensive experience in the lodging industry, including the acquisition, development, financing, repositioning, asset management and disposition of hotels. This experience includes founding Highland Hospitality Corporation, or Highland, and leading its IPO and related formation transactions in 2003. Following the IPO, our senior executive officers served as chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Highland until its sale in July 2007. In addition to their service with Highland, our senior executive officers have held senior management and executive positions at several other publicly traded lodging companies such as Crestline Capital Corporation, Marriott International, Inc., Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. and Prime Hospitality Corporation.

We do not own any properties and have no agreement to acquire any property at this time. However, our senior executive officers have established and maintained a broad network of hotel industry contacts, including long-standing relationships with hotel owners, independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers and institutional investors that we believe will provide us with attractive acquisition opportunities. In addition, we have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt that we believe will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy by potentially providing us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities.

Upon completion of the offering, the concurrent private placements to Hyatt, Baron, our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers, and the related formation transactions described in this prospectus, we expect to have approximately $             million in cash available to

 

 

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execute our strategy. We also expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties.

We intend to elect and qualify to be treated as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, commencing with our taxable year ending December 31, 2009.

Our team

The founding members of our management team are James L. Francis, our president and chief executive officer, and Douglas W. Vicari, our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary. These senior executive officers have extensive experience in the lodging industry, including the acquisition, development, financing, repositioning, asset management and disposition of hotels. In these roles, our senior executive officers have participated in numerous lodging-related transactions and assumed significant management responsibilities. This experience includes:

 

 

hotel investments, including single property and portfolio acquisitions;

 

 

hotel and company level financings, such as single property and portfolio debt financings, including loans included in securitized transactions, public debt offerings, public and private equity offerings and corporate credit facilities;

 

 

hotel dispositions, including single property, portfolio and company dispositions; and

 

 

asset management, including extensive renovation and repositioning programs, as well as re-branding or changing hotel management of select properties.

Competitive strengths

We believe the following competitive strengths distinguish us from other owners, acquirors and investors in hotel properties:

Experienced management team :    A veteran management team with substantial lodging industry experience will enable us to effectively implement our business strategy by evaluating investment opportunities and deploying capital in hotels that provide attractive long-term returns. Our senior executive officers have previously worked together for a number of years and have extensive experience, having served as executives in several publicly traded lodging companies, including Highland, Marriott International, Inc., Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc., Crestline Capital Corporation and Prime Hospitality Corporation.

Extensive industry relationships :    Our senior management team has established and maintained a broad network of hotel industry contacts, including long-standing relationships with hotel owners, independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers, institutional investors and other key industry participants. We believe these broad industry relationships will potentially provide us with a valuable source of hotel property investment opportunities.

Growth oriented capital structure with no legacy issues :    We believe that many institutional buyers of hotel assets will be constrained in their ability to make acquisitions over the next several years as they address the adverse effects of both a highly leveraged capital structure and

 

 

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declining operating performance on their existing portfolio. Unlike many of these potential buyers, we will be well capitalized, with no near-term debt maturities, liquidity constraints or distressed assets limiting our management’s focus or ability to acquire assets. Following the offering, the concurrent private placements and the related formation transactions, we will have $             million of equity capital to execute our strategy.

Proven acquisition and disposition capabilities :    Throughout their careers, our senior executive officers have pursued investment strategies that include acquiring, developing, financing, repositioning and selling hotel properties. While our chief executive officer and chief financial officer worked together at Highland from its IPO in 2003 until its sale in 2007, Highland invested in 30 hotel properties with over 9,000 rooms.

Strategic relationship with Hyatt :    We have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt, a global hospitality company with widely recognized, industry leading brands. We believe this relationship, as well as Hyatt’s strong brands and excellent hotel management services, will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy and potentially provide us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities. In addition, concurrently with the offering, we will sell to Hyatt up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding after the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares. We believe that this equity stake will serve to align Hyatt’s interests with ours and may provide added incentive to help us to execute our business strategy. For a full description of our agreement with Hyatt, see “Our business—Relationship with Hyatt.”

U.S. lodging industry

Historically, the lodging industry in the United States has been cyclical in nature. Generally, lodging industry performance correlates with macroeconomic conditions in the United States. Fluctuations in lodging demand and, therefore, operating performance, are caused largely by general economic and local market conditions, which affect levels of business and leisure travel. Recovery in lodging demand has generally lagged improvement in the overall economy. In addition to general economic and local market conditions, new hotel room supply has the potential to further exacerbate the negative impact of an economic recession. Lodging supply growth is typically driven by overall lodging demand, as extended periods of strong demand growth tend to encourage new hotel development. However, the rate of supply growth is also influenced by a number of additional factors, including availability and cost of capital, construction costs and local market considerations.

Beginning in 2008, the U.S. lodging industry began experiencing a significant downturn due to a decline in consumer and business spending as a result of the overall weakness in the economy, particularly the turmoil in the credit markets, erosion of consumer confidence and increasing unemployment. As a result, lodging demand from both leisure and business travelers decreased significantly in 2008 and through the second quarter of 2009. This decreased demand for hotel rooms, together with recent modest increases in hotel supply, resulted in declines in occupancy and reductions in room rates as hotels competed more aggressively for guests. These events have had a substantial negative impact on revenue per available room, or RevPAR, which is the product of average daily rate, or ADR, and occupancy, and is one of the key performance indicators used in the lodging industry. According to HVS, the industry outlook indicates these trends are expected to continue for 2009, with RevPAR forecasted to decline 16.1% for the full

 

 

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year, a significantly larger decline than the two most recent lodging industry downturns in 1991 and 2001/2002. In addition, HVS forecasts a continued modest decline for 2010 annual RevPAR, however we expect lodging industry performance and, in particular, RevPAR to begin improving in the second half of 2010 due to increased demand given the forecasted resumption in growth of the U.S. economy. As a result, 2011 is expected to be the first full year of RevPAR growth and this improvement in industry performance is expected to accelerate for several years following 2011.

Market opportunity

We believe the next several years will present opportunities to acquire hotels during the most attractive investment environment in our senior executive officers’ 20-plus year professional careers. During the last several years, pricing of hotel properties in the United States appreciated well in excess of the properties’ underlying performance, primarily driven by record levels of debt financing. Over the past 18 months, a significant correction in the price of hotel properties has been underway, primarily as a result of the impact of the economic downturn on the lodging industry. In addition, due to the widely publicized credit crisis, the market for commercial mortgage backed securities, or CMBS, is virtually closed, and many traditional real estate lenders such as national and regional banks and insurance companies have seen their balance sheets impaired, resulting in a severe contraction in available debt financing for hotel properties. We believe the combined effects of the severe decline in hotel operating performance, the lack of available debt financing from traditional real estate lenders and the decline in hotel property valuations (in some cases below current debt balances), will yield a high level of foreclosures, restructurings and distressed hotel asset sales from a range of sellers, including national and regional banks, insurance companies, private equity funds, real estate mezzanine debt investors, hotel owners and CMBS special servicers. We expect to be well positioned to capitalize on these opportunities to acquire hotel properties at deep discounts to replacement cost as a result of our liquidity and our senior executive officers’ acquisition experience.

Our strategy

We believe the following investment criteria and strategy will promote the growth of our company and our ability to deliver strong total returns to our shareholders:

External growth .    We intend to focus our investments primarily in upper upscale hotels in major business, airport and convention markets and, on a selective basis, in premium select-service hotels in urban settings or unique locations in the United States. Within this target sector, we will pursue investment opportunities primarily in hotel properties operating under national franchise brands with which our executive officers have existing relationships such as Hyatt ® , Hyatt Regency ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Renaissance ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® . In some instances, we will invest in premium select-service brands such as Hyatt Place ® , Courtyard by Marriott ® and Hilton Garden Inn ® or boutique hotels (unbranded) located in urban settings or unique locations. We will seek to acquire hotel properties primarily located in markets with high barriers to entry due to high land costs and limited land availability in the top 25 U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas, or MSAs. For a description of the top 25 MSAs, see “Our business—Top 25 metropolitan statistical areas.” We do not plan to acquire hotel properties outside the United States. We also will consider investments in hotel properties that would benefit from re-branding, renovation or a

 

 

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change in hotel property management. We believe our target investments will offer the opportunity for stronger returns than hotels in other sectors of the industry.

Internal growth .    We intend to aggressively asset manage the hotel properties we acquire by employing value-added strategies (such as re-branding, renovating or changing hotel management) designed to improve the operating performance and value of our hotels. We will not operate our hotel properties, but intend to engage reputable independent or brand management companies to operate our hotels. We intend to structure our hotel management agreements to allow us to closely monitor the performance of our hotels and to ensure, among other things, that our managers: (1) implement an approved business and marketing plan, (2) implement a disciplined capital expenditure program and (3) establish and prudently spend appropriate furniture, fixtures and equipment reserves.

Hotel industry segments

Smith Travel Research, Inc., a leading source of lodging industry information, classifies the hotel industry into the following chain scales, as determined by each brand’s average system-wide daily rates: luxury, upper upscale, upscale, midscale with food and beverage, midscale without food and beverage and economy. The category of “luxury” includes hotel brands such as Park Hyatt ® , Four Seasons ® , Mandarin Oriental ® , Ritz-Carlton ® , St. Regis ® and W Hotels ® ; the category of “upper upscale” includes hotel brands such as Hyatt ® , Hyatt Regency ® , Grand Hyatt ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Renaissance ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® ; and the category of “upscale” includes hotels such as Hyatt Place ® , Courtyard by Marriott ® , Hilton Garden Inn ® , Residence Inn by Marriott ® and Wyndham ® .

“Full-service” hotels generally have a restaurant, lounge facilities and a meeting space as well as minimum service levels often including bell service and room service. “Select-service” hotels have limited food and beverage outlets and do not offer comprehensive business or banquet facilities, but rather are suited to serve smaller business meetings.“Extended-stay” hotels are hotels generally designed to accommodate guests staying for extended periods of time and typically provide rooms with fully equipped kitchens, entertainment systems, office spaces with computer and telephone lines, access to fitness centers and other amenities.

Summary risk factors

You should carefully consider the matters discussed in the “Risk factors” section beginning on page 11 of this prospectus prior to deciding whether to invest in our common shares. Some of these risks include:

 

 

We have no operating history and may not be able to successfully operate our business or generate sufficient operating cash flows to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that we will be able to invest the proceeds of the offering on acceptable terms, or at all.

 

 

We currently own no properties and have not committed any portion of the net proceeds of the offering to any specific acquisition, making this a blind pool investment opportunity. Investors will not be able to evaluate the economic merits of any acquisitions we make with the net proceeds of the offering. In addition, we can change our investment policy at any time without seeking approval from our shareholders.

 

 

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Failure of the US economy and the lodging industry to improve may adversely affect our ability to execute our business plan, generate revenues, attain profitability and make distributions to our shareholders, as well as adversely affect the market price of our common shares. There can be no assurance as to whether, or when, lodging industry fundamentals will in fact improve, or to what extent they will improve.

 

 

Our failure to qualify as a REIT would have significant adverse consequences to us, the value of our common shares and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

 

 

While we intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties, our governing documents contain no limitations on the amount of debt we may incur, and our board of trustees may change our financing policy at any time without shareholder approval. Debt service obligations may reduce cash available for distribution to shareholders, operations, capital expenditures and future business purposes.

 

 

We depend on the efforts and expertise of our president and chief executive officer and our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary to manage our day-to-day operations and strategic business direction. The loss of their services, and our inability to find suitable replacements, could have an adverse effect on our operations.

 

 

Because our senior executive officers will have broad discretion to invest the proceeds of the offering, they may make investments where the returns are substantially below expectations or which result in net operating losses.

 

 

Our ability to maintain distributions to our shareholders is subject to fluctuations in our financial performance, operating results and capital improvements requirements.

 

 

Until our portfolio of assets generates sufficient income and cash flow, we may be required to use proceeds from future equity or debt offerings, sell assets or borrow funds to make quarterly distributions to our shareholders.

 

 

Our returns depend on effective management of our hotels by third parties.

Formation transactions

We refer to the following series of transactions as our formation transactions:

 

 

We will sell 12,500,000 common shares in the offering (plus up to an additional 1,875,000 common shares upon the exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option).

 

 

Concurrently with the offering, in separate private placements, we will sell (1) up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares, to Hyatt, and (2) up to 9.8% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $25 million of our common shares, to Baron, in each case, excluding common shares that may be sold pursuant to the underwriters’ overallotment option, and at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%. We also will sell an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to our non-executive chairman, our president and chief executive officer and our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary at the IPO price per share. We will enter into registration rights agreements with each of Hyatt and Baron pursuant to which we

 

 

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will agree to register the resale of their respective common shares upon their request made no earlier than six months from the closing of the offering. Hyatt and Baron and their respective permitted transferees also will possess customary piggyback registration rights under these agreements. See “Shares eligible for future sale — Registration rights.” The closing of the concurrent private placements is expected to occur on the same day as the offering and is contingent upon the completion of the offering. The offering is not contingent upon the closing of the concurrent private placements.

 

 

We will contribute the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements referred to above to our operating partnership. We will act as sole general partner of our operating partnership.

 

 

We will repay a $249,000 loan from Messrs. Francis and Vicari, plus accrued interest, the proceeds of which we used to fund our operating costs and certain costs of the offering, and we will repurchase the shares purchased by each of them in connection with our initial capitalization for aggregate consideration of $1,000, at the same price they paid for these shares.

Benefits to affiliates

 

 

Approximately $250,000 of the net proceeds from the offering will be used to repay loans and accrued interest from Messrs. Francis and Vicari, the proceeds of which we used to fund our operating costs and the costs of the offering.

 

 

Upon completion of the offering, we will repurchase the shares currently held by Messrs. Francis and Vicari at the same price they paid to acquire those shares in connection with our initial capitalization, representing an aggregate of $1,000.

 

 

The total shares granted to our executive officers and non-executive trustees upon completion of the offering will be adjusted so that the total number of shares granted (both time-based and performance-based) will be equal to approximately 2.5% of the total number of shares sold in the IPO plus the total number of shares sold in the concurrent private placements. Assuming the sale of 12,500,000 shares at a price of $20.00 per share in this offering and the sale of an aggregate of 2,200,092 additional shares in the concurrent private placements, we expect to grant 153,000 time-based restricted shares to Mr. Francis, 102,000 time-based restricted shares to Mr. Vicari and 40,000 time-based restricted shares to D. Rick Adams, our senior vice president and chief investment officer, with such shares having an approximate value of $3,060,000, $2,040,000 and $800,000 respectively. The restrictions on the shares will lapse at the rate of one-third of the number of shares per year commencing on the first anniversary of the closing of the offering. Dividends will be paid on the time-based restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally. In addition, under these same assumptions, we expect to grant 40,000 performance-based restricted shares to Mr. Francis and 25,000 performance-based restricted shares to Mr. Vicari. The restrictions on these shares will lapse upon our achievement of specified performance metrics. Dividends will accrue on performance-based restricted shares that remain subject to vesting, but will only be paid if the shares vest.

 

 

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Our structure

In order for the income from our hotel operations to constitute “rents from real property” for purposes of the gross income test required for REIT qualification, we cannot directly operate any of our hotels. Instead, we must lease our hotels. Accordingly, we will lease each of our hotels to a taxable REIT subsidiary, or TRS, which will be wholly owned by our operating partnership, which initially will be wholly-owned by us. Our TRS will pay rent to us that can qualify as “rents from real property,” provided that the TRS engages an “eligible independent contractor” to manage our hotels. Our TRS will be subject to corporate level income taxes. In connection with each acquisition, we expect our TRS will engage a qualified hotel management company to manage the hotel or hotels we acquire.

The following chart shows the structure of our company following completion of the offering, the concurrent private placements and the grants to be made upon completion of the offering under our Equity Plan:

LOGO

 

*   Investment includes an aggregate of 150,000 shares purchased by our non-executive chairman and certain executive officers in concurrent private placements. Grant includes 368,500 shares granted under our Equity Plan to our executive officers and trustees.

 

 

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The offering

 

Common shares offered

12,500,000 shares (plus up to an additional 1,875,000 common shares upon the exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option)

 

Common shares to be outstanding upon completion of the offering

15,068,592 shares (1)(2)

 

Use of proceeds

We intend to use approximately $250,000 of the net proceeds from the offering and the concurrent private placements to repay Messrs. Francis and Vicari for loans and accrued interest, which funded our operating costs and costs related to the offering, and to repurchase the shares acquired by them in connection with our initial capitalization. We intend to use the remaining net proceeds to fund acquisitions of hotel properties and to cover our working capital needs in a manner consistent with our investment strategy. See “Use of proceeds.”

 

Distribution policy

We intend over time to make quarterly distributions to holders of our common shares out of our earnings. To maintain our qualification as a REIT, we intend to make annual distributions to our shareholders of at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, subject to certain adjustments and excluding net capital gains (which does not necessarily equal net income as calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP). The timing and frequency of distributions will be authorized by our board of trustees and declared by us based upon a variety of factors deemed relevant by our trustees. Our ability to pay distributions to our shareholders will depend, in part, upon our receipt of rent payments with respect to our properties from our TRS and the management of our hotel properties and the hotel management companies that our TRS will engage to operate our hotels. Distributions to our shareholders generally will be taxable to our shareholders as ordinary income; however, because our initial investment strategy is to acquire hotel properties for cash, which will result in depreciation and non-cash charges against our income, a portion of our distributions may constitute a tax-free return of capital. Subject to maintaining our qualification as a REIT, our TRS may retain any after-tax earnings. See “Distribution policy.”

 

Proposed New York Stock Exchange symbol

“CHSP”

 

Risk factors

Investing in our common shares involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully read and consider the information set forth under the heading “Risk factors” beginning on page 11 of this prospectus and other information included in this prospectus.

 

 

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(1)   Excludes (i) up to 1,875,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option and (ii) 366,505 shares issuable in the future under the Chesapeake Lodging Trust Equity Plan, or the Equity Plan.

 

(2)  

Includes (i) common shares issued to Hyatt and Baron of up to 4.9% and 9.8%, respectively, of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, (ii) 150,000 common shares issued to our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers and (iii) 368,500 restricted common shares granted under our Equity Plan to our executive officers and trustees concurrently with the closing of the offering.

Corporate information

We were organized June 12, 2009 as a Maryland real estate investment trust under the name Crown Hospitality Trust, and we changed our name to Chesapeake Lodging Trust, effective September 23, 2009. We have no operating history, and we have not committed any portion of the net proceeds of the offering or the concurrent private placements to any specific investment. Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. is our operating partnership that will own all of our assets and conduct our operations, and which initially will be wholly owned by us.

We intend to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes prior to the completion of the offering and to elect to and qualify to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, commencing with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2009. REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement that they currently distribute at least 90% of their taxable income (excluding net capital gains). If we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on that portion of our ordinary income or net capital gain that is currently distributed to our shareholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to U.S. federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. Even if we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we may be subject to certain U.S., foreign, state and local taxes on our income and property and to U.S. federal income and excise taxes on our undistributed income and certain other categories of income, and our TRS will be a fully taxable corporation, subject to U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax, if applicable, on their income.

Our corporate offices are located at 710 Route 46 East, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004. Our telephone number is (201) 970-2559. We maintain a website at www.chesapeakelodgingtrust.com. Our reference to our website is intended to be an inactive textual reference only. Information contained on our website is not, and should not be interpreted to be, part of this prospectus.

Historical performance

Our senior executive officers served in similar capacities for Highland from its initial public offering in December 2003 through its sale in July 2007. The total return information presented under “Our business—Our team” and the tables under “Prior performance of Highland Hospitality Corporation” in this prospectus set forth information regarding the historical performance of Highland. The information about Highland’s historical performance is a reflection of the past performance of Highland and is not a guarantee or prediction of the returns that we may achieve in the future. This is especially true for us given the current conditions in the lodging industry. If those conditions do not improve, we likely will not be able to generate returns comparable to those produced by Highland. Accordingly, Highland’s historical returns should not be viewed as indicative of the performance of our strategy, and we can offer no assurance that we will replicate the historical performance of Highland. Our returns could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by Highland.

 

 

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Risk factors

An investment in our common shares involves significant risks. In addition to other information in this prospectus, you should carefully consider the following factors before investing in our common shares offered hereby. The occurrence of any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition, results of operations and our ability to make cash distributions to our shareholders, which could cause you to lose all or a significant part of your investment in our common shares. Some statements in this prospectus, including statements in the following risk factors, constitute forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements.”

Risks related to our business

We have no operating history and may not be able to successfully operate our business or generate sufficient operating cash flows to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders.

We were organized in June 2009 and have no operating history. We have no assets and will only commence operations upon completion of the offering. Our ability to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders will depend on many factors, including the availability of attractive acquisition opportunities that satisfy our investment strategies and our success in identifying and consummating them on favorable terms, the level and volatility of interest rates, readily accessible short-term and long-term financing on favorable terms and conditions in the financial markets, the real estate market and the economy, as to which no assurance can be given. In addition, we may face competition in acquiring attractive properties. We cannot assure you that we will be able to acquire properties with attractive returns or will not seek properties with greater risk to obtain the same level of returns or that the value of our properties in the future will not decline substantially. We also may not be able to successfully operate our business or implement our operating policies and strategies successfully. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that we will be able to generate sufficient operating cash flows to pay our operating expenses and make distributions to our shareholders.

We have not yet identified any specific properties to acquire and, therefore, you will be unable to evaluate the allocation of net proceeds from the offering and the concurrent private placements or the economic merits of our acquisitions prior to making an investment decision.

We have not yet identified any specific properties to acquire for our portfolio and, thus, you will be unable to evaluate the allocation of the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements or the economic merits of our acquisitions before making an investment decision with respect to our common shares. As a result, we may use the net proceeds from these offerings to make investments with which you may not agree. In addition, our investment policies may be amended or revised from time to time at the discretion of our board of trustees, without a vote of our shareholders. These factors will increase the uncertainty, and thus the risk, of investing in our common shares. The failure of our senior executive officers to apply these proceeds effectively or find suitable properties to acquire in a timely manner or on acceptable terms could result in returns that are substantially below expectations or result in losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

Until appropriate investments can be identified, our senior executive officers may invest the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements in interest-bearing short-term

 

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investments, including money market accounts and/or U.S. treasury securities, that are consistent with our intention to qualify as a REIT. These investments are expected to provide a lower net return than we will seek to achieve from acquisitions of our target assets. We may be unable to invest the remaining net proceeds on acceptable terms, or at all, which could delay shareholders receiving a return on their investment. Moreover, because we will not have identified these future investments at the time of the offering, we will have broad authority to invest the excess proceeds of the offering in any real estate investments that we may identify in the future.

We cannot assure you that we will be able to identify assets that meet our investment objectives, that we will be successful in consummating any investment opportunities we identify or that one or more investments we may make using the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements will generate revenue, income or cash flow. Although we intend to invest our proceeds in hotel properties in up to six months after the completion of the offering, we cannot assure you we will be able to do so. Our inability to do any of the foregoing likely would materially and adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

Because our senior executive officers will have broad discretion to invest the proceeds of the offering, they may make investments where the returns are substantially below expectations or which result in net operating losses.

Our senior executive officers will have broad discretion, within the general investment criteria established by our board of trustees, to invest the net proceeds of the offering and to determine the timing of such investment. In addition, our investment policies may be amended or revised from time to time at the discretion of our board of trustees, without a vote of our shareholders. Such discretion could result in investments that may not yield returns consistent with investors’ expectations.

Our success depends on key personnel whose continued service is not guaranteed.

We depend on the efforts and expertise of our president and chief executive officer and our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary to manage our day-to-day operations and strategic business direction. The loss of their services, and our inability to find suitable replacements, could have an adverse effect on our operations.

We may not succeed in managing our growth, in which case our financial results could be adversely affected.

Upon completion of the offering, Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams will be our only employees. Our ability to grow our business depends upon our senior executive officers’ business contacts and their ability to successfully hire, train, supervise and manage additional personnel. We may not be able to hire and train sufficient personnel or develop management, information and operating systems suitable for our expected growth. If we are unable to manage any future growth effectively, our operations and financial results could be adversely affected.

If Paramount Hotel Group is unable or unwilling to continue providing our technology platform and information systems, our business may be disrupted which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

We currently rely on the technology platform and information systems provided by Paramount Hotel Group, with which Mr. Vicari formerly served as principal. Paramount Hotel Group is under no obligation to continue providing such technological support to us for any period of time. Although we intend to establish our own information technology platform promptly after the

 

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completion of the offering, we may be unable to do so on the timeframe we expect. Without adequate access to technology, our business may be disrupted, which could cause us to incur added costs and divert the attention of management and thereby adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Failure of the lodging industry to exhibit improvement may adversely affect our ability to execute our business plan.

A substantial part of our business plan is based on our belief that the lodging markets in which we intend to invest will experience improving economic fundamentals in the future. In particular, our business strategy is dependent on our expectation, based on the HVS lodging industry outlook and forecast described in more detail under the caption “U.S. lodging industry” beginning on page 40 of this prospectus, that key industry performance indicators, especially RevPAR, will begin to improve in 2010 and industry performance will accelerate for several years following 2011. There can be no assurance as to whether, or when, lodging industry fundamentals will in fact improve or to what extent they improve. In the event conditions in the industry do not improve when and as we expect, or deteriorate, our ability to execute our business plan may be adversely affected.

If we fail to realize any benefits from our sourcing agreement with Hyatt, we may not be able to grow our business as rapidly as we prefer.

We consider Hyatt’s potential willingness to refer potential acquisition opportunities to us, in Hyatt’s sole discretion, to be an important component of our sourcing relationship with Hyatt. Under the terms of our agreement with it, however, Hyatt is not obligated to refer any of these opportunities to us. Moreover, although we are obligated to offer Hyatt the right to manage or franchise any unbranded properties we may acquire, nothing in our agreement requires Hyatt to accept any offer we make. As a result, we may not realize the benefits of this agreement in full or at all. Realizing fewer acquisition opportunities from Hyatt than we expect may slow the pace of our growth, which could adversely affect our financial performance.

Our returns could be negatively impacted if our third party hotel managers do not manage our properties in our best interests.

Since U.S. federal income tax laws restrict REITs and their subsidiaries from operating or managing a hotel, we will not operate or manage our hotels. Instead, we will lease substantially all of our hotels to subsidiaries of our “taxable REIT subsidiary” under applicable REIT laws, and our TRS, through its subsidiaries, will retain third-party managers to operate our hotels pursuant to management agreements. Our cash flow from the hotels may be adversely affected if our managers fail to provide quality services and amenities or if they or their affiliates fail to maintain a quality brand name. In addition, our hotel managers or their affiliates may manage, and in some cases may own, have invested in or provided credit support or operating guarantees to hotels that compete with our hotels, which may result in conflicts of interest. As a result, our hotel managers may make decisions regarding competing lodging facilities that are not or would not be in our best interests.

We will not have the authority to require any hotel to be operated in a particular manner or to govern any particular aspect of the daily operations of any hotel (for instance, setting room rates). Thus, even if we believe our hotels are being operated inefficiently or in a manner that does not result in satisfactory occupancy rates, RevPAR and ADR, we may not be able to force the management company to change its method of operation of our hotels. We generally will attempt

 

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to resolve issues with our managers through discussions and negotiations. However, if we are unable to reach satisfactory results through discussions and negotiations, we may choose to litigate the dispute or submit the matter to third-party dispute resolution. We can only seek redress if a management company violates the terms of the applicable management agreement with the TRS, and then only to the extent of the remedies provided for under the terms of the management agreement. In the event that we need to replace any of our management companies, we may be required by the terms of the management agreement to pay substantial termination fees and may experience significant disruptions at the affected hotels.

Funds spent to maintain franchisor operating standards or the loss of a franchise license may reduce cash available for shareholder distributions.

We expect that many of our hotels will operate under franchise agreements, and we may become subject to the risks that are found in concentrating our hotel properties in several franchise brands. These risks include reductions in business following negative publicity related to one of our brands.

The maintenance of the franchise licenses for our hotels is subject to our franchisors’ operating standards and other terms and conditions. We expect that our franchisors will periodically inspect the hotels that we acquire to ensure that we and our lessees and management companies follow their standards. Failure by us, our TRS or one of our management companies to maintain these standards or other terms and conditions could result in a franchise license being canceled. If a franchise license terminates due to our failure to make required improvements or to otherwise comply with its terms, we may also be liable to the franchisor for a termination payment, which will vary by franchisor and by hotel. As a condition of our continued holding of a franchise license, a franchisor could also possibly require us to make capital expenditures, even if we do not believe the capital improvements are necessary or desirable or will result in an acceptable return on our investment. Nonetheless, we may risk losing a franchise license if we do not make franchisor-required capital expenditures.

If a franchisor terminates the franchise license, we may try either to obtain a suitable replacement franchise or to operate the hotel without a franchise license. The loss of a franchise license could materially and adversely affect the operations or the underlying value of the hotel because of the loss of associated name recognition, marketing support and centralized reservation systems provided by the franchisor. A loss of a franchise license for one or more hotels could materially and adversely affect our revenues. This loss of revenues could, therefore, also adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to shareholders.

Our ability to maintain distributions to our shareholders is subject to fluctuations in our financial performance, operating results and capital improvements requirements.

As a REIT, we are required to distribute at least 90% of our taxable income (excluding net capital gains) each year to our shareholders. In the event of future downturns in our operating results and financial performance or unanticipated capital improvements to our hotels, including capital improvements which may be required by our franchisors, we may be unable to declare or pay distributions to our shareholders. The timing and amount of distributions are in the sole discretion of our board of trustees which will consider, among other factors, our financial performance, debt service obligations and debt covenants, and capital expenditure requirements. We cannot assure you that we will continue to generate sufficient cash in order to fund distributions.

 

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Among the factors which could adversely affect our results of operations and our distributions to shareholders are the failure of our TRS to make required rent payments because of reduced net operating profits or operating losses, increased debt service requirements and capital expenditures at our hotels, including capital expenditures required by the franchisors of our hotels. Among the factors which could reduce the net operating profits of our TRS are decreases in hotel revenues and increases in hotel operating expenses. Hotel revenue can decrease for a number of reasons, including increased competition from a new supply of hotel rooms and decreased demand for hotel rooms. These factors can reduce both occupancy and room rates at our hotels.

We will lease all of our hotels to our TRS. This TRS will be subject to hotel operating risks, including risks of sustaining operating losses after payment of hotel operating expenses, including management fees. These risks can adversely affect the net operating profits of our TRS, our operating expenses and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

If we are unable to obtain debt on attractive terms or at all, we may be unable to execute our business strategy, which could adversely affect our growth prospects and future shareholder returns.

Part of our business strategy involves the use of debt financing to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties. We are currently negotiating with a number of financial institutions, including with affiliates of certain of our underwriters in this offering, to obtain a corporate credit facility, although there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain such a credit facility on attractive terms or at all. Our failure to obtain such a facility on attractive terms could adversely impact our ability to execute our business strategy, which could adversely affect our growth prospects and future shareholder returns.

Compliance with covenants in our proposed debt instruments may limit our freedom to operate our business and impair our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

We expect that the terms of our proposed corporate credit facility will require us to comply with customary financial and other covenants, including covenants that:

 

 

require us to maintain minimum levels of tangible net worth;

 

 

prevent us from employing leverage in excess of a percentage of our total asset value;

 

 

require us to maintain a minimum ratio of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, to fixed charges;

 

 

prohibit us from making annual distributions to our shareholders in excess of 90% of our funds from operations, or FFO, over time, except for such distributions as may be required to enable us to maintain our qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes or may be required to eliminate all federal income tax and excess tax liability;

 

 

impose concentration limitations on the value and other characteristics of assets comprising the collateral pool securing the facility; and

 

 

limit our ability to engage in a change in control transaction without causing the amounts outstanding under the credit facility to become immediately due and payable.

 

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These restrictions may interfere with our ability to obtain financing or to engage in other business activities, which may inhibit our ability to grow our business and increase revenues. If we fail to comply with any of these requirements, then the related indebtedness, and any other debt containing cross-default or cross-acceleration rights for our lenders, could become immediately due and payable. We cannot assure you that we could pay all of our debt if it became due, or that we could continue in that instance to make distributions to our shareholders and maintain our REIT qualification.

If we incur substantial debt or are unable to repay or refinance our debt, we may be unable to make distributions to our shareholders and our share price may be adversely affected.

We and our subsidiaries may incur substantial additional debt, including secured debt, in the future. Incurring debt could subject us to many risks, including the risks that:

 

 

our cash flow from operations will be insufficient to make required payments of principal and interest;

 

 

our debt may increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions;

 

 

we may be required to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our debt, thereby reducing cash available for distribution to our shareholders, funds available for operations and capital expenditures, future business opportunities or other purposes;

 

 

the terms of any refinancing may not be as favorable as the terms of the debt being refinanced; and

 

 

the terms of our debt may limit our ability to make distributions to our shareholders and therefore adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

If we obtain debt in the future and do not have sufficient funds to repay our debt at maturity, it may be necessary to refinance this debt through additional debt financing, private or public offerings of debt securities, or additional equity financings. If we are unable to refinance our debt on acceptable terms, we may be forced to dispose of hotel properties on disadvantageous terms, potentially resulting in losses adversely affecting cash flow from operating activities. We may place mortgages on our hotel properties to secure our debt. To the extent we cannot meet our debt service obligations, we risk losing some or all of those properties to foreclosure.

Interest expense on our debt may limit our cash available to fund our growth strategies and shareholder distributions.

Higher interest rates could increase debt service requirements on floating rate debt, to the extent we have any, and could reduce funds available for operations, distributions to our shareholders, future business opportunities or other purposes.

Failure to hedge effectively against interest rate changes may adversely affect our results of operations and our ability to make shareholder distributions.

We may obtain in the future one or more forms of interest rate protection—in the form of swap agreements, interest rate cap contracts or similar agreements—to hedge against the possible negative effects of interest rate fluctuations. However, we cannot assure you that any hedging will adequately relieve the adverse effects of interest rate increases or that counterparties under these agreements will honor their obligations thereunder. In addition, we may be subject to risks

 

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of default by hedging counterparties. Adverse economic conditions could also cause the terms on which we borrow to be unfavorable. We could be required to liquidate one or more of our hotel investments at times which may not permit us to receive an attractive return on our investments in order to meet our debt service obligations.

Joint venture investments could be adversely affected by our lack of sole decision-making authority, our reliance on a co-venturer’s financial condition and disputes between us and our co-venturers.

We may co-invest in the future with third parties through partnerships, joint ventures or other entities, acquiring non-controlling interests in or sharing responsibility for managing the affairs of a property, partnership, joint venture or other entity. In such event, we would not be in a position to exercise sole decision-making authority regarding the property, partnership, joint venture or other entity. Investments in partnerships, joint ventures or other entities may, under certain circumstances, involve risks not present were a third party not involved, including the possibility that partners or co-venturers might become bankrupt or fail to fund their share of required capital contributions. Partners or co-venturers may have economic or other business interests or goals which are inconsistent with our business interests or goals, and may be in a position to take actions contrary to our policies or objectives. Such investments may also have the potential risk of impasses on decisions, such as a sale, because neither we nor the partner or co-venturer would have full control over the partnership or joint venture. Disputes between us and partners or co-venturers may result in litigation or arbitration that would increase our expenses and prevent our officers and/or trustees from focusing their time and effort on our business. Consequently, actions by, or disputes with, partners or co-venturers might result in subjecting properties owned by the partnership or joint venture to additional risk. In addition, we may in certain circumstances be liable for the actions of our third party partners or co-venturers.

The historical returns attributable to Highland should not be considered indicative of our future results or of any returns expected on an investment in our common shares.

We have presented in this prospectus under the sections entitled “Our business—Our team” and “Prior performance of Highland Hospitality Corporation” information relating to the historical performance of Highland. Although we intend to invest in similarly positioned hotel properties as Highland, we expect our investments will have an even sharper focus on upper upscale properties located within the top 25 MSAs, and to pursue a financing strategy that is similar in many respects to the financing strategy employed by Highland, investors should not assume that they will experience returns, if any, comparable to those experienced by investors in Highland. Moreover, Highland operated under market conditions that may differ materially from market conditions that will exist at the time we make investments. Accordingly, the past performance of Highland is not a guarantee or prediction of the returns that we may achieve in the future, and should not be viewed as indicative of the performance of our investment strategy. We can offer no assurance that we will be able to replicate the historical performance of Highland.

Risks related to the hotel industry

Current economic conditions may adversely affect the lodging industry.

The performance of the lodging industry has historically been closely linked to the performance of the general economy and, specifically, growth in U.S. GDP. It is also sensitive to business and personal discretionary spending levels. Declines in corporate budgets and consumer demand due

 

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to adverse general economic conditions, risks affecting or reducing travel patterns, lower consumer confidence or adverse political conditions can lower the revenues and profitability of our future hotel properties and therefore the net operating profits of our TRS. The current global economic downturn has led to a significant decline in demand for products and services provided by the lodging industry, lower occupancy levels and significantly reduced room rates.

We anticipate that recovery of demand for products and services provided by the lodging industry will lag an improvement in economic conditions. We cannot predict how severe or prolonged the global economic downturn will be or how severe or prolonged the lodging industry downturn will be. A further extended period of economic weakness would likely have an adverse impact on our revenues and negatively affect our profitability.

Our ability to make distributions to our shareholders may be affected by various operating risks common to the lodging industry.

Our hotel properties will be subject to various operating risks common to the lodging industry, many of which are beyond our control, including the following:

 

 

competition from other hotel properties in our markets;

 

 

over-building of hotels in our markets, which will adversely affect occupancy and revenues at the hotels we acquire;

 

 

dependence on business and commercial travelers and tourism;

 

 

increases in energy costs and other expenses affecting travel, which may affect travel patterns and reduce the number of business and commercial travelers and tourists;

 

 

increases in operating costs due to inflation and other factors that may not be offset by increased room rates;

 

 

changes in governmental laws and regulations, fiscal policies and zoning ordinances and the related costs of compliance with laws and regulations, fiscal policies and ordinances;

 

 

adverse effects of international, national, regional and local economic and market conditions;

 

 

unforeseen events beyond our control, such as terrorist attacks, travel related health concerns, including pandemics and epidemics such as H1N1 influenza (swine flu), avian bird flu and SARS, political instability, regional hostilities, imposition of taxes or surcharges by regulatory authorities, travel related accidents and unusual weather patterns, including natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis or earthquakes;

 

 

adverse effects of a downturn in the lodging industry; and

 

 

risks generally associated with the ownership of hotel properties and real estate, as we discuss in detail below.

These factors could reduce the net operating profits of our TRS, which in turn could adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

Our investment opportunities and growth prospects may be affected by competition for acquisitions.

We compete for investment opportunities with other entities, some of which have substantially greater financial resources than we do. This competition may generally limit the number of

 

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suitable investment opportunities offered to us, which may limit our ability to grow. This competition may also increase the bargaining power of property owners seeking to sell to us, making it more difficult for us to acquire new properties on attractive terms or at all.

Our revenues and cash available for shareholder distributions may be affected by the seasonality of the hotel industry.

The hotel industry is seasonal in nature. This seasonality can be expected to cause quarterly fluctuations in our revenues. Our quarterly earnings may be adversely affected by factors outside our control, including weather conditions and poor economic factors. As a result, we may have to enter into short-term borrowings in certain quarters in order to offset these fluctuations in revenues and to make distributions to our shareholders.

The cyclical nature of the lodging industry may cause fluctuations in our operating performance.

The lodging industry is highly cyclical in nature. Fluctuations in lodging demand and, therefore, operating performance, are caused largely by general economic and local market conditions, which subsequently affects levels of business and leisure travel. In addition to general economic conditions, new hotel room supply is an important factor that can affect the lodging industry’s performance and overbuilding has the potential to further exacerbate the negative impact of an economic recession. Room rates and occupancy, and thus RevPAR, tend to increase when demand growth exceeds supply growth. Although we believe that supply growth peaked in late 2008 to early 2009, and that lodging demand will begin to rebound in late 2010 to early 2011, no assurances can be made. The continued decline in lodging demand beyond late 2010 to early 2011, or a continued growth in lodging supply, could result in returns that are substantially below expectations or result in losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

Our concentration in particular segments of a single industry limits our ability to offset the risks of an industry downturn, which could adversely affect our operating performance and cash available for shareholder distributions.

Our entire business is hotel-related. Therefore, a continued or future downturn in the lodging industry, in general, and the upper upscale segments in which we intend to focus our operations, in particular, will have a material adverse effect on our lease revenues and the net operating profits of our TRS and amounts available for distribution to our shareholders.

The ongoing need for capital expenditures at our hotel properties may limit our ability to make shareholder distributions.

Our hotel properties will have an ongoing need for renovations and other capital improvements, including replacements, from time to time, of furniture, fixtures and equipment. The franchisors of our hotels also will require periodic capital improvements as a condition of keeping the franchise licenses. In addition, our lenders will likely require that we set aside annual amounts for capital improvements to our hotel properties. These capital improvements may give rise to the following risks:

 

 

possible environmental problems;

 

 

construction cost overruns and delays;

 

 

a possible shortage of available cash to fund capital improvements and the related possibility that financing for these capital improvements may not be available to us on affordable terms; and

 

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uncertainties as to market demand or a loss of market demand after capital improvements have begun.

The costs of all these capital improvements could adversely affect our financial condition and amounts available for distribution to our shareholders.

Hotel development is subject to timing, budgeting and other risks. To the extent we acquire hotel properties that are under development, these risks may adversely affect our operating results and our ability to make distributions to shareholders.

We may acquire hotel properties that are under development from time to time as suitable opportunities arise, taking into consideration general economic conditions. Hotel properties involve a number of development risks, including risks associated with:

 

 

construction delays or cost overruns that may increase project costs;

 

 

receipt of zoning, occupancy and other required governmental permits and authorizations;

 

 

development costs incurred for projects that are not pursued to completion;

 

 

acts of God such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods or fires that could adversely impact a project;

 

 

ability to raise capital; and

 

 

governmental restrictions on the nature or size of a project.

To the extent we invest in hotel properties under development, we cannot assure you that any development project will be completed on time or within budget. The developer’s inability to complete a project on time or within budget may adversely affect the hotel’s projected operating results and impair our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

The hotel business is capital-intensive and our inability to obtain financing could limit our growth.

Our hotel properties will require periodic capital expenditures and renovation to remain competitive. Acquisitions or development of additional hotel properties will require significant capital expenditures. We may not be able to fund capital improvements or acquisitions solely from cash provided from our operating activities because we must distribute at least 90% of our taxable income (net of capital gains) each year to maintain our qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, our ability to fund capital expenditures, acquisitions or hotel development through retained earnings is very limited. Consequently, we rely upon the availability of debt or equity capital to fund hotel acquisitions and improvements. Our ability to grow through acquisitions or development of hotels will be limited if we cannot obtain satisfactory debt or equity financing which will depend on market conditions. Neither our declaration of trust nor our bylaws limits the amount of debt that we can incur. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain additional equity or debt financing or that we will be able to obtain such financing on favorable terms.

The increasing use of Internet travel intermediaries by consumers may adversely affect our profitability.

Some of our hotel rooms will be booked through Internet travel intermediaries, including, but not limited to, Travelocity.com, Expedia.com and Priceline.com. As these Internet bookings

 

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increase, these intermediaries may be able to obtain higher commissions, reduced room rates or other significant contract concessions from us and our management companies. Moreover, some of these Internet travel intermediaries are attempting to offer hotel rooms as a commodity, by increasing the importance of price and general indicators of quality (such as “three-star downtown hotel”) at the expense of brand identification. These agencies hope that consumers will eventually develop brand loyalties to their reservations system rather than to the brands under which our properties will be franchised. Although most of the business for our hotels is expected to be derived from traditional channels, if the amount of sales made through Internet intermediaries increases significantly, room revenues may flatten or decrease and our profitability may be adversely affected.

Future terrorist attacks or changes in terror alert levels could adversely affect our growth strategies, our ability to obtain financing, our ability to insure our properties and our overall financial condition.

Previous terrorist attacks in the United States and subsequent terrorist alerts have adversely affected the travel and hospitality industries over the past several years. The impact that terrorist attacks in the United States or elsewhere could have on domestic and international markets and our business in particular is indeterminable. It is possible that such attacks or the threat of such attacks could have a material adverse effect on our business, our ability to finance our business, our ability to insure our properties and/or our results of operations and financial condition as a whole.

Uninsured and underinsured losses could adversely affect our operating results and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

We intend to maintain comprehensive insurance on each of the hotel properties that we acquire, including liability, fire and extended coverage, of the type and amount we believe are customarily obtained for or by hotel owners. Various types of catastrophic losses, like earthquakes and floods, losses from foreign terrorist activities such as those on September 11, 2001, or losses from domestic terrorist activities such as the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995, may not be insurable or may not be economically insurable. Initially, we do not expect to obtain terrorism insurance on the hotel properties we acquire because it is costly. Lenders may require such insurance and our failure to obtain such insurance could constitute a default under loan agreements. Depending on our access to capital, liquidity and the value of the properties securing the affected loan in relation to the balance of the loan, a default could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and ability to obtain future financing.

In the event of a substantial loss, our insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover the full current market value or replacement cost of our lost investment. Should an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits occur, we could lose all or a portion of the capital we have invested in a hotel or resort, as well as the anticipated future revenue from the hotel or resort. In that event, we might nevertheless remain obligated for any mortgage debt or other financial obligations related to the property. Inflation, changes in building codes and ordinances, environmental considerations and other factors might also keep us from using insurance proceeds to replace or renovate a hotel after it has been damaged or destroyed. Under those circumstances, the insurance proceeds we receive might be inadequate to restore our economic position on the damaged or destroyed property.

 

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Noncompliance with governmental regulations could adversely affect our operating results.

Environmental matters

Our hotel properties will be subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws. Under these laws, courts and government agencies have the authority to require us, as the owner of a contaminated property, to clean up the property, even if we did not know of or were not responsible for the contamination. These laws also apply to persons who owned a property at the time it became contaminated. In addition to the costs of cleanup, environmental contamination can affect the value of a property and, therefore, an owner’s ability to borrow funds using the property as collateral or to sell the property. Under the environmental laws, courts and government agencies also have the authority to require that a person who sent waste to a waste disposal facility, such as a landfill or an incinerator, pay for the cleanup of that facility if it becomes contaminated and threatens human health or the environment. A person that arranges for the disposal or transports for disposal or treatment of a hazardous substance at a property owned by another may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of hazardous substances released into the environment at that property.

Furthermore, various court decisions have established that third parties may recover damages for injury caused by property contamination. For instance, a person exposed to asbestos while staying in a hotel may seek to recover damages if he or she suffers injury from the asbestos. Lastly, some of these environmental laws restrict the use of a property or place conditions on various activities. An example would be laws that require a business using chemicals (such as swimming pool chemicals at a hotel property) to manage them carefully and to notify local officials that the chemicals are being used.

The costs to clean up a contaminated property, to defend against a claim or to comply with environmental laws could be material and could adversely affect the funds available for distribution to our shareholders. We can make no assurances that (1) future laws or regulations will not impose material environmental liabilities or (2) the current environmental condition of our future hotel properties will not be affected by the condition of the properties in the vicinity of our future hotel properties (such as the presence of leaking underground storage tanks) or by third parties unrelated to us.

Americans with Disabilities Act and other changes in governmental rules and regulations

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or the ADA, all public accommodations must meet various federal requirements related to access and use by disabled persons. Compliance with the ADA’s requirements could require removal of access barriers, and non-compliance could result in the U.S. government imposing fines or in private litigants winning damages. If we are required to make substantial modifications to the hotels that we acquire, whether to comply with the ADA or other changes in governmental rules and regulations, our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make distributions to our shareholders could be adversely affected.

 

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General risks related to the real estate industry

Illiquidity of real estate investments could significantly impede our ability to respond to adverse changes in the performance of our properties and harm our financial condition.

Because real estate investments are relatively illiquid, our ability to promptly sell one or more hotel properties in our portfolio in response to changing economic, financial and investment conditions may be limited. The real estate market is affected by many factors that are beyond our control, including:

 

 

adverse changes in international, national, regional and local economic and market conditions;

 

 

changes in interest rates and in the availability, cost and terms of debt financing;

 

 

changes in governmental laws and regulations, fiscal policies and zoning ordinances and the related costs of compliance with laws and regulations, fiscal policies and ordinances;

 

 

the ongoing need for capital improvements, particularly in older structures;

 

 

changes in operating expenses; and

 

 

civil unrest, acts of God, including earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters, which may result in uninsured losses, and acts of war or terrorism, including the consequences of the terrorist acts such as those that occurred on September 11, 2001.

We may decide to sell any hotels we acquire in the future. We cannot predict whether we will be able to sell any hotel property for the price or on the terms set by us, or whether any price or other terms offered by a prospective purchaser would be acceptable to us. We also cannot predict the length of time needed to find a willing purchaser and to close the sale of a hotel property.

We may be required to expend funds to correct defects or to make improvements before a hotel property can be sold. We cannot assure you that we will have funds available to correct those defects or to make those improvements. In acquiring a hotel property, we may agree to lock-out provisions that materially restrict us from selling that property for a period of time or impose other restrictions, such as a limitation on the amount of debt that can be placed or repaid on that property. These factors and any others that would impede our ability to respond to adverse changes in the performance of our properties could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition, as well as our ability to pay distributions to shareholders.

Increases in our property taxes would adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our shareholders.

Each of our hotels will be subject to real and personal property taxes. These taxes on our hotel properties may increase as tax rates change and as the properties are assessed or reassessed by taxing authorities. If property taxes increase, our ability to make distributions to our shareholders would be adversely affected.

Risks related to our organization and structure

Our rights and the rights of our shareholders to take action against our trustees and officers are limited, which could limit your recourse in the event of actions not in your best interests.

Under Maryland law generally, a trustee is required to perform his or her duties in good faith, in a manner he or she reasonably believes to be in our best interests and with the care that an

 

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ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under similar circumstances. Under Maryland law, trustees are presumed to have acted with this standard of care. In addition, our declaration of trust limits the liability of our trustees and officers to us and our shareholders for money damages, except for liability resulting from:

 

 

actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services; or

 

 

active and deliberate dishonesty by the trustee or officer that was established by a final judgment as being material to the cause of action adjudicated.

Our declaration of trust obligates us to indemnify our trustees and officers for actions taken by them in those capacities to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law. Our bylaws require us to indemnify each trustee or officer, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, in the defense of any proceeding to which he or she is made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of his or her service to us. In addition, we are obligated under our declaration of trust and bylaws to pay and advance the defense costs that may be incurred by our trustees and officers. As a result, we and our shareholders may have more limited rights against our trustees and officers than might otherwise exist absent the current provisions in our declaration of trust and bylaws or that might exist with other companies.

Failure to make required distributions would subject us to tax.

In order for U.S. federal corporate income tax not to apply to earnings that we distribute, each year we must pay out to our shareholders in distributions at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, subject to certain adjustments and excluding any net capital gain. To the extent that we satisfy this distribution requirement, but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on our undistributed REIT taxable income. In addition, we will be subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax if the actual amount that we pay out to our shareholders in a calendar year is less than a minimum amount specified under U.S. federal tax laws. Our only source of funds to make these distributions comes from distributions that we receive from our operating partnership. Accordingly, we may be required to borrow money or sell assets to make distributions sufficient to enable us to pay out enough of our taxable income to satisfy the distribution requirement and to avoid U.S. federal corporate income tax and the 4% nondeductible excise tax in a particular year.

Failure to qualify as a REIT, or failure to remain qualified as a REIT, would subject us to U.S. federal income tax and potentially to state and local taxes.

We have been organized and we intend to operate in a manner that will enable us to qualify as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes commencing with our taxable year ending December 31, 2009. Although we do not intend to request a ruling from the IRS as to our REIT qualification, we have received an opinion of our outside counsel, Hogan & Hartson LLP, with respect to our qualification as a REIT in connection with the offering. Investors should be aware, however, that opinions of counsel are not binding on the IRS or any court. The opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP represents only the view of our counsel based on our counsel’s review and analysis of existing law and on certain representations as to factual matters and covenants made by us, including representations relating to the values of our assets and the sources of our income. The opinion is expressed as of the date issued. Hogan & Hartson LLP has no obligation to advise us or the holders of our common shares of any subsequent change in the matters stated, represented or assumed, or of any subsequent change in applicable law. Furthermore, both the validity of the opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP, and our qualification as a REIT, depend on our

 

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satisfaction of certain asset, income, organizational, distribution, shareholder ownership and other requirements on a continuing basis, the results of which will not be monitored by Hogan & Hartson LLP.

The REIT qualification requirements are extremely complex and interpretations of the U.S. federal income tax laws governing qualification as a REIT are limited. Accordingly, we cannot be certain that we will be successful in operating so we can qualify, or remain qualified, as a REIT. At any time, new legislation, administrative guidance, or court decisions, in each case possibly with retroactive effect, may make it more difficult or impossible for us to qualify as a REIT.

Our ability to satisfy the asset tests depends upon our analysis of the characterization and fair market values of our assets, some of which are not susceptible to a precise determination, and for which we will not obtain independent appraisals. Our compliance with the REIT income and quarterly asset requirements also depends upon our ability to successfully manage the composition of our income and assets on an ongoing basis. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the IRS will not contend that our interests in subsidiaries or in securities of other issuers will not cause a violation of the REIT requirements.

If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to U.S. federal income tax, including any applicable alternative minimum tax, on our taxable income at regular corporate rates, and dividends paid to our shareholders would not be deductible by us in computing our taxable income. In addition, we could, in certain circumstances, be required to pay an excise or penalty tax (which could be significant in amount) in order to utilize one or more relief provisions under the Internal Revenue Code to maintain our qualification as a REIT. We might need to borrow money or sell hotels in order to pay any such tax. Unless we are entitled to relief under certain Internal Revenue Code provisions, we could not re-elect REIT status until the fifth calendar year after the year in which we failed to qualify as a REIT.

Dividends payable by REITs do not qualify for the reduced tax rates available for some dividends, which could adversely affect the value of our common shares if they are perceived as less attractive investments.

The maximum tax rate applicable to income from “qualified dividends” payable to U.S. shareholders that are individuals, trusts and estates has been reduced by legislation to 15% (through 2010). Dividends payable by REITs, however, generally are not eligible for the reduced rates. Although this legislation does not adversely affect the taxation of REITs or dividends payable by REITs, the more favorable rates applicable to regular corporate qualified dividends could cause investors who are individuals, trusts and estates to perceive investments in REITs to be relatively less attractive than investments in the stocks of non-REIT corporations that pay dividends, which could adversely affect the value of the shares of REITs, including our common shares.

If our leases are not respected as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would fail to qualify as a REIT.

To qualify as a REIT, we will be required to satisfy two gross income tests, pursuant to which specified percentages of our gross income must be passive income, such as rent. For the rent paid pursuant to the hotel leases with our TRS, which we anticipate will constitute substantially all of our gross income, to qualify for purposes of the gross income tests, the leases must be respected as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes and must not be treated as service contracts, joint ventures or some other type of arrangement. We intend to structure our leases so that the

 

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leases will be respected as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes, but there can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with this characterization. If the leases were not respected as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would not be able to satisfy either of the two gross income tests applicable to REITs and likely would lose our REIT status.

If our hotel managers do not qualify as “eligible independent contractors,” we would fail to qualify as a REIT.

Rent paid by a lessee that is a “related party tenant” of ours will not be qualifying income for purposes of the two gross income tests applicable to REITs. We expect to lease substantially all of our hotels to our TRS. So long as any TRS lessee qualifies as a TRS, it will not be treated as a “related party tenant” with respect to our properties that are managed by a qualifying independent hotel management company. We believe that our TRS will qualify to be treated as a TRS for U.S. federal income tax purposes, but there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge the status of a TRS for U.S. federal income tax purposes or that a court would not sustain such a challenge. If the IRS were successful in disqualifying our TRS from treatment as a TRS, it is possible that we would fail to meet the asset tests applicable to REITs and substantially all of our income would fail to qualify for the gross income tests. If we failed to meet either the asset or gross income tests, we would likely lose our REIT qualification for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

If our hotel managers do not qualify as “eligible independent contractors,” we would fail to qualify as a REIT. Each of the hotel management companies that enters into a management contract with our TRS, including Hyatt, must qualify as an “eligible independent contractor” under the REIT rules in order for the rent paid to us by our TRS to be qualifying income for our REIT income test requirements. Among other requirements, in order to qualify as an eligible independent contractor a manager must not own more than 35% of our outstanding shares (by value) and no person or group of persons can own more than 35% of our outstanding shares and the ownership interests of the manager, taking into account only owners of more than 5% of our shares and, with respect to ownership interests in such managers that are publicly traded, only holders of more than 5% of such ownership interests. Complex ownership attribution rules apply for purposes of these 35% thresholds. Although we intend to monitor ownership of our shares by our property managers and their owners, there can be no assurance that these ownership levels will not be exceeded.

Provisions of our declaration of trust may limit the ability of a third party to acquire control of our company, even if our shareholders believe the change of control is in their best interest.

Common share and preferred share ownership limits

Our declaration of trust provides that no person may directly or indirectly own more than 9.8% in value or in number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the aggregate outstanding common shares or more than 9.8% in value or in number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the aggregate preferred shares of each class or series outstanding from time to time. These ownership limitations may prevent an acquisition of control of our company by a third party without our board of trustees’ approval, even if our shareholders believe the change of control is in their interest.

Authority to issue shares of beneficial interest

Our declaration of trust authorizes our board of trustees to issue up to 400,000,000 common shares and up to 100,000,000 preferred shares without approval of our shareholders. Issuances of

 

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additional shares may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of our company, including transactions at a premium over the market price of our shares, even if shareholders believe that a change of control is in their interest.

Certain provisions of Maryland law could inhibit changes in control

Certain provisions of Maryland Law may have the effect of deterring a third party from making a proposal to acquire us or of impeding a change in control under circumstances that otherwise could provide the holders of our common shares with the opportunity to realize a premium over the then-prevailing market price of our common shares. We are subject to the “business combination” provisions of Maryland law that, subject to limitations, prohibit certain business combinations (including a merger, consolidation, share exchange, or, in circumstances specified in the statute, an asset transfer or issuance or reclassification of equity securities) between us and an “interested shareholder” (defined generally as any person who beneficially owns 10% or more of our then outstanding voting shares or an affiliate or associate of ours who, at any time within the two-year period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner of 10% or more of our then outstanding voting shares) or an affiliate thereof for five years after the most recent date on which the shareholder becomes an interested shareholder. After the five-year prohibition, any business combination between us and an interested shareholder generally must be recommended by our board of trustees and approved by the affirmative vote of at least (1) 80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of our outstanding voting shares; and (2) two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of the outstanding voting shares of our company other than shares held by the interested shareholder with whom or with whose affiliate the business combination is to be effected or held by an affiliate or associate of the interested shareholder. These super-majority vote requirements do not apply if our common shareholders receive a minimum price, as defined under Maryland law, for their shares in the form of cash or other consideration in the same form as previously paid by the interested shareholder for its shares. These provisions of Maryland law do not apply, however, to business combinations that are approved or exempted by a board of trustees prior to the time that the interested shareholder becomes an interested shareholder. Pursuant to the statute, our board of trustees has by resolution exempted business combinations between us and any other person, provided that such business combination is first approved by our board of trustees (including a majority of our trustees who are not affiliates or associates of such person).

Further, under our declaration of trust, a trustee may be removed at any time, but only with cause, at a meeting of the shareholders by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two-thirds of the shares then outstanding and entitled to vote generally in the election of trustees.

The “control share” provisions of Maryland law provide that “control shares” of a Maryland corporation (defined as shares which, when aggregated with other shares controlled by the shareholder (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), entitle the shareholder to exercise one of three increasing ranges of voting power in electing trustees) acquired in a “control share acquisition” (defined as the direct or indirect acquisition of ownership or control of “control shares”) have no voting rights except to the extent approved by our shareholders by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding votes entitled to be cast by the acquiror of control shares, our officers and our personnel who are also our trustees. Our bylaws contain a provision exempting from the control share acquisition statute any and all acquisitions by any person of our common shares. There can be no assurance that this provision will not be amended or eliminated at any time in the future.

 

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The “unsolicited takeover” provisions of Maryland law permit our board of trustees, without shareholder approval and regardless of what is currently provided in our declaration of trust or bylaws, to implement takeover defenses, some of which (for example, a classified board) we do not yet have. These provisions may have the effect of inhibiting a third party from making an acquisition proposal for us or of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of us under the circumstances that otherwise could provide the holders of our common shares with the opportunity to realize a premium over the then current market price. See “Certain provisions of Maryland law and of our declaration of trust and bylaws — Business combinations” and “Certain provisions of Maryland law and of our declaration of trust and bylaws — Control share acquisitions.”

Our ownership limitations may restrict or prevent you from engaging in certain transfers of our common shares.

In order to maintain our REIT qualification, no more than 50% in value of our outstanding shares may be owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals (as defined in the U.S. federal income tax laws to include certain entities) at any time during the last half of each taxable year following our first year. To preserve our REIT qualification, our declaration of trust contains a common share ownership limit and a preferred share ownership limit. Generally, any common shares owned by affiliated owners will be added together for purposes of the common share ownership limit, and any shares of a given class or series of preferred shares owned by affiliated owners will be added together for purposes of the preferred share ownership limit.

If anyone transfers shares in a way that would violate the common share ownership limit or the preferred share ownership limit, or prevent us from continuing to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, those shares instead will be transferred to a trust for the benefit of a charitable beneficiary and will be either redeemed by us or sold to a person whose ownership of the shares will not violate the common share ownership limit or the preferred share ownership limit. If this transfer to a trust fails to prevent such a violation or our continued qualification as a REIT, then the initial intended transfer shall be null and void from the outset. The intended transferee of those shares will be deemed never to have owned the shares. Anyone who acquires shares in violation of the common share ownership limit or the preferred share ownership limit or the other restrictions on transfer in our declaration of trust bears the risk of suffering a financial loss when the shares are redeemed or sold if the market price of our shares falls between the date of purchase and the date of redemption or sale.

Our ownership of our TRS will be limited and our transactions with our TRS will cause us to be subject to a 100% penalty tax on certain income or deductions if those transactions are not conducted on arm’s-length terms.

A REIT may own up to 100% of the equity interest of an entity that is a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if the entity is a TRS. A TRS may hold assets and earn income that would not be qualifying assets or income if held or earned directly by a REIT, including gross operating income from hotel operations pursuant to hotel management agreements. Both the subsidiary and the REIT must jointly elect to treat the subsidiary as a TRS. A corporation of which a TRS directly or indirectly owns more than 35% of the voting power or value of the stock will automatically be treated as a TRS. Overall, no more than 25% of the value of a REIT’s assets may consist of stock or securities of one or more TRSs. In addition, the TRS rules limit the deductibility of interest paid or accrued by a TRS to its parent REIT to assure that the TRS is subject to an

 

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appropriate level of corporate taxation. The rules also impose a 100% excise tax on certain transactions between a TRS and its parent REIT that are not conducted on an arm’s-length basis.

Our TRS will pay U.S. federal, foreign, state and local income tax on its taxable income, and its after-tax net income will be available for distribution to us but is not required to be distributed by such TRS to us. We anticipate that the aggregate value of the stock and securities of our TRS will be less than 25% of the value of our total assets (including our TRS stock and securities). Furthermore, we will monitor the value of our investments in our TRS for the purpose of ensuring compliance with TRS ownership limitations. In addition, we will scrutinize all of our transactions with our TRS to ensure that they are entered into on arm’s-length terms to avoid incurring the 100% excise tax described above. There can be no assurance, however, that we will be able to comply with the 25% limitation discussed above or to avoid application of the 100% excise tax discussed above.

We may in the future choose to pay dividends in our common shares instead of cash, in which case shareholders may be required to pay income taxes in excess of the cash dividends they receive.

Although we have no current intention to do so, we may, in the future, distribute taxable dividends that are payable in cash and common shares at the election of each shareholder. Under Revenue Procedure 2009-15, up to 90% of any such taxable dividend for 2009 could be payable in our shares. Taxable shareholders receiving such dividends will be required to include the full amount of the dividend as ordinary income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, or E&P, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, shareholders may be required to pay income taxes with respect to such dividends in excess of the cash dividends received. If a U.S. shareholder sells the common shares that it receives as a dividend in order to pay this tax, the sales proceeds may be less than the amount included in income with respect to the dividend, depending on the market price of our shares at the time of the sale. Furthermore, with respect to certain non-U.S. shareholders, we may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax with respect to such dividends, including in respect of all or a portion of such dividend that is payable in common shares. In addition, if a significant number of our shareholders determine to sell common shares in order to pay taxes owed on dividends, it may put downward pressure on the trading price of our common shares.

Further, while Revenue Procedure 2009-15 applies only to taxable dividends payable by us in cash or shares in 2009, it is unclear whether and to what extent we will be able to pay taxable dividends in cash and common shares in later years. Moreover, various aspects of such a taxable cash/share dividend are uncertain and have not yet been addressed by the IRS. No assurance can be given that the IRS will not impose additional requirements in the future with respect to taxable cash/share dividends, including on a retroactive basis, or assert that the requirements for such taxable cash/share dividends have not been met.

Complying with REIT requirements may limit our ability to hedge effectively and may cause us to incur tax liabilities.

The REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code substantially limit our ability to hedge our liabilities. Any income from a hedging transaction we enter into to manage risk of interest rate changes with respect to borrowings made or to be made to acquire or carry real estate assets does not constitute “gross income” for purposes of the 75% or 95% gross income tests. To the extent that we enter into other types of hedging transactions, the income from those transactions is likely to be treated as non-qualifying income for purposes of both of the gross

 

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income tests. See “Material U.S. federal income tax considerations—U.S. federal income taxation of Chesapeake Lodging Trust.” As a result of these rules, we intend to limit our use of advantageous hedging techniques or implement those hedges through a TRS. This could increase the cost of our hedging activities because our TRS would be subject to tax on gains or expose us to greater risks associated with changes in interest rates than we would otherwise want to bear. In addition, losses in our TRS will generally not provide any tax benefit, except for being carried forward against future taxable income in the TRS.

The ability of our board of trustees to revoke our REIT qualification without shareholder approval may cause adverse consequences to our shareholders.

Our declaration of trust provides that our board of trustees may revoke or otherwise terminate our REIT election, without the approval of our shareholders, if it determines that it is no longer in our best interest to continue to qualify as a REIT. If we cease to be a REIT, we would become subject to U.S. federal income tax on our taxable income and would no longer be required to distribute most of our taxable income to our shareholders, which may have adverse consequences on our total return to our shareholders.

The ability of our board of trustees to change our major corporate policies may not be in your interest.

Our board of trustees determines our major corporate policies, including our acquisition, financing, growth, operations and distribution policies. Our board may amend or revise these and other policies from time to time without the vote or consent of our shareholders.

If we fail to implement and maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately determine our financial results or prevent fraud. As a result, our shareholders could lose confidence in our financial results, which could harm our business and the market value of our common shares.

Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and effectively prevent fraud. We may in the future discover areas of our internal controls that need improvement. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 will require us to evaluate and report on our internal controls over financial reporting and have our independent auditors annually attest to our evaluation, as well as issue their own opinion on our internal control over financial reporting. While we intend to undertake substantial work to prepare for compliance with Section 404, we cannot be certain that we will be successful in implementing or maintaining adequate control over our financial reporting and financial processes. Furthermore, as we rapidly grow our business, our internal controls will become more complex, and we will require significantly more resources to ensure our internal controls remain effective. If we or our independent auditors discover a material weakness, the disclosure of that fact, even if quickly remedied, could reduce the market value of our common shares. Additionally, the existence of any material weakness or significant deficiency would require management to devote significant time and incur significant expense to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies and management may not be able to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in a timely manner.

 

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Risks related to share ownership and the offering

We have not established a minimum distribution payment level, and we may be unable to generate sufficient cash flows from our operations to make distributions to our shareholders at any time in the future.

We are generally required to distribute to our shareholders at least 90% of our taxable income each year for us to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code, which requirement we currently intend to satisfy. To the extent we satisfy the 90% distribution requirement but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on our undistributed taxable income. We have not established a minimum distribution payment level, and our ability to make distributions to our shareholders may be adversely affected by the risk factors described in this prospectus. Because we currently have no assets and will commence operations only upon completion of the offering, we may not have a portfolio of assets that generate sufficient income to be distributed to our shareholders. We will not use the proceeds from the offering to make distributions to our shareholders. Until our portfolio of assets generates sufficient income and cash flow, we may be required to use proceeds from future equity or debt offerings, sell assets or borrow funds to make quarterly distributions to our shareholders.

Subject to maintaining our REIT qualification, we intend over time to make regular quarterly distributions to our shareholders. Our board of trustees has the sole discretion to determine the timing, form and amount of any distributions to our shareholders. The amount of such distributions may be limited until we have a portfolio of income-generating assets. Our board of trustees will make determinations regarding distributions based upon, among other factors, our historical and projected results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, maintenance of our REIT qualification and other tax considerations, capital expenditure and other expense obligations, debt covenants, contractual prohibitions or other limitations and applicable law and such other matters as our board of trustees may deem relevant from time to time. Among the factors that could impair our ability to make distributions to our shareholders are:

 

 

our inability to invest the proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements;

 

 

our inability to realize attractive risk-adjusted returns on our investments;

 

 

unanticipated expenses that reduce our cash flow or non-cash earnings;

 

 

defaults in our investment portfolio or decreases in the value of the underlying assets; and

 

 

the fact that anticipated operating expense levels may not prove accurate, as actual results may vary from estimates.

As a result, no assurance can be given that we will be able to make distributions to our shareholders at any time in the future or that the level of any distributions we do make to our shareholders will achieve a market yield or increase or even be maintained over time, any of which could materially and adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

In addition, distributions that we make to our shareholders will generally be taxable to our shareholders as ordinary income. However, a portion of our distributions may be designated by us as long-term capital gains to the extent that they are attributable to capital gain income recognized by us or may constitute a return of capital to the extent that they exceed our E&P as

 

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determined for tax purposes. A return of capital is not taxable, but has the effect of reducing the basis of a shareholder’s investment in our common shares.

We cannot assure you that a public market for our common shares will develop, which may limit your ability to liquidate your investment.

Prior to the offering, there has not been a public market for our common shares, and we cannot assure you that a regular trading market for the common shares offered hereby will develop or, if developed, that any such market will be sustained. In the absence of a public trading market, an investor may be unable to liquidate an investment in our common shares. The IPO price has been determined by us and the underwriters. We cannot assure you that the price at which the common shares will sell in the public market after the closing of the offering will not be lower than the price at which they are sold by the underwriters.

The market price of our equity securities may vary substantially, which may cause the value of your investment to fluctuate.

The trading prices of equity securities issued by REITs have historically been affected by changes in market interest rates. One of the factors that may influence the price of our shares in public trading markets is the annual yield from distributions on our common or preferred shares as compared to yields on other financial instruments. An increase in market interest rates, or a decrease in our distributions to shareholders, may lead prospective purchasers of our shares to demand a higher annual yield, which could reduce the market price of our equity securities.

Other factors that could affect the market price of our equity securities include the following:

 

 

actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly results of operations;

 

 

changes in market valuations of companies in the hotel or real estate industries;

 

 

changes in expectations of future financial performance or changes in estimates of securities analysts;

 

 

fluctuations in stock market prices and volumes;

 

 

issuances of common shares or other securities in the future;

 

 

the addition or departure of key personnel;

 

 

announcements by us or our competitors of acquisitions, investments or strategic alliances; and

 

 

unforeseen events beyond our control, such as terrorist attacks, travel related health concerns including pandemics and epidemics such as H1N1 influenza (swine flu), avian bird flu and SARS, political instability, regional hostilities, increases in fuel prices, imposition of taxes or surcharges by regulatory authorities, travel related accidents and unusual weather patterns, including natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis or earthquakes.

The number of shares available for future sale could adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

We cannot predict whether future issuances of our common shares or the availability of shares for resale in the open market will decrease the market price of our common shares. Sales of substantial numbers of our common shares in the public market, or the perception that such sales might occur, could adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

 

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The exercise of the underwriter’s overallotment option, the exercise of any options or the vesting of any restricted shares granted to trustees, executive officers and other employees under our Equity Plan, the issuance of common shares or units in connection with property, portfolio or business acquisitions and other issuances of our common shares could have an adverse effect on the market price of our common shares. In addition, future issuances of our common shares may be dilutive to existing shareholders.

Upon the completion of the offering, we expect to have 15,068,592 common shares outstanding, including the common shares sold in the underwritten offering, 2,200,092 common shares sold in the concurrent private placements and 368,500 restricted common shares granted to our executive officers and trustees under our Equity Plan upon the completion of the offering, or 16,943,592 common shares if the underwriters’ overallotment option is exercised in full. Our Equity Plan provides for future grants of equity based awards covering up to an aggregate of 366,505 additional common shares.

We will enter into registration rights agreements with each of Hyatt and Baron pursuant to which we will agree to register the resale of their respective common shares owned by them and their respective permitted transferees, upon their request made no earlier than six months from the closing of the offering. In addition, subject to the exceptions and limitations set forth in the registration rights agreements, these holders will have unlimited piggyback registration rights pursuant to which they may request the inclusion of their shares in any registration statement we file for the purpose of registering sales of common shares for our account or the account of future shareholders.

Following the completion of the offering, we intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 to register the total number of common shares that may be issued under our Equity Plan.

Future offerings of debt or equity securities ranking senior to our common shares may adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

If we decide to issue debt or equity securities in the future ranking senior to our common shares, it is possible that these securities will be governed by an indenture or other instrument containing covenants restricting our operating flexibility. Additionally, any convertible or exchangeable securities that we issue in the future may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our common shares and may result in dilution to owners of our common shares. We and, indirectly, our shareholders, will bear the cost of issuing and servicing such securities. Because our decision to issue debt or equity securities in any future offering will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict or estimate the amount, timing or nature of our future offerings. Thus holders of our common shares will bear the risk of our future offerings reducing the market price of our common shares and diluting the value of their share holdings in us.

 

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Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

We make forward-looking statements in this prospectus that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans and objectives. Statements regarding the following subjects are forward-looking by their nature:

 

 

our business and investment strategy;

 

 

our forecasted operating results;

 

 

completion of any pending transactions;

 

 

our ability to obtain and maintain future financing arrangements;

 

 

our understanding of our competition;

 

 

market trends in our industry, interest rates, real estate values, the debt securities markets or the general economy;

 

 

projected capital expenditures and operating results;

 

 

use of the proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements; and

 

 

our expected leverage levels.

The forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance, taking into account all information currently available to us. These beliefs, assumptions and expectations can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider this risk when you make an investment decision concerning our common shares. Additionally, the following factors could cause actual results to vary from our forward-looking statements:

 

 

the factors discussed in this prospectus, including those set forth under the sections titled “Risk factors,” “Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations” and “Our business”;

 

 

our ability to maintain our qualification as a REIT;

 

 

general volatility of the capital markets and the market price of our common shares;

 

 

changes in our business or investment strategy;

 

 

availability, terms and deployment of capital;

 

 

availability of and our ability to retain qualified personnel;

 

 

actions and initiatives of the U.S. government, changes to U.S. government policies and the execution and impact of these actions, initiatives and policies;

 

 

changes in our industry and the market in which we operate, interest rates or the general U.S. or international economy;

 

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economic trends and economic recoveries; and

 

 

the degree and nature of our competition.

When we use the words “will likely result,” “may,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “should,” “expect,” “believe,” “intend” or similar expressions, we intend to identify forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

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Use of proceeds

We estimate that the net proceeds from the offering of 12,500,000 common shares pursuant to this prospectus, after deducting the initial underwriting discount (as described below), and estimated offering costs and expenses, will be approximately $             million. If the underwriters’ overallotment is exercised in full, our net proceeds from the offering will be approximately $             million.

All of the shares sold in this offering will be sold to the underwriters at $             per share, representing an initial discount to the underwriters of $             per share. We have agreed to pay the underwriters an additional $             per share, with respect to all shares sold in this offering when the capital deployment hurdle (as described herein) is satisfied. The capital deployment hurdle numerator is the cumulative acquisition of hotel properties, net of cash acquired (or substantially similar financial measures), that we will report in our statements of cash flows for all periods following the offering. The capital deployment hurdle denominator is net proceeds received from the offering and the concurrent private placements (including net proceeds received from any exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option, but excluding any deferred underwriting compensation or structuring fee payable to the underwriters). The capital deployment hurdle is satisfied when the capital deployment hurdle numerator divided by the capital deployment hurdle denominator is greater than 50%. See “Underwriting.”

If we meet the capital deployment hurdle described above, we will pay the underwriters an additional underwriting discount equal to $             million in the aggregate (or $             million if the underwriters exercise their overallotment option in full). In such case, our total net proceeds from this offering would be approximately $             million (or, if the underwriters exercise their overallotment option in full, approximately $             million), after deducting the initial underwriting discount, the additional underwriting discount and estimated offering expenses (excluding a discretionary structuring fee, payable in our sole discretion only upon satisfaction of the capital deployment hurdle, of $             , or         % of the public offering price in the aggregate to J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.). The additional underwriting discount is payable within five business days following our filing of a quarterly or annual report after the capital deployment hurdle is satisfied.

Concurrently with the offering, in separate private placements, we will sell (1) up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares, to Hyatt, and (2) up to 9.8% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $25 million of our common shares, to Baron, in each case, excluding common shares that may be sold pursuant to the underwriters’ overallotment option, and at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%. We also will sell an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to our non-executive chairman, our president and chief executive officer and our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary at the IPO price per share. We will receive net proceeds of approximately $             million from the concurrent private placements.

We will contribute the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements to our operating partnership. Our operating partnership intends to subsequently use the net proceeds received from us as follows:

 

 

approximately $250,000 to repay Messrs. Francis and Vicari for loans and accrued interest which funded our operating costs and certain costs of the offering, and to repurchase the shares acquired by them in connection with our initial capitalization representing an aggregate of $1,000; and

 

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the remaining proceeds to fund investments in hotel properties in up to six months after the completion of the offering and to cover our working capital needs in a manner consistent with our investment strategy.

The value of the units that we will receive in exchange for our contribution of the net proceeds to the operating partnership will increase or decrease if our common share price increases or decreases.

Pending these uses, we intend to invest the net proceeds in interest-bearing, short-term investment grade securities or money-market accounts which are consistent with our intention to qualify as a REIT. Such investments may include, for example, government and government agency certificates, certificates of deposit, interest-bearing bank deposits and mortgage loan participations. These investments are expected to provide a lower net return than we will seek to achieve from our target properties.

 

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Capitalization

The following table sets forth (1) our actual capitalization as of October 31, 2009, and (2) our capitalization as adjusted to reflect (i) the sale of 12,500,000 common shares in the offering at an assumed IPO price of $20.00 per share after deducting the underwriting discount and commissions, the discretionary structuring fee (which is payable in our sole discretion) and estimated organizational and offering expenses payable by us, (ii) the concurrent private placements to Hyatt and Baron of up to 4.9% and 9.8%, respectively, of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, in each case, at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%, (iii) the sale of an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers at the IPO price per share, and (iv) the restricted share grants to be made to our officers and non-officer trustees concurrently with the closing of the offering. You should read this table together with “Use of proceeds” included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

As of October 31, 2009    Actual    As Adjusted (1)
        (Unaudited)
 

Shareholders’ Equity:

     

Common shares, par value $0.01 per share; 25,000,000 shares authorized, 100,000 shares issued and outstanding, actual and 400,000,000 shares authorized and 15,068,592 shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted

   $ 1,000    $             

Preferred shares, par value $0.01 per share; 0 shares authorized and shares issued and outstanding, actual and 100,000,000 shares authorized and 0 shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted

       

Additional paid in capital

       

Retained earnings

       

Total Shareholders’ Equity

   $ 1,000    $  
 

 

(1)  

Includes (a) common shares issued to Hyatt and Baron of up to 4.9% and 9.8%, respectively, of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, (b) an aggregate of 150,000 common shares issued to certain of our executive officers and trustees and (c) 368,500 restricted common shares granted to Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams and our non-officer trustees concurrently with the closing of the offering, but excludes (x) up to 1,875,000 shares issuable upon exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option and (y) 366,505 shares issuable in the future under our Equity Plan.

 

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Distribution policy

In order to qualify as a REIT, we must annually distribute to our shareholders an amount at least equal to:

 

(i)   90% of our REIT taxable income (determined before the deduction for dividends paid and excluding any net capital gain); plus

 

(ii)   90% of the excess of our net income from foreclosure property over the tax imposed on such income by the Internal Revenue Code; less

 

(iii)   any excess non-cash income (as determined under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended).

See “Material U.S. federal income tax considerations.”

The timing and frequency of distributions will be authorized by our board of trustees and declared by us based upon a number of factors, including:

 

 

actual results of operations;

 

 

the timing of the investment of the proceeds of the offering;

 

 

debt service requirements;

 

 

capital expenditure requirements for our properties;

 

 

our taxable income;

 

 

the annual distribution requirement under the REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

 

our operating expenses; and

 

 

other factors that our board of trustees may deem relevant.

Our ability to make distributions to our shareholders will depend, in part, upon our receipt of distributions from our operating partnership, which may depend upon receipt of lease payments from our TRS, and, in turn, upon the management of our properties by the various managers our TRS will contract with to operate our hotels. Distributions to our shareholders generally will be taxable to our shareholders as ordinary income. Because our investment strategy is to acquire hotel properties, which will result in depreciation and non-cash charges against our income, a portion of our distributions may constitute a tax-free return of capital. Subject to maintaining our qualification as a REIT, we may retain any earnings that accumulate in our TRS.

Although we intend over time to make quarterly distributions to our shareholders in cash from our earnings, we may, from time to time, make distributions to our shareholders in our common shares. We will not use the proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements to make distributions to our shareholders, except to the extent necessary to meet the REIT qualification requirements or eliminate U.S. federal income tax liability. To the extent that, in respect of any calendar year, cash available for distribution is less than our net taxable income, we could be required to use proceeds from future equity or debt offerings, sell assets or borrow funds to make cash distributions or make a portion of the required distribution in the form of a taxable share distribution or distribution of debt securities.

 

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U.S. lodging industry

Overview.     Historically, the lodging industry in the United States has been cyclical in nature. Generally, lodging industry performance correlates with macroeconomic conditions in the United States. Fluctuations in lodging demand and, therefore, operating performance, are caused largely by general economic and local market conditions, which affect levels of business and leisure travel. Historically, recovery in demand for lodging has generally lagged improvement in the overall economy. In addition to general economic and local market conditions, new hotel room supply has the potential to further exacerbate the negative impact of an economic recession. Lodging supply growth is typically driven by overall lodging demand, as extended periods of strong demand growth tend to encourage new hotel development. However, the rate of supply growth is also influenced by a number of additional factors, including availability and cost of capital, construction costs and local market considerations.

Beginning in 2008, the U.S. lodging industry began experiencing a significant downturn due to a decline in consumer and business spending as a result of the overall weakness in the economy, particularly the turmoil in the credit markets, erosion of consumer confidence and increasing unemployment. As a result, lodging demand from both leisure and business travelers decreased significantly in 2008 and through the second quarter of 2009. This decreased demand for hotel rooms, together with recent modest increases in hotel supply, resulted in declines in occupancy and reductions in room rates as hotels competed more aggressively for guests. These events have had a substantial negative impact on RevPAR. According to HVS, the industry outlook indicates these trends are expected to continue for 2009, with RevPAR forecasted to decline 16.1% for the full year, a significantly larger decline than the two most recent lodging industry downturns in 1991 and 2001/2002. In addition, HVS forecasts a continued modest decline for 2010 annual RevPAR, however we expect lodging industry performance and, in particular, RevPAR to begin improving in the second half of 2010 due to increased demand given the forecasted resumption in growth of the U.S. economy. As a result, 2011 is expected to be the first full year of RevPAR growth and this improvement in industry performance is expected to accelerate for several years following 2011.

 

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Expected rebound in lodging demand.     As shown in the graph below, growth in hotel room demand has historically been correlated to growth in U.S. GDP. During the 20 year period from 1988 to 2008, demand for hotel rooms grew at an average annual rate of 1.9%, as compared to the 2.9% average annual growth rate in GDP during the same period. This period of overall growth was interrupted by a weakening economy and disruptions in travel activities in 2001. Beginning in 2002, lodging demand and GDP began to show signs of recovery. From 2002 to 2007, demand for hotel rooms grew at an average annual rate of 1.6%, while GDP increased by 2.6%. Although signs of weakness in demand again emerged in 2007, demand did not contract steeply until the fourth quarter of 2008 following a decline in GDP, at which point demand fell to a level 5.2% below the prior year. This steep contraction continued into the first half of 2009, tracking the continued decline in the economy. Lodging demand is expected to remain negative for 2009 and as economic growth resumes in 2010, we believe that overall demand will begin to improve in the second half of 2010, however on a full year basis it is expected to continue to contract, but at a slower rate. As economic growth accelerates in 2011, as reflected by expected GDP growth of 3.5%, lodging demand is expected to recover and grow by 3.0%. We expect the strengthening economy to drive further growth in 2012, 2013 and 2014, as shown in the graph below.

U.S. Lodging Industry—Annual Change in Room Demand and US Real GDP

LOGO

Source: Real GDP—1988A-2008A: Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2009E-2014E: IMF forecasts; Room Demand—1988A-2008A: Smith Travel Research, 2009E-2014E: HVS

 

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Supply constrained environment.     As reflected in the graph below, during the 20 year period from 1988 to 2008, new supply growth averaged 2.1% annually. While supply growth in 2008 and the outlook for 2009 is modestly above historical averages, we believe that supply growth peaked in late 2008 to early 2009. However, in comparison to the two most recent lodging industry downturns in 1991 and 2001/2002, the present downturn was preceded by a relatively modest supply increase. Historically, periods of weak hotel industry performance have been followed by a decrease in the growth of new hotel supply as the availability of new development capital declines. However, even as the economy and the hotel industry begin to improve and capital becomes more readily available, new development usually requires several years to complete and, therefore, supply growth typically lags behind demand growth. As a result, and given that in the current economic environment, financing has been limited due to the recession and tightening of credit availability, we expect new supply to remain constrained, particularly in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Therefore, even moderate increases in demand should translate into increases in hotel revenues and profitability.

U.S. Lodging Industry—Annual Change in Hotel Room Supply

LOGO

Source: 1988A-2008A: Smith Travel Research, 2009E-2015E: HVS

 

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Expected rebound in RevPAR.     Periods of greater RevPAR growth generally occur when room demand exceeds new supply growth. As reflected in the graph below, during the 20 year period from 1988 to 2008, industry annual RevPAR growth averaged 3.2%. Moreover, following the economic recessions in 1991 and 2001/2002, the lodging industry experienced nine consecutive years of positive RevPAR growth from 1992 through 2000 and five consecutive years of positive RevPAR growth from 2003 through 2007. During these two periods of sustained growth, average annual RevPAR growth was 4.5% and 6.1%, respectively.

Annual RevPAR declined in 2008 and is expected to decline significantly in 2009 and to decline modestly in 2010. Nonetheless, the U.S. lodging industry has shown resilience and strong long- term growth since 1988 and as business fundamentals continue to stabilize, lodging demand slowly increases and the United States and the rest of the world emerge from the current economic crisis, we believe that RevPAR will increase significantly, as it did following the 1991 and 2001/2002 economic recessions.

U.S. Lodging Industry—Annual Change in RevPAR, Room Demand and Room Supply

LOGO

Sources: 1988-2008A: Smith Travel Research, 2009E-2015E: HVS

 

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Our business

Overview

We are a self-advised hotel investment company organized in June 2009. We intend to focus our investments primarily in upper upscale hotels in major business, airport and convention markets and, on a selective basis, in premium select-service hotels in urban settings or unique locations in the United States. We believe current industry dynamics will create attractive opportunities to acquire high quality hotel properties, at prices well below replacement costs, with attractive yields on investment and significant upside potential.

Our senior executive officers have extensive experience in the lodging industry, including the acquisition, development, financing, repositioning, asset management and disposition of hotels. This experience includes founding Highland and leading its IPO and related formation transactions in 2003. Following the IPO, our senior executive officers served as chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Highland until its sale in July 2007. In addition to their service with Highland, our senior executive officers have held senior management and executive positions at several other publicly traded lodging companies such as Crestline Capital Corporation, Marriott International, Inc., Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. and Prime Hospitality Corporation.

We do not own any properties and have no agreement to acquire any property at this time. However, our senior executive officers have established and maintained a broad network of hotel industry contacts, including long-standing relationships with hotel owners, independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers and institutional investors that we believe will provide us with attractive acquisition opportunities. In addition, we have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt that we believe will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy by potentially providing us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities. For a full description of our agreement with Hyatt, see “—Relationship with Hyatt.”

Upon completion of the offering, the concurrent private placements to Hyatt, Baron, our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers, and the related formation transactions described in this prospectus, we expect to have approximately $         million in cash available to execute our strategy. We also expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties.

We intend to elect and qualify to be treated as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, commencing with our taxable year ending December 31, 2009.

Our team

The founding members of our management team are James L. Francis, our president and chief executive officer, and Douglas W. Vicari, our executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary. These senior executive officers have extensive management expertise and lodging industry experience with both public and private hospitality companies. During their careers, these senior executive officers have held senior management and executive positions as well as various finance, development, strategic and brand roles at major publicly traded lodging companies. In these roles, they have participated in numerous lodging-related transactions and assumed significant management responsibilities. This experience includes:

 

 

hotel investments, including single property and portfolio acquisitions;

 

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hotel and company level financings, such as single property and portfolio debt financings, including loans included in securitized transactions, public debt offerings, public and private equity offerings and corporate credit facilities;

 

 

hotel dispositions, including single property, portfolio and company dispositions; and

 

 

asset management, including extensive renovation and repositioning programs, as well as re-branding or changing hotel management of select properties.

Upon completion of the offering, Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams will be our only employees. We expect to expand our team to between 12-15 employees, with the exact number to be determined based on the size and growth of our portfolio of properties. Of that number, many, including a chief accounting officer, accounting support staff and a director of asset management, are expected to be hired within 30 days of the completion of the offering. We also intend to lease adequate office space in or near Annapolis, Maryland and to put in place information systems and technology to support our team.

From 2003 until 2007, while our senior executive officers served as the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Highland, Highland acquired ownership interests in 30 hotel properties for approximately $1.3 billion of capital comprised primarily of upper upscale full-service hotels located in the top 25 MSAs and operated under nationally recognized brands such as Hyatt Regency ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® . In early 2007, amid concerns of inflated asset valuations and increased competition for acquisitions potentially impairing its ability to successfully execute its strategic plan, Highland determined that it was in the best interest of the company and its stockholders to evaluate strategic alternatives. As a result, Highland undertook a process that led to its sale in July 2007 to affiliates of a private equity fund, JER Partners, at a price of $19.50 per share.

The following table depicts the returns generated in respect of one share of Highland common stock assuming the share was purchased in Highland’s December 2003 initial public offering at the IPO price of $10 per share and assuming reinvestment of all cash dividends paid by Highland on its common stock for all periods following its IPO in additional shares of common stock on the dividend payment date. As shown below, at the time of closing of the sale to the affiliate of JER Partners, one share purchased at the time of the IPO would have grown, through reinvestment, to 1.163 shares sold for $19.50 per share, or an equivalent value of $22.68, producing a total return of approximately 127% as compared to the IPO price of $10 per share. The information about Highland’s historical performance is a reflection of the past performance of Highland and is not a guarantee or prediction of our future returns.

 

Dividend Payment Date

   Dividend
Paid
   Closing
share price on dividend
payment date
   Shares acquired
through dividend
reinvestment
   Shares owned

7/15/2004

   $ 0.13    $ 10.65    0.012    1.012

10/15/2004

     0.09      11.81    0.008    1.020

1/14/2005

     0.14      10.94    0.013    1.033

4/15/2005

     0.14      10.31    0.014    1.047

7/15/2005

     0.14      11.24    0.013    1.060

10/14/2005

     0.14      10.41    0.014    1.074

1/13/2006

     0.14      11.19    0.013    1.088

4/14/2006

     0.16      12.12    0.014    1.102

7/14/2006

     0.18      13.36    0.015    1.117

10/13/2006

     0.19      14.56    0.015    1.132

1/12/2007

     0.22      14.51    0.017    1.149

4/13/2007

     0.23      18.35    0.014    1.163

 

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Relationship with Hyatt

We have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt. Hyatt is a global hospitality company with widely recognized, industry leading brands. Hyatt manages, franchises, owns and develops Hyatt-branded hotels, resorts and residential and vacation ownership properties around the world. As of June 30, 2009, Hyatt’s worldwide portfolio consisted of 413 Hyatt-branded properties (119,509 rooms and units). Hyatt operates full service hotels under four world-recognized brands, Park Hyatt ® , Grand Hyatt ® , Hyatt Regency ® and Hyatt ® and recently introduced its fifth full-service brand, Andaz ® . Additionally, Hyatt operates two select-service brands, Hyatt Place ® and Hyatt Summerfield Suites ® (an extended stay brand).

We believe that our sourcing relationship with Hyatt will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy by potentially providing us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities. Pursuant to a sourcing agreement, we will, for three years following the completion of the offering, provide Hyatt with an exclusive right of first offer to manage or franchise each hotel we acquire, to the extent those properties are not operated under other brands and we determine that a brand relationship is desirable, and Hyatt may, in its sole discretion, identify and refer acquisition opportunities to us. We believe that our relationship with Hyatt will benefit our shareholders as a result of Hyatt’s strong brands and excellent hotel management services. We plan to continue to explore with Hyatt how to further our sourcing relationship in order to maximize the value of the relationship to both parties.

In addition, in order to streamline our process with Hyatt, we have negotiated a form of franchise agreement and a form of management agreement that we may use, subject to the completion of definitive agreements, to the extent we engage Hyatt through a management or franchise agreement. The terms of any particular management or franchise agreement with Hyatt may differ from these forms as a result of specific issues or conditions at the particular hotel property. Copies of these forms of agreement have been filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

Under the terms of the form management agreement, Hyatt will manage and operate a hotel property on behalf of our TRS lessee with an initial term that is expected to be 20 years, subject to two 10-year renewal options exercisable by Hyatt and our right to terminate the agreement after the fifth year of the initial term if the hotel property fails to meet levels of RevPAR and gross operating profit that will be negotiated separately for each property. As manager, Hyatt generally will have sole responsibility and exclusive authority for all activities necessary for the day-to-day operation of the hotel. In addition, Hyatt generally will provide all managerial and other employees for the hotels, oversee the operation and maintenance of the hotels, prepare

 

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reports, budgets and projections, and provide other administrative and accounting support services to the hotel. We have agreed under the form management agreement to pay Hyatt a base management fee equal to 3% of hotel revenues, and an incentive fee equal to 20% of the amount, if any, by which the hotel’s adjusted profit, as defined in the form management agreement, exceeds an 11% preferred return on our invested capital in the hotel. The form management agreement also allows Hyatt to charge our hotels for services that are generally furnished by Hyatt on a centralized basis.

Under the terms of the form franchise agreement, our TRS lessee will obtain the right to operate a hotel under a Hyatt brand for a 20-year term. The form franchise agreement generally specifies certain management, operational, record keeping, accounting, reporting and marketing standards and procedures with which the TRS lessee must comply. The form franchise agreement will obligate the TRS lessee to comply with Hyatt’s standards and requirements with respect to training of operational personnel, safety, maintaining specified insurance, the types of services and products ancillary to guest room services that may be provided, display of signs, and the type, quality and age of furniture, fixtures and equipment included in guest rooms, lobbies and other common areas.

The form franchise agreement also provides for termination at Hyatt’s option upon the occurrence of certain events, including the TRS lessee’s failure to pay royalties and fees or perform its other covenants pursuant to the franchise agreement, bankruptcy, abandonment of the franchise, commission of a felony, assignment of the franchise without the consent of Hyatt, or failure to comply with applicable law in the operation of the relevant hotel. The form franchise agreement generally will not renew automatically upon expiration. The TRS lessee will be responsible for making all payments pursuant to the franchise agreements to Hyatt. Pursuant to the form franchise agreement, the TRS lessee will pay a monthly royalty fee equal to 6% of room revenues and 3% of food and beverage revenues accrued during the prior month, plus additional fees for marketing, central reservation systems, and other franchisor costs that we expect generally will amount to between 3% and 4% of room revenues from the hotel.

Concurrently with the offering, we expect to sell to Hyatt up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding after the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares. We believe that the equity stake in our company that Hyatt will acquire will serve to further align their interests with our interests, and may provide added incentive to Hyatt to help us to execute our business strategy.

Competitive strengths

We believe the following competitive strengths distinguish us from other owners, acquirors and investors in hotel properties:

Experienced management team :    A veteran management team with a proven track record and substantial lodging industry experience will enable us to effectively implement our business strategy by evaluating investment opportunities and deploying capital in hotels that provide attractive long-term returns. Our senior executive officers have previously worked together for a number of years and have extensive experience, having served as executives in several publicly traded lodging companies, including Highland, Marriott International, Inc., Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc., Crestline Capital Corporation and Prime Hospitality Corporation.

Extensive industry relationships :    Our senior management team has established and maintained a broad network of hotel industry contacts, including long-standing relationships with hotel

 

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owners, independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers, institutional investors and other key industry participants. We believe these broad industry relationships will provide us with a valuable source of potential hotel property investment opportunities.

Growth oriented capital structure with no legacy issues :    We believe that many institutional buyers of hotel assets will be constrained in their ability to make acquisitions over the next several years as they address the adverse effects of both a highly leveraged capital structure and declining operating performance on their existing portfolio. Unlike many of these potential buyers, we will be well capitalized, with no near-term debt maturities, liquidity constraints or distressed assets limiting management’s focus or ability to acquire assets. Following the offering, the concurrent private placements and the related formation transactions, we will have $         million of equity capital to execute our strategy.

Proven acquisition and disposition capabilities :    Throughout their careers, our senior executive officers have pursued investment strategies that include acquiring, developing, financing, repositioning and selling hotel properties. While our chief executive officer and chief financial officer worked together at Highland from its IPO in 2003 until its sale in 2007, Highland invested an aggregate of approximately $1.3 billion of capital in 30 hotel properties with over 9,000 rooms before Highland was sold. The sale resulted in a total return of 127% for one share purchased at the IPO price of $10 per share (assuming reinvestment of all cash dividends paid by Highland on its common stock for all periods following its IPO in additional shares of common stock on the dividend payment date). We may not be able to replicate Highland’s historical performance in the future.

Strategic relationship with Hyatt :    We have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt, a global hospitality company with widely recognized, industry leading brands. We believe this relationship, as well as Hyatt’s strong brands and excellent hotel management services, will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy and potentially provide us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities. In addition, concurrently with the offering, we will sell to Hyatt up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding after the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of our common shares. We believe that this equity stake will serve to align Hyatt’s interests with ours and may provide added incentive to help us to execute our business strategy. For a full description of our agreement with Hyatt, see “—Relationship with Hyatt.”

Market opportunity

We believe the next several years will present opportunities to acquire hotels during one of the most attractive investment environments in our senior executive officers’ 20-plus year professional careers. During the last several years, pricing of hotel properties in the United States appreciated well in excess of the properties’ underlying financial performance, primarily driven by record levels of debt financing. These market conditions drove significant growth in both hotel property-level transactions and privatizations of publicly traded hotel companies. According to HVS, from 2003 through 2008 there were approximately $63 billion of hotel property-level transactions, an amount roughly equal to the aggregate property level transaction volume over the 13 years prior to 2003. In addition, according to data provided by SNL Financial LC, since 2003 there have been approximately $54 billion of privatizations of publicly traded hotel companies. This significant transactional activity was supported by readily available debt financing at historically high loan-to-value ratios, provided mainly by traditional real estate lenders such as national and regional banks and insurance companies and also through the issuance of CMBS.

 

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Over the past 18 months, a significant correction in the price of hotel properties has been underway, primarily as a result of the impact of the economic downturn on the lodging industry. In addition, due to the widely publicized credit crisis, the CMBS market is virtually closed and many traditional lenders have seen their balance sheets impaired, resulting in a severe contraction in available debt financing for hotel properties.

We believe the combined effects of the severe decline in hotel operating performance, the lack of available debt financing from traditional real estate lenders and the decline in hotel property valuations will yield a high level of foreclosures, restructurings and distressed hotel asset sales. As shown in the graph below, the number of hotel defaults, foreclosures and properties in distress already has hit record levels. According to © Real Capital Analytics, Inc., as of September 2009 there were 1,127 hotel loans in distress, representing approximately $29.3 billion of outstanding balances, as compared to approximately $770 million in January 2008. We believe this distress will be further exacerbated as hotel owners face debt maturities at a time when industry performance has substantially declined and property values have declined (in some cases even below current debt balances), while replacement financing is limited.

We expect this widespread financial distress to result in a significant supply of hotel investment opportunities from a range of sellers, including national and regional banks, insurance companies, private equity funds, real estate mezzanine debt investors, hotel owners and CMBS special servicers. In addition to financial distress as a result of declining performance and debt requirements, we believe this increased supply of opportunities will also be driven by certain owners potentially facing the inability to meet franchisor-required capital expenditures. We expect to be well positioned to capitalize on these various opportunities to acquire hotel properties at deep discounts to replacement cost as a result of our liquidity and our senior executive officers’ acquisition experience.

U.S. Distressed Hotel Loans Volume ($ Billions)

LOGO

Source: ©Real Capital Analytics, Inc. (www.rcanalytics.com)

Note: Distress includes loans in foreclosure, bankruptcy, and restructured/modified statuses

 

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Our strategy

We believe the following investment criteria and strategy will promote the growth of our company and our ability to deliver strong total returns to our shareholders:

External growth.     We intend to focus our investments primarily in upper upscale hotels in major business, airport and convention markets and, on a selective basis, in premium select-service hotels in urban settings or unique locations in the United States. We believe these types of hotels currently offer the opportunity for stronger returns than hotels in other segments of the industry due to an expected increase in lodging demand, particularly among business travelers, given the forecasted resumption in growth of the U.S. economy starting in 2011.

We will pursue investment opportunities primarily in upper upscale hotel properties operating under national franchise brands, with which our executive officers have existing relationships, such as Hyatt ® , Hyatt Regency ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Renaissance ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® . In some instances, we will invest in premium select-service brands such as Hyatt Place ® , Courtyard by Marriott ® and Hilton Garden Inn ® or boutique hotels (unbranded) located in urban settings or unique locations.

We will seek to acquire primarily hotel properties that meet the following investment criteria:

 

 

Strong location:    hotel properties located in high barrier to entry markets in the top 25 MSAs, in close proximity to major market demand generators;

 

 

Market leaders:    hotel properties that are proven leaders in market share, setting the rates in the market and providing superior meeting space, services or amenities; and

 

 

Good condition:    hotel properties that are well-maintained, as determined based on our review of third party property condition reports and other data obtained during our due diligence process.

Additionally, we intend to pursue opportunities for:

 

 

Re-branding:    we will evaluate opportunities to re-brand certain hotels by determining which brands are available in the market, seeking to quantify the potential improvement in revenue generation and profitability and undertaking a cost/benefit analysis of investing capital to bring the property into compliance with the standards of the selected brand. We will analyze these opportunities by reviewing the revenue data of the local competitive set of hotels that are branded most similar to the proposed new brand for the property, which data we will obtain from a third party, Smith Travel Research. Based on this data, we will project the expected revenue for the property with the new brand and use hotel industry standards for profit margins to calculate potential profits. These additional profits will then be compared to the expected capital costs for the brand conversion to calculate a return on investment, which we will use to determine whether it is in our shareholders’ interests to undertake the re-branding project. Under our sourcing agreement with Hyatt, we will offer Hyatt the right to franchise each hotel we acquire and plan to re-brand.

 

 

Renovation:    we will consider properties that are in prime locations and are structurally sound, but have been neglected and can be purchased at attractive prices and renovated and reintroduced into the market at a cost significantly lower than what would have been spent to acquire a stabilized property or to develop a new hotel of similar quality. To assess whether to

 

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renovate a hotel property, we will compare the quality and conditions of the physical property and facilities of a target property to a local competitive set of hotels and then estimate renovation costs to upgrade the property to a competitive quality standard based on its local market. If the purchase price and projected renovation costs are lower than the projected cost to acquire a comparable property of similar quality or the costs to develop a new property, it could be an attractive acquisition and renovation opportunity.

 

 

New hotel property management:    we will investigate hotel management at underperforming properties to assess whether we can realize strong returns on our investment by acquiring the properties at an attractive price and replace the property’s manager with more highly qualified hotel managers. As part of our diligence efforts, we will assess this potential through a review of the operating performance of the property and comparison with its local competitive set and industry standards. It could be indicative of poor management if based on this review the property underperforms or it is our belief that it could perform better.

Internal growth.     We intend to aggressively asset manage the hotel properties we acquire by employing value-added strategies (such as re-branding, renovating or changing hotel management) designed to improve the operating performance and value of our hotels. We will not operate our hotel properties, but intend to engage reputable independent or brand management companies to operate our hotels. We intend to structure our hotel management agreements to allow us to closely monitor the performance of our hotels and to ensure, among other things, that our third-party managers: (1) implement an approved business and marketing plan; (2) implement a disciplined capital expenditure program; and (3) establish and prudently spend appropriate furniture, fixtures and equipment reserves.

Financing policy and strategy.     We expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties. Our board of trustees will review these limits on a regular basis and will have the ability to amend or modify them without shareholder approval. To the extent our board amends or modifies them in the future, we will disclose any such amendments or modifications to these debt financing policies in periodic reports that we will file or furnish with the SEC.

We are in discussions to obtain commitments from a lending syndicate for a secured revolving credit facility that we anticipate will be in place following completion of the offering. We expect that the proposed facility will be secured by the hotel properties we acquire and other assets, and will be fully recourse to our property-owning subsidiaries that are borrowers thereunder. The proposed facility will be used to fund hotel acquisitions, capital expenditures and for general corporate purposes. There is no assurance that we will be able to enter into a definitive agreement relating to this proposed credit facility on terms we find acceptable.

Beyond our anticipated corporate credit facility, we intend to use other financing methods as necessary, including but not limited to property mortgages, letters of credit and other arrangements, any of which may be unsecured or may be secured by mortgages or other interests in our assets. In addition, we may issue publicly or privately placed debt instruments. When possible and desirable, we will seek to replace short-term sources of capital with long-term financing.

Our indebtedness may be recourse or non-recourse and may be cross-collateralized. In addition, we may invest in properties subject to existing loans secured by mortgages or similar liens on our

 

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properties, or may refinance properties acquired on a leveraged basis. We may use the proceeds from any borrowings to acquire properties, refinance existing indebtedness, finance investments, or for general corporate purposes.

We will consider a number of factors when evaluating our level of indebtedness and making financial decisions, including, among others, the following:

 

 

the interest rate of the proposed financing;

 

 

the extent to which the financing impacts our ability to asset manage our properties;

 

 

prepayment penalties and restrictions on refinancing;

 

 

our long-term objectives with regard to the financing;

 

 

our target investment returns;

 

 

the ability of particular properties, and our company as a whole, to generate cash flow sufficient to cover expected debt service payments;

 

 

our overall level of indebtedness;

 

 

timing of debt maturities;

 

 

provisions that require recourse and cross-collateralization;

 

 

corporate credit ratios including but not limited to debt service coverage, debt to total market capitalization and debt to undepreciated assets; and

 

 

overall ratio of fixed and variable rate debt.

Dividend and distribution policy.     We intend over time to make regular quarterly distributions to holders of our common shares out of our earnings, in amounts necessary to maintain our REIT qualification, eliminate our taxable income and avoid the 4% excise tax on undistributed net income. Subject to making any distributions necessary to maintain our REIT qualification and to eliminate U.S. federal income tax liability, we do not expect to be in a position to pay our first dividend until such time as we have generated sufficient earnings from our investments. In order to qualify as a REIT, we must distribute to our shareholders an amount at least equal to:

 

(i)   90% of our REIT taxable income (determined before deduction for dividends paid and excluding any net capital gains); plus

 

(ii)   90% of the excess of our net income from foreclosure property over the tax imposed on such income by the Internal Revenue Code; less

 

(iii)   any excess non-cash income (as determined under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code).

The timing and frequency of distributions will be authorized by our board of trustees and declared by us based on a number of factors including:

 

 

actual results of operations;

 

 

the timing of the investment of the proceeds of the offering;

 

 

debt service requirements;

 

 

capital expenditures requirements for our properties;

 

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our taxable income;

 

 

the annual distribution requirement under the REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

 

our operating expenses; and

 

 

other factors that our board of trustees may deem relevant.

Our ability to make distributions to our shareholders will depend, in part, upon our receipt of distributions from our operating partnership which in turn may depend upon receipt of lease payments from our TRS and its subsidiaries, and upon the management of our properties by the various managers that our TRS and its subsidiaries have contracted with to operate our properties. Distributions to our shareholders will generally be taxable to our shareholders as ordinary income. Because our investment strategy is to acquire hotel properties, which will result in depreciation and non-cash charges against our income, a portion of our distributions may constitute a tax-free return of capital. To the extent not inconsistent with maintaining our REIT status, we may retain any earnings that accumulate in our TRS.

Acquisition and asset management process

We intend to implement a disciplined acquisition and asset management process that involves significant attention from our senior executives at each step along the way.

Step 1: Origination and screening

We expect to identify investment opportunities through the extensive network of relationships that our senior executives have established in the lodging and hospitality industries, including contacts with independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers, institutional investors and other key industry participants. In addition, we may learn of additional opportunities through our sourcing agreement with Hyatt.

Following our initial contacts with potential sellers or their agents, we will screen the potential acquisition target by preparing a desktop pro forma and return analysis. In this step, we will compare the value of the targeted asset to our estimate of replacement cost. In addition, we will prepare summary projections and also project the internal rates of return we might be able to realize on the asset over five and 10 year investment hold periods on a leveraged and unleveraged basis. Only if the targeted asset meets our then-current investment parameters, which will be established by our senior executive officers and periodically reviewed by our board of trustees, will we proceed to Step 2 of our acquisition process.

Step 2: Initial due diligence and investment analysis

Once we identify a prospective investment, we will employ detailed financial modeling and analysis to assess the projected RevPAR and cash flow generation capabilities of the property as well as evaluate any debt service coverage characteristics if the property will be encumbered by existing debt. We intend to focus our analysis on current and projected cash flows and potential risks to cash flow such as those associated with occupancy and ADR concerns. We also will perform extensive market and property-level due diligence. The market research will incorporate analysis of market demographics, key fundamentals such as expected employment growth and population growth, comparable transactions and the competitive landscape. Our property-level analysis will focus on detailed revenue and expense projections as well as the projected capital needs of the hotel, including any related property improvement plan required by the existing or contemplated brand under which the hotel will operate following the acquisition. In cases where

 

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this analysis identifies the need to make significant capital investments in the property, we expect to engage third parties to conduct an engineering review and perform other work necessary to prepare a detailed assessment of the costs to renovate and operate the hotel.

In structuring prospective investments, we will evaluate the impact of the transaction on our broader capital structure. We also intend to set out a clear path to establish the optimal management, franchising and branding relationships at the outset of our ownership of a particular property.

Step 3: Board approval

Upon completion of our preliminary due diligence and a favorable decision by our senior executive officers to proceed with an investment, we will present the investment opportunity to our board of trustees. We will not acquire any hotel properties or make any investments without board approval. In discussing proposed transactions with our board, our senior executives will present the board with an analysis of each target property that provides an in-depth overview of the targeted asset, due diligence conducted, key financial metrics and analyses related to the property and the market in which it is located, as well as investment considerations and potential risk mitigants. Only after we receive board approval will we put money at risk in the form of a non-refundable deposit on a particular hotel property.

Step 4: Confirmatory due diligence / Closing process

As part of the closing process, we will work with outside legal counsel to complete legal due diligence (including title and insurance review) and document each investment. As is typical for hotel acquisitions, we expect to engage third party advisors and/or consultants to conduct an environmental review of the collateral and provide a Property Condition Report and Phase 1 Environmental Assessment. We will not proceed with any acquisition opportunity unless the results of these reviews are satisfactory to us.

Step 5: Asset management

After acquiring hotels, we intend to aggressively manage them through value-added strategies such as re-branding, renovating or changing hotel management as we determine necessary to increase the operating results and value of our hotel property investments. We expect that we will reassess the status of each hotel in our portfolio not less than quarterly to ensure that our current operating strategy maximizes our returns on investment from the asset.

For the income from our hotel operations to constitute “rents from real property” for purposes of the gross income test required for REIT qualification, we are required to lease each of our hotels to our TRS, which will be wholly owned by our operating partnership. Our TRS will pay rent to us that can qualify as “rents from real property,” provided that the TRS engages an “eligible independent contractor” to manage our hotels. Accordingly, in connection with each acquisition, we expect our TRS will engage a qualified hotel management company to manage each hotel. We intend to structure our hotel management agreements to allow us to closely monitor the performance of our hotels and to ensure, among other things, that our managers: (1) implement an approved business and marketing plan, (2) implement a disciplined capital expenditure program and (3) establish and prudently spend appropriate furniture, fixtures and equipment reserves.

 

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Hotel industry segments

Smith Travel Research, Inc. classifies the hotel industry into the following chain scales, as determined by each brand’s average system-wide daily rates: luxury, upper upscale, upscale, midscale with food and beverage, midscale without food and beverage, and economy. The category of “luxury” includes hotels such as Park Hyatt ® , Four Seasons ® , Mandarin Oriental ® , Ritz-Carlton ® , St. Regis ® , and W Hotels ® ; the category of “upper upscale” includes hotels such as Hyatt ® , Hyatt Regency ® , Grand Hyatt ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Renaissance ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® , and the category of “upscale” includes hotels such as Hyatt Place ® , Courtyard by Marriott ® , Hilton Garden Inn ® , Radisson ® , Residence Inn by Marriott ® and Wyndham ® .

“Full-service” hotels are generally with a restaurant, lounge facilities and meeting space as well as minimum service levels often including bell service and room service. “Select-service” hotels have limited food and beverage outlets and do not offer comprehensive business or banquet facilities, but rather are suited to serve smaller business meetings. “Extended-stay” hotels are hotels generally designed to accommodate guests staying for extended periods of time and typically provide rooms with fully equipped kitchens, entertainment systems, office spaces with computer and telephone lines, access to fitness centers and other amenities.

Top 25 metropolitan statistical areas

MSAs are defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget as one or more adjacent counties or county equivalents that have at least one urban core area of at least 50,000 population, plus adjacent territory that has a high degree of social and economic integration with the core as measured by commuting ties. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the following comprise the top 25 MSAs by population size as of July 1, 2008, the latest date for which data is available.

 

1.

  New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, NY-NJ-PA   14.  

Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA

2.

 

Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, CA

  15.  

Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA

3.

 

Chicago-Naperville-Joliet, IL-IN-WI

  16.  

Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI

4.

 

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX

  17.  

San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, CA

5.

  Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD   18.  

St. Louis, MO-IL

6.

 

Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, TX

  19.  

Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL

7.

 

Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, FL

  20.  

Baltimore-Towson, MD

8.

 

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta, GA

  21.  

Denver-Aurora, CO

9.

  Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV   22.  

Pittsburgh, PA

10.

 

Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH

  23.  

Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton, OR-WA

11.

 

Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI

  24.  

Cincinnati-Middletown, OH-KY-IN

12.

 

Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ

  25.  

Sacramento--Arden-Arcade--Roseville, CA

13.

 

San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA

   

 

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Legal proceedings

We are not involved in any material litigation nor, to our knowledge, is any material litigation threatened against us.

Competition

We believe that competition for the acquisition of hotels is highly fragmented. We face competition from institutional pension funds, private equity investors, other REITs and numerous local, regional and national owners, including franchisors, in each of our markets. Some of these entities may have substantially greater financial resources than we do and may be able and willing to accept more risk than we can prudently manage. Competition generally may increase the bargaining power of property owners seeking to sell and reduce the number of suitable investment opportunities offered to us.

The hotel industry is highly competitive. Upon the acquisition of hotel properties, our hotels will compete with other hotels for guests in each market in which we will operate. Competitive advantage is based on a number of factors, including location, convenience, brand affiliation, room rates, range of services and guest amenities or accommodations offered and quality of customer service. Competition will often be specific to the individual markets in which our hotels will be located and includes competition from existing and new hotels operated under brands in the relevant segments. Increased competition could harm our occupancy, ADR and RevPAR, or may require us to provide additional amenities or make capital improvements that we otherwise would not have to make, which may reduce our profitability.

 

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Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with the sections of this prospectus entitled “Risk factors,” “Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements,” “Our business” and our audited balance sheet as of August 31, 2009, and the related notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. This discussion contains forward-looking statements reflecting current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from those contained in these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in the section entitled “Risk factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus.

Overview

We are a self-advised hotel investment company organized in June 2009. We intend to focus our investments primarily in upper upscale hotels in major business, airport and convention markets and, on a selective basis, in premium select-service hotels in urban settings or unique locations in the United States. We believe current industry dynamics will create attractive opportunities to acquire high quality hotel properties, at prices well below replacement costs, with attractive yields on investment and significant upside potential.

Our senior executive officers have extensive experience in the lodging industry, including the acquisition, development, repositioning, financing, asset management and disposition of hotels. This experience includes founding Highland and leading its IPO and related formation transactions in 2003. Following the IPO, our senior executive officers served as chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Highland until its sale in July 2007. In addition to their service with Highland, our senior executive officers have held senior management and executive positions at several other publicly traded lodging companies such as Crestline Capital Corporation, Marriott International, Inc., Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. and Prime Hospitality Corporation.

We do not own any properties and have no agreement to acquire any property at this time. However, our senior executive officers have established and maintained a broad network of hotel industry contacts, including long-standing relationships with hotel owners, independent hotel managers, global hotel brands, hotel brokers, financiers and institutional investors that we believe will provide us with attractive acquisition opportunities. In addition, we have entered into a sourcing relationship with Hyatt that we believe will enhance our ability to execute our business strategy by potentially providing us with additional attractive acquisition opportunities.

Upon completion of the offering, the concurrent private placements to Hyatt, Baron, our non-executive chairman and certain of our executive officers, and the related formation transactions described in this prospectus, we expect to have approximately $             million in cash available to execute our strategy. We also expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties.

We intend to elect and qualify to be treated as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, commencing with our taxable year ending December 31, 2009.

 

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Liquidity and capital resources

We expect to meet our short-term liquidity requirements generally through net cash provided by operations, existing cash balances and, if necessary, short-term borrowings under anticipated lines of credit. Prior to the time that we acquire hotel properties, cash provided by operations may not be sufficient to cover our expected general and administrative expenses, in which case we may use cash on our balance sheet to fund any shortfalls. We believe that our net cash provided by operations will be adequate to fund operating requirements, pay interest on our borrowings and fund dividends in accordance with the REIT requirements of the U.S. federal income tax laws. We expect to meet our long-term liquidity requirements, such as new lodging investments, through the cash we will have available upon completion of the offering, the concurrent private placements and borrowings, and expect to fund other lodging investments and scheduled debt maturities and property acquisitions through long-term secured and unsecured borrowings and the issuance of additional equity or debt securities. The success of our investment strategy may depend, in part, on our ability to access additional capital through additional offerings.

We expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties. Our board of trustees will review these limits on a regular basis and will have the ability to amend or modify them without shareholder approval. To the extent our board amends or modifies them in the future, we will disclose any such amendments or modifications to these debt financing policies in periodic reports that we will file with the SEC.

We are in discussions to obtain commitments from a lending syndicate for a secured revolving credit facility that we anticipate will be in place following completion of the offering. We expect that the proposed facility will be secured by the hotel properties we acquire and other assets, and will be fully recourse to our property-owning subsidiaries that are borrowers thereunder. The proposed facility will be used to fund hotel acquisitions, capital expenditures and for general corporate purposes. There is no assurance that we will be able to enter into a definitive agreement relating to this proposed credit facility on terms we find acceptable.

Beyond our anticipated corporate credit facility, we intend to use other financing methods as necessary, including but not limited to, property mortgages, letters of credit and other arrangements, any of which may be unsecured or may be secured by mortgages or other interests in our assets. In addition, we may issue publicly or privately placed debt instruments. When possible and desirable, we will seek to replace short-term sources of capital with long-term financing.

Our indebtedness may be recourse or non-recourse and may be cross-collateralized. In addition, we may invest in properties subject to existing loans secured by mortgages or similar liens on our properties, or may refinance properties acquired on a leveraged basis. We may use the proceeds from any borrowings to acquire properties, refinance existing indebtedness, finance investments, or for general corporate purposes.

Inflation

Increases in the costs of operating our properties due to inflation could reduce the net operating profits of our TRS, which in turn, could inhibit the ability of our TRS to make required rent payments to us. Operators of hotels, in general, possess the ability to adjust room rates daily to reflect the effects of inflation. However, competitive pressures may limit the ability of our management companies to raise room rates.

 

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Seasonality

Depending on a hotel’s location and market, operations for the hotel may be seasonal in nature. This seasonality can be expected to cause fluctuations in our quarterly operating profits. To the extent that cash flow from operations is insufficient during any quarter, due to temporary or seasonal fluctuations in revenue, we expect to utilize cash on hand or borrowings under our anticipated credit facilities to make distributions to our equity holders.

Critical accounting policies

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions that involve the exercise of judgment and use of assumptions as to future uncertainties. In accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, guidance, the following discussion addresses the accounting policies that we believe will apply to us based on our expectation of the nature of our initial operations. Our most critical accounting policies will involve decisions and assessments that could affect our reported assets and liabilities, as well as our reported revenues and expenses. We believe that all of the decisions and assessments upon which our financial statements will be based will be reasonable at the time made, based upon information available to us at that time. Our critical accounting policies and accounting estimates will be expanded over time as we fully implement our strategy. Those accounting policies and estimates that we initially expect to be most critical to an investor’s understanding of our financial results and condition and require complex management judgment are discussed below.

Basis of presentation.     Our consolidated balance sheet will include the accounts of our company, our operating partnership and our TRS, and will be prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. All significant intercompany transactions and balances will be eliminated in consolidation.

Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures .    We will account for our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures under the equity method of accounting in cases where we exercise significant influence, but do not control these entities and are not considered to be the primary beneficiary in joint ventures that are considered to be variable interest entities, or VIEs. We will consolidate those joint ventures which are VIEs where we are considered to be the primary beneficiary, even though we do not control the entity. The joint venture investments will be recorded initially at cost, as investments in unconsolidated joint ventures, and subsequently adjusted for equity in net income (loss) and cash contributions and distributions to and from the joint venture.

Use of estimates .    We will make a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements to prepare consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP. These estimates and assumptions will be based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management will evaluate its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment. The current economic environment has increased the degree of uncertainty inherent in these estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Investment in hotel properties .    Investments in hotel properties will be stated at acquisition cost and allocated to property and equipment, identifiable intangible assets and liabilities assumed at fair value. Costs to acquire hotel properties will be expensed as incurred. Property and equipment

 

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will be depreciated using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of 15-40 years for buildings and improvements and 3-10 years for furniture and equipment. Identifiable intangible assets will typically be contracts, including lease agreements and franchise agreements, which will be recorded at fair value. Above-market and below-market lease values will be based on the present value of the difference between contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the leases acquired and our estimate of the fair market lease rates for corresponding leases measured over a period equal to the remaining non-cancelable term of the lease. Leases acquired which approximate current market rents do not have significant value. An existing franchise agreement is typically terminated at the time of acquisition and a new franchise agreement is entered into based on then current market terms. Above-market and below-market franchise agreement values will be based on the present value of the difference between contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the franchise agreements acquired and our estimate of the fair market franchise rates for corresponding franchise agreements measured over a period equal to the remaining non-cancelable term of the franchise agreement. Franchise agreements acquired which are at market do not have significant value because they are easily transferable from with minimal cost. Intangible assets will be amortized using the straight-line method over the remaining non-cancelable term of the related agreements. In making estimates of fair values for purposes of allocating purchase price, we may utilize a number of sources that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of a property and other market data. Management also considers information obtained about each property as a result of its pre-acquisition due diligence in estimating the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired.

We will review our investments in hotel properties for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the investments in hotel properties may not be recoverable. Events or circumstances that may cause us to perform our review include, but are not limited to, adverse changes in the demand for lodging at our properties due to declining international, national or local economic conditions and/or new hotel construction in markets where our hotels are located. When such conditions exist, management performs an analysis to determine if the estimated undiscounted future cash flows from operations and the estimated proceeds from the ultimate disposition of an investment in a hotel property exceed the hotel’s carrying value. If the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, an adjustment to reduce the carrying value to the estimated fair market value is recorded and an impairment loss recognized.

Revenue recognition .    Hotel revenues including room, food, beverage and other hotel revenues will be recognized as the related services are provided.

Income taxes.     As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on the portion of our net income (loss) that is distributed as dividends for the taxable year to our shareholders and is not earned by our TRS. We account for U.S. federal income taxes related to our TRS using the asset and liability method under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective bases. In addition, the analysis utilized by us in determining our deferred tax asset valuation allowance involves considerable management judgment and assumptions.

Share-based compensation.     We will recognize compensation cost related to share-based awards based upon their grant date fair value. The compensation cost related to share-based awards will be amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period of the awards. Since the compensation cost related to share-based awards is

 

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measured based upon grant date fair value, the expense related to these awards recognized in future periods may differ from the expense recognized if the awards were periodically remeasured at fair value.

Tax basis depreciation .    The federal tax basis for our properties used to determine depreciation for U.S. federal income tax purposes generally will be our acquisition costs for such properties. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, depreciation with respect to the real property components of our properties (other than land) generally will be computed using the straight-line method over a useful life of 39 years.

Capital expenditures

We will maintain each hotel in good repair and condition and in conformity with applicable laws and regulations and in accordance with the franchisor’s standards and the agreed upon requirements in our management agreements and in any debt agreements. The cost of all such routine maintenance, repairs and alterations will be paid out of a furniture, fixtures and equipment reserve, which will be funded by a portion of hotel gross revenues. Routine repairs and maintenance will be administered by the management company. However, we will have approval rights over capital expenditures.

Recent accounting pronouncements

In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued an accounting standard that amends various components of the guidance governing sale accounting of financial instruments, including the recognition of assets obtained and liabilities assumed as a result of a transfer, and considerations of effective control by a transferor over transferred assets. In addition, this accounting standard removes the exemption for qualifying special purpose entities from the guidance on variable interest entities. The accounting standard is effective January 1, 2010, with early adoption prohibited. While we are evaluating the effect of adoption of this standard, we currently believe that the adoption of this standard will not have a material impact on our financial statement.

In June 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard that amends the guidance for determining whether an entity is a VIE, and requires the performance of a qualitative rather than a quantitative analysis to determine the primary beneficiary of a VIE. Under this guidance, an entity would be required to consolidate a VIE if it has (i) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE. This accounting standard is effective for the first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, with early adoption prohibited. While we are currently evaluating the effect of adoption of this standard, we currently believe that the adoption of this standard will not have a material impact on our financial statement.

In June 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard that establishes the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or the Codification, as the source of authoritative accounting principles recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, and states that all guidance contained in the Codification carries equal level of authority. Rules and interpretive releases of the SEC under federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. The Codification does not change U.S. GAAP, however it does change the way in which it is to be researched and

 

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referenced. This standard is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending September 15, 2009. We do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our financial statement.

Results of operations

As of the date of this prospectus, we have not commenced any operations and will not commence any operations until we have completed the offering and the concurrent private placements.

Off-balance sheet arrangements

As of the date of this prospectus, we have no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

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Management

Trustees and executive officers

Currently, our board of trustees consists of two trustees. Upon completion of the offering, our board of trustees will consist of seven trustees, each of whom will have been nominated for election and will have consented to serve as a trustee upon completion of the offering. Our board of trustees will be elected annually by our shareholders, commencing in 2010 in accordance with our bylaws. Our bylaws provide that a majority of the entire board of trustees may establish, increase or decrease the number of trustees, provided that the number of trustees shall never be less than one nor more than eleven. All of our executive officers will serve at the discretion of our board of trustees. Our board of trustees will determine whether each of our trustee nominees satisfies the New York Stock Exchange’s independence standards. The following table sets forth certain information about our trustees and executive officers:

 

Name    Age    Position
 

James L. Francis

   47    President, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee

Douglas W. Vicari

   50    Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Secretary and Trustee

D. Rick Adams

   46    Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer

Thomas A. Natelli

   49    Chairman and Trustee Nominee

Thomas D. Eckert

   62    Trustee Nominee

John W. Hill

   55    Trustee Nominee

George F. McKenzie

   54    Trustee Nominee

Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein

   52    Trustee Nominee
 

James L. Francis is our President and Chief Executive Officer, positions he has held since our formation. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Francis served as the President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of Highland, positions that he held from Highland’s IPO in December 2003 to its sale in July 2007. Following the sale of Highland, Mr. Francis served as a consultant to the affiliate of JER Partners that acquired Highland until September 2008. Since September 2008, until our formation, Mr. Francis was a private investor. From June 2002 until joining Highland in December 2003, Mr. Francis served as the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Barceló Crestline Corporation, and served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Crestline Capital Corporation, prior to its acquisition by Barceló, from December 1998 to June 2002. Prior to the spin-off of Crestline Capital from Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (formerly Host Marriott Corporation), Mr. Francis held various finance and strategic planning positions with Host Marriott and Marriott International, Inc. From June 1997 to December 1998, Mr. Francis held the position of Assistant Treasurer and Vice President Corporate Finance for Host Marriott, where he was responsible for Host Marriott’s corporate finance function, business strategy and investor relations. Over a period of ten years, Mr. Francis served in various capacities with Marriott International’s lodging business, including Vice President of Finance for Marriott Lodging from 1995 to 1997; Brand Executive, Courtyard by Marriott from 1994 to 1995; Controller for Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield Inn from 1993 to 1994; Director of Finance and Strategic Planning for Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield Inn from 1991 to 1993; and Director of

 

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Hotel Development Finance from 1987 to 1991. Mr. Francis received his B.A. in Economics and Business from Western Maryland College and earned an M.B.A. in Finance and Accounting from Vanderbilt University.

Douglas W. Vicari is our Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Secretary and a Trustee, positions he has held since our formation. Prior to joining our company , Mr. Vicari served as a principal with Paramount Hotel Group, a hotel owner, developer and operator, from January 2009 to June 2009. Previously, Mr. Vicari served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Highland from September 2003 until its sale in July 2007. Prior to joining Highland, Mr. Vicari served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Prime Hospitality Corp., a formerly NYSE-listed company acquired by an affiliate of The Blackstone Group in 2004, from August 1998 to July 2003, and also served on the board of directors of Prime Hospitality Corp. from May 1999 to July 2003. Prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer, he served as Vice President and Treasurer of Prime Hospitality Corp. from January 1991 to July 1998, and was an instrumental member of the management team that led the company out of bankruptcy in July 1992. From 1986 to 1991, Mr. Vicari was Director of Budgeting and Financial Planning for Prime Hospitality Corp, and was responsible for all budgeting, planning and forecasting. Prior to his tenure at Prime Hospitality Corp., Mr. Vicari held numerous management positions at Combustion Engineering (now ABB Brown Boveri) from 1981 to 1986. Mr. Vicari earned a B.S. in Accounting from the College of New Jersey and received his M.B.A. in Finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Vicari also currently serves on the board of directors and as the audit committee chairman for Thunderbird Resorts Inc. (Euronext: TBIRD), a publicly traded gaming and lodging company.

D. Rick Adams is our Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer, positions he has held since November 2009. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Adams served as Senior Vice President of Asset Management for Highland from September 2004 until its sale in July 2007. Following the sale of Highland and until October 2009, Mr. Adams continued to serve as Senior Vice President and Head of Asset Management for the affiliate of JER Partners that acquired Highland. From October 1992 to September 2004, Mr. Adams served as Vice President of Regional Operations and Development Officer for the B.F. Saul Company, a privately owned real estate company located in Washington, DC that specializes in commercial real estate and hotel management and development. Prior to his tenure at B. F. Saul, from 1986 until September 1992, Mr. Adams held numerous operational and franchise development management positions at Holiday Inns Worldwide, known today as Intercontinental Hotel Group. Mr. Adams received a B.S. in Management from Indiana University.

Thomas A. Natelli has agreed to become the non-executive chairman of the board of trustees upon completion of the offering. Since 1987, Mr. Natelli has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Natelli Communities, a privately held real estate investment and development company. Under Mr. Natelli’s leadership, the company has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Urban Land Institute National Award of Excellence for Large Scale Communities, Washington Metro Area Environmental Developer of the Year and Suburban Maryland Builder of the Year. Previously, Mr. Natelli served on the board of directors and was a member of the audit and nominating and corporate governance committees of Highland from its IPO until its sale in July 2007. In 2007, Mr. Natelli formed MargRock Entertainment, a music publishing and artist development and management services company, for which he currently serves as Principal. In 1999, Mr. Natelli co-founded eStara, Inc., a privately held technology company, for which he served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from its inception through its sale to Art Technology Group, Inc. in October

 

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2006. From 1993 through 2003, Mr. Natelli served on the board of trustees of Suburban Hospital Healthcare System, after which he served as Chairman of the board of trustees and headed its executive committee until 2006. He also served on the board of directors of FBR National Bank and Trust, a wholly-owned affiliate of Friedman, Billings, Ramsey Group, Inc. Mr. Natelli is a past President of the Board of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, and played a central role in creating the Montgomery Housing Partnership in 1989, a non-profit organization created to preserve and expand the supply of affordable housing in Montgomery County, Maryland. Mr. Natelli received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Duke University in 1982.

Thomas D. Eckert has agreed to become a trustee upon completion of the offering. Since 1997, Mr. Eckert has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Capital Automotive Real Estate Services, Inc., or Capital Automotive, a privately owned real estate company that owns and manages net-leased real estate for automotive retailers. Mr. Eckert was one of Capital Automotive’s Founders and led its IPO in February 1998. Mr. Eckert also served as a trustee of Capital Automotive from its founding until December 2005, when it was taken private. From 1983 to 1997, Mr. Eckert was employed by Pulte Home Corporation, a U.S. homebuilder, serving most recently as President of Pulte’s Mid-Atlantic Region. Prior to working at Pulte, Mr. Eckert spent over seven years with the public accounting firm of Arthur Andersen LLP. Mr. Eckert is currently Chairman of the Board of The Munder Funds, a $7 billion mutual fund group, and a director and member of the audit, compensation and nominating and corporate governance committees of DuPont Fabros Technology, Inc., a publicly-traded owner, developer and manager of wholesale data centers. He is also a member of the boards of The Potomac School, a K-12 private school, and PlayPumps International, an organization focused on bringing clean water to people in Africa. In addition, Mr. Eckert is a former director of the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts and Fieldstone Investment Corporation. Mr. Eckert received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in 1970.

John W. Hill has agreed to become a trustee upon completion of the offering. Mr. Hill has been Chief Executive Officer of The Federal City Council, a not-for-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to the improvement of Washington, DC, since 2004. Previously, Mr. Hill served on the board of directors and was a member of the audit and compensation committees of Highland from January 2006 until Highland’s sale in July 2007. From 2002 until 2004, Mr. Hill served as the Chief Executive Officer of In2Books, Inc. From 1999 until 2002, he was a partner with Andersen, LLP, where he was in charge of state and local consulting for North America. Previously, Mr. Hill also was a director of Marriott Corporation’s Internal Audit Division in charge of all financial and operational audits of the hotel division and has been an audit manager for Coopers & Lybrand and Price Waterhouse. Mr. Hill has served on the board and audit committee of Prestwick Pharmaceuticals Inc., a non-public company. Mr. Hill currently serves on the boards of several not-for-profit organizations, including the DC Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation, the DC Public Library Board of Trustees, the DC Shakespeare Theatre Board, the National Minority Aids Council and the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission to Revitalize the DC Public Library. Mr. Hill earned a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1976 and passed the Maryland State CPA exam in 1977.

George F. McKenzie has agreed to become a trustee upon completion of the offering. Since June 2007, Mr. McKenzie has served as President and Chief Executive Officer and a trustee of Washington Real Estate Investment Trust, or WRIT, a self-administered, self-managed, equity real estate investment trust investing in income-producing properties in the greater Washington, DC metro region. Since joining WRIT in September 1996, Mr. McKenzie also served in other executive

 

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roles, including Executive Vice President, Real Estate and Chief Operating Officer. From 1985 to 1996, Mr. McKenzie served with the Prudential Realty Group, a subsidiary of Prudential Insurance Company of America, most recently as Vice President, Investment & Sales. From 1977 to 1985, Mr. McKenzie served as an officer in the U.S. Navy as an aviator flying P-3 Orion aircraft. He received a B.S. in Operations Analysis from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA in Finance from the University of Rhode Island. Mr. McKenzie is a member of the Economic Club of Washington, Urban Land Institute (ULI), and the National Association of Industrial & Office Properties (NAIOP).

Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein has agreed to become a trustee upon completion of the offering. In 2000, Mr. Nuechterlein founded Isis Capital LLC, a venture capital and hedge fund based in Alexandria, Virginia, where he has served as Managing Partner since its formation. From 1997 until 2000, Mr. Nuechterlein served as Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer for pension fund investments at National Gypsum Company. From 1995 until 1996, Mr. Nuechterlein was Senior Counsel to the U.S. Trade Representative, and prior to that he served as outside legal counsel to several U.S. semiconductor companies from 1992 until 1995. Mr. Nuechterlein also served as Special Assistant for Policy to the Governor of Virginia from 1990 until 1991, and was Counsel to the U.S. Senate’s Judiciary Subcommittee on Technology from 1989 until 1990. Among his non-profit activities, Mr. Nuechterlein is Immediate Past President and a Trustee of The College Foundation at the University of Virginia, a Trustee of The Potomac School, a Trustee of the Classical American Homes Preservation Trust in New York, a member of the Circle Committee at the National Gallery of Art and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Mr. Nuechterlein received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Virginia in 1979 and 1986, respectively, and his master’s degree and Ph.D. from Oxford University in 1983 and 1985, respectively.

Trustee independence and corporate governance

Effective upon completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, our board of trustees will have three committees, the principal functions of which are briefly described below. Matters put to a vote by any one of our three committees must be approved by a majority of the trustees on the committee who are present at a meeting, in person or as otherwise permitted by our bylaws, at which there is a quorum or by the unanimous written consent of the trustees on that committee. Each of these committees will be comprised entirely of independent trustees, as defined by the NYSE listing standards. Moreover, the compensation committee will be composed exclusively of individuals intended to be, to the extent provided by Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act, non-employee trustees and will, at such times as we are subject to Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, qualify as outside trustees for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Audit committee .    Our audit committee will be composed of Messrs. Eckert, Natelli and Hill. In addition, our audit committee is required to have a designated “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of SEC rules. Mr. Eckert will chair the committee and has been determined by our board of trustees to be an audit committee financial expert.

The audit committee’s primary duties and assigned roles are to:

 

 

serve as an independent and objective body to monitor and assess our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, our financial reporting processes and related internal control systems and the performance, generally, of our internal audit function;

 

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oversee the audit and other services of our independent registered public accounting firm and be directly responsible for the appointment, independence, qualifications, compensation and oversight of the independent registered public accounting firm, who reports directly to the audit committee;

 

 

provide an open avenue of communication among the independent registered public accounting firm, accountants, financial and senior management, the internal auditing department and our board;

 

 

resolve any disagreements between management and the independent registered public accounting firm regarding financial reporting; and

 

 

consider and approve certain transactions between us and our trustees, executive officers, trustee nominees or 5% or greater beneficial owners, any of their immediate family members or entities affiliated with them.

Compensation committee .    Our compensation committee will be composed of Messrs. Hill, Natelli, and Eckert. Mr. Hill will chair the committee. The principal functions of the compensation committee are to:

 

 

evaluate the performance of and compensation paid by us to our president and chief executive officer and other executive officers and trustees;

 

 

administer our Equity Plan; and

 

 

produce a report on executive compensation required to be included in our proxy statement for our annual meetings or our annual report on Form 10-K, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section.

Nominating and corporate governance committee .    Our nominating and corporate governance committee will be composed of Messrs. McKenzie, Hill and Nuechterlein. Mr. McKenzie will chair the committee. The principal functions of the nominating and corporate governance committee are to:

 

 

identify individuals qualified to become board members and recommend to our board candidates for election or re-election to the board;

 

 

consider and make recommendations to our board concerning the size and composition of our board, committee structure and makeup, retirement policies and procedures affecting board members; and

 

 

take a leadership role with respect to the development, implementation and review of our corporate governance principles and practices.

The nominating and corporate governance committee charter will set forth certain criteria for the committee to consider in evaluating potential trustee nominees. The charter will require that the committee select nominees who have the highest personal and professional integrity, who shall have demonstrated exceptional ability and judgment and who shall be most effective, in conjunction with the other nominees to the board, in collectively serving our long-term interests and those of our shareholders. The committee also will be required to assess whether the candidate possesses the skills, knowledge, perspective, broad business judgment and leadership, relevant specific industry or regulatory affairs knowledge, business creativity and vision, experience, age and diversity, all in the context of an assessment of the perceived needs of the

 

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board at that time. For those trustee candidates that appear upon first consideration to meet the committee’s criteria, the committee will engage in further research to evaluate their candidacy.

In making recommendations for trustee nominees for the annual meeting of shareholders, the nominating and corporate governance committee will consider any written suggestions of shareholders received by our secretary by no earlier than December 31, 2009 or later than January 31, 2010 for our annual meeting of shareholders in 2010, or, for future years, not less than 90 nor more than 120 days prior to the anniversary of the prior year’s annual meeting of shareholders. Suggestions must be mailed to our secretary at our corporate headquarters. The manner in which trustee nominee candidates suggested in accordance with this policy are evaluated does not differ from the manner in which candidates recommended by other sources are evaluated.

Communicating with the board

Consistent with the NYSE’s corporate governance listing standards, upon completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, our board will adopt Principles of Corporate Governance that, among other things, will call for the non-officer trustees to meet in regularly scheduled executive sessions without management. Mr. Natelli, our non-executive chairman, has been selected to serve as the presiding independent trustee at any executive sessions held prior to our 2010 annual meeting.

Interested parties, including shareholders, may communicate their concerns directly to the full board, the presiding independent trustee or the non-officer trustees as a group by writing to the board of trustees, the presiding independent trustee or the non-officer trustees, at our corporate headquarters.

Code of business conduct and ethics

Upon completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, our board will adopt a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to each of our trustees and officers involved in our business. This code will set forth our policies and expectations on a number of topics, including:

 

 

compliance with laws, including insider trading;

 

 

preservation of confidential information relating to our business;

 

 

conflicts of interest;

 

 

reporting of illegal or unethical behavior or concerns regarding accounting or auditing practices;

 

 

corporate payments;

 

 

corporate opportunities; and

 

 

the protection and proper use of our assets.

We will establish and implement formal “whistleblower” procedures for receiving and handling complaints of employees. As discussed in the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, we will make an e-mail address and a telephone hotline available for reporting illegal or unethical behavior as

 

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well as questionable accounting or auditing matters and other accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters on a confidential, anonymous basis. Any concerns regarding accounting or auditing matters reported via e-mail or to this hotline will be communicated directly to the audit committee.

The audit committee will review this code on an annual basis, and the board will review and act upon any proposed additions or amendments to the code as appropriate. The code will be posted on our website. You may also obtain a copy of the code without charge by writing to our secretary at our corporate headquarters. Any waivers of the code for executive officers or trustees will be posted on our website and similarly provided without charge upon written request to this address.

Principles of corporate governance

Our Principles of Corporate Governance will address a number of other topics, including:

 

 

trustee independence and qualification standards;

 

 

trustee responsibilities, orientation and continuing education;

 

 

trustee compensation;

 

 

trustee attendance and retirement;

 

 

management succession;

 

 

annual board self-evaluations; and

 

 

trustee communication, committees and access to management.

Our nominating and corporate governance committee will review the Principles of Corporate Governance on an annual basis, and the board will review and act upon any proposed additions or amendments to the Principles of Corporate Governance as appropriate. The Principles of Corporate Governance will be posted on our website. You may also obtain a copy of our Principles of Corporate Governance without charge by writing to our secretary at our corporate headquarters .

Trustee compensation

We have approved and intend to implement a compensation program for our non-officer trustees, including each of the independent trustee nominees, that consists of annual retainer fees and long-term equity awards.

We intend to pay our non-officer trustees an annual retainer fee of $50,000, payable quarterly. In addition, our audit committee chairman will be paid an additional annual retainer of $15,000, our compensation committee chairman will be paid an additional annual retainer of $10,000 and our nominating and corporate governance committee chairman will be paid an additional annual retainer of $7,500, in each case payable quarterly in cash. Mr. Natelli, who will serve as non-executive chairman of our board, will be paid an additional annual retainer of $20,000. Although we will reimburse our trustees for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with performance of their duties as trustees, including, without limitation, travel expenses in connection with their attendance at board and committee meetings, we will not pay any trustee a separate fee for meetings attended. Furthermore, trustees will not receive any perquisites.

 

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Our non-officer trustees may elect to receive their annual retainers and chair committee fees in whole or in part in the form of cash or immediately vested common shares based on the closing market price of our common shares on the grant date.

Upon completion of the offering, we will also grant each of our non-officer trustees 1,500 common shares, except that Mr. Natelli will receive a grant of 2,500 common shares in recognition of his expanded responsibilities as our non-executive chairman. Following completion of the offering, in connection with each annual meeting of shareholders commencing in 2010, each of our non-officer trustees will receive an additional grant of restricted common shares. Vesting for all subsequent grants, excluding the grants made at completion of the offering, will occur on the date of the next annual meeting, with acceleration upon termination due to death, disability or involuntary termination of service as a result of a change in control. Dividends will be paid on the unvested restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally.

Compensation discussion and analysis

We will pay base salaries and annual bonuses and expect to make grants of awards under our Equity Plan to certain of our executive officers, effective upon completion of the offering, in accordance with their employment agreements. The awards under our Equity Plan will be granted to recognize such individuals’ efforts on our behalf in connection with our formation and the offering and to provide a retention element to their compensation. Neither our board of trustees nor the compensation committee of our board of trustees has yet adopted compensation policies with respect to, among other things, setting base salaries, awarding bonuses or making future grants of equity awards to our executive officers. We anticipate that such determinations will be made by our compensation committee based on factors such as the desire to retain such officer’s services over the long-term, aligning such officer’s interest with those of our shareholders, incentivizing such officer over the short-, medium- and long-term and rewarding such officer for exceptional performance. In addition, our compensation committee may determine to make awards to new executive officers in order to attract talented professionals to serve us.

Executive officer compensation

The following is a summary of the elements of and amounts expected to be paid under our compensation plans for the remainder of 2009 (on a pro-rated basis) and 2010. Because we were formed only recently, individual compensation information is not available for prior periods.

Annual base salary.     Base salary is designed to compensate our named executive officers at a fixed level of compensation that serves as a retention tool throughout the executive’s career. In determining base salaries, the compensation committee will consider each executive’s role and responsibility, unique skills, future potential with our company, salary levels for similar positions in our target market and internal pay equity. We expect the initial annual base salaries of Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams to be $700,000, $475,000 and $275,000, respectively.

Annual cash bonus.     Annual cash bonuses are designed to provide incentives to our named executive officers at a variable level of compensation based on such individual’s performance. In connection with our annual cash bonus program, we expect that our compensation committee will determine annual performance criteria that are flexible and that change with the needs of our business. Our annual cash bonus plan will be designed to reward the achievement of specific, pre-established financial and operational objectives. We expect the primary goal will be

 

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achievement of targeted levels of FFO per share that will be set by the compensation committee annually. The following table depicts the amount of annual cash bonuses that we expect to pay to our named executive officers as a result of achievement of 90%, 100% or 110% of our budgeted FFO per share for 2010. No decisions have been made as to the payment of any bonuses for 2009 performance.

Performance-Based Annual Cash Bonuses as a Percentage of Base Salary

 

Executive Officer   

Threshold

(90%)

  

Target

(100%)

  

Maximum

(110%)

      

James L. Francis

   50    100    150

Douglas W. Vicari

   35    75    125

D. Rick Adams

   25    50    75
      

Equity awards.     We will provide equity awards pursuant to our Equity Plan. Equity awards are designed to focus and reward our executive officers and other parties on our long-term goals and enhance shareholder value. In determining equity awards, we anticipate that our compensation committee will take into account, among other things, the company’s overall financial performance. A more complete description of the Equity Plan is set forth below.

Retirement savings opportunities.     All eligible employees will be able to participate in our 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan, or 401(k) Plan. We intend to provide this plan to help our employees save some amount of their cash compensation for retirement in a tax efficient manner. Under the 401(k) Plan, employees will be eligible to defer a portion of their salary, and we, at our discretion, may make a matching contribution and/or a profit sharing contribution. We do not intend to provide an option for our employees to invest in our common shares through the 401(k) plan.

Health and welfare benefits.     We intend to provide a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees which is expected to include health and welfare benefits, such as medical, dental, disability insurance, and life insurance benefits. The plans under which these benefits will be offered are not expected to discriminate in scope, terms or operation in favor of officers and trustees and will be available to all full-time employees.

The following table sets forth the annual base salary and other compensation payable to our executive officers as of the completion of the offering. We intend to enter into employment-related arrangements with Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams effective upon completion of the offering. See “—Employment agreements.”

Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and
Principal
Position
  Salary ($)   Bonus ($)     Stock
Awards ($)
    Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation ($)
    All Other
Compensation ($)
    Total ($)
                         

James L. Francis

  $ 700,000   (1 )     (2 )     (3 )     25,000 (6)     N/A

Douglas W. Vicari

  $ 475,000   (1 )     (4 )     (3 )     25,000 (6)     N/A

D. Rick Adams

  $ 275,000   (1 )     (5 )     (3 )          N/A
                         

 

(1)   Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams will be eligible to receive a performance-based cash bonus, subject to determination by our compensation committee, as described above.

 

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(2)   Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Francis’s employment agreement, he will receive 153,000 restricted common shares vesting ratably in annual installments over a three-year period commencing on the first anniversary of the offering and 40,000 restricted common shares which may vest upon our achievement of specified performance metrics. See “—Narrative discussion of IPO grants of plan-based awards.” Amount represents the expected compensation expense associated with these awards. Dividends will be paid on the time-based restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally. Dividends will accrue on performance-based restricted shares that remain subject to vesting, but will only be paid if the shares vest.

 

(3)   Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams may receive annual incentive payments upon our achievement of specified performance metrics, including targeted levels of FFO per share.

 

(4)   Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Vicari’s employment agreement, he will receive 102,000 restricted common shares vesting ratably in annual installments over a three-year period commencing on the first anniversary of the offering and 25,000 restricted common shares which may vest upon our achievement of specified performance metrics. See “—Narrative discussion of IPO grants of plan-based awards.” Amount represents the expected compensation expense associated with these awards. Dividends will be paid on the time-based restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally. Dividends will accrue on performance-based restricted shares that remain subject to vesting, but will only be paid if the shares vest.

 

(5)   Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Adams’ employment agreement, he will receive 40,000 restricted common shares vesting ratably in annual installments over a three-year period commencing on the first anniversary of the offering. Amount represents the expected compensation expense associated with these awards. Dividends will be paid on these restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally.

 

(6)   The employment agreements for Messrs. Francis and Vicari provide for payments to each of them of amounts up to $10,000 annually for a comprehensive physical and medical examination and up to $15,000 annually for financial planning purposes.

IPO Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 

               Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity
Incentive Plan Awards
    All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units (#)
    Grant Date
Fair Value of
Share
Awards
 
Name    Grant Date     Threshold
(#)
    Target
(#)
    Maximum
(#)
     
                           

James L. Francis

   (1 )     24,000 (2)     (2 )     40,000 (2)     153,000 (3)     (4 )  

Douglas W. Vicari

   (1 )     15,000 (2)     (2 )     25,000 (2)     102,000 (3)     (4 )  

D. Rick Adams

   (1 )                    40,000 (3)     (4 )  
                                      

 

(1)   Each of these awards is expected to be issued upon completion of the offering.

 

(2)   Represents performance share awards that will be issued upon completion of the offering, which will vest upon our achievement of specified performance metrics. See “—Narrative discussion of IPO grants of plan-based awards.”

 

(3)   Represents common shares that will be issued upon completion of the offering, which will vest ratably in annual installments over a three-year period commencing on the first anniversary of the offering. See “—Narrative discussion of IPO grants of plan-based awards.”

 

(4)   Represents the estimated grant date fair value of the common shares and performance share awards.

Narrative discussion of IPO grants of plan-based awards

In addition to base salary, annual bonus and non-equity incentive compensation, our named executive officers will be entitled to receive long term equity incentive compensation designed to provide additional motivation over a three-year performance period beginning on January 1, 2010 and ending on December 31, 2012. Upon completion of the offering, each of our named executive officers will be granted a number of restricted common shares subject to time-based or performance-based vesting requirements. The time-based shares will vest one-third per year beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date, assuming the executive remains employed by the company on such anniversary. Of the performance-based shares, one-third of such shares will be eligible for vesting each year.

The actual number of performance shares that vest in a particular year will be determined by our success in attaining or exceeding performance goals linked to relative total shareholder return, or

 

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RTSR, measured at year-end for each year of the performance period, by comparing our annual total shareholder return to the total return (on a comparable basis) of the SNL US REIT Hotel Index prepared by SNL Financial LC.

For this purpose, we will use the following formula to calculate our total shareholder returns, or TSR, for a given year:

 

Annual TSR = 

 

(December 31 closing share price * Adjusted share count) - Closing share price on December 31 of prior year

 

  Closing share price on December 31 of prior year

The term “adjusted share count” means one share plus the number of shares received in connection with the assumed reinvestment of all dividends paid during the period at the closing price of our common shares on the ex-dividend date for each such dividend.

If the total return for the index is positive for any year, the performance shares will vest only if our TSR for that year equals or exceeds 75% of the total return produced by the index, in which case vesting will occur as follows:

 

 

If our TSR for the year equals 75% of the total return produced by the index, 60% of the performance shares subject to vesting for that year will vest.

 

 

If our TSR equals or exceeds the total return produced by the index, 100% of the performance shares subject to vesting for that year will vest.

 

 

If our TSR is between 75% and 100% of the total return produced by the index, the number of performance shares that will vest for that year will be interpolated ratably between 60% and 100%.

If the total return for the index is negative for any year, performance shares will vest for that year if our TSR exceeds the index’s total return, in which case 100% of the performance shares subject to vesting for that year will vest.

If the performance goal is not met in a particular year, such that a portion of the performance shares do not vest in that year, Messrs. Francis and Vicari may still earn a payout of performance shares if we achieve a level of RTSR over a three-year performance period from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2012 that exceeds specified levels described below. Use of this measure is designed to provide our senior executive officers with a continued incentive and an ability to earn a payout if we perform well in TSR compared to the total return of the index over the entire performance period, yet are unable to attain the RTSR metric in a given year. Our cumulative TSR over the three-year period for this purpose will be computed as follows:

 

Cumulative TSR =    

(December 31, 2012 closing share price * Adjusted share count) - December 31, 2009 closing share price

 

   December 31, 2009 closing share price

If the cumulative total return for the index is positive for the period, the previously unvested performance shares will vest only if our cumulative TSR equals or exceeds 75% of the cumulative total returns produced by the index for the performance period, in which case vesting will occur as follows:

 

 

If our cumulative TSR equals 75% of the cumulative total return produced by the index, 60% of the previously unvested performance shares will vest.

 

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If our cumulative TSR equals or exceeds the cumulative total return produced by the index, 100% of the previously unvested performance shares will vest.

 

 

If our cumulative TSR is between 75% and 100% of the cumulative total return produced by the index, the number of previously unvested performance shares that will vest will be interpolated ratably between 60% and 100%.

If the cumulative total return produced by the index is negative for the three-year performance period, the previously unvested performance shares will vest if our cumulative TSR exceeds the index’s cumulative total return, in which case 100% of the previously unvested performance shares will vest.

Notwithstanding the vesting requirements discussed above, all long-term equity incentive compensation awards will vest upon the death or disability of the executive officer or, for awards other than share options that are not intended to qualify as performance based awards under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, if the executive officer’s employment is terminated by us without cause, or if there is a change in control and the executive officer resigns for good reason or is terminated without cause within 12 months of such change in control.

Equity plan

We have adopted an Equity Plan, which provides for the issuance of equity-based awards, including share options, share appreciation rights (SARs), restricted shares, share units, unrestricted share awards and other awards based on our common shares that may be made by us to our trustees and officers and to our advisors and consultants who are providing services to us as of the date of the grant.

The material features of the Equity Plan are summarized below. The complete text of the Equity Plan is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

General .    We are reserving 5% of the total number of common shares outstanding following completion of the IPO and the concurrent private placements for issuance under the Equity Plan. We intend that the initial equity grants to our executive officers and trustees will comprise approximately 50% of the total shares available under the Equity Plan. If the number of shares to be outstanding increases or decreases, the number of shares available under the Equity Plan and the initial grants to our executive officers and trustees will be adjusted. Assuming the total number of common shares outstanding (excluding the initial restricted share grants) is 14,700,092, the total number of shares reserved for issuance under the Equity Plan will be 735,005. Any shares that may be issued under the Equity Plan to any person pursuant to an award are counted against this limit as one share for every one share granted. The maximum number of shares that may be issued to any person in one calendar year as options or SARs is 350,000, and the maximum number of shares that can be issued to any person in one calendar year, other than in the form of options, SARs, time-vested restricted shares or share units that are not performance-based, is 350,000. The maximum amount that may be earned as an annual incentive award or other cash award in any fiscal year by any one person is $5,000,000 and the maximum amount that may be earned as a performance award or other cash award in respect of a performance period by any one person is $15,000,000.

Purposes .    The purposes of the Equity Plan are to enable us to attract and retain highly qualified trustees and officers and to enable us to provide incentives to our personnel and other parties who will contribute to our success in a manner linked directly to increases in shareholder value.

 

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Administration .    The Equity Plan will be administered by the compensation committee of our board. Subject to the terms of the Equity Plan, the compensation committee, or its delegates pursuant to the Equity Plan, may select participants to receive awards, determine the types of awards and terms and conditions of awards and interpret provisions of the Equity Plan.

Source of shares .    The common shares issued or to be issued under the Equity Plan consist of authorized but unissued shares. If any shares covered by an award are not purchased or are forfeited, if an award is settled in cash or if an award otherwise terminates without delivery of any shares, then the number of common shares counted against the aggregate number of shares available under the Equity Plan with respect to the award will, to the extent of any such forfeiture or termination, again be available for making awards under the Equity Plan as one share.

Eligibility .    Awards may be made under the Equity Plan to our or our affiliates’ trustees, directors and officers providing services to us, or our affiliates, and to any other individual whose participation in the Equity Plan is determined to be in our best interests by our board.

Amendment or termination of the Equity Plan .    While the compensation committee may terminate or amend the Equity Plan at any time, no amendment may adversely impair the rights of grantees with respect to outstanding awards. In addition, an amendment will be contingent on approval of our shareholders to the extent required by law or if the amendment would materially increase the benefits accruing to participants under the Equity Plan, materially increase the aggregate number of shares that may be issued under the Equity Plan, or materially modify the requirements as to eligibility for participation in the Equity Plan. Unless terminated earlier, the Equity Plan will terminate in 2019, but will continue to govern unexpired awards.

Options .    The Equity Plan permits the granting of options to purchase common shares intended to qualify as “incentive stock options” under the Internal Revenue Code, referred to as incentive share options, and options that do not qualify as incentive share options, referred to as non-qualified share options. Incentive share options will only be granted to our employees and employees of our subsidiaries.

The exercise price of each option may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common shares on the date of grant as determined pursuant to the Equity Plan. If we were to grant incentive share options to any 10% shareholder, the exercise price may not be less than 110% of the fair market value of our common shares on the date of grant. We may grant options in substitution for options held by employees of companies that we may acquire. In this case, the exercise price would be adjusted to preserve the economic value of the employee’s share option from his or her former employer. Such options granted in substitution shall not count against the shares available for issuance under the Equity Plan.

The term of each option may not exceed ten years from the date of grant; the term of each option that is intended to qualify as an incentive share option and that is granted to any 10% shareholder may not exceed five years from the date of grant. The compensation committee will determine at what time or times each option may be exercised and the period of time, if any, after retirement, death, disability or termination of employment during which options may be exercised. Options may be made exercisable in installments. The exercisability of options may be accelerated by the compensation committee or our board. The exercise price of an option may not be amended or modified after the grant of the option, and an option may not be surrendered in consideration of or exchanged for a grant of a new option having an exercise price below that of the option which was surrendered or exchanged.

 

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In general, an optionee may pay the exercise price of an option by cash, certified check or by tendering our common shares.

Options granted under the Equity Plan may not be sold, transferred, pledged or assigned other than by will or under applicable laws of descent and distribution. However, we may permit limited transfers of non-qualified options for the benefit of immediate family members of grantees to help with estate planning concerns.

Other awards .    The following may also be awarded under the Equity Plan:

 

 

common shares subject to vesting restrictions, which are common shares issued at no cost or for a purchase price;

 

 

share units, which are the conditional right to receive a common share or cash in the future, subject to restrictions, including vesting restrictions;

 

 

unrestricted common shares, which are common shares issued at no cost or for a purchase price which are free from any restrictions under the Equity Plan;

 

 

dividend equivalent rights entitling the grantee to receive credits for dividends that would be paid if the grantee had held a specified number of common shares;

 

 

a right to receive a number of shares or an amount in cash or a combination of shares and cash, based on the increase in the fair market value of the shares underlying the right during a specified period; and

 

 

performance-based and non-performance-based incentive awards, ultimately payable in shares or cash or a combination thereof, which may be multi-year and/or annual incentive awards subject to achievement of specified performance goals tied to business criteria described below.

Business criteria .    In establishing performance goals for awards intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code to be granted to covered officers, we will use one or more of the following business criteria as selected by the compensation committee:

 

 

total shareholder return;

 

 

total shareholder return as compared to total return (on a comparable basis) of a publicly available index such as, but not limited to, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index or the SNL U.S. REIT Hotel Index prepared by SNL Financial LC;

 

 

net income;

 

 

pretax earnings;

 

 

earnings before interest expense and taxes;

 

 

earnings before interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization;

 

 

pretax operating earnings after interest expense and before bonuses, service fees and extraordinary or special items;

 

 

operating margin;

 

 

earnings per share;

 

 

return on equity;

 

 

return on assets;

 

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return on capital;

 

 

return on investment;

 

 

operating earnings;

 

 

working capital;

 

 

ratio of debt to shareholders’ equity;

 

 

revenue;

 

 

book value;

 

 

FFO or FFO per share;

 

 

funds (or cash) available for distribution, or FAD, per share;

 

 

cash flow;

 

 

economic value-added models or equivalent metrics; or

 

 

reductions in costs.

Adjustments for share dividends and similar events .    We will make appropriate adjustments in outstanding awards and the number of shares available for issuance under the Equity Plan, including the individual limitations on awards, to reflect share dividends, share splits, spin-offs and other similar events.

Extraordinary vesting events .    If we experience a Corporate Transaction (as defined below), the compensation committee will have full authority to determine the effect, if any, on the vesting, exercisability, settlement, payment or lapse of restrictions applicable to an award. The effect of a Corporate Transaction may be specified in a participant’s award agreement or determined at a subsequent time, including, without limitation, the substitution of new awards, the termination or the adjustment of outstanding awards, the acceleration of awards or the removal of restrictions on outstanding awards. A “Corporate Transaction” under the Equity Plan means (1) our dissolution or liquidation; (2) our merger, consolidation or reorganization with one or more other entities in which we are not the surviving entity; (3) a sale of substantially all of our assets to another person or entity; or (4) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which we are the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than already existing shareholders or affiliates) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of our shares of beneficial interest.

Initial trustee grants .    Effective as of the completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, we will grant awards covering an aggregate of 8,500 shares under the Equity Plan to our non-officer trustees. Dividends on unvested restricted shares will be paid when declared and paid on our common shares generally.

Employment agreements

We intend to enter into employment agreements, which will become effective upon completion of the offering, with Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams that provide for an annual salary of $700,000 for Mr. Francis, $475,000 for Mr. Vicari and $275,000 for Mr. Adams. In addition, the employment agreements provide them severance benefits if their employment ends under

 

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certain circumstances. We believe that the agreements will benefit us by helping to retain the executives and by allowing them to focus on their duties without the distraction of the concern for their personal situations in the event of a possible change in control of our company.

The agreements have an initial term of three years for Messrs. Francis and Vicari and an initial term of two years for Mr. Adams, beginning on the effective date of the offering. Thereafter, the term of the agreements will be extended for an additional year on each anniversary of the effective date of the offering, unless either party gives 90 days’ prior notice that the term will not be extended.

Each of these executives will be entitled to receive benefits under the agreements if (1) we terminate the executive’s employment without cause, or (2) if there is a change in control during the term of the agreements and the executive resigns for good reason or is terminated without cause within 12 months following such change in control. Under these scenarios, each of the executives is entitled to receive (1) any accrued but unpaid salary and bonuses (including incentive compensation), (2) reimbursement for any outstanding reasonable business expense, (3) vesting as of the executive’s last day of employment of any unvested options or restricted shares previously issued to the executive, (4) continued life and health insurance as described below, and (5) a severance payment calculated as described below.

If we terminate the executive without cause the severance payment is equal to two times in the case of Messrs. Francis and Vicari, or one times in the case of Mr. Adams, current salary plus two times in the case of Messrs. Francis and Vicari, or one times in the case of Mr. Adams, the greater of (1) the average of all bonuses paid to them during the preceding 36 months (or the period of the executive’s employment if shorter) or (2) the most recent bonus paid to the executive. In addition, the executive will be eligible to receive payment of life and health insurance coverage for a period of 24 months for Messrs. Francis and Vicari, and 12 months for Mr. Adams, following such executive’s termination of employment.

If there is a change of control during the term of the agreements and within 12 months following a change in control, we terminate the executive without cause or he resigns for good reason, the severance payment is equal to three times in the case of Messrs. Francis and Vicari, or two times in the case of Mr. Adams, current salary plus three times in the case of Messrs. Francis and Vicari, or two times in the case of Mr. Adams, the greater of (1) the average of all bonuses paid to the executive during the preceding 36 months (or the period of the executive’s employment if shorter) and (2) the most recent bonus paid to the executive. In addition, in the event of a termination or resignation following a change in control as described above, the executive will be eligible to receive payment of life and health insurance coverage for a period of 36 months for Messrs. Francis and Vicari, and 24 months for Mr. Adams, following termination of employment, and payments to compensate the executive for additional taxes, if any, imposed under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code for receipt of excess parachute payments.

In addition, the employment agreements for Messrs. Francis and Vicari provide up to $10,000 annually for a comprehensive physical and medical examination and up to $15,000 annually for financial planning services. These benefits will not continue beyond termination of the agreements.

The employment agreements contain customary non-competition and non-solicitation covenants that apply during the term and for one year after the term of each executive’s employment with our company.

 

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Investment policies and policies with respect to certain activities

The following is a discussion of our investment policies and our policies with respect to certain other activities, including financing matters and conflicts of interest. These policies may be amended or revised from time to time at the discretion of our board of trustees, without shareholder approval. Any change to any of these policies by our board of trustees, however, would be made only after a thorough review and analysis of that change, in light of then-existing business and other circumstances, and then only if, in the exercise of its business judgment, our board of trustees believes that it is advisable to do so in our and our shareholders’ best interests. We intend to disclose any changes in our investment policies in periodic reports that we file or furnish under the Exchange Act. We cannot assure you that our investment objectives will be attained.

Investments in real estate or interests in real estate

We plan to invest principally in hotel properties. At the completion of the offering, we will not have committed any portion of the net proceeds of the offering or the concurrent private placements to any specific investment. Our senior executive officers will identify and negotiate acquisition opportunities, subject to approval by our board of trustees. For information concerning the investing experience of these individuals, please see the sections entitled “Our business—Our team” and “Management.”

We intend to conduct substantially all of our investment activities through our operating partnership and its subsidiaries. Our primary investment objectives are to enhance shareholder value over time by generating strong returns on invested capital, consistently paying attractive distributions to our shareholders and achieving long-term appreciation in the value of our lodging investments.

There are no limitations on the amount or percentage of our total assets that may be invested in any one property. Additionally, no limits have been set on the concentration of investments in any one location or property type.

Additional criteria with respect to our hotel investments is described in “Our business—Our strategy.”

Investments in mortgages, structured financings and other lending policies

We do not currently intend to invest in loans secured by properties or make loans to persons. However, we do not have a policy limiting our ability to invest in loans secured by other properties or to make loans to other persons. We may make loans to joint ventures in which we may participate in the future. However, we do not intend to engage in significant lending activities.

Investments in securities of or interests in persons primarily engaged in real estate activities and other issuers

Generally speaking, we do not expect to engage in any significant investment activities with other entities, although we may consider joint venture investments with other investors. We may also invest in the securities of other issuers in connection with acquisitions of indirect interests in properties (normally general or limited partnership interests in special purpose partnerships

 

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owning properties). We may in the future acquire some, all or substantially all of the securities or assets of other REITs or similar entities where that investment would be consistent with our investment policies and the REIT qualification requirements. There are no limitations on the amount or percentage of our total assets that may be invested in any one issuer, other than those imposed by the gross income and asset tests that we must satisfy to qualify as a REIT. However, we do not anticipate investing in other issuers of securities for the purpose of exercising control or acquiring any investments primarily for sale in the ordinary course of business or holding any investments with a view to making short-term profits from their sale. In any event, we do not intend that our investments in securities will require us to register as an “investment company” under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and we intend to divest securities before any registration would be required.

We do not intend to engage in trading, underwriting, agency distribution or sales of securities of other issuers.

Disposition policy

Although we have no current plans to dispose of properties that we acquire, we will consider doing so, subject to REIT qualification and prohibited transaction rules, if our management determines that a sale of a property would be in our best interests based on the price being offered for the property, the operating performance of the property, the tax consequences of the sale and other factors and circumstances surrounding the proposed sale.

Financing policies

We expect to incur indebtedness to supplement our investment capital. We intend to target an overall debt level of up to 50% of the aggregate purchase prices of all our portfolio properties. Our board of trustees will review these limits on a regular basis and will have the ability to amend or modify them without shareholder approval. To the extent our board amends or modifies them in the future, we will disclose any such amendments or modifications to these debt financing policies in periodic reports that we will file with the SEC.

We are in discussions to obtain commitments from a lending syndicate for a secured revolving credit facility that we anticipate will be in place following completion of the offering. We expect that the proposed facility will be secured by the hotel properties we acquire and other assets, and will be fully recourse to our property-owning subsidiaries that are borrowers thereunder. The proposed facility will be used to fund hotel acquisitions, capital expenditures and for general corporate purposes. There is no assurance that we will be able to enter into a definitive agreement relating to this proposed credit facility on terms we find acceptable.

Going forward, we will consider a number of factors when evaluating our level of indebtedness and making financial decisions, including, among others, the following:

 

 

the interest rate of the proposed financing;

 

 

the extent to which the financing impacts our ability to asset manage our properties;

 

 

prepayment penalties and restrictions on refinancing;

 

 

our long-term objectives with respect to the financing;

 

 

our target investment returns;

 

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the ability of particular properties, and our company as a whole, to generate cash flow sufficient to cover expected debt service payments;

 

 

our overall level of indebtedness;

 

 

timing of debt maturities;

 

 

provisions that require recourse and cross-collateralization;

 

 

corporate credit ratios including debt service coverage, debt to total market capitalization and debt to undepreciated assets; and

 

 

the overall ratio of fixed- and variable-rate debt.

Equity capital policies

Subject to applicable law and the requirements for listed companies on the NYSE, our board of trustees has the authority, without further shareholder approval, to issue additional authorized common and preferred shares or otherwise raise capital, including through the issuance of senior securities, in any manner and on the terms and for the consideration it deems appropriate, including in exchange for property. Existing shareholders will have no preemptive right to additional shares issued in any offering, and any offering might cause a dilution of investment. We may in the future issue common shares in connection with acquisitions. We also may issue units of limited partnership interest in our operating partnership in connection with acquisitions of property.

Our board of trustees may authorize the issuance of preferred shares with terms and conditions that could have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a transaction or a change in control in us that might involve a premium price for holders of our common shares or otherwise might be in their best interests. Additionally, preferred shares could have distribution, voting, liquidation and other rights and preferences that are senior to those of our common shares.

We may, under certain circumstances, purchase common shares in the open market or in private transactions with our shareholders, if those purchases are approved by our board of trustees. Our board of trustees has no present intention of causing us to repurchase any shares, and any action would only be taken in conformity with applicable federal and state laws and the applicable requirements for qualifying as a REIT.

In the future, we may institute a dividend reinvestment plan, or DRIP, which would allow our shareholders to acquire additional common shares by automatically reinvesting their cash dividends. Shares would be acquired pursuant to the plan at a price equal to the then prevailing market price. Shareholders who do not participate in the plan will continue to receive cash distributions as declared.

Conflict of interest policy

Our current board of trustees consists of Messrs. Francis and Vicari and as a result, the transactions and agreements in connection with the formation of our company prior to the offering have not been approved by any independent trustees. We have borrowed $249,000 from Messrs. Francis and Vicari, the proceeds of which we used to fund our operating costs and the costs of the offering. We plan to use a portion of the proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements to repay these loans to Messrs. Francis and Vicari.

 

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Effective upon closing of the offering and the concurrent private placements, we intend to adopt policies to reduce potential conflicts of interest. A “conflict of interest” occurs when a trustee’s, officer’s or employee’s personal interest interferes with our interest. Generally, we expect that our policies will provide that any transaction, agreement or relationship in which any of our trustees, officers or employees has an interest must be approved by our audit committee or a majority of our disinterested trustees. However, we cannot assure you that these policies will be successful in eliminating the influence of these conflicts. See “Risk factors—Risks related to our business.”

Applicable Maryland law provides that a contract or other transaction between a Maryland real estate investment trust and any of that entity’s trustees or any other entity in which that trustee is also a trustee or director or has a material financial interest is not void or voidable solely on the grounds of the common board membership or interest, the fact that the trustee was present at the meeting at which the contract or transaction is approved or the fact that the trustee’s vote was counted in favor of the contract or transaction, if:

 

 

the fact of the common board membership or interest is disclosed to the board or a committee of the board, and the board or that committee authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested members, even if the disinterested members constitute less than a quorum;

 

 

the fact of the common board membership or interest is disclosed to shareholders entitled to vote on the contract or transaction, and the contract or transaction is approved by a majority of the votes cast by the shareholders entitled to vote on the matter, other than votes of shares owned of record or beneficially by the interested director, corporation, firm or other entity; or

 

 

the contract or transaction is fair and reasonable to the trust.

Our declaration of trust specifically adopts these provisions of Maryland law.

Reporting policies

We intend to make available to our shareholders audited annual financial statements and annual reports. After the offering, we will become subject to the information reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Pursuant to these requirements, we will file periodic reports, proxy statements and other information, including audited financial statements, with the SEC.

 

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Prior performance of Highland Hospitality Corporation

The information presented in this section should not be considered as indicative of our possible operations and you should not rely on this information as an indication of our future performance.

From its initial public offering in December 2003 until its sale in July 2007, our senior executive officers served as the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Highland. The information that follows, including the tables set forth on subsequent pages, is based on information contained in the filings Highland made with the SEC. The information regarding the historical investment performance of Highland is not a guarantee or prediction of the returns that we may achieve in the future. We can offer no assurance that we will replicate the historical performance of Highland. Your return on your investment in our common shares could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by investors in Highland’s securities. See “Risk factors” for a discussion of risk factors relevant to an investment in our common shares.

Summary

Highland acquired ownership interests in 30 hotel properties for approximately $1.3 billion of capital. The portfolio was comprised primarily of upper upscale full-service hotels located in the top 25 MSAs and operated under nationally recognized brands such as Hyatt Regency ® , Hilton ® , Marriott ® , Sheraton ® and Westin ® . Highland was sold in a merger transaction to affiliates of JER Partners in July 2007. As disclosed in the definitive proxy statement filed by Highland (File No. 001-31906) in connection with that transaction on June 1, 2007, the merger consideration for the sale of Highland comprised approximately $1.2 billion payable to Highland’s common stockholders and the limited partners of Highland’s operating partnership other than Highland (representing a price of $19.50 per share of common stock or unit of limited partnership interest in Highland’s operating partnership), as well as approximately $80 million payable in respect of Highland’s outstanding shares of Series A preferred stock following the merger, and repayment or assumption of outstanding debt owed by Highland, which approximated $688.6 million as of March 31, 2007.

We intend to invest in similarly positioned hotel properties, but with an even sharper focus on upper upscale assets located within the top 25 MSAs, and to pursue a financing strategy that is similar in many respects to the financing strategy employed by Highland.

Equity capital raised

The following table sets forth summary information about equity capital raises conducted by Highland from its inception in December 2003 through its sale in July 2007.

 

       Date completed    Proceeds to Highland
Description of offering        

(dollars in millions)

             

Initial public offering (including exercise of over-allotment option) and concurrent private placements

  

December 2003

  

$

387.3

Follow-on public offering of common stock (including exercise of over-allotment option)

   September 2005      116.7

Follow-on public offering of preferred stock (including exercise of over-allotment option)

   September 2005      80.0

Follow-on public offering of common stock

   March 2006      90.2
      

 

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Debt financing raised

To help fund its acquisitions of hotel properties and support its operations, Highland supplemented the equity capital it raised through mortgages placed directly on hotel assets and borrowings under a term loan and revolving credit facility. As disclosed in its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, on December 22, 2004, Highland obtained a $100 million secured, variable rate three-year term loan with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. On February 24, 2006, Highland extinguished the $100 million term loan facility and completed a separate unsecured revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks. The revolving credit facility provided aggregate revolving loan commitments of up to $150 million with an option to increase the amount of the facility by up to $50 million. The $50 million option was exercised in November 2006. Borrowing availability under the revolving credit facility was based on the value of Highland’s unencumbered hotel properties included in the borrowing base, as defined in the credit agreement. As of December 31, 2006, $104 million had been drawn under the facility. In its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2007, Highland reported $52 million of borrowing availability under the revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2007 and total long-term debt, including borrowings under the facility, of approximately $688.6 million.

Investment activities

The following table presents summary information about acquisition activity of Highland from the time of its inception in December 2003 through its sale in July 2007. Except as noted below in connection with a property acquired in 2007, the information below has been aggregated from disclosures made by Highland in its filings with the SEC. Highland acquired two properties in 2007, The Silversmith Hotel in Chicago, IL, acquired on February 23, 2007, and the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown in Austin, TX, which was acquired on June 29, 2007. The acquisition of the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown was not publicly disclosed by Highland prior to completion of Highland’s sale on July 17, 2007. As a result, pricing information relating to such acquisition has not been disclosed in any of the following tables.

 

       Number of Properties Acquired    Aggregate Purchase Price Paid
Year         (dollars in millions)
             

2003

   5    $ 147.5

2004

   12      441.7

2005

   6      321.9

2006

   5      346.7

2007

   2      34.4
 

 

 

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The following table sets forth information about the properties acquired by Highland that were owned at the time of its sale in July 2007. Except as noted below, the information below is based on Highland’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006.

 

Property    Number
of
Rooms
   Location    Date Acquired
      

Full Service:

        

Portsmouth Renaissance and Conference Center

   249    Portsmouth, VA    December 19, 2003

Nashville Renaissance

   673    Nashville, TN    February 24, 2006

Sugar Land Marriott and Conference Center

   300    Sugar Land, TX    December 19, 2003

Plaza San Antonio Marriott

   252    San Antonio, TX    December 19, 2003

Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Marriott

   491    Dallas/Fort Worth, TX    May 10, 2004

Omaha Marriott

   299    Omaha, NE    September 15, 2004

Ritz-Carlton Atlanta Downtown

   444    Atlanta, GA    September 22, 2006

Hyatt Regency Savannah

   351    Savannah, GA    December 30, 2003

Hyatt Regency Wind Watch Long Island

   358    Hauppauge, NY    August 19, 2004

Hilton Tampa Westshore

   238    Tampa, FL    January 8, 2004

Hilton Parsippany

   506    Parsippany, NJ    August 19, 2004

Hilton Boston Back Bay

   385    Boston, MA    October 24, 2005

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs

   585    Phoenix, AZ    March 16, 2006

Crowne Plaza Atlanta-Ravinia

   495    Atlanta, GA    August 19, 2004

Sheraton Annapolis

   196    Annapolis, MD    February 4, 2005

Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

   294    Princeton, NJ    November 15, 2005

Wyndham Palm Springs

   410    Palm Springs, CA    July 14, 2005

The Churchill

   144    Washington, DC    December 9, 2005

The Melrose

   240    Washington, DC    March 15, 2006

The Silversmith

   143    Chicago, IL    February 23, 2007
          
   7,053      
          

Select Service:

        

Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Town Center

   176    Virginia Beach, VA    December 19, 2003

Hilton Garden Inn BWI Airport

   158    Linthicum, MD    January 12, 2004

Courtyard Savannah Historic District

   156    Savannah, GA    August 2, 2004

Courtyard Boston Tremont

   315    Boston, MA    August 19, 2004

Courtyard Denver Airport

   202    Denver, CO    September 17, 2004

Courtyard Gaithersburg Washingtonian Center

   210    Gaithersburg, MD    June 1, 2006

Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown (1)

   254    Austin, TX    June 29, 2007
          
   1,471      
          

Extended Stay:

        

Residence Inn Tampa Downtown

   109    Tampa, FL    August 2, 2004
          

Total number of rooms

   8,633      
 

 

(1)   This acquisition occurred subsequent to Highland’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, but prior to Highland’s sale in July 2007. Therefore, room data is based on information presented on the website maintained for this property.

 

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In addition, according to Highland’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, Highland disposed of two properties in 2006, the Barceló Tucancun Beach resort and the Marriott Mount Laurel hotel, which provided Highland with net sales proceeds of approximately $70.3 million and recorded net gains of approximately $9.2 million.

Prior performance tables

The following prior performance tables depict selected information about Highland, which made investments in hotel properties similar to certain of the target assets of the Company. The prior performance tables should be read together with the historical performance summary presented above. The inclusion of the tables does not imply that we will make investments comparable to those reflected in the tables or that investors in our common shares will experience returns comparable to the returns experienced by investors in Highland.

All information presented in the tables was derived from Highland’s filings with the SEC. The information in the tables below excludes information relating to Highland’s acquisition of the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown, which was acquired on June 29, 2007, as information relating to such acquisition was not publicly disclosed by Highland.

Table I set forth below presents for Highland certain information regarding the amount of capital raised and invested, as well as certain other information for the period from inception in December 2003 through its sale in July 2007.

Table I. Experience in Raising and Investing Funds.

(dollars in millions)

 

       Highland
Hospitality
Corporation
        

Dollar amount raised (1)

   $ 674.2

Less offering expenses:

  

Selling commissions and discounts retained by affiliates (2)

     --

Organizational expenses (3)

     37.0

Reserves

     --

Percent available for investment

     94.5%

Total acquisition cost (4)

   $ 1,292.2

Leverage (ratio of long-term debt to stockholders’ equity) (5)

     114.6
 
(1)   Represents the sum of the gross proceeds from Highland’s initial public offering, including exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, and concurrent private placements, plus the gross proceeds to Highland from its follow-on offerings in September 2005 (common and preferred stock, including exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option in connection with the common stock offering) and March 2006.

 

(2)   Highland, as an internally managed REIT, did not receive any commissions from any amounts raised, nor were Messrs. Francis and Vicari, the co-founders of our company, separately compensated for their efforts in capital raising activities.

 

(3)   Represents aggregate fees and commissions paid to underwriters and sales agents, and fees and the estimated other expenses paid to third parties in connection with the offerings such as legal, accounting, printing, travel and listing expenses, as disclosed in the SEC filings relating to such offerings.

 

(4)   Represents the sum of the purchase price for 29 properties acquired by Highland, as it excludes pricing information relating to the acquisition of Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown as described above. The properties acquired by Highland were funded through a combination of cash proceeds from its equity offerings, issuance of equity securities by its operating partnership and mortgage and other debt financing.

 

(5)   Based on data disclosed in Highland’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2007. Long-term debt includes mortgage financing and amounts borrowed under Highland’s revolving secured credit facility.

 

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Table III. Operating Results of Prior Programs.

The following table presents certain summary financial information of Highland as reported in its filings with the SEC from its inception in December 2003 through March 31, 2007, the last quarterly period for which it filed a quarterly report on Form 10-Q with the SEC.

 

      Three Months
Ended

March 31,
    Years Ended December 31,    

Period From
December 19, 2003 to

December 31, 2003

 
    2007     2006     2005     2004    
   
    (in thousands, except per share data)  
   

Statement of Operations Data:

         

Revenues

  $ 123,328      $ 422,588      $ 238,767      $ 130,971      $ 683   

Hotel operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization

    85,818        301,068        174,253        99,516        760   

Depreciation and amortization

    12,745        43,341        22,845        11,449        108   

Corporate general and administrative

 

 

4,655

  

    15,092        9,667        9,536        2,894   

Operating income (loss)

    20,110        63,087        32,002        10,470        (3,079

Interest income

    410        1,839        1,819        1,206        65   

Interest expense

    11,095        38,929        24,683        8,406          

Net income (loss) available to common stockholders

 

 

7,497

  

 

 

26,575

  

 

 

8,046

  

    4,266        (2,673

Net income available to common stockholders per share—basic

    0.12        0.45        0.18        0.10        (0.07

Net income available to common stockholders per share—diluted

    0.12        0.44        0.18        0.10        (0.07

Statement of Cash Flows Data:

         

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

$

16,806

  

 

$

82,486

  

 

$

34,248

  

 

$

22,609

  

  $ 568   

Net cash used in investing activities

    (47,070     (307,643     (356,787     (470,617     (137,934

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

26,770

  

 

 

197,698

  

 

 

311,819

  

    297,859        362,996   

Distribution Data (per share) (1) :

         

Common stock

         

Ordinary income

    $ .4415      $ .3042      $ .1767          

Return of capital

      .0975        .2558        .0433          

Capital gain distribution

      .1310                        

Total common dividends declared

  $ .23      $ .67      $ .56      $ .22          

Series A preferred stock (2)

         

Ordinary income

    $ 1.5183      $ .1859            

Return of capital

                        

Capital gain distribution

      .4504                   

Total Series A preferred dividends declared

 

$

.4922

  

 

$

1.9688

  

 

$

.1859

  

        

Amount (in percentage terms) remaining invested in program properties at the end of the last year or period reported in the table (3)

    96.36%        96.26%         
   

 

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(1)   Information presented in the rows captioned ordinary income, return of capital and capital gain distribution in this section represent the composition of dividends declared by Highland on its common stock and Series A preferred stock in the periods presented. No dividends were declared on the common stock until the second quarter of 2004. Information about the tax composition of the dividends declared in the three months ended March 31, 2007 was not presented in Highland’s filings with the SEC or otherwise publicly available.

 

(2)   The Series A preferred stock was issued in September 2005.

 

(3)   Calculated as the original total acquisition cost of all properties retained by Highland at period end, divided by the original total acquisition cost of all properties in the Highland portfolio. As noted in the “—Summary” section above, only two properties, the Barceló Tucancun Beach resort and the Marriott Mount Laurel hotel, were sold prior to the sale of Highland in July 2007. The difference between the percentages shown as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 results from the acquisition by Highland of one hotel property in February 2007.

Table IV sets forth certain additional information about Highland’s operations from its IPO in December 2003 through its sale in July 2007. Information about tax and distribution data, to the extent presented in Highland’s filings with the SEC, can be found in Table III , above.

Table IV. Results of Completed Programs.

(dollars in millions)

 

       Highland Hospitality
Corporation

Dollar amount raised (1)

   $674.2

Number of properties purchased

   30

Date of closing of offering (2)

   December 19, 2003

Date of first sale of property

   June 29, 2006

Date of final sale of property (3)

   July 17, 2007
(1)   Represents the sum of the gross proceeds from Highland’s initial public offering, including exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, and concurrent private placements, plus the gross proceeds to Highland from its follow-on offerings in September 2005 (common and preferred stock, including exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option in connection with the common stock offering) and March 2006.

 

(2)   Represents the date of closing of Highland’s initial public offering. Highland also closed two follow-on offerings on September 28, 2005 (common and preferred stock), and another follow-on offering on March 14, 2006.

 

(3)   Represents the date of closing of the merger by which Highland was acquired by affiliates of JER Partners.

Table VI sets forth certain information regarding The Silversmith Hotel in Chicago, Illinois and the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown hotel in Austin, Texas, the only hotel properties acquired by Highland within the most recent three years. As noted above, pricing information relating to Highland’s acquisition of the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown was not publicly disclosed by Highland.

Table VI. Acquisitions of Properties by Programs.

 

Name, location and type of property    The Silversmith Hotel, Chicago, IL, a full-service hotel
Number of rooms    143
Date of purchase    February 23, 2007
Total acquisition cost (paid in cash)    $34.4 million
Name, location and type of property    Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown, Austin, TX, a limited-service hotel
Number of rooms    254
Date of purchase    June 29, 2007
Total acquisition cost (paid in cash)    Undisclosed

 

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Principal shareholders

Immediately prior to the completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, there will be 100,000 common shares outstanding and two shareholders of record. The following table sets forth certain information, prior to and upon completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, regarding the ownership of each class of our shares by:

 

 

each of our trustees;

 

 

each of our executive officers;

 

 

each holder of 5% or more of each class of our shares; and

 

 

all of our trustees and executive officers as a group.

In accordance with SEC rules, each listed person’s beneficial ownership includes:

 

 

all shares the investor actually owns beneficially or of record;

 

 

all shares over which the investor has or shares voting or dispositive control (such as in the capacity as a general partner of an investment fund); and

 

 

all shares the investor has the right to acquire within 60 days (such as restricted common shares that are currently vested or which are scheduled to vest within 60 days).

Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each named person is c/o Chesapeake Lodging Trust, 710 Route 46 East, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004. No shares beneficially owned by any executive officer or trustee have been pledged as security.

 

       Percentage of Common Shares Outstanding
     Immediately prior to
the offering
   Immediately after
the offering (1)
Beneficial Owner    Shares
Owned
   Percentage    Shares
Owned
   Percentage
                     

James L. Francis

   50,000    50%    253,000    1.7%

Douglas W. Vicari

   50,000    50%    167,000    1.1%

D. Rick Adams

         40,000    *    

Thomas A. Natelli

         52,500    *    

Thomas D. Eckert

         1,500    *    

John W. Hill

         1,500    *    

George F. McKenzie

         1,500    *    

Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein

         1,500    *    

BAMCO, Inc. (2)

         1,344,086    8.9%

All trustees, trustee nominees and executive officers as a group (8 persons)

   100,000    100%    518,500    3.4%

 

 

*   Represents less than 1% of the common shares outstanding upon the closing of the offering.
(1)   Does not reflect common shares reserved for issuance upon exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option.
(2)  

The shares to be acquired by BAMCO, Inc. will be acquired on behalf of its investment advisory client, the Baron Small Cap Fund. Ronald Baron is the indirect controlling shareholder of BAMCO, Inc. and may be deemed to share with BAMCO, Inc. voting and dispositive power over such shares. Mr. Baron disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares held by BAMCO, Inc. (or the investment advisory clients thereof) to the extent such shares are held by persons other than Mr. Baron. BAMCO, Inc. disclaims beneficial ownership of shares held by its investment advisory clients to the extent such shares are held by persons other than BAMCO, Inc. and its affiliates. The address for BAMCO, Inc., the Baron Small Cap Fund and Mr. Baron is c/o Baron Capital Group, Inc., 767 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10153.

 

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Certain relationships and related transactions

Purchases of common shares by certain executive officers and trustees

Concurrently with the offering, in a separate private placement, we will sell an aggregate of 150,000 common shares (representing approximately 1% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, excluding common shares that may be sold pursuant to the underwriters’ overallotment option) to our non-executive chairman and certain executive officers at the IPO price per share.

Loans from certain executive officers and trustees

Messrs. Francis and Vicari have loaned the company an aggregate of $249,000 to fund our operating costs and the costs related to the offering. The loans are structured as demand notes and bear interest at the Federal Short Term Rate as announced by the Internal Revenue Service. We intend to use approximately $250,000 of the net proceeds from the offering and the concurrent private placements to repay these loans to Messrs. Francis and Vicari, and we will use an additional $1,000 of proceeds to repurchase the shares acquired by them in connection with our initial capitalization.

Restricted common shares and other equity based awards

Our Equity Plan provides for grants of restricted common shares and other equity based awards to our trustees and officers and to our advisors and consultants who are providing services to us as of the date of the grant of the award. Upon completion of the offering, we will grant time-based and performance-based restricted common shares to Messrs. Francis, Vicari and Adams, as follows:

 

      

Time-Based

Restricted
Shares (1)

  

Value-

Time-Based

Restricted
Shares (2)

   Performance-
Based
Restricted
Shares (3)
  

Value-

Performance-
Based
Restricted
Shares (2)

   Total Value (2)
                                

James L. Francis

   153,000    $ 3,060,000    40,000    $ 800,000    $ 3,860,000

Douglas W. Vicari

   102,000    $ 2,040,000    25,000    $ 500,000    $ 2,540,000

D. Rick Adams

   40,000    $ 800,000            $ 800,000

 

(1)   The restrictions on the time-based restricted shares will lapse at the rate of one-third of the number of shares per year commencing on the first anniversary of the closing of the offering. Dividends will be paid on the time-based restricted shares when declared and paid on our common shares generally.

 

(2)   Based on the assumed IPO of $250,000,000 at an assumed IPO price of $20.00 per share.

 

(3)   The restrictions on the performance-based restricted shares will lapse upon our achievement of specified performance metrics. Dividends will accrue on the performance-based restricted shares that remain subject to vesting, but will only be paid if the shares vest.

 

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Description of shares of beneficial interest

The following is a summary of the material terms of our shares of beneficial interest. The discussion that follows is based in part on the terms of our declaration of trust and bylaws as both will be in effect upon completion of the offering. All references to the declaration of trust and bylaws are to these amended versions, copies of which have been filed as Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2, respectively, to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. See “Where you can find more information.”

Common shares of beneficial interest

We are authorized to issue up to 400,000,000 common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share. Holders of our common shares will be entitled to receive dividends when, as and if declared by our board of trustees, out of funds legally available for distribution. If we fail to pay dividends on our outstanding preferred shares of beneficial interest, if any are then outstanding, generally we may not pay dividends on or repurchase our common shares. If we were to liquidate, dissolve or wind up our affairs, holders of our common shares would be entitled to share equally and ratably in any assets available for distribution to them, after payment or provision for payment of our debts and other liabilities and the preferential amounts owing with respect to any of our outstanding preferred shares. Holders of our common shares will have no preemptive rights, which means they have no right to acquire any additional common shares that we may issue at a later date.

The holders of our common shares will be entitled to cast one vote for each share on all matters presented to our shareholders for a vote. Our common shares will be, when issued, fully paid and nonassessable.

The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of our common shares are subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any series of our preferred shares which we may designate and issue in the future.

Preferred shares of beneficial interest

We are authorized to issue up to 100,000,000 preferred shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share. Our declaration of trust provides that preferred shares may be issued from time to time in one or more series and gives our board of trustees broad authority to fix the dividend and distribution rights, conversion and voting rights, if any, redemption provisions and liquidation preferences of each series of preferred shares. Holders of preferred shares will have no preemptive rights. The preferred shares will be, when issued, fully paid and nonassessable.

Power to reclassify shares and issue additional shares

Our declaration of trust authorizes our board of trustees to classify any unissued preferred shares and to reclassify any previously classified but unissued common shares and preferred shares of any series from time to time in one or more series, as authorized by the board of trustees. Prior to issuance of any classified or reclassified shares of a particular class or series, our board of trustees is required by Title 8 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, which we refer to as the Maryland REIT law, and our declaration of trust to set for each such class or series, subject to the provisions of our declaration of trust regarding the

 

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restrictions on transfer of shares of beneficial interest, the terms, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications and terms or conditions of redemption for each such class or series. As a result, our board of trustees could authorize the issuance of preferred shares that have priority over the common shares with respect to dividends and rights upon liquidation and with other terms and conditions that could have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for holders of common shares or otherwise might be in their best interest.

Restrictions on ownership and transfer

To qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code, our shares must be beneficially owned by 100 or more persons during at least 335 days of a taxable year of 12 months or during a proportionate part of a shorter taxable year. Also, not more than 50% of the value of our outstanding shares (after taking into account options to acquire shares) may be owned, directly, indirectly or through attribution, by five or fewer individuals (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code to include certain entities) during the last half of a taxable year. Under the rules applicable to REITs, corporations are not considered “individuals” for purposes of this test. These requirements need not be satisfied during our first initial tax year as a REIT, but must be satisfied every year thereafter.

To maintain our qualification as a REIT, our declaration of trust will include restrictions on the number of our shares that a person may own. The declaration of trust will provide:

 

 

no person, other than a person that has received an exemption, may own directly or indirectly, or be deemed to own by virtue of certain attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 9.8%, in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the outstanding common shares of any class or series;

 

 

no person, other than a person that has received an exemption, may own directly or indirectly, or be deemed to own by virtue of certain attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 9.8%, in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the outstanding preferred shares of any class or series;

 

 

no person (as defined in the declaration of trust) shall actually or beneficially own our shares to the extent that such ownership would result in our being “closely held” under Section 856(h) of the Internal Revenue Code or otherwise cause us to fail to qualify as a REIT at any time;

 

 

no person (as defined in the declaration of trust) shall transfer our shares if such transfer would result in our shares being owned by fewer than 100 persons at any time;

 

 

no person may own our shares if such ownership would cause any of our income that would otherwise qualify as rents from real property to fail to qualify as such, including as a result of any of our hotel management companies failing to qualify as “eligible independent contractors” under the REIT rules; and

 

 

no person may own our shares if such ownership would result in our failing to qualify as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Under the declaration of trust, the board of trustees, in its sole and absolute discretion, may exempt a shareholder that is not an individual from the 9.8% ownership limit for common shares and the 9.8% ownership limit for preferred shares, if such shareholder provides information and

 

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makes representations to the board of trustees that are satisfactory to the board of trustees, in its reasonable discretion, to establish that such person’s ownership in excess of the applicable ownership limit would not jeopardize our qualification as a REIT.

In addition, our board of trustees from time to time may increase the ownership limits. However, the ownership limits may not be increased if, after giving effect to such increase, five or fewer individuals could own or constructively own in the aggregate, more than 49.9% in value of the shares then outstanding.

Any person who acquires or attempts or intends to acquire actual or beneficial or constructive ownership of our shares that will or may violate any of the foregoing restrictions on transferability and ownership will be required to give notice immediately to us and provide us with such other information as the board of trustees may request in order to determine the effect of such transfer on our qualification as a REIT. If any transfer of our shares occurs which, if effective, would result in any person beneficially or constructively owning shares in excess, or in violation, of the above transfer or ownership limitations, then that number of shares, the beneficial or constructive ownership of which otherwise would cause such person (referred to as a prohibited owner) to violate the transfer or ownership limitations (rounded up to the nearest whole share), will be automatically transferred to a charitable trust for the exclusive benefit of a charitable beneficiary, and the prohibited owner will not acquire any rights in such shares. This automatic transfer will be considered effective as of the close of business on the business day before the violative transfer. If the transfer to the charitable trust would not be effective for any reason to prevent the violation of the above transfer or ownership limitations, then the transfer of that number of shares that otherwise would cause any person to violate the above limitations will be void. Shares held in the charitable trust will continue to constitute issued and outstanding shares. The prohibited owner will not benefit economically from ownership of any shares held in the charitable trust, will have no rights to dividends or other distributions and will not possess any rights to vote or other rights attributable to the shares held in the charitable trust. The trustee of the charitable trust will be designated by us and must be unaffiliated with us or any prohibited owner and will have all voting rights and rights to dividends or other distributions with respect to shares held in the charitable trust, and these rights will be exercised for the exclusive benefit of the trust’s charitable beneficiary. Any dividend or other distribution paid before our discovery that shares have been transferred to the trustee will be paid by the recipient of such dividend or distribution to the trustee upon demand, and any dividend or other distribution authorized but unpaid will be paid when due to the trustee. Any dividend or distribution so paid to the trustee will be held in trust for the trust’s charitable beneficiary. Subject to Maryland law, effective as of the date that such shares have been transferred to the charitable trust, the trustee, in its sole discretion, will have the authority to:

 

 

rescind as void any vote cast by a prohibited owner prior to our discovery that such shares have been transferred to the charitable trust; and

 

 

recast such vote in accordance with the desires of the trustee acting for the benefit of the trust’s charitable beneficiary.

However, if we have already taken irreversible corporate action, then the trustee will not have the authority to rescind and recast such vote.

Within 20 days of receiving notice from us that shares have been transferred to the charitable trust, and unless we buy the shares first as described below, the trustee will sell the shares held in the charitable trust to a person, designated by the trustee, whose ownership of the shares will

 

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not violate the ownership limitations in our declaration of trust. Upon the sale, the interest of the charitable beneficiary in the shares sold will terminate and the trustee will distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the prohibited owner and to the charitable beneficiary. The prohibited owner will receive the lesser of:

 

 

the price paid by the prohibited owner for the shares or, if the prohibited owner did not give value for the shares in connection with the event causing the shares to be held in the charitable trust (for example, in the case of a gift or devise), the market price of the shares on the day of the event causing the shares to be held in the charitable trust; and

 

 

the price per share received by the trustee from the sale or other disposition of the shares held in the charitable trust (less any commission and other expenses of a sale).

The trustee may reduce the amount payable to the prohibited owner by the amount of dividends and distributions paid to the prohibited owner and owed by the prohibited owner to the trustee. Any net sale proceeds in excess of the amount payable to the prohibited owner will be paid immediately to the charitable beneficiary. If, before our discovery that shares have been transferred to the charitable trust, such shares are sold by a prohibited owner, then:

 

 

such shares will be deemed to have been sold on behalf of the charitable trust; and

 

 

to the extent that the prohibited owner received an amount for such shares that exceeds the amount that the prohibited owner was entitled to receive as described above, the excess must be paid to the trustee upon demand.

In addition, shares held in the charitable trust will be deemed to have been offered for sale to us, or our designee, at a price per share equal to the lesser of:

 

 

the price per share in the transaction that resulted in such transfer to the charitable trust (or, in the case of a gift or devise, the market price at the time of the gift or devise); and

 

 

the market price on the date we, or our designee, accept such offer.

We may reduce the amount payable to the prohibited owner by the amount of dividends and distributions paid to the prohibited owner and owed by the prohibited owner to the trustee. We may pay the amount of such reduction to the trustee for the benefit of the charitable beneficiary. We will have the right to accept the offer until the trustee has sold the shares held in the charitable trust. Upon such a sale to us, the interest of the charitable beneficiary in the shares sold will terminate and the trustee will distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the prohibited owner and any dividends or other distributions held by the trustee will be paid to the charitable beneficiary.

Any certificates we may issue representing our shares will bear a legend referring to the restrictions described above.

Every owner of more than 5% (or such lower percentage as required by the Internal Revenue Code or the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) of all classes or series of our shares, including common shares, will be required to give written notice to us within 30 days after the end of each taxable year stating the name and address of such owner, the number of shares of each class and series of shares that the owner beneficially owns and a description of the manner in which such shares are held. Each such owner shall provide to us such additional information as the board of trustees may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such beneficial

 

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ownership on our status as a REIT and to ensure compliance with the various ownership limitations. In addition, each shareholder shall upon demand be required to provide to the board of trustees such information as the board of trustees may request, in good faith, in order to determine our qualification as a REIT and to comply with the requirements of any taxing authority or governmental authority or to determine such compliance.

These ownership limitations could delay, deter or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for the common shares or might otherwise be in the best interest of our shareholders.

Transfer agent and registrar

The transfer agent and registrar for our shares initially will be American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC.

 

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Shares eligible for future sale

Prior to the offering, there has been no public market for our common shares. We cannot predict the effect, if any, that sales of common shares or the availability of shares for sale will have on the market price of our common shares prevailing from time to time. Sales of substantial amounts of our common shares in the public market, or the perception that such sales could occur, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common shares.

Upon the completion of the offering and the concurrent private placements, we will have 15,068,592 common shares outstanding, including the 12,500,000 common shares sold in the offering, the 2,200,092 common shares sold in the concurrent private placements and 368,500 restricted common shares granted to our officers and trustees under our Equity Plan upon completion of the offering, or 16,943,592 common shares if the underwriters’ overallotment option is exercised in full. Our Equity Plan provides for future grants of equity based awards up to an aggregate of 366,505 additional common shares.

No assurance can be given as to the likelihood that an active trading market for our common shares will develop or be maintained, that any such market will be liquid, that shareholders will be able to sell the common shares when issued or at all or the prices that shareholders may obtain for any of the common shares. No prediction can be made as to the effect, if any, that future issuances of common shares or the availability of common shares for future issuances will have on the market price of our common shares prevailing from time to time. Issuances of substantial amounts of common shares, or the perception that such issuances could occur, may affect adversely the prevailing market price of our common shares. See “Risk factors— risks related to share ownership and the offering.”

The common shares sold in the offering will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act unless the shares are held by any of our “affiliates,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. As defined in Rule 144, an “affiliate” of an issuer is a person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the issuer. The common shares issued in the concurrent private placements are restricted securities as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if registered under the securities laws or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rule 144, as described below.

Rule 144

In general, Rule 144 provides that if (i) one year has elapsed since the date of acquisition of common shares from us or any of our affiliates and (ii) the holder is, and has not been, an affiliate of ours at any time during the three months preceding the proposed sale, such holder may sell such common shares in the public market under Rule 144(b)(1) without regard to the volume limitations, manner of sale provisions, public information requirements or notice requirements under such rule. In general, Rule 144 also provides that if (i) six months have elapsed since the date of acquisition of common shares from us or any of our affiliates, (ii) we have been a reporting company under the Exchange Act for at least 90 days and (iii) the holder is not, and has not been, an affiliate of ours at any time during the three months preceding the proposed sale, such holder may sell such common shares in the public market under Rule 144(b)(1) subject to satisfaction of Rule 144’s public information requirements, but without regard to the volume limitations, manner of sale provisions or notice requirements under such rule.

 

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In addition, under Rule 144, if (i) one year (or, subject to us being a reporting company under the Exchange Act for at least the preceding 90 days, six months) has elapsed since the date of acquisition of common shares from us or any of our affiliates and (ii) the holder is, or has been, an affiliate of ours at any time during the three months preceding the proposed sale, such holder may sell such common shares in the public market under Rule 144(b)(1) subject to satisfaction of Rule 144’s volume limitations, manner of sale provisions, public information requirements and notice requirements.

Registration rights

At the closing of the offering, we will enter into registration rights agreements with each of Hyatt and Baron pursuant to which we will agree to register the resale of their respective common shares owned by them and their respective permitted transferees upon their request made no earlier than six months from the closing of the offering. In addition, subject to the exceptions and limitations set forth in the registration rights agreements, these holders will have unlimited piggyback registration rights pursuant to which they may request the inclusion of their shares in any registration statement we file for the purpose of registering sales of common shares for our account or the account of future shareholders.

Following the completion of the offering, we intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 to register the total number of common shares that may be issued under our Equity Plan.

 

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Certain provisions of Maryland law and of our charter and bylaws

The following description of certain provisions of Maryland law and of our declaration of trust and bylaws as they will be in effect upon completion of the offering is only a summary. For a complete description, we refer you to Maryland law, our declaration of trust and our bylaws. We have filed our declaration of trust and bylaws as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. See “Where you can find more information.”

Number of trustees; vacancies

Our declaration of trust and bylaws provide that the number of our trustees will be established by a vote of a majority of the members of our board of trustees. We expect to have seven trustees upon completion of the offering. Our bylaws provide that any vacancy, including a vacancy created by an increase in the number of trustees, may be filled by a majority of the remaining trustees, even if the remaining trustees do not constitute a quorum.

Removal of trustees

Our declaration of trust and bylaws provide that, subject to the rights of holders of one or more classes or series of preferred shares, if any, that may be issued in the future to elect or remove one or more directors, a trustee may be removed only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of trustees. For this purpose, “cause” means, with respect to any particular trustee, conviction of a felony or a final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such trustee caused demonstrable, material harm to us through gross negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty. This provision, together with the provision of our bylaws described above which provides that our board has the exclusive power to fill vacancies on the board, may preclude shareholders from removing incumbent trustees and filling the vacancies created by such removal with their own nominees.

Business combinations

Our board of trustees has adopted a resolution opting us out of the business combinations provisions of Maryland law. Our board of trustees may opt to make these provisions applicable to us at any time by passing a subsequent resolution. Maryland law prohibits “business combinations” between us and an interested shareholder or an affiliate of an interested shareholder for five years after the most recent date on which the interested shareholder becomes an interested shareholder. These business combinations include a merger, consolidation, share exchange, or, in circumstances specified in the statute, an asset transfer or issuance or reclassification of equity securities. Maryland law defines an interested shareholder as:

 

 

any person who beneficially owns 10% or more of the voting power of our shares; or

 

 

an affiliate or associate of ours who, at any time within the two year period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the voting power of our then outstanding voting shares.

A person is not an interested shareholder if our board of trustees approves in advance the transaction by which the person otherwise would have become an interested shareholder. However, in approving a transaction, our board of trustees may provide that its approval is

 

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subject to compliance, at or after the time of approval, with any terms and conditions determined by our board of trustees.

After the five year prohibition, any business combination between us and an interested shareholder generally must be recommended by our board of trustees and approved by the affirmative vote of at least:

 

 

80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of our then outstanding shares of beneficial interest; and

 

 

two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of our voting shares other than shares held by the interested shareholder with whom or with whose affiliate the business combination is to be effected or shares held by an affiliate or associate of the interested shareholder.

These super-majority vote requirements do not apply if our common shareholders receive a minimum price, as described under Maryland law, for their shares in the form of cash or other consideration in the same form as previously paid by the interested shareholder for its shares.

Control share acquisitions

Our bylaws contain a provision exempting any and all acquisitions of our common shares from the control shares provisions of Maryland law. Our board of trustees may opt to make these provisions applicable to us at any time by amending or repealing this bylaw provision in the future, and may do so on a retroactive basis. Maryland law provides that “control shares” of a Maryland REIT acquired in a “control share acquisition” have no voting rights unless approved by a vote of two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Shares owned by the acquiror or by officers or trustees are excluded from the shares entitled to vote on the matter. “Control shares” are voting shares that, if aggregated with all other shares previously acquired by the acquiring person, or in respect of which the acquiring person is able to exercise or direct the exercise of voting power (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), would entitle the acquiring person to exercise or direct the exercise of the voting power in electing trustees within one of the following ranges of voting power:

 

 

one-tenth or more but less than one-third;

 

 

one-third or more but less than a majority; or

 

 

a majority or more of all voting power.

A “control share acquisition” means the acquisition of control shares, subject to certain exceptions. A person who has made or proposes to make a control share acquisition may compel our board of trustees to call a special meeting of shareholders to be held within 50 days of demand to consider the voting rights of the shares. The right to compel the calling of a special meeting is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including an undertaking to pay the expenses of the special meeting. If no request for a special meeting is made, we may present the question at any shareholders’ meeting.

If voting rights are not approved at the shareholders’ meeting or if the acquiring person does not deliver the statement required by Maryland law, then, subject to certain conditions and limitations, we may redeem any or all of the control shares, except those for which voting rights have previously been approved, for fair value. Fair value is determined without regard to the absence of voting rights for the control shares and as of the date of the last control share acquisition or of any meeting of shareholders at which the voting rights of the shares were

 

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considered and not approved. If voting rights for control shares are approved at a shareholders’ meeting, the acquiror may then vote a majority of the shares entitled to vote, and all other shareholders may exercise appraisal rights. The fair value of the shares for purposes of these appraisal rights may not be less than the highest price per share paid by the acquiror in the control share acquisition. The control share acquisition statute does not apply to shares acquired in a merger, consolidation or share exchange if we are a party to the transaction, nor does it apply to acquisitions approved by or exempted by our declaration of trust or bylaws.

Merger, amendment of declaration of trust or bylaws

Under Maryland REIT law, a Maryland REIT generally cannot dissolve, amend its declaration of trust or merge with another entity unless recommended by the trustees and approved by the affirmative vote of shareholders holding at least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote on the matter unless a lesser percentage, but not less than a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, is set forth in the REIT’s declaration of trust. In our declaration of trust, we have set the vote required to approve most amendments of our declaration of trust and mergers required to be submitted to our shareholders at a majority of all votes entitled to be cast on the matter. In addition, under the Maryland REIT law and our declaration of trust, our trustees will be permitted, without any action by our shareholders, to amend the declaration of trust from time to time to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code or the Maryland REIT law or in any manner in which the charter of a Maryland corporation may be amended without shareholder approval. Our board of trustees has the exclusive power to amend or repeal any provision of our bylaws and to make new bylaws.

Action by written consent

Our declaration of trust provides that any action required or permitted to be taken by the shareholders may not be taken without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent of our shareholders.

Limitation of liability and indemnification

Our declaration of trust limits the liability of our trustees and officers to us and our shareholders for money damages, except for liability resulting from:

 

 

actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services for the amount of the benefit or profit actually received; or

 

 

a final judgment based upon a finding of active and deliberate dishonesty by the trustee/officer that was material to the cause of action adjudicated.

Our declaration of trust requires us, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, to pay and advance reasonable expenses to any of our present or former trustees or officers or any individual who, while a trustee or officer, and at our request, serves or has served another entity, employee benefit plan or any other enterprise as a trustee, director, officer, partner or otherwise against any claim or liability arising by reason of service in such capacity.

 

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Consistent with Maryland law, we are required to indemnify our present and former trustees and officers against liabilities and reasonable expenses actually incurred by them in any proceeding unless:

 

 

the act or omission of the trustee or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and was committed in bad faith or was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty;

 

 

the trustee or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or

 

 

in a criminal proceeding, the trustee or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful.

However, Maryland law prohibits us from indemnifying our present and former trustees and officers for an adverse judgment in a derivative action or if the trustee or officer was adjudged to be liable for an improper personal benefit. Our bylaws and Maryland law require us, as a condition to advancing expenses in certain circumstances, to obtain:

 

 

a written affirmation by the trustee or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification; and

 

 

a written undertaking to repay the amount advanced if the standard of conduct is not met.

We also expect to enter into indemnification agreements with our trustees and our officers upon the closing of the offering, providing for procedures for indemnification by us, to the fullest extent permitted by law, and advancements by us of certain expenses and costs relating to claims, suits or proceedings arising from their service to us.

We expect to obtain an insurance policy under which our trustees and executive officers will be insured, subject to the limits of the policy, against certain losses arising from claims made against such trustees and officers by reason of any acts or omissions covered under such policy in their respective capacities as trustees or officers, including certain liabilities under the Securities Act.

We have been advised that the SEC has expressed the opinion that indemnification of trustees, officers or persons otherwise controlling a company for liabilities arising under the Securities Act is against public policy and is therefore unenforceable.

Term and termination

Our declaration of trust provides for us to have a perpetual existence. Pursuant to our declaration of trust, and subject to the provisions of any of our classes or series of shares of beneficial interest then outstanding and the approval by a majority of the entire board of trustees, our shareholders, at any meeting thereof, by the affirmative vote of at least two thirds of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, may approve a plan of liquidation and dissolution.

Meetings of shareholders

Under our bylaws, annual meetings of shareholders are to be held each year, commencing in 2010, at a date and time as determined by our board of trustees. Special meetings of shareholders may be called only by a majority of our board of trustees, by the chairman of our board of trustees, our chief executive officer or our president, or by our secretary upon written request of the holders of at least a majority of our outstanding shares entitled to vote at the meeting. Only matters set forth in the notice of the meeting may be considered and acted upon at such a meeting.

 

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Advance notice of trustee nominations and new business

Our bylaws provide that, with respect to an annual meeting of shareholders, nominations of persons for election to our board of trustees and the proposal of business to be considered by shareholders at the annual meeting may be made only:

 

 

pursuant to our notice of the meeting;

 

 

by our board of trustees; or

 

 

by a shareholder who was a shareholder of record both at the time of the provision of notice and at the time of the meeting who is entitled to vote at the meeting and has complied with the advance notice procedures set forth in our bylaws.

With respect to special meetings of shareholders, only the business specified in our notice of meeting may be brought before the meeting of shareholders.

The purpose of requiring shareholders to give advance notice of nominations and other proposals is to afford our board of trustees the opportunity to consider the qualifications of the proposed nominees or the advisability of the other proposals and, to the extent considered necessary by our board of trustees, to inform shareholders and make recommendations regarding the nominations or other proposals. The advance notice procedures also permit a more orderly procedure for conducting our shareholder meetings. These advance notice provisions may have the effect of precluding a contest for the election of trustees or proposals for other action if the proper procedures are not followed, and of discouraging or deterring a third party from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of trustees to our board of trustees or to approve its own proposal.

Appraisal rights

As permitted by Maryland law, our declaration of trust contains a provision that denies our shareholders appraisal rights in connection with any merger, consolidation or other business combination transaction.

Possible anti-takeover effect of certain provisions of Maryland law and of our declaration of trust and bylaws

The business combination provisions of Maryland law (if our board of trustees opts to make them applicable to us), the control share acquisition provisions of Maryland law (if the applicable provision in our bylaws is rescinded), the inability of our shareholders to remove incumbent trustees other than for cause, the restrictions on the acquisition of our shares of beneficial interest, the power to issue additional common shares or preferred shares, and the advance notice provisions of our bylaws could have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a transaction or a change in the control that might involve a premium price for holders of the common shares or might otherwise be in their best interest. Maryland law permits our board of trustees, without shareholder approval and regardless of what is provided in our declaration of trust or bylaws, to implement takeover defenses that we may not yet have and to take, or refrain from taking, certain other actions without those decisions being subject to any heightened standard of conduct or standard of review as such decisions may be subject in certain other jurisdictions.

 

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Partnership agreement

The following summary of the terms of the agreement of limited partnership of our operating partnership does not purport to be complete and is subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to the Agreement of Limited Partnership of Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., a copy of which is an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. See “Where you can find more information.”

Management

Our operating partnership has been organized as a Delaware limited partnership. Pursuant to the partnership agreement, we have full, exclusive and complete responsibility and discretion in the management and control of the operating partnership, including the ability to cause the operating partnership to enter into certain major transactions including acquisitions, dispositions, refinancings and selection of lessees and to cause changes in the operating partnership’s line of business and distribution policies. Initially, our operating partnership will be directly and indirectly wholly owned by us and there will be no limited partners other than us.

Transferability of interests

We may not voluntarily withdraw from the operating partnership or transfer or assign our general partner interest in the operating partnership or engage in any merger, consolidation or other combination, or sale of all or substantially all of our assets in a transaction which results in a change of control of our company unless, in the case of any merger (including a triangular merger), consolidation or other combination with or into another person, either (1) following the consummation of such transaction, the equity holders of the surviving entity are substantially identical to our shareholders, or (2)(i) we receive the consent of limited partners holding more than 50% of the partnership units of the limited partners (including those held by our company or its subsidiaries), (ii) following such merger or other consolidation, substantially all of the assets of the surviving entity consist of such partnership units, and (iii) as a result of such transaction, all limited partners will receive for each partnership unit an amount of cash, securities or other property equal in value to the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property paid in the transaction to a holder of one of our common shares, provided that if, in connection with the transaction, a purchase, tender or exchange offer shall have been made to and accepted by the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding common shares, each holder of partnership units shall be given the option to exchange its partnership units for the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property that a limited partner would have received had it (A) exercised its redemption right (described below) and (B) sold, tendered or exchanged pursuant to the offer common shares received upon exercise of the redemption right immediately prior to the expiration of the offer.

We also may merge with or into or consolidate with another entity if immediately after such merger or consolidation (i) substantially all of the assets of the successor or surviving entity, other than partnership units held by us, are contributed, directly or indirectly, to the partnership as a capital contribution in exchange for partnership units with a fair market value equal to the value of the assets so contributed as determined by the survivor in good faith and (ii) the survivor expressly agrees to assume all of our obligations under the partnership agreement and the partnership agreement shall be amended after any such merger or consolidation so as to arrive at a new method of calculating the amounts payable upon exercise of the redemption right that approximates the existing method for such calculation as closely as reasonably possible.

 

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We also may (i) transfer all or any portion of our general partnership interest to (A) a wholly-owned subsidiary or (B) a parent company, and following such transfer may withdraw as the general partner and (ii) engage in a transaction required by law or by the rules of any national securities exchange on which our common shares are listed.

Capital contribution

We will contribute, directly and through a wholly owned limited liability company subsidiary of ours, to our operating partnership substantially all of the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements as our initial capital contribution in exchange for all of the outstanding units in our operating partnership. The partnership agreement provides that if the operating partnership requires additional funds at any time in excess of funds available to the operating partnership from borrowing or capital contributions, we may borrow such funds from a financial institution or other lender and lend such funds to the operating partnership on the same terms and conditions as are applicable to our borrowing of such funds. Under the partnership agreement, we are obligated to contribute the proceeds of any future offering of shares as additional capital to the operating partnership. If we contribute additional capital to the operating partnership, we will receive additional partnership units and our percentage interest will be increased on a proportionate basis based upon the amount of such additional capital contributions and the value of the operating partnership at the time of such contributions. Conversely, the percentage interests of the limited partners will be decreased on a proportionate basis in the event of additional capital contributions by us. In addition, if we contribute additional capital to the operating partnership, we will revalue the property of the operating partnership to its fair market value (as determined by us) and the capital accounts of the partners will be adjusted to reflect the manner in which the unrealized gain or loss inherent in such property (that has not been reflected in the capital accounts previously) would be allocated among the partners under the terms of the partnership agreement if there were a taxable disposition of such property for its fair market value (as determined by us) on the date of the revaluation. The operating partnership may issue preferred partnership interests, in connection with acquisitions of property or otherwise, which could have priority over common partnership interests with respect to distributions from the operating partnership, including the partnership interests we own as the general partner.

Redemption rights

Pursuant to the partnership agreement, any future limited partners, other than us, will receive redemption rights, which will enable them to cause the operating partnership to redeem their units of partnership interests in exchange for cash or, at our option, common shares on a one-for-one basis. The cash redemption amount per unit is based on the market price of our common shares at the time of redemption. The number of common shares issuable upon redemption of units of partnership interest held by limited partners may be adjusted upon the occurrence of certain events such as share dividends, share subdivisions or combinations. We expect to fund any cash redemptions out of available cash or borrowings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a limited partner will not be entitled to exercise its redemption rights if the delivery of common shares to the redeeming limited partner would:

 

 

be prohibited under the restrictions on ownership or transfer of our common shares in our declaration of trust;

 

 

be prohibited under applicable federal or state securities laws or regulations;

 

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result in our common shares being owned by fewer than 100 persons (determined without reference to any rules of attribution);

 

 

result in our being “closely held” within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

 

cause us to own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of the ownership interests in a tenant of our, the operating partnership’s or a subsidiary partnership’s real property, within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code; or

 

 

cause the acquisition of common shares by such redeeming limited partner to be “integrated” with any other distribution of common shares for purposes of complying with the registration provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

We may, in our sole and absolute discretion, waive any of these restrictions.

The partnership agreement requires that the operating partnership be operated in a manner that enables us to satisfy the requirements for being classified as a REIT, to avoid any U.S. federal income or excise tax liability imposed by the Internal Revenue Code (other than any U.S. federal income tax liability associated with our retained capital gains) and to ensure that the partnership will not be classified as a “publicly traded partnership” taxable as a corporation under Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code.

In addition to the administrative and operating costs and expenses incurred by the operating partnership, the operating partnership generally will pay all of our administrative costs and expenses, including:

 

 

all expenses relating to our continuity of existence and our subsidiaries’ operations;

 

 

all expenses relating to offerings and registration of securities;

 

 

all expenses associated with the preparation and filing of any of our periodic or other reports and communications under federal, state or local laws and regulations;

 

 

all expenses associated with our compliance with laws, rules and regulations promulgated by any regulatory body; and

 

 

all of our other operating or administrative costs incurred in the ordinary course of business on behalf of the operating partnership.

These expenses, however, do not include any of our administrative and operating costs and expenses incurred that are attributable to hotel properties that are owned by us directly rather than by the operating partnership or its subsidiaries.

Fiduciary responsibilities

Our trustees and officers have duties under applicable Maryland law to manage us in a manner consistent with the best interests of our shareholders. At the same time, we, as the general partner of our operating partnership, have fiduciary duties to manage our operating partnership in a manner beneficial to our operating partnership and its partners. Our duties, as general partner to our operating partnership and its limited partners, therefore, may come into conflict with the duties of our trustees and officers to our shareholders. We will be under no obligation to give priority to the separate interests of the limited partners of our operating partnership or our shareholders in deciding whether to cause the operating partnership to take or decline to take any actions.

 

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The limited partners of our operating partnership expressly will acknowledge that as the general partner of our operating partnership, we are acting for the benefit of the operating partnership, the limited partners and our shareholders collectively.

Distributions

The partnership agreement provides that the operating partnership will distribute cash from operations (including net sale or refinancing proceeds, but excluding net proceeds from the sale of the operating partnership’s property in connection with the liquidation of the operating partnership) at such time and in such amounts as determined by us in our sole discretion, to us and the limited partners in accordance with their respective percentage interests in the operating partnership.

Upon liquidation of the operating partnership, after payment of, or adequate provision for, debts and obligations of the partnership, including any partner loans, any remaining assets of the partnership will be distributed to us and the limited partners with positive capital accounts in accordance with their respective positive capital account balances.

Allocations

Initially, our operating partnership will be wholly owned by us and will not be treated as a separate entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, all profits and losses of the operating partnership will be allocated to us. Upon the issuance of any units in our operating partnership to another partner, profits and losses of the partnership (including depreciation and amortization deductions) for each fiscal year generally will be allocated to us and the other limited partners in accordance with the respective percentage interests in the partnership. All of the foregoing allocations are subject to compliance with the provisions of Sections 704(b) and 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code and Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder. To the extent Treasury regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code permit, we, as the general partner, shall have the authority to elect the method to be used by the operating partnership for allocating items with respect to contributed property acquired in connection with the offering for which fair market value differs from the adjusted tax basis at the time of contribution, and such election shall be binding on all partners.

Term

The operating partnership will continue indefinitely, or until sooner dissolved upon:

 

 

our bankruptcy, dissolution, removal or withdrawal as the general partner (unless the limited partners elect to continue the partnership);

 

 

the passage of 90 days after the sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the partnership;

 

 

the redemption of all partnership units (other than those held by us, if any); or

 

 

an election by us in our capacity as the general partner.

 

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Tax matters

Initially, our operating partnership will not be treated as a separate entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Upon the issuance of any units in our operating partnership to another partner, our partnership agreement provides that we, as the sole general partner of the operating partnership, will be the tax matters partner of the operating partnership and, as such, will have authority to handle tax audits and to make tax elections under the Internal Revenue Code on behalf of the operating partnership.

 

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Material U.S. federal income tax considerations

The following discussion describes the U.S. federal income tax considerations reasonably anticipated to be material to prospective holders in connection with the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common shares. As used in this section, references to the terms “we,” “our” and “us” mean only Chesapeake Lodging Trust and not its subsidiaries or other lower-tier entities, except as otherwise indicated. An applicable prospectus supplement will contain information about additional U.S. federal income tax considerations, if any, relating to particular offerings of common shares, preferred shares, depositary shares, warrants, subscription rights, preferred shares purchase rights or other securities of Chesapeake Lodging Trust. Because this is a summary that is intended to address only material U.S. federal income tax considerations relating to the ownership and disposition of our common shares, it may not contain all the information that may be important to you. As you review this discussion, you should keep in mind that the tax consequences for you may vary depending on your particular tax situation. This summary is for general information only, and does not purport to discuss all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to a particular investor in light of its investment or tax circumstances, or to investors subject to special tax rules, such as:

 

 

a tax-exempt organization, except to the extent discussed below in “—Taxation of tax-exempt U.S. shareholders”;

 

 

a broker-dealer;

 

 

a non-U.S. shareholder (as defined below), except to the extent discussed below in “—Taxation of non-U.S. shareholders”;

 

 

a trust, estate, regulated investment company, REIT, financial institution, insurance company or S corporation;

 

 

a person subject to the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

 

a person holding our common shares as part of a “hedge,” “straddle,” “conversion transaction,” “synthetic security” or other integrated investment;

 

 

a person holding our common shares through a partnership or similar pass-through entity;

 

 

a person holding 10% or more (by vote or value) of our outstanding common shares, except to the extent discussed below;

 

 

a person holding our common shares on behalf of another persons as a nominee;

 

 

a person who receives our common shares through the exercise of employee share options or otherwise as compensation; or

 

 

a U.S. expatriate.

In addition:

 

 

this summary does not address state, local or non-U.S. tax considerations;

 

 

this summary deals only with investors that hold our common shares as a “capital asset” within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code; and

 

 

this discussion is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, tax advice.

The information in this section is based on the Internal Revenue Code, current, temporary and proposed Treasury Regulations, the legislative history of the Internal Revenue Code, current

 

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administrative interpretations and practices of the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”), and court decisions. The reference to IRS interpretations and practices includes the IRS practices and policies endorsed in private letter rulings, which are not binding on the IRS except with respect to the taxpayer that receives the ruling. In each case, these sources are relied upon as they exist on the date of this discussion. Future legislation, Treasury Regulations, administrative interpretations and court decisions could change current law or adversely affect existing interpretations of current law on which the information in this section is based. Any such change could apply retroactively. We have not received any rulings from the IRS concerning its qualification as a REIT. Accordingly, even if there is no change in the applicable law, no assurance can be provided that the statements made in the following discussion, which do not bind the IRS or the courts, will not be challenged by the IRS or will be sustained by a court if so challenged.

You are urged both to review the following discussion and to consult with your own tax advisor to determine the impact of your personal tax situation on the anticipated tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common shares. This includes the federal, state, local, foreign and other tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our common shares and the potential changes in applicable tax laws, or any judicial or administrative interpretations thereof.

U.S. federal income taxation of Chesapeake Lodging Trust

We intend to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes prior to the completion of this offering and to elect to be taxed as a REIT, commencing with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2009, upon the filing of our U.S. federal income tax return for such year. We believe that we have been organized, and expect to operate in such a manner to qualify for taxation as a REIT.

The law firm of Hogan & Hartson LLP has acted as our tax counsel in connection the offering. We have received an opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP to the effect that our organization and our proposed method of operation will enable us to meet the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT for our short taxable year ending December 31, 2009, and thereafter. It must be emphasized that the opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP is based on various assumptions relating to our organization and operation, and is conditioned upon factual representations and covenants made by our management regarding our organization, assets, income, the present and future conduct of our business operations, and other items regarding our ability to meet the various requirements for qualification as a REIT, and assumes that such representations and covenants are accurate and complete and that we will take no action inconsistent with our qualification as a REIT. While we intend to operate so that we will qualify as a REIT, given the highly complex nature of the rules governing REITs, the ongoing importance of factual determinations, and the possibility of future changes in our circumstances, no assurance can be given by Hogan & Hartson LLP or by us that we will qualify as a REIT for any particular year. The opinion is expressed as of the date issued. Hogan & Hartson LLP will have no obligation to advise us or our shareholders of any subsequent change in the matters stated, represented or assumed, or of any subsequent change in the applicable law. You should be aware that opinions of counsel are not binding on the IRS, and no assurance can be given that the IRS will not challenge the conclusions set forth in such opinions. Hogan & Hartson LLP’s opinion does not foreclose the possibility that we may have to utilize one or more of the REIT savings provisions discussed below, which could require us to pay an excise or penalty tax (which could be significant in amount) in order for us to maintain our REIT qualification.

 

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Our qualification and taxation as a REIT depend upon our ability to meet on a continuing basis, through actual annual (or, in some cases, quarterly) operating results, the various requirements under the Internal Revenue Code that are described in this discussion. These requirements apply to, among other things, the sources of our gross income, the composition and values of our assets, our distribution levels, and the diversity of ownership of our common shares. Given the complex nature of the REIT qualification requirements, the ongoing importance of factual determinations, and the possibility of future changes in our circumstances, no assurance can be given by us that we will satisfy such requirements. For a discussion of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the failure to qualify as a REIT, see “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Failure to qualify as a REIT” below.

The sections of the Internal Revenue Code and the corresponding Treasury regulations that govern the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a REIT and its shareholders are highly technical and complex. The following discussion is qualified in its entirety by the applicable Code provisions, rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof.

Regular corporations (corporations that do not qualify as REITs or for other special classification under the Internal Revenue Code) generally are subject to federal corporate income tax on their income, and shareholders of such corporations are subject to tax on dividends they receive from such corporations. Qualification for taxation as a REIT, however, enables the REIT and its shareholders to substantially eliminate the “double taxation” (that is, taxation at both the corporate and shareholder levels) that generally results from an investment in a regular corporation. Accordingly, as a REIT, we generally will not be subject to federal corporate income tax on our federal taxable income that is distributed currently to our shareholders as dividends, while our shareholders generally will be subject to tax on dividends they receive from us at ordinary income rates (other than dividends designated as “capital gain dividends” or “qualified dividend income”). In contrast to this treatment of REIT shareholders, through December 31, 2010, shareholders of regular domestic corporations and certain types of foreign corporations who are taxed at individual rates generally are taxed on dividends they receive at long-term capital gain rates, which are lower for individuals than ordinary income rates. In addition, corporate shareholders of regular corporations (unlike corporate shareholders of REITs) generally receive the benefit of a dividends received deduction that substantially reduces the effective rate that they pay on such dividends. Nevertheless, because REITs and their shareholders are generally subject to only a single level of tax, income earned by a REIT and distributed currently to its shareholders generally will be subject to lower aggregate rates of U.S. federal income taxation than if such income were earned by a regular domestic corporation or a qualifying foreign corporation and then distributed to its shareholders.

While we generally will not be subject to corporate income taxes on taxable income that we distribute currently to shareholders, we will be subject to U.S. federal income tax as follows:

 

(1)   We will be taxed at regular corporate rates on any undistributed “REIT taxable income.” A REIT’s “REIT taxable income” is the otherwise taxable income of the REIT subject to certain adjustments, including a deduction for dividends paid.

 

(2)   Under certain circumstances, we (or our shareholders) may be subject to the “alternative minimum tax” due to our items of alternative minimum tax adjustments.

 

(3)  

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non-qualifying income from foreclosure property, we will be subject to tax at the highest corporate rate on such income. In general, foreclosure property is property acquired by us as a result of having bid in a foreclosure or through other legal means subsequent to a default on a lease of such property or on an indebtedness secured by such property.

 

(4)   Our net income from “prohibited transactions” will be subject to a 100% tax. In general, “prohibited transactions” are certain sales or other dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business.

 

(5)   If we fail to satisfy the 75% gross income test or the 95% gross income test described below under “—Gross income tests applicable to REITs,” but our failure is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect and we nonetheless maintain our qualification as a REIT because certain other requirements are met, we will be subject to a tax equal to the product of (a) the gross income attributable to the greater of the amount by which we fail either of the 75% or 95% gross income tests multiplied by (b) a fraction intended to reflect our profitability.

 

(6)   If we fail to distribute during each calendar year at least the sum of (a) 85% of our REIT ordinary income for such year, (b) 95% of our REIT capital gain net income for such year, and (c) any undistributed taxable income from prior periods less excess distributions from prior periods, we will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the excess of such required distribution over the sum of amounts actually distributed and amounts retained but with respect to which U.S. federal income tax was paid.

 

(7)   If arrangements between us and our TRS are not comparable to similar arrangements among unrelated parties, we will be subject to a 100% penalty tax on amounts received from, or on certain amounts deducted by, a TRS.

 

(8)   We may elect to retain and pay income tax on our net long-term capital gain. To the extent we make a timely designation of such gain to our shareholders, a U.S. shareholder would (a) include its proportionate share of our undistributed long-term capital gain in its income, (b) be deemed to have paid the tax that we paid on such gain, (c) be allowed a credit for its proportionate share of the tax it was deemed to have paid, and (d) increase its basis in our common shares.

 

(9)   If we fail to satisfy any of the asset tests discussed below under “—Asset tests applicable to REITs” because we own assets the total value of which exceeds a statutory de minimis standard but the failure is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect and we nonetheless maintain our qualification as a REIT because other requirements are met, we will be subject to a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or the amount determined by multiplying the net income generated by such non-qualifying assets by the highest rate of tax applicable to corporations during the periods when such assets would have caused us to fail the relevant asset test.

 

(10)   If we fail to satisfy a requirement under the Internal Revenue Code the failure of which would result in the loss of our REIT status, other than a failure described in paragraph (5) or (9) above, but (a) the failure is due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect and (b) we nonetheless maintain our qualification as a REIT because the requirements of certain relief provisions are satisfied, we will be subject to a penalty of $50,000 for each such failure.

 

(11)   If we fail to comply with the requirement to send annual letters to our shareholders requesting information regarding the actual ownership of our common shares and the failure was not due to reasonable cause or was due to willful neglect, we will be subject to a $25,000 penalty or, if the failure is intentional, a $50,000 penalty.

 

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(12)   If we acquire any assets from a regular corporation in a carryover basis transaction, we will be liable for corporate income tax, at the highest applicable corporate rate, on the “built-in gain” with respect to those assets at the time we acquired them if we dispose of those assets within 10 years after acquiring them (provided no election is made for the transaction to be currently taxable). To the extent that assets are transferred to us in a carryover basis transaction by a partnership in which a corporation owns an interest, we will be subject to this tax in proportion to the corporation’s interest in the partnership. “Built-in gain” is the amount by which an asset’s fair market value exceeds its adjusted tax basis at the time we acquired the asset.

 

(13)   The earnings of any subsidiaries that are C corporations, including any TRSs, are subject to federal corporate income tax.

If we are subject to taxation on our REIT taxable income or are subject to tax due to the sale of a built-in gain asset, a portion of the dividends paid during the following year to our shareholders who are taxed as individuals may be subject to tax at reduced long-term capital gain rates rather than at ordinary income rates. See “—Taxation of taxable U.S. shareholders – Qualified dividend income.”

Notwithstanding our qualification as a REIT, (i) we and/or our subsidiaries that are not subject to U.S. federal income tax may have to pay certain state and local income taxes, because not all states and localities treat REITs and such subsidiaries in the same manner that they are treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and (ii) we and our subsidiaries that are not subject to U.S. federal income tax will be required to pay certain foreign taxes to the extent that we own assets or conducts operations in foreign jurisdictions. Moreover, our TRS, including with respect to income earned by each of its domestic subsidiaries, is subject to U.S. federal, state and local corporate income taxes on its net income, and, in addition, any non-U.S. TRS would be subject to applicable foreign income taxes.

Requirements for qualification as a REIT

The Internal Revenue Code defines a REIT as a corporation, trust or association:

 

(1)   that is managed by one or more directors or trustees;

 

(2)   the beneficial ownership of which is evidenced by transferable shares or by transferable certificates of beneficial interest;

 

(3)   that would be taxable as a domestic corporation, but for Sections 856 through 859 of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

(4)   that is neither a financial institution nor an insurance company subject to certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

(5)   the beneficial ownership of which is held by 100 or more persons;

 

(6)   during the last half of each taxable year, not more than 50% of the value of the outstanding shares of which are owned, actually or constructively, by five or fewer “individuals” (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code to include certain entities and as determined by applying certain attribution rules);

 

(7)   that makes an election to be taxable as a REIT for the current taxable year, or has made this election for a previous taxable year, which election has not been revoked or terminated, and satisfies all relevant filing and other administrative requirements established by the IRS that must be met to elect and maintain REIT qualification;

 

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(8)   that uses a calendar year for U.S. federal income tax purposes; and

 

(9)   that meets other applicable tests, described below, regarding the nature of its income and assets and the amount of its distributions.

Conditions (1) through (4), inclusive, must be met during the entire taxable year, and condition (5) must be met during at least 335 days of a taxable year of twelve months, or during a proportionate part of a taxable year of less than twelve months. Conditions (5) and (6) need not be satisfied during a corporation’s initial tax year as a REIT (which, in our case, will be 2009). Our declaration of trust provides restrictions regarding the ownership and transfers of our common shares, which are intended to assist us in satisfying the share ownership requirements described in conditions (5) and (6) above. For purposes of determining share ownership under condition (6) above, a supplemental unemployment compensation benefits plan, a private foundation or a portion of a trust permanently set aside or used exclusively for charitable purposes generally is considered an individual. However, a trust that is a qualified trust under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code generally is not considered an individual, and beneficiaries of a qualified trust are treated as holding shares of a REIT in proportion to their actual interests in the trust for purposes of condition (6) above.

To monitor compliance with the share ownership requirements, we are generally required to maintain records regarding the actual ownership of our common shares. To do so, we must demand written statements each year from the record holders of significant percentages of our common shares pursuant to which the record holders must disclose the actual owners of the common shares (i.e., the persons required to include in gross income the dividends paid by us). We must maintain a list of those persons failing or refusing to comply with this demand as part of our records. We could be subject to monetary penalties if we fail to comply with these record-keeping requirements. A shareholder that fails or refuses to comply with the demand is required by Treasury regulations to submit a statement with its tax return disclosing the actual ownership of our common shares and other information.

For purposes of condition (8), we intend to adopt December 31 as our year end, and thereby satisfy this requirement.

If we were to fail to satisfy the share ownership requirements and could not avail ourselves of any statutory relief provisions, we would not qualify as a REIT. See “—Failure to qualify as a REIT” below.

Effect of subsidiary entities

Ownership of qualified REIT subsidiaries.     If a REIT owns a corporate subsidiary that is a “qualified REIT subsidiary,” or QRS, the separate existence of that subsidiary will be disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes and all assets, liabilities and items of income, deduction and credit of the subsidiary will be treated as assets, liabilities and tax items of the REIT itself. Generally, a QRS is a corporation all of the capital stock of which is owned by one REIT and that is not a TRS. These entities are not subject to federal corporate income taxation, although they may be subject to state and local taxation in certain jurisdictions.

Ownership of TRSs.     A TRS is an entity that is taxable as a corporation in which the REIT owns, directly or indirectly, an equity interest, including stock, and that elects, together with the REIT, to be treated as a TRS under the Internal Revenue Code. In addition, if a TRS of a REIT owns, directly or indirectly, securities representing more than 35% of the vote or value of a subsidiary corporation, that subsidiary will also be treated as a TRS. A TRS is a regular corporation subject to

 

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U.S. federal income tax, and state, local or foreign income tax where applicable, at applicable corporate rates. If dividends are paid to us by a TRS then a portion of the dividends from us to our shareholders who are taxed at individual rates will generally be eligible for taxation at lower capital gain rates, rather than at ordinary income rates. See “—Taxation of U.S. shareholders—Qualified dividend income.” The income and assets of our TRS and its subsidiaries are not attributable to us for purposes of satisfying the income and asset ownership requirements applicable to REIT qualification.

A TRS must not directly or indirectly operate or manage a lodging or health care facility or, generally, provide to another person, under a franchise, license or otherwise, rights to any brand name under which any lodging facility or health care facility is operated. Although a TRS may not operate or manage a lodging facility, it may lease or own such a facility so long as the facility is a “qualified lodging facility” and is operated on behalf of the TRS by an “eligible independent contractor.” A “qualified lodging facility” is, generally, a hotel at which no authorized gambling activities are conducted, and includes the customary amenities and facilities operated as part of, or associated with, the hotel. “Customary amenities” must be customary for other properties of a comparable size and class owned by other owners unrelated to the REIT. An “eligible independent contractor” is an independent contractor that, at the time a management agreement is entered into with a TRS to operate a “qualified lodging facility,” is actively engaged in the trade or business of operating “qualified lodging facilities” for a person or persons unrelated to either the TRS or any REITs with which the TRS is affiliated. A hotel management company that otherwise would qualify as an “eligible independent contractor” with regard to a TRS of a REIT will not so qualify if the hotel management company and/or one or more actual or constructive owners of 10% or more of the hotel management company actually or constructively own more than 35% of the REIT, or one or more actual or constructive owners of more than 35% of the hotel management company own 35% or more of the REIT (determined with respect to a REIT whose shares are regularly traded on an established securities market by taking into account only the shares held by persons owning, directly or indirectly, more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the REIT and, if the stock of the eligible independent contractor is publicly traded, 5% of the publicly traded stock of the eligible independent contractor). We intend to take all steps reasonably practicable to ensure, that neither our TRS nor any of its subsidiaries (nor any TRS that we may own in the future) will engage in “operating” or “managing” our hotels and that the hotel management companies engaged to operate and manage hotels leased to or owned by the TRS will qualify as “eligible independent contractors” with regard to the TRS. We believe that Hyatt will qualify, and Hyatt intends to qualify, as an eligible independent contractor. In that regard, constructive ownership under Section 318 of the Internal Revenue Code resulting, for example, from relationships between Hyatt and our other shareholders could impact Hyatt’s ability to satisfy the applicable ownership limit. Because of the broad scope of the attribution rules of Section 318 of the Internal Revenue Code, it is possible that not all prohibited relationships will be identified and avoided. The existence of such a relationship would disqualify Hyatt (or another hotel management company) as an eligible independent contractor, which would in turn disqualify us as a REIT. Our declaration of trust restricts ownership and transfer of our shares in a manner intended to facilitate continuous qualification of Hyatt (or another hotel management company) as an eligible independent contractor, but no assurances can be given that such transfer and ownership restrictions will ensure that Hyatt (or another hotel management company), in fact, will be an eligible independent contractor. As noted above, Hogan & Hartson LLP’s opinion as to REIT qualification is based upon our representations and covenants as to the absence of such relationships. Hyatt’s

 

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failure to qualify as an eligible independent contractor does not give us the right to terminate a management agreement.

Certain restrictions are imposed on TRSs. First, a TRS may not deduct interest payments made in any year to an affiliated REIT to the extent that such payments exceed, generally, 50% of the TRSs adjusted taxable income for that year (although the TRS may carry forward to, and deduct in, a succeeding year interest expense disallowed under the 50% test provided certain conditions are met). In addition, a REIT would be obligated to pay a 100% penalty tax on some payments from the TRS that it receives, including interest or rent, or on certain expenses deducted by the TRS, if the IRS were able to assert successfully that the economic arrangements between the REIT and the TRS did not meet specified arm’s length standards set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. Our TRSs may make substantial interest and other payments to us, including payments of rent under hotel leases. There can be no assurance that the limitation on interest deductions applicable to TRSs will not apply to the interest payments made to us by our TRS and its subsidiaries, resulting in an increase in the corporate income tax liability of each such subsidiary. In addition, there can be no assurance that the IRS might not seek to impose the 100% excise tax on a portion of the payments received by us from, or expenses deducted by, our TRS and its subsidiaries.

Because of the restrictions applicable to the income, assets and activities of a REIT, we may need to conduct certain business activities in one or more TRSs. These business activities include alternative uses of real estate, such as the development and/or sale of timeshare or condominium units. As discussed below under “—Asset tests applicable to REITs,” the aggregate value of all of a REIT’s ownership interests (debt or equity) in TRSs may not exceed 25% of the value of all of that REIT’s assets.

Ownership of partnership interests by a REIT.     A REIT that is a partner in a partnership will be deemed to own its proportionate share of the assets of the partnership and will be deemed to be entitled to the income of the partnership attributable to such share. In addition, the character of the assets and gross income of the partnership retains the same character in the hands of the REIT for purposes of the gross income tests and the asset tests applicable to REITs, as described below. Thus, our proportionate share of the assets and items of gross income of our operating partnership, including its share of such items of any subsidiaries that are partnerships or limited liability companies that have not elected to be treated as corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes, are treated as assets and items of gross income of Chesapeake Lodging Trust for purposes of applying the requirements described herein. A summary of the rules governing the U.S. federal income taxation of partnerships and their partners is provided below in “—Tax aspects of our ownership of interests in our operating partnership” As the sole general partner of our operating partnership, we have direct control over our operating partnership and indirect control over the subsidiaries in which our operating partnership or a subsidiary has a controlling interest. We currently intend to operate these entities in a manner consistent with the requirements for qualification as a REIT.

Gross income tests applicable to REITs

In order to maintain qualification as a REIT, we must satisfy the following two gross income tests on an annual basis:

At least 75% of our gross income must be derived directly or indirectly from investments relating to real property or mortgages on real property, including:

 

(1)   “rents from real property”;

 

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(2)   dividends or other distributions, and gain from the sale of, shares in other REITs;

 

(3)   gain on the disposition of real property or mortgages on real property, in either case, not held for sale to customers;

 

(4)   interest on obligations secured by mortgages on real property or on interests in real property; or

 

(5)   from temporary investments of new capital in stock and debt instruments during the one-year period following our receipt of new capital that we raise through equity offerings or issuance of debt obligations with at least a five-year term.

At least 95% of our gross income must be derived from any combination of income qualifying under the 75% test, dividends, interest, and gain from the sale or disposition of stock or securities, in either case, not held for sale to customers.

The following items of income and gain are excluded from the computation of these gross income tests: (i) gross income from “prohibited transactions;” (ii) income from, and gain from the sale or disposition of, certain hedging transactions (as discussed below); and (iii) certain foreign currency income.

The IRS has regulatory authority to determine whether any item of income, which is not otherwise described as qualifying income under the 95% or 75% gross income tests, may be treated as qualifying income for purposes of such tests or be excluded therefrom.

Rents from real property

We expect that rents paid pursuant to leases, together with dividends and interest received from TRS and its subsidiaries generally will constitute most of our gross income. Several conditions must be satisfied in order for rents received by a REIT to qualify as “rents from real property.” First, the amount of rent must not be based in whole or in part on the income or profits of any person. An amount received or accrued generally will not be excluded from the term “rents from real property” solely by reason of being based on a fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales.

Second, rents received from a tenant will not qualify as “rents from real property” if a REIT, or an actual or constructive owner of 10% or more of that REIT, actually or constructively owns 10% or more of the tenant. An exception to this general rule allows a REIT to lease its hotel properties to a TRS without the rents received from that subsidiary being disqualified as “rents from real property” by reason of the REIT’s direct or indirect ownership interest in the TRS. We currently intend to lease substantially all of any properties that we acquire to our taxable subsidiary.

Third, if rent attributable to personal property leased in connection with a lease of real property is greater than 15% of the total rent received under the lease, then the portion of rent attributable to such personal property will not qualify as “rents from real property.”

Fourth, if a REIT operates or manages a property or furnishes or renders certain “impermissible services” to the tenants at the property, and the income derived from the services exceeds one percent of the total amount received by that REIT with respect to the property, then no amount received by the REIT with respect to the property will qualify as “rents from real property.” Impermissible services are services other than services “usually or customarily rendered” in connection with the rental of real property and not otherwise considered “rendered to the occupant.” For these purposes, the income that a REIT is considered to receive from the provision

 

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of “impermissible services” will not be less than 150% of the cost of providing the service. If the amount so received is one percent or less of the total amount received by us with respect to the property, then only the income from the impermissible services will not qualify as “rents from real property.” There are two exceptions to this rule. First, impermissible services can be provided to tenants through an independent contractor from whom the REIT derives no income. To the extent that impermissible services are provided by an independent contractor, the cost of the services generally must be borne by the independent contractor. Second, impermissible services can be provided to tenants at a property by a TRS.

In order for the rent paid pursuant to a REIT’s leases to constitute “rents from real property,” the leases must be respected as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, the leases cannot be treated as service contracts, joint ventures or some other type of arrangement. The determination of whether the leases are true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes depends upon an analysis of all the surrounding facts and circumstances. In making such a determination, courts have considered a variety of factors, including the following:

 

 

the intent of the parties;

 

 

the form of the agreement;

 

 

the degree of control over the property that is retained by the property owner (for example, whether the lessee has substantial control over the operation of the property or whether the lessee was required simply to use its best efforts to perform its obligations under the agreement); and

 

 

the extent to which the property owner retains the risk of loss with respect to the property (for example, whether the lessee bears the risk of increases in operating expenses or the risk of damage to the property) or the potential for economic gain with respect to the property.

In addition, Section 7701(e) of the Internal Revenue Code provides that a contract that purports to be a service contract or a partnership agreement is treated instead as a lease of property if the contract is properly treated as such, taking into account all relevant factors. Since the determination of whether a service contract should be treated as a lease is inherently factual, the presence or absence of any single factor may not be dispositive in every case.

We currently intend to structure our leases so that they qualify as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For example, with respect to each lease, we generally expect that:

 

 

Our operating partnership and the lessee will intend for their relationship to be that of a lessor and lessee, and such relationship will be documented by a lease agreement;

 

 

the lessee will have the right to exclusive possession and use and quiet enjoyment of the hotels covered by the lease during the term of the lease;

 

 

the lessee will bears the cost of, and will be responsible for, day-to-day maintenance and repair of the hotels other than the cost of certain capital expenditures, and will dictate through the hotel managers, who will work for the lessee during the terms of the leases, and how the hotels will be operated and maintained;

 

 

the lessee will bear all of the costs and expenses of operating the hotels, including the cost of any inventory used in their operation, during the term of the lease, other than the cost of certain furniture, fixtures and equipment, and certain capital expenditures;

 

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the lessee will benefit from any savings and will bear the burdens of any increases in the costs of operating the hotels during the term of the lease;

 

 

in the event of damage or destruction to a hotel, the lessee will be at economic risk because it will bear the economic burden of the loss in income from operation of the hotels subject to the right, in certain circumstances, to terminate the lease if the lessor does not restore the hotel to its prior condition;

 

 

the lessee will indemnify the lessor against all liabilities imposed on the lessor during the term of the lease by reason of (A) injury to persons or damage to property occurring at the hotels or (B) the lessee’s use, management, maintenance or repair of the hotels;

 

 

the lessee will be obligated to pay, at a minimum, substantial base rent for the period of use of the hotels under the lease;

 

 

the lessee will stand to incur substantial losses or reap substantial gains depending on how successfully it, through the hotel managers, who work for the lessees during the terms of the leases, operates the hotels;

 

 

we expect that each lease that we enter into, at the time we enter into it (or at any time that any such lease is subsequently renewed or extended) will enable the tenant to derive a meaningful profit, after expenses and taking into account the risks associated with the lease, from the operation of the hotels during the term of its leases; and

 

 

upon termination of each lease, the applicable hotel will be expected to have a remaining useful life equal to at least 20% of its expected useful life on the date the lease is entered into, and a fair market value equal to at least 20% of its fair market value on the date the lease was entered into.

If, however, the leases were recharacterized as service contracts or partnership agreements, rather than true leases, or disregarded altogether for tax purposes, all or part of the payments that the lessor receives from the lessees would not be considered rent and would not otherwise satisfy the various requirements for qualification as “rents from real property.” In that case, we would not be able to satisfy either the 75% or 95% gross income tests and, as a result, would lose our REIT status.

As indicated above, “rents from real property” must not be based in whole or in part on the income or profits of any person. We intend to structure our leases such that the leases provide for periodic payments of a specified base rent plus, to the extent that it exceeds the base rent, additional rent which is calculated based upon the gross sales of the hotels subject to the lease, plus certain other amounts. Payments made pursuant to these leases should qualify as “rents from real property” since they are generally based on either fixed dollar amounts or on specified percentages of gross sales fixed at the time the leases were entered into. The foregoing assumes that the leases will not be renegotiated during their term in a manner that has the effect of basing either the percentage rent or base rent on income or profits. The foregoing also assumes that the leases are not in reality used as a means of basing rent on income or profits. More generally, the rent payable under the leases will not qualify as “rents from real property” if, considering the leases and all the surrounding circumstances, the arrangement does not conform with normal business practice. We currently intend that we will not renegotiate the percentages used to determine the percentage rent during the terms of the leases in a manner that has the effect of basing rent on income or profits. In addition, we currently intend to structure our leases

 

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to ensure that the rental provisions and other terms of the leases conform with normal business practice and are not intended to be used as a means of basing rent on income or profits.

We may lease certain items of personal property to our lessees in connection with our leases. Under the Internal Revenue Code, if a lease provides for the rental of both real and personal property and the portion of the rent attributable to personal property is 15% or less of the total rent due under the lease, then all rent paid pursuant to such lease qualifies as “rents from real property.” If, however, a lease provides for the rental of both real and personal property, and the portion of the rent attributable to personal property exceeds 15% of the total rent due under the lease, then no portion of the rent that is attributable to personal property will qualify as “rents from real property.” The amount of rent attributable to personal property is the amount which bears the same ratio to total rent for the taxable year as the average of the fair market value of the personal property at the beginning and end of the year bears to the average of the aggregate fair market value of both the real and personal property at the beginning and end of such year. We currently intend that, with respect to each of our leases that includes a lease of items of personal property, either the amount of rent attributable to personal property with respect to such lease will not exceed 15% of the total rent due under the lease (determined under the law in effect for the applicable period), or, with respect to leases where the rent attributable to personal property constitutes non-qualifying income, such amounts, when taken together with all other non-qualifying income earned by the applicable REIT, will not jeopardize our qualification as a REIT.

We may structure our leases such that the lessor will be permitted take certain measures, including requiring the lessee to purchase certain furniture, fixtures and equipment or to lease such property from a third party, including a TRS, if necessary to ensure that all of the rent attributable to personal property with respect to such lease will qualify as “rents from real property.” We expect that the only material tax impact of the ownership of this personal property by the taxable REIT subsidiaries will be that it will reduce the rent payments from the taxable REIT subsidiaries to the lessors of the hotels with which the personal property is associated, which may increase the taxable income of the taxable REIT subsidiaries.

Income from foreclosure property

If a REIT acquires real property and personal property incident to such real property through a foreclosure or similar process following a default on a lease of such property or a default on indebtedness owed to the REIT that is secured by the property, and if the REIT makes a timely election to treat such property as “foreclosure property” under applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, net income (including any foreign currency gain) the REIT realizes from such property generally will be subject to tax at the maximum U.S. federal corporate income tax rate, regardless of whether the REIT distributes such income to its shareholders currently. However, such income will nonetheless qualify for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests even if it would not otherwise be qualifying income for such purposes in the absence of the foreclosure property election. If an unrelated third party lessee defaults under a lease, the REIT is permitted to lease the hotel to a taxable REIT subsidiary, in which case the hotel would not become foreclosure property, as described herein.

Interest

“Interest” generally will be non-qualifying income for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests if it depends in whole or in part on the income or profits of any person. However,

 

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interest based upon a fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales may still qualify under the 75% and 95% gross income tests. We may receive interest payments from our taxable REIT subsidiaries. These amounts of interest are qualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income test but not necessarily the 75% gross income test. We do not anticipate that the amounts of interest derived from our taxable REIT subsidiaries would affect our ability to continue to satisfy the 75% gross income test.

Dividends

We may receive dividends from our taxable REIT subsidiary, and we could realize capital gain with respect to our investments in our taxable REIT subsidiary (either due to distributions received from the taxable REIT subsidiary or upon a disposition of part or all of our interest in a taxable REIT subsidiary). Our share of any dividends received from one or more of our taxable REIT subsidiaries or capital gain recognized with respect thereto should qualify for purposes of the 95% gross income test but not for purposes of the 75% gross income test. We do not anticipate that the amounts of dividends from our taxable REIT subsidiaries and/or capital gain with respect to our TRS and its subsidiaries will affect our ability to continue to satisfy the 75% gross income test.

Hedging transactions

From time to time, we may enter into transactions to hedge against interest rate risks or value fluctuations associated with one or more of our assets or liabilities. These hedging activities may include entering into interest rate swaps, caps, and floors, options to purchase these items, futures and forward contracts and other financial instruments. To the extent that a REIT enters into a transaction in the normal course of its business primarily to manage the risk of interest rate changes, price changes or currency fluctuations with respect to indebtedness incurred or to be incurred by the REIT to acquire or carry real estate assets, any income or gain from the hedging transaction will be excluded from gross income for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests provided that the REIT clearly and timely identifies such hedging transaction in the manner required under the Internal Revenue Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder (a “qualifying hedging transaction”). Income of a REIT arising from hedging transactions that are entered into to manage the risk of currency fluctuations will not be treated as qualifying income for purposes of the 75% or 95% gross income test, provided the REIT clearly identifies the transaction as such before the close of the day on which it was acquired, originated, or entered into (or such other time as set forth in Treasury Regulations) (a “qualifying foreign currency transaction”). We currently intend to structure any hedging transactions in a manner that does not jeopardize our REIT status, although this determination depends on an analysis of the facts and circumstances concerning each hedging transaction.

Foreign currency gains

“Real estate foreign exchange gain” is excluded from the calculation of the 75% and 95% gross income tests and other “passive foreign exchange gain” is excluded from the calculation of the 95% gross income test. “Real estate foreign exchange gain” means (i) foreign currency gain attributable (without duplication) to (A) an item of income or gain to which the 75% gross income test applies, (B) the acquisition or ownership of obligations secured by mortgages on real property or on interests in real property, or (C) becoming or being the obligor under obligations secured by mortgages on real property or interests in real property, or (ii) foreign currency gain attributable to a “qualified business unit” or “QBU” of the REIT under Code Section 987, provided the QBU itself satisfies both the 75% gross income test and the 75% asset test described

 

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below under “—Asset Tests Applicable to REITs.” “Passive foreign exchange gain” is (without duplication) real estate foreign exchange gain, foreign currency gain attributable to an item of income or gain to which the 95% gross income test applies, foreign currency gain attributable to the acquisition or ownership of obligations, or foreign currency gain attributable to becoming or being the obligor under obligations.

Temporary investment income

For purposes of the gross income tests, temporary investment income generally constitutes qualifying income if such income is earned as a result of investing new capital raised through the issuance of our common shares or certain long-term debt obligations in stock and debt obligations, but only during the one-year period beginning on the date we receive the new capital.

Failure to satisfy the income tests

We will have gross income from various sources, including the sources described in the preceding paragraphs, that fails to constitute qualifying income for purposes of one or both of the gross income tests. Taking into account our anticipated sources of non-qualifying income, however, we expect that our aggregate gross income will satisfy the 75% and 95% gross income tests applicable to REITs for each taxable year commencing with our first taxable year as a REIT.

If we were to fail to satisfy one or both of the 75% or 95% gross income tests for any taxable year, we may nevertheless qualify as a REIT for such year if we were entitled to relief under certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. These relief provisions generally would be available if our failure to meet such tests were due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, and, following identification of the failure, we filed with the IRS a schedule describing each item of its gross income qualifying under one or more of the gross income tests. It is not possible, however, to state whether in all circumstances we would be entitled to the benefit of these relief provisions. If these relief provisions were inapplicable to a particular set of circumstances involving us we would not qualify as a REIT. As discussed above under “—U.S. Federal income taxation of Chesapeake Lodging Trust,” even if these relief provisions were to apply, a tax based on the amount of the relevant REIT’s non-qualifying income would be imposed.

Prohibited transactions tax

Any gain realized by us on the sale of any property held as inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business, including our share of any such gain realized by our operating partnership or any other subsidiary partnership and taking into account any related foreign currency gains or losses, will be treated as income from a “prohibited transaction” that is subject to a 100% penalty tax. Whether property is held as inventory or primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business is a question of fact that depends upon all the facts and circumstances with respect to the particular transaction. However, we will not be treated as a dealer in real property for the purpose of the 100% penalty tax if: (i) we have held the property for at least two years and for the production of rental income (unless such property was acquired through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure or lease termination); (ii) capitalized expenditures on the property in the two years preceding the year of sale are less than 30% of the net selling price of the property; (iii) we either (a) have seven or fewer sales of property (excluding sales of foreclosure property or in connection with an involuntary conversion (“excluded sales”)) for the year of sale or (b) the aggregate tax basis of property sold (other than excluded sales) during the year of sale is 10% or less of the aggregate

 

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tax basis of all of our assets as of the beginning of the taxable year, or (c) the fair market value of property sold (other than excluded sales) during the year of sale is less than 10% of the fair market value of all of our assets as of the beginning of the taxable year; and (iv) if the requirement described in clause (iii)(a) of this paragraph is not satisfied, substantially all of the marketing and development expenditures with respect to the property sold are made through an independent contractor from whom we derive no income. The sale of more than one property to one buyer as part of one transaction constitutes one sale.

We currently intend to hold hotels for investment with a view to long-term appreciation, to engage in the business of acquiring and owning hotels and to make sales of hotels consistent with our investment objectives. However, some of our sales may not satisfy the “safe harbor” requirements described above and there can be no assurance that the IRS might not contend that one or more of these sales is subject to the 100% penalty tax.

Asset tests applicable to REITs

At the close of each quarter of the taxable year, we must satisfy six tests relating to the nature of our assets, as follows:

 

(1)   At least 75% of the value of our total assets must be represented by “real estate assets,” cash, cash items, foreign currency that meets certain requirements under the Internal Revenue Code, and government securities. Real estate assets include interests in real property, mortgages secured by real estate assets, shares of other REITs, and stock or debt instruments held for less than one year purchased with the proceeds of an offering of shares or certain long-term debt obligations.

 

(2)   Not more than 25% of our total assets may be represented by securities, other than those described in (1) above.

 

(3)   Except for securities described in (1) above and securities of TRSs or QRSs, the value of any one issuer’s securities owned by us may not exceed 5% of the value of our total assets.

 

(4)   Except for securities described in (1) above and securities of TRSs or QRSs, we may not own more than 10% of any one issuer’s outstanding voting securities.

 

(5)   Except for securities described in (1) above, securities of TRSs or QRSs, and certain types of indebtedness that are not treated as securities for purposes of this test, as discussed below, we may not own more than 10% of the total value of the outstanding securities of any one issuer.

 

(6)   Not more than 25% of the value of our total assets may be represented by the securities of one or more TRSs.

Each of our assets for purposes of these tests includes our allocable share of all assets held by the entities in which we owns an interest that are partnerships or disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the subsidiaries of these entities that are partnerships or disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and generally do not include the equity interests in these entities. For purposes of the asset tests other than the 10% value test, an allocable share of the assets of an entity that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes is determined in accordance with the capital interests in that entity. For purposes of the 10% value test, an allocable share of the assets of an entity that is treated as a partnership

 

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for U.S. federal income tax purposes is determined in accordance with our proportionate ownership of the equity interests and the other securities issued by that entity, other than certain securities specified in the Internal Revenue Code.

Securities, for purposes of the asset tests, may include debt a REIT holds from other issuers. However, the Internal Revenue Code specifically provides that the following types of debt will not be taken into account as securities for purposes of the 10% value test: (1) securities that meet the “straight debt” safe harbor, as discussed in the next paragraph; (2) loans to individuals or estates; (3) obligations to pay rents from real property; (4) rental agreements described in Section 467 of the Internal Revenue Code (other than such agreements with related party tenants); (5) securities issued by other REITs; (6) debt issued by partnerships (other than straight debt or other excluded securities) that derive at least 75% of their gross income from sources that constitute qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test; (7) any debt not otherwise described in this paragraph that is issued by a partnership, but only to the extent of the REIT’s interest as a partner in the partnership; (8) certain securities issued by a state, the District of Columbia, a foreign government, or a political subdivision of any of the foregoing, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; and (9) any other arrangement determined by the IRS.

Debt will meet the “straight debt” safe harbor if (1) neither the REIT nor any of its controlled TRSs (i.e., TRSs in which the REIT directly or indirectly owns more than 50% of the vote or value of the outstanding stock) owns any securities not described in the preceding paragraph that have an aggregate value greater than one percent of the issuer’s outstanding securities, as calculated under the Internal Revenue Code, (2) the debt is a written unconditional promise to pay on demand or on a specified date a sum certain in money, (3) the debt is not convertible, directly or indirectly, into stock, and (4) the interest rate and the interest payment dates of the debt are not contingent on the profits, the borrower’s discretion or similar factors other than certain contingencies relating to the timing and amount of principal and interest payments, as described in the Internal Revenue Code. Specifically, contingencies regarding time of payment and interest are permissible for purposes of qualifying as a straight debt security if either (1) such contingency does not have the effect of changing the effective yield to maturity, as determined under the Internal Revenue Code, other than a change in the annual yield to maturity that does not exceed the greater of (i) 5% of the annual yield to maturity or (ii) 0.25%, or (2) neither the aggregate issue price nor the aggregate face amount of the issuer’s debt instruments held by the REIT exceeds $1,000,000 and not more than 12 months of unaccrued interest can be required to be prepaid thereunder. In addition, debt will not be disqualified from being treated as “straight debt” solely because the time or amount of payment is subject to a contingency upon a default or the exercise of a prepayment right by the issuer of the debt, provided that such contingency is consistent with customary commercial practice.

We do not currently intend to own, as of each relevant testing date, more than 10% of (i) the voting securities of any entity that is treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, except for securities described in subparagraph (1) of the preceding paragraph, securities of QRSs, and securities of corporations or other entities that qualify and elect to be treated as TRSs or (ii) the value of the securities of any issuer except for securities described in subparagraph (1) of the preceding paragraph, securities of TRSs, or securities of QRSs. In addition, we do not currently intend to exceed the 5% asset test percentage threshold unless the issuer is a TRS or the securities are described in subparagraph (1) of the preceding paragraph. We currently intend that the aggregate value of the securities of our TRS will not exceed 25% of the value of our total assets and that the aggregate value of the securities of our TRS, together with

 

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all other assets that do not qualify for purposes of the 75% asset test, will not exceed 25% of the total value of our assets. There can be no assurance, however, that the IRS might not contend that the value of any of the securities owned by us exceeds on a relevant testing date one or more of the value limitations.

After initially meeting the asset tests at the close of any quarter, a REIT will not lose its qualification as a REIT for failure to satisfy the asset tests at the end of a later quarter solely by reason of changes in the relative values of its assets (including a change caused solely by the change in the foreign currency exchange rate used to value a foreign asset). If the failure to satisfy the asset tests results from an acquisition of securities or other property during a quarter, the failure can be cured by the disposition of sufficient non-qualifying assets within 30 days after the close of that quarter. An example of such an acquisition would be an increase in our interest in our operating partnership as a result of the exercise of a limited partner’s redemption right relating to units in our operating partnership (“OP Units”) or an additional capital contribution of proceeds from an offering of capital stock by us.

Furthermore, the failure to satisfy the asset tests can be remedied even after the 30-day cure period. If the total value of the assets that caused a failure of the 5% test, the 10% voting securities test or the 10% value test does not exceed the lesser of 1% of the REIT’s assets at the end of the relevant quarter and $10,000,000, a REIT can cure such a failure by disposing of sufficient assets to cure such a violation within six months following the last day of the quarter in which the REIT first identifies the failure of the asset test. For a violation of any of the asset tests attributable to the ownership of assets the total value of which exceeds the amount described in the preceding sentence, a REIT can avoid disqualification as a REIT if the violation is due to reasonable cause and the REIT disposes of an amount of assets sufficient to cure such violation within the six-month period described in the preceding sentence, pays a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or the highest corporate income tax rate multiplied by the net income generated by the non-qualifying assets during the period of time that the assets were held as non-qualifying assets, and files a schedule with the IRS that describes the assets that caused us to tax the asset. The applicable Treasury Regulations have yet to be issued. Thus, it is not possible to state with precision under what circumstances we would be entitled to the benefit of these provisions.

We currently intend to monitor our compliance with the asset tests and to take such actions within 30 days after the close of any quarter, to the extent reasonably practicable, as may be required to cure any noncompliance. If we fail to cure noncompliance with the asset tests within such time period, we would cease to qualify as a REIT unless we could avail ourselves of available relief provisions. In certain circumstances, utilization of such provisions could result in us being required to pay an excise or penalty tax which could be significant in amount.

Annual distribution requirements applicable to REITs

To qualify as a REIT, we are required to distribute dividends, other than capital gain dividends, to our shareholders in an amount at least equal to:

 

(i)   the sum of (a) 90% of our “REIT taxable income,” computed without regard to the dividends paid deduction and the REIT’s net capital gain, and (b) 90% of the net income, after tax, if any, from foreclosure property, minus

 

(ii)   the sum of certain items of non-cash income.

Dividend distributions generally must be paid in the taxable year to which they relate. Dividends may be paid in the following taxable year in two circumstances. First, dividends may be paid in

 

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the following taxable year if declared before we timely file our tax return for such year and if paid on or before the first regular dividend payment date after such declaration. Second, if we declare a dividend in October, November or December of any year with a record date in one of those months and pay the dividend on or before January 31 of the following year, we will be treated as having paid the dividend on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared. We currently intend to make timely distributions sufficient to satisfy these annual distribution requirements. In this regard, our operating partnership’s partnership agreement authorizes us, as general partner, to take such steps as may be necessary to cause our operating partnership to distribute to its partners an amount sufficient to permit us to meet these distribution requirements.

In order for distributions to be counted toward satisfying the annual distribution requirement for REITs, and to provide us with a REIT-level tax deduction, the distributions must not be “preferential dividends.” A dividend is not a preferential dividend if the distribution is (1)  pro rata among all outstanding shares within a particular class, and (2) in accordance with the preferences among different classes of shares as set forth in our organizational documents.

To the extent that a REIT does not distribute all of its net capital gain or distributes at least 90%, but less than 100%, of its REIT taxable income within the periods described above, it will be subject to income tax on the retained portion at regular capital gain and ordinary corporate income tax rates.

If we were to recognize “built-in-gain” (as defined below) on the disposition of any assets acquired from a “C” corporation in a transaction in which our basis in the assets was determined by reference to the “C” corporation’s basis (for instance, if the assets were acquired in a tax-free reorganization), we would be required to distribute at least 90% of the built-in-gain net of the tax it would pay on such gain. “Built-in-gain” is the excess of (a) the fair market value of the asset (measured at the time of acquisition) over (b) the basis of the asset (measured at the time of acquisition).

There is a possibility that our taxable income could exceed our cash flow, due in part to certain non-cash or “phantom” income that would be taken into account in computing REIT taxable income. It is possible, because of these differences in timing between our recognition of taxable income and our receipt of cash available for distribution, that we, from time to time, may not have sufficient cash or other liquid assets with which to meet our distribution requirements. In this event, in order to meet the distribution requirements, we may find it necessary to arrange for short-term, or possibly long-term, borrowings to fund required distributions and/or to pay dividends in the form of taxable share dividends.

We currently intend to calculate our REIT taxable income based upon the conclusion that the lessor is the owner of the hotels for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, we expect that the depreciation deductions with respect to the hotels owned by the lessors will reduce our REIT taxable income. This conclusion is consistent with the conclusion above that the leases of our hotels will be treated as true leases for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If, however, the IRS were to challenge successfully this position, in addition to failing in all likelihood the 75% and 95% gross income tests described above, we also might be deemed retroactively to have failed to meet the REIT distribution requirements and would have to rely on the payment of a “deficiency dividend” in order to retain REIT status.

Under certain circumstances, a REIT may be able to rectify a failure to meet the distribution requirement for a year by paying “deficiency dividends” to shareholders in a later year, which

 

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deficiency dividends may be included in the REIT’s deduction for dividends paid for the earlier year. Thus, we may be able to avoid being taxed on amounts distributed as deficiency dividends; however, Chesapeake Lodging Trust, as applicable, would be required to pay to the IRS interest based upon the amount of any deduction taken for deficiency dividends.

A REIT is subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on any excess of the required distribution over the sum of amounts actually distributed and amounts retained on which U.S. federal income tax was paid, if it does not distribute during each calendar year at least the sum of:

 

(1)   85% of our REIT ordinary income for the year;

 

(2)   95% of our REIT capital gain net income for the year; and

 

(3)   any undistributed taxable income from prior taxable years net of excess distributions from prior taxable years.

A REIT may elect to retain rather than distribute all or a portion of its net capital gain and pay the tax on such gain. In that case, a REIT may elect to have its shareholders include their proportionate share of the undistributed net capital gain in their income as long-term capital gain and receive a credit for their share of the tax paid by the REIT. For purposes of the 4% excise tax described above, any retained amounts would be treated as having been distributed.

Recordkeeping requirements

We are required to comply with applicable recordkeeping requirements. Failure to comply could result in monetary fines.

Failure to qualify as a REIT

If we do not comply with one or more of the conditions required for qualification as a REIT (other than the asset tests and the income tests that have the specific mitigation clauses discussed above in “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Asset tests applicable to REITs” and “—Gross income tests applicable to REITs”), we can avoid disqualification as a REIT by paying a penalty of $50,000 for each such failure, provided that our noncompliance was due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect. If we were to fail to qualify for taxation as a REIT in any taxable year, and if the statutory relief provisions were not to apply, we would be subject to corporate income tax, including any applicable alternative minimum tax, on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. Distributions to shareholders in any year in which a REIT was to fail to qualify as a REIT would not be deductible by the distributing entity nor would such distributions be required to be made. As a result, a failure by us to qualify as a REIT would significantly reduce the cash available for distribution by us to our shareholders and could materially reduce the value of our common shares. In addition, if we were to fail to qualify as a REIT, all distributions to our shareholders would be taxable as dividends, to the extent of our current and accumulated E&P, even if such dividends were attributable to our capital gain. Subject to certain limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code, corporate distributees may be eligible for the dividends received deduction with respect to these distributions and individual distributees may be eligible for the reduced long-term capital gain rate of 15% or less on such dividends. Unless entitled to relief under specific statutory provisions, we also would be disqualified from taxation as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which our qualification was lost. It is not possible to state whether in all circumstances we would be entitled to such statutory relief.

 

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Tax aspects of our ownership of interests in our operating partnership

General.     Substantially all of our investments are owned indirectly through our operating partnership, which will own the hotel properties either directly or through certain subsidiaries. This discussion focuses on the tax aspects of our ownership of hotel properties through partnerships. In general, partnerships are “pass-through” entities that are not subject to U.S. federal income tax. Rather, partners are allocated their proportionate shares of the items of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit of a partnership, and are potentially subject to tax thereon, without regard to whether the partners receive a distribution from the partnership. We currently intend to include in our gross income our proportionate share of the foregoing partnership items for purposes of the various REIT income tests and in the computation of our REIT taxable income. Moreover, for purposes of the REIT asset tests, we currently intend to include our proportionate share of assets held through our operating partnership and those of its subsidiaries that are either disregarded as separate entities or treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes. See “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Effect of subsidiary entities—Ownership of partnership interests by a REIT” above.

Entity classification.     If our operating partnership or any non-corporate subsidiary were treated as an association, the entity would be taxable as a corporation and, therefore, would be subject to U.S. federal and state income tax on its taxable income. In such a situation, the character of our assets and items of gross income would change and could preclude us from qualifying as a REIT (see “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Asset tests applicable to REITs” and “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Gross income tests applicable to REITs” above).

The tax treatment of Chesapeake Lodging Trust and the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership of our common shares would be materially different from the consequences described herein if our operating partnership and all of its subsidiaries (other than our TRS and its subsidiaries) were not classified as partnerships or disregarded as separate entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Pursuant to Treasury Regulations under Section 7701 of the Internal Revenue Code, a partnership will be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless it elects to be treated as a corporation or would be treated as a corporation because it is a “publicly traded partnership.”

Neither our operating partnership nor any of its non-corporate subsidiaries that are not TRSs or QRSs has elected or will elect to be treated as a corporation. Therefore, subject to the disclosure below, our operating partnership and each subsidiary that is not a TRS or QRS will be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes (or, if such an entity has only one partner or member, disregarded entirely for U.S. federal income tax purposes).

Pursuant to Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code, a partnership that does not elect to be treated as a corporation nevertheless will be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if it is a “publicly traded partnership” and it does not derive at least 90% of its gross income from certain specified sources of “qualifying income” within the meaning of that section. A “publicly traded partnership” is any partnership (i) the interests in which are traded on an established securities market or (ii) the interests in which are readily tradable on a “secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof.”

OP Units will not be traded on an established securities market and we will take the reporting position for U.S. federal income tax purposes that our operating partnership is not a publicly traded partnership. There is a significant risk, however, that the right of a holder of OP Units to

 

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redeem the units for our common shares could cause OP Units to be considered readily tradable on the substantial equivalent of a secondary market. Under the relevant Treasury regulations, interests in a partnership will not be considered readily tradable on a secondary market or on the substantial equivalent of a secondary market if the partnership qualifies for specified “safe harbors,” which are based on the specific facts and circumstances relating to the partnership. We believe that our operating partnership will qualify for at least one of these safe harbors at all times in the forseeable future. We cannot provide any assurance that our operating partnership will continue to qualify for one of the safe harbors mentioned above.

If our operating partnership were a publicly traded partnership, it would be taxed as a corporation unless at least 90% of its gross income consists of “qualifying income” under Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code. Qualifying income is generally real property rents and other types of passive income. We believe that our operating partnership will have sufficient qualifying income so that it would be taxed as a partnership, even if it were a publicly traded partnership. The income requirements applicable to us to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code and the definition of qualifying income under the publicly traded partnership rules are very similar. Although differences exist between these two income tests, we do not believe that these differences would cause our operating partnership not to satisfy the 90% gross income test applicable to publicly traded partnerships.

If our operating partnership were taxable as a corporation, most, if not all, of the tax consequences described herein would be inapplicable. In particular, we would not qualify as a REIT because the value of our ownership interest in our operating partnership would exceed 5% of our assets and we would be considered to hold more than 10% of the voting securities (and more than 10% of the value of the outstanding securities) of another corporation (see “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Asset tests applicable to REITs” above). In this event, the value of our common shares could be materially adversely affected (see “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Failure to qualify as a REIT” above).

Allocations of our operating partnership’s income, gain, loss and deduction.     A partnership agreement will generally determine the allocation of income and loss among partners. However, such allocations will be disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes if they do not comply with the provisions of Section 704(b) of the Internal Revenue Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder. Generally, Section 704(b) of the Internal Revenue Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder require that partnership allocations respect the economic arrangement of the partners.

If an allocation is not recognized for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the item subject to the allocation will be reallocated in accordance with the partners’ interests in the partnership, which will be determined by taking into account all of the facts and circumstances relating to the economic arrangement of the partners with respect to such item. The allocations of taxable income and loss provided for in our operating partnership’s partnership agreement are intended to comply with the requirements of Section 704(b) of the Internal Revenue Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

Tax allocations with respect to the hotels.     Pursuant to Section 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, income, gain, loss and deduction attributable to appreciated or depreciated property, such as any hotel property, that is contributed to a partnership in exchange for an interest in the partnership must be allocated in a manner such that the contributing partner is charged with, or benefits from, the difference between the adjusted tax basis and the fair market value of such

 

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property at the time of contribution. This difference is known as book-tax difference. Our operating partnership’s partnership agreement requires that such allocations be made in a manner consistent with Section 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. Any property purchased by our operating partnership for cash initially will have an adjusted tax basis equal to its fair market value, and Section 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code will not apply. In the future, however, our operating partnership may admit partners in exchange for a contribution of appreciated property. Treasury Regulations issued under Section 704(c) of the Internal Revenue Code provide partnerships with a choice of several methods of accounting for book-tax differences. Under certain available methods, the carryover basis of contributed properties in the hands of our operating partnership (i) would cause us to be allocated lower amounts of depreciation deductions for tax purposes than would be allocated to us if all contributed properties were to have a tax basis equal to their fair market value at the time of the contribution and (ii) in the event of a sale of such properties, could cause us to be allocated taxable gain in excess of the economic or book gain allocated to us as a result of such sale, with a corresponding benefit to the contributing partners. An allocation described in (ii) above might cause us to recognize taxable income in excess of cash proceeds in the event of a sale or other disposition of property, which might adversely affect our ability to comply with the REIT distribution requirements and may result in a greater portion of our distributions being taxed as dividends. We have not yet decided what method will be used to account for book-tax differences for properties that may be acquired by our operating partnership in the future.

Taxation of taxable U.S. shareholders

This section summarizes the taxation of U.S. shareholders that are not tax-exempt organizations. For these purposes, a U.S. shareholder is a beneficial owner of our common shares that for U.S. federal income tax purposes is:

 

 

a citizen or resident of the U.S.;

 

 

a corporation (including an entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the U.S. or of a political subdivision thereof (including the District of Columbia);

 

 

an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

 

 

any trust if (1) a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or (2) it has a valid election in place to be treated as a U.S. person.

If an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our common shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partner of a partnership holding our common shares should consult its own tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences to the partner of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our common shares by the partnership.

A “non-U.S. shareholder” is a beneficial holder of our common shares that is not a U.S. shareholder, as defined herein, or an entity that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

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Distributions generally

So long as we qualify as a REIT, the distributions (or deemed distributions) made by us out of our current or accumulated E&P other than capital gain dividends or retained capital gain as discussed below, will generally be taken into account by shareholders as ordinary income and will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporations. To the extent that we make distributions not designated as capital gain dividends in excess of our current and accumulated E&P, such distributions are treated first as a tax-free return of capital to each U.S. shareholder, reducing the adjusted tax basis that such U.S. shareholder has in its common shares for U.S. federal income tax purposes by the amount of such distribution, but not below zero, with distributions in excess of such U.S. shareholder’s adjusted tax basis taxable as capital gain, provided that the common shares have been held as a capital asset. We will notify shareholders after the close of its taxable year as to the portion of its distributions attributable to that year that constitute ordinary income, return of capital and capital gain. Our distributions of ordinary income, except to the extent properly designated by us as qualified dividend income, will not qualify for the maximum 15% long-term capital gain rate that generally applies to distributions by regular corporations to shareholders who are taxed as individuals.

Distributions will generally be taxable, if at all, in the year of distribution. However, if we declare a dividend in October, November or December of any year and pays such dividend to a shareholder of record on a specified date in any such month, such dividend will be treated as both paid by us and received by the shareholder on December 31 of such year, provided that the dividend is actually paid by us on or before January 31 of the following year.

For purposes of computing liability for alternative minimum tax, certain of our alternative minimum tax adjustments will be treated as alternative minimum tax adjustments of our shareholders in the ratio that our distributions bear to our taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid). Amounts treated as alternative minimum tax adjustments of our shareholders are deemed to be derived by the shareholders proportionately from each such alternative minimum tax adjustment of us and are taken into account by the shareholders in computing their alternative minimum taxable income for the taxable year to which the dividends are attributable.

Capital gain distributions; retained net capital gain

Distributions that we properly designate as capital gain dividends are taxable to U.S. shareholders as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset held for more than one year (without regard to the period for which such taxable U.S. shareholder has held his shares) to the extent that such designated dividends do not exceed our actual net capital gain for the taxable year. A U.S. shareholder’s share of a capital gain dividend is an amount which bears the same ratio to the total amount of dividends paid to such U.S. shareholder for the year as the aggregate amount designated as a capital gain dividend bears to the aggregate amount of all dividends paid on all classes of shares for the year.

If we designate any portion of a dividend as a capital gain dividend, a U.S. shareholder will receive an IRS Form 1099 - DIV indicating the amount that will be taxable to the shareholder as capital gain. Corporate shareholders, however, may be required to treat up to 20% of capital gain dividends as ordinary income.

 

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Instead of paying capital gain dividends, we may designate all or part of our net capital gain as “undistributed capital gain.” In that case, we will be subject to tax at regular corporate income tax rates on any undistributed capital gain.

A U.S. shareholder:

 

(1)   will include in its income as long-term capital gain its proportionate share of such undistributed capital gain; and

 

(2)   will be deemed to have paid its proportionate share of the tax paid by us on such undistributed capital gain and receive a credit or a refund to the extent that the tax paid by us exceeds the U.S. shareholder’s tax liability on the undistributed capital gain.

A U.S. shareholder will increase the basis in its common shares by the difference between the amount of capital gain included in its income and the amount of tax it is deemed to have paid. Our E&P will be adjusted appropriately.

We will classify portions of any designated capital gain dividend or undistributed capital gain as either:

 

(1)   a 15% rate gain distribution, which would be taxable to non-corporate U.S. shareholders at a maximum rate of 15%, and to U.S. shareholders that are corporations at a maximum rate of 35%; or

 

(2)   an “unrecaptured Section 1250 gain” distribution, which would be taxable to non-corporate U.S. shareholders at a maximum rate of 25%, to the extent of previously claimed depreciation deductions.

We must determine the maximum amounts that we may designate as 15% and 25% rate capital gain dividends by performing the computation required by the Internal Revenue Code as if we are an individual whose ordinary income is subject to a marginal tax rate of at least 28%. Designations made by us will be effective only to the extent that they comply with Revenue Ruling 89-81, which requires that distributions made to different classes of shares be composed proportionately of dividends of a particular type. If we designate any portion of our net capital gain as undistributed capital gain, a U.S. shareholder will receive an IRS Form 2439 indicating the total amount of undistributed capital gain, the amount of unrecaptured Section 1250 gain, if any, and the tax paid by us on the undistributed capital gain.

Qualified dividend income

We may designate a portion of our distributions paid to U.S. shareholders as “qualified dividend income.” That portion of a distribution which is properly designated as qualified dividend income is taxable to a non-corporate U.S. shareholder at long-term capital gain rates, so long as the U.S. shareholder satisfies the applicable holding requirements. As a general rule, the shareholder must have held the common shares with respect to which the distribution is paid for at least 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date for the distribution. The maximum amount of our distributions eligible to be designated as qualified dividend income for a taxable year is equal to the sum of:

 

(1)   the qualified dividend income received by us during such taxable year from regular corporations;

 

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(2)   the excess of any “undistributed” REIT taxable income recognized during the immediately preceding year over the U.S. federal income tax paid by us with respect to such undistributed REIT taxable income; and

 

(3)   the excess of any income recognized during the immediately preceding year attributable to the sale of a built-in gain asset that was acquired in a carryover basis transaction from a regular corporation over the U.S. federal income tax paid by us with respect to such built-in gain.

Generally, dividends that we receive will be treated as qualified dividend income for purposes of (1) above if (A) the dividends are received from (i) a U.S. corporation (other than a REIT or a regulated investment company), (ii) any TRS we may form, or (iii) a “qualified foreign corporation,” and (B) specified holding period requirements and other requirements are met. A foreign corporation (other than a “passive foreign investment company”) will constitute a qualified foreign corporation if it is incorporated in a possession of the United States, the corporation is eligible for benefits of an income tax treaty with the United States that the Secretary of Treasury determines is satisfactory, or the stock of the foreign corporation on which the dividend is paid is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. If we designate any portion of a dividend as qualified dividend income, a U.S. shareholder will receive an IRS From 1099–DIV indicating the amount that will be taxable to the holder as qualified dividend income.

Passive activity losses; investment interest limitation

U.S. shareholders may not include in their income tax returns any net operating losses or capital losses of Chesapeake Lodging Trust. Instead, such losses may be carried over by us for potential offset against future income, subject to certain limitations. Distributions made by us and gain arising from the sale or exchange by a U.S. shareholder of our common shares will not be treated as passive activity income, and, as a result, U.S. shareholders generally will not be able to apply any “passive losses” against such income or gain.

Taxable dividend distributions from us generally will be treated as investment income for purposes of the “investment interest limitation.” This limitation provides that a non-corporate U.S. shareholder may deduct as an itemized deduction in any taxable year only the amount of interest incurred in connection with property held for investment that does not exceed the excess of the shareholder’s investment income over his or her investment expenses for that year. A non-corporate U.S. shareholder may elect to treat capital gain dividends, capital gain from the disposition of shares, including distributions treated as such, and income designated as qualified dividend income as investment income, in which case the applicable capital gain will be taxed at ordinary income rates. We intend to comply each year with IRS guidance or Treasury Regulations on the notification of shareholders regarding the portions of distributions for each year that constitute ordinary income, return of capital and capital gain.

Dispositions of our common shares

Upon any sale or other disposition of our common shares, a U.S. shareholder will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between (1) the amount of cash and the fair market value of any property received with respect to such sale or other disposition and (2) the holder’s adjusted tax basis in such common shares for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, a U.S. shareholder’s adjusted basis will equal the U.S.

 

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shareholder’s acquisition cost, increased by the excess for net capital gains deemed distributed to the U.S. shareholder, less tax deemed paid on it and reduced by returns of capital.

The applicable tax rate will depend on the U.S. shareholder’s holding period of the asset (generally, if an asset has been held for more than one year, it will produce long-term capital gain) and the U.S. shareholder’s tax bracket. The IRS has the authority to prescribe, but has not yet prescribed, regulations that would apply a capital gain tax rate of 25% (which is higher than the maximum 15% long-term capital gain tax rate for non-corporate shareholders) to a portion of capital gain realized by a non-corporate U.S. shareholder on the sale of REIT shares that would correspond to the REIT’s “unrecaptured Section 1250 gain.” U.S. shareholders are urged to consult with their own tax advisors with respect to their capital gain tax liability. A corporate U.S. shareholder will be subject to tax at a maximum rate of 35% on capital gain from the sale of our common shares held for more than 12 months.

Capital losses recognized by a U.S. shareholder upon the disposition of our common shares that were held for more than one year at the time of disposition will be considered long-term capital losses, and are generally available only to offset capital gain income of the shareholder but not ordinary income (except in the case of individuals, who may offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income each year). In addition, any loss upon a sale or exchange of our common shares by a U.S. shareholder who has held the common shares for six months or less, after applying holding period rules, will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of distributions that we make that are required to be treated by the U.S. shareholder as long-term capital gain.

Taxation of tax-exempt U.S. shareholders

U.S. tax-exempt entities, including qualified employee pension plans and profit sharing trusts and individual retirement accounts, generally are exempt from U.S. federal income taxation. Such entities, however, may be subject to taxation on their unrelated business taxable income, or UBTI. The IRS has ruled that dividend distributions from a REIT to a tax-exempt entity generally do not constitute UBTI. Based on that ruling and provided that a tax-exempt shareholder has not held our common shares as “debt financed property” within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code and such common shares are not otherwise used in a trade or business, the dividend income from us will not be UBTI to a tax-exempt shareholder. Similarly, income from the sale of common shares will not constitute UBTI unless such tax-exempt shareholder has held such common shares as “debt financed property” within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code or has used the common shares in a trade or business.

However, for a tax-exempt shareholder that is a social club, voluntary employee benefit association, supplemental unemployment benefit trust or qualified group legal services plan exempt from U.S. federal income taxation under Sections 501(c)(7), (c)(9), (c)(17) and (c)(20) of the Internal Revenue Code, respectively, or single parent title-holding corporations exempt under Section 501(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code whose income is payable to any of the aforementioned tax-exempt organizations, income from an investment in us will constitute UBTI unless the organization is properly able to deduct amounts set aside or placed in reserve for certain purposes so as to offset the income generated by its investment in us. Such a prospective shareholder should consult its own tax advisor concerning these “set aside” and reserve requirements.

Notwithstanding the above, however, a portion of the dividends paid by a “pension held REIT” shall be treated as UBTI as to any trust that is described in Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue

 

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Code, is tax-exempt under Section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and holds more than 10%, by value, of the interests in the REIT. Tax-exempt pension funds that are described in Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code are referred to below as “qualified trusts.” A REIT is a “pension held REIT” if it meets the following two tests:

 

(1)   The REIT would not have qualified as a REIT but for the fact that Section 856(h)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code provides that shares owned by qualified trusts shall be treated, for purposes of the “not closely held” requirement, as owned by the beneficiaries of the trust rather than by the trust itself.

 

(2)   Either (i) at least one such qualified trust holds more than 25%, by value, of the interests in the REIT, or (ii) one or more such qualified trusts, each of which owns more than 10%, by value, of the interests in the REIT, hold in the aggregate more than 50%, by value, of the interests in the REIT.

The percentage of any REIT dividend treated as UBTI is equal to the ratio of the UBTI earned by the REIT, treating the REIT as if it were a qualified trust and therefore subject to tax on UBTI, to the total gross income of the REIT. A de minimis exception applies where the percentage is less than 5% for any year. As discussed above, the provisions requiring qualified trusts to treat a portion of REIT distributions as UBTI will not apply if the REIT is able to satisfy the “not closely held” requirement without relying upon the “look-through” exception with respect to qualified trusts. Certain restrictions on ownership and transfer of our common shares contained in our declaration of trust generally should prevent a person from owning more than 10% of the value of our common shares and thus we are not likely to be classified as a “pension held REIT.”

Taxation of non-U.S. shareholders

The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our common shares applicable to non-U.S. shareholders of our common shares (as defined above under “—Taxation of taxable U.S. shareholders”). The following discussion is based on current law, and is for general information only. It addresses only selected, and not all, aspects of U.S. federal income taxation.

Distributions Generally

As described in the discussion below, distributions paid by us with respect to our common shares will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as:

 

 

ordinary income dividends,

 

 

return of capital distributions, or

 

 

long-term capital gain.

This discussion assumes that our common shares will continue to be considered regularly traded on an established securities market for purposes of the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, or FIRPTA, provisions described below. If our common shares are no longer regularly traded on an established securities market, the tax considerations described below would materially differ.

Ordinary income dividends

A distribution (or deemed distribution) by us to a non-U.S. shareholder will be treated as an ordinary income dividend if the distribution is payable out of our current or accumulated E&P and:

 

 

not attributable to our net capital gain, or

 

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the distribution is attributable to our net capital gain from the sale of “U.S. real property interests,” or USRPIs, and the non-U.S. shareholder owns 5% or less of the value of our common shares at all times during the taxable year during which the distribution is paid.

Generally, we will withhold and remit to the IRS 30% of dividend distributions (including distributions that may later be determined to have been made in excess of current and accumulated E&P) that could not be treated as capital gain distributions with respect to the non-U.S. shareholder (and that are not deemed to be capital gain dividends for purposes of FIRPTA withholding rules described below) unless:

 

(1)   a lower treaty rate applies and the non-U.S. shareholder files an IRS Form W-8BEN evidencing eligibility for that reduced treaty rate with us; or

 

(2)   the non-U.S. shareholder files an IRS Form W-8ECI with us claiming that the distribution is income effectively connected with the non-U.S. shareholder’s trade or business.

Distributions in excess of our current or accumulated E&P will not be taxable to a non-U.S. shareholder to the extent that they do not exceed the adjusted tax basis of the shareholder’s common shares, but rather will reduce the adjusted tax basis of such common shares. Such distributions, however, will be subject to U.S. withholding tax as described below. To the extent that such distributions exceed the adjusted tax basis of a non-U.S. shareholder’s common shares, they will be treated as gain from the sale of the shareholder’s common shares, the tax treatment of which is described below under “—Dispositions of our common shares.”

We may be required to withhold 10% of any distribution in excess of our current and accumulated E&P, even if a lower treaty rate applies and the non-U.S. shareholder is not liable for tax on receipt of that distribution. Consequently, although we currently intend that our transfer agent will withhold at a rate of 30%, or a lower applicable treaty rate, on the entire amount of any distribution, to the extent that this is not done, any portion of a distribution not subject to withholding at a rate of 30%, or lower applicable treaty rate, would be subject to withholding at a rate of 10%. However, a non-U.S. shareholder may seek a refund of such amounts from the IRS if such distribution was, in fact, in excess of our current or accumulated E&P, and the amount withheld exceeded the non-U.S. shareholder’s U.S. tax liability, if any, with respect to the distribution.

Return of capital distributions

Unless (A) our shares constitute a USRPI, as described in “—Dispositions of our common shares” below, or (B) either (1) the non-U.S. shareholder’s investment in our common share is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business conducted by such non-U.S. shareholder (in which case the non-U.S. shareholder will be subject to the same treatment as U.S. shareholders with respect to such gain) or (2) the non-U.S. shareholder is a nonresident alien individual who was present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and has a “tax home” in the U.S. (in which case the non-U.S. shareholder will be subject to at 30% tax on the individual’s net capital gain for the year), distributions that we make which are not dividends out of our E&P will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax. If we cannot determine at the time a distribution is made whether or not the distribution will exceed current and accumulated E&P, the distribution will be subject to withholding at the rate applicable to dividends. The non-U.S. shareholder may seek a refund from the IRS of any amounts withheld if it subsequently is determined that the distribution was, in fact, in excess of our current and accumulated E&P. If our common shares constitutes a USRPI, as described below, distributions that we make in excess of the sum of (1) the non-U.S.

 

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shareholder’s proportionate share of our E&P, and (2) the non-U.S. shareholder’s basis in its share, will be taxed under FIRPTA at the rate of tax, including any applicable capital gains rates that would apply to a U.S. shareholder of the same type (e.g., an individual or corporation, as the case may be), and the collection of the tax will be enforced by a refundable withholding tax at a rate of 10% of the amount by which the distribution exceeds the shareholder’s share of our E&P.

Capital gain distributions

A distribution paid by us to a non-U.S. shareholder will be treated as long-term capital gain if the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated E&P and:

 

 

the distribution is attributable to our net capital gain (other than from the sale of USRPIs) and we timely designate the distribution as a capital gain dividend; or

 

 

the distribution is attributable to our net capital gain from the sale of USRPIs and the non-U.S. shareholder owns more than 5% of the value of our common shares at any point during the one year period ending on the date of distribution.

Distributions to a non-U.S. shareholder that are designated by us at the time of distribution as capital gain dividends, other than those arising from the disposition of a USRPI, generally should not be subject to U.S. federal income taxation, unless:

 

(1)   the investment in our shares is effectively connected with the non-U.S. shareholder’s U.S. trade or business, in which case the non-U.S. shareholder will be subject to the same treatment as U.S. shareholders with respect to such gain, except that a shareholder that is a foreign corporation may also be subject to the 30% branch profits tax, or

 

(2)   the non-U.S. shareholder is a nonresident alien individual who is present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and has a “tax home” in the U.S., in which case the nonresident alien individual will be subject to a 30% tax on the individual’s capital gain.

Under FIRPTA, distributions that are attributable to net capital gain from the sale by us of USRPIs and paid to a non-U.S. shareholder that owns more than 5% of the value of our common shares at any time during the taxable year during which the distribution is paid will be subject to tax as income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business. The FIRPTA tax will apply to these distributions whether or not the distribution is designated as a capital gain dividend.

Any distribution paid by us that is treated as a capital gain dividend or that could be treated as a capital gain dividend with respect to a particular non-U.S. shareholder will be subject to special withholding rules under FIRPTA. We will withhold and remit to the IRS 35% of any distribution that could be treated as a capital gain dividend with respect to the non-U.S. shareholder, to the extent that the distribution is attributable to the sale by us of USRPIs. The amount withheld is creditable against the non-U.S. shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability or refundable when the non-U.S. shareholder properly and timely files a tax return with the IRS.

The IRS has announced that it intends to tax income of foreign taxpayers in respect of liquidating distributions made by REITs under rules similar to those applicable to current distributions made by REITs rather than under the general principles applicable to the liquidation of a corporate entity, and that it intends to promulgate Treasury Regulations to this effect. Under the IRS’s view, income in respect of liquidating distributions will be taxable to non-U.S. taxpayers to the extent that such distributions are attributable to the sale or exchange of a U.S. real property interest.

 

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Retained net capital gain

Although the law is not entirely clear on the matter, amounts designated by us as retained capital gain in respect of the shares held by U.S. shareholders (see “—Requirements for qualification as a REIT—Annual distribution requirements applicable to REITs” above) generally should be treated with respect to non-U.S. shareholders in the same manner as actual distributions by us of capital gain dividends. Under this approach, non-U.S. shareholders will be able to offset as a credit against their U.S. federal income tax liability resulting therefrom their proportionate share of the tax paid by us on such undistributed capital gain and to receive from the IRS a refund to the extent that their proportionate share of such tax paid by us were to exceed their actual U.S. federal income tax liability. A Non-U.S. shareholder will increase the basis of its common shares by the difference between the amount of capital gain included in its income and the amount of tax it is deemed to have paid.

Dispositions of our common shares

Gain recognized by a non-U.S. shareholder upon the sale or exchange of our common shares generally will not be subject to U.S. taxation unless:

 

 

the investment in our common shares is effectively connected with the non-U.S. shareholder’s U.S. trade or business, in which case the non-U.S. shareholder will be subject to tax on a net basis in a manner similar to the taxation of U.S. shareholders with respect to any gain;

 

 

the non-U.S. shareholder is a nonresident alien individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year and has a tax home in the United States, in which case any gain from the sale or exchange of our common shares will be included in determining the individual’s net capital gain from U.S. sources for the taxable year, subject to a 30% tax; or

 

 

our common shares constitute a USRPI, as described below.

Our common shares will be treated as a USRPI only if 50% or more of our assets throughout a prescribed testing period consist of interests in real property located within the U.S., excluding for this purpose, interests in real property solely in a capacity as a creditor. Even if the foregoing 50% test is met, our common shares still will not constitute “USRPIs” so long as we are a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity.” A domestically controlled qualified investment entity includes a REIT in which at all times during a specified testing period less than 50% in value of its shares are held directly or indirectly by non-U.S. shareholders. We believe that we will qualify as a domestically controlled qualified investment entity, so that a sale of our common shares should not be subject to taxation under FIRPTA. However, no assurance can be given that we will qualify as a domestically controlled qualified investment entity.

In addition, even if we do qualify as a domestically controlled qualified investment entity, upon the disposition of our common shares (subject to the 5% exception applicable to “regularly traded” shares described above), a non-U.S. shareholder may be treated as having gain from the sale or exchange of a U.S. real property interest if the non-U.S. shareholder (1) disposes of our common shares within a 30-day period preceding the ex-dividend date of a distribution, any portion of which, but for the disposition, would have been treated as gain from the sale or exchange of a U.S. real property interest and (2) acquires, or enters into a contract or option to acquire, other common shares of ours within 30 days after such ex-dividend date.

 

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Even if we do not qualify as a domestically controlled qualified investment entity at the time a non-U.S. shareholder sells common shares, gain arising from the sale or exchange by a non-U.S. shareholder of our common shares would not be subject to U.S. taxation under FIRPTA as a sale of a “USRPI” if:

 

(1)   such common shares are “regularly traded,” as defined by applicable regulations, on an established securities market such as the NYSE; and

 

(2)   such non-U.S. shareholder owned, actually or constructively, 5% or less of the common shares throughout the five-year period ending on the date of the sale or exchange.

If gain on the sale or exchange of common shares were subject to taxation under FIRPTA, the non-U.S. shareholder would be required to file a U.S. federal income tax return and would be subject to regular U.S. income tax with respect to such gain on a net basis in the same manner as a taxable U.S. shareholder (subject to any applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of nonresident alien individuals) and the purchaser of the common shares would be required to withhold and remit to the IRS 10% of the purchase price.

Information reporting and backup withholding tax applicable to shareholders

U.S. shareholders.     In general, information reporting requirements will apply to payments of distributions on our common shares and payments of the proceeds of the sale of our common shares to some shareholders, unless an exception applies. Further, the payor will be required to withhold backup withholding tax (currently at a rate of 28%), if:

 

(1)   the payee fails to furnish a taxpayer identification number, or TIN, to the payor or to establish an exemption from backup withholding;

 

(2)   the IRS notifies the payor that the TIN furnished by the payee is incorrect;

 

(3)   there has been a notified payee under-reporting with respect to interest, dividends or original issue discount described in Section 3406(c) of the Internal Revenue Code; or

 

(4)   there has been a failure of the payee to certify under the penalty of perjury that the payee is not subject to backup withholding under the Internal Revenue Code.

Some shareholders, including corporations, financial institutions and certain tax-exempt organizations, may be exempt from backup withholding. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a shareholder will be allowed as a credit against the shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle the shareholder to a refund, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS. A U.S. shareholder that does not provide Chesapeake Lodging Trust with a correct taxpayer identification number may also be subject to penalties imposed by the IRS.

Non-U.S. shareholders.     Generally, information reporting will apply to payments of distributions on our common shares, and backup withholding, currently at a rate of 28%, may apply, unless the payee certifies that it is not a U.S. person or otherwise establishes an exemption.

The proceeds from a disposition by a non-U.S. shareholder of common shares to or through a foreign office of a broker generally will not be subject to information reporting or backup withholding. However, if the broker is a U.S. person, a controlled foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a foreign person 50% or more of whose gross income from all sources for specified periods is from activities that are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or

 

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business, a foreign partnership if partners who hold more than 50% of the interest in the partnership are U.S. persons, or a foreign partnership that is engaged in the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, then information reporting generally will apply as though the payment were made through a U.S. office of a U.S. or foreign broker. Generally, backup withholding does not apply in such a case.

Generally, non-U.S. shareholders will satisfy the information reporting requirements by providing a proper IRS withholding certificate (such as the Form W-8BEN). In the absence of a proper withholding certificate, applicable Treasury Regulations provide presumptions regarding the status of holders of our common shares when payments to the holders cannot be reliably associated with appropriate documentation provided to the payor. If a non-U.S. shareholder fails to comply with the information reporting requirement, payments to such person may be subject to the full withholding tax even if such person might have been eligible for a reduced rate of withholding or no withholding under an applicable income tax treaty. Any payment subject to a withholding tax will not be again subject to backup withholding. Because the application of these Treasury Regulations varies depending on the holder’s particular circumstances, a non-U.S. shareholder is advised to consult its tax advisor regarding the information reporting requirements applicable to it.

Sunset of reduced tax rate provisions

Several of the tax considerations described herein are subject to a sunset provision. The sunset provisions generally provide that for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010, certain provisions that are currently in the Internal Revenue Code will revert back to a prior version of those provisions. These provisions include those related to the reduced maximum income tax rate for capital gain of 15% (rather than 20%) for taxpayers taxed at individual rates, qualified dividend income, including the application of the 15% capital gain rate to qualified dividend income, and certain other tax rate provisions described herein. The impact of this reversion is not discussed herein. Consequently, prospective shareholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the effect of sunset provisions on an investment in our common shares.

Legislative or other actions affecting REITs

The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of REITs may be modified, possibly with retroactive effect, by legislative, judicial or administrative action at any time. The REIT rules are constantly under review by persons involved in the legislative process and by the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department which may result in statutory changes as well as revisions to regulations and interpretations. Changes to the federal tax laws and interpretations thereof could adversely affect an investment in our common shares.

State, local and foreign taxes

We and our subsidiaries and/or shareholders may be subject to state, local or foreign taxation in various jurisdictions, including those in which we or they transact business, own property or reside. We may own properties located in numerous U.S. jurisdictions, and may be required to file tax returns in some or all of those jurisdictions. Our state and local tax treatment and the state, local and foreign tax treatment and that of our shareholders may not conform to the U.S. federal income tax treatment discussed above. Prospective investors should consult their tax advisors regarding the application and effect of state, local and foreign income and other tax laws on an investment in our common shares.

 

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Tax shelter reporting

If a shareholder recognizes a loss as a result of a transaction with respect to our common shares of at least (i) for a shareholder that is an individual, S corporation, trust, or a partnership with at least one non-corporate partner, $2 million or more in a single taxable year or $4 million or more in a combination of taxable years, or (ii) for a shareholder that is either a corporation or a partnership with only corporate partners, $10 million or more in a single taxable year or $20 million or more in a combination of taxable years, such shareholder may be required to file a disclosure statement with the IRS on Form 8886. Direct holders of portfolio securities are in many cases exempt from this reporting requirement, but shareholders of a REIT currently are not exempted. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer’s treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.

 

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ERISA considerations

A fiduciary of a pension, profit sharing, retirement or other employee benefit plan, or plan, subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, or ERISA, should consider the fiduciary standards under ERISA in the context of the plan’s particular circumstances before authorizing an investment of a portion of such plan’s assets in the common shares. Accordingly, such fiduciary should consider (i) whether the investment satisfies the diversification requirements of Section 404(a)(1)(C) of ERISA, (ii) whether the investment is in accordance with the documents and instruments governing the plan as required by Section 404(a)(1)(D) of ERISA, and (iii) whether the investment is prudent under ERISA. In addition to the imposition of general fiduciary standards of investment prudence and diversification, ERISA, and the corresponding provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, prohibit a wide range of transactions involving the assets of the plan and persons who have certain specified relationships to the plan (“parties in interest” within the meaning of ERISA, “disqualified persons” within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code). Thus, a plan fiduciary considering an investment in our common shares also should consider whether the acquisition or the continued holding of the shares might constitute or give rise to a direct or indirect prohibited transaction that is not subject to an exemption issued by the Department of Labor, or the DOL. Similar restrictions apply to many governmental and foreign plans which are not subject to ERISA. Thus, those considering investing in the shares on behalf of such a plan should consider whether the acquisition or the continued holding of the shares might violate any such similar restrictions.

The DOL, has issued final regulations, or the DOL Regulations, as to what constitutes assets of an employee benefit plan under ERISA. Under the DOL Regulations, if a plan acquires an equity interest in an entity, which interest is neither a “publicly offered security” nor a security issued by an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the plan’s assets would include, for purposes of the fiduciary responsibility provision of ERISA, both the equity interest and an undivided interest in each of the entity’s underlying assets unless certain specified exceptions apply. The DOL Regulations define a publicly offered security as a security that is “widely held,” “freely transferable,” and either part of a class of securities registered under the Exchange Act, or sold pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act (provided the securities are registered under the Exchange Act within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year of the issuer during which the public offering occurred). The shares are being sold in an offering registered under the Securities Act and will be registered under the Exchange Act.

The DOL Regulations provide that a security is “widely held” only if it is part of a class of securities that is owned by 100 or more investors independent of the issuer and of one another. A security will not fail to be “widely held” because the number of independent investors falls below 100 subsequent to the IPO as a result of events beyond the issuer’s control. We expect our common shares to be “widely held” upon completion of the offering.

The DOL Regulations provide that whether a security is “freely transferable” is a factual question to be determined on the basis of all relevant facts and circumstances. The DOL Regulations further provide that when a security is part of an offering in which the minimum investment is $10,000 or less, as is the case with the offering, certain restrictions ordinarily will not, alone or in combination, affect the finding that such securities are “freely transferable.” We believe that the restrictions imposed under our declaration of trust on the transfer of our shares are limited to the restrictions on transfer generally permitted under the DOL Regulations and are not likely to

 

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result in the failure of the common shares to be “freely transferable.” The DOL Regulations only establish a presumption in favor of the finding of free transferability, and, therefore, no assurance can be given that the DOL will not reach a contrary conclusion.

We believe that as of the closing of the offering, the common shares should be “widely held” and “freely transferable,” and therefore we believe that our common shares should be publicly offered securities for purposes of the DOL Regulations and that our assets will not be deemed to be “plan assets” of any plan that invests in our common shares.

Each holder of our common shares will be deemed to have represented and agreed that its purchase and holding of such common shares (or any interest therein) will not constitute or result in a non-exempt prohibited transaction under ERISA or Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue Code.

 

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Underwriting

We are offering the common shares of beneficial interest described in this prospectus through a number of underwriters. J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. are acting as joint book-running managers of the offering and as representatives of the underwriters. We have entered into an underwriting agreement with the underwriters. Subject to the terms and conditions of the underwriting agreement, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each underwriter has severally agreed to purchase, at the public offering price less the underwriting discounts and commissions set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, the number of common shares listed next to its name in the following table:

 

Name    Number of Shares
 

J.P. Morgan Securities Inc.

  

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.

  

FBR Capital Markets & Co.

  

KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc.

  

Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated

  

JMP Securities LLC

  
    

Total

   12,500,000
 

The underwriters are committed to purchase all the common shares offered by us if they purchase any shares. The underwriting agreement also provides that if an underwriter defaults, the purchase commitments of non-defaulting underwriters may also be increased or the offering may be terminated.

The underwriters propose to offer the common shares directly to the public at the IPO price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to certain dealers at that price less a concession not in excess of $             per share. Any such dealers may resell shares to certain other brokers or dealers at a discount of up to $             per share from the IPO price per share. After the IPO the offering price and other selling terms may be changed by the underwriters. Sales of shares made outside of the United States may be made by affiliates of the underwriters. The representatives have advised us that the underwriters do not intend to confirm discretionary sales in excess of 5% of the common shares offered in the offering.

The underwriters have an option to buy up to 1,875,000 additional common shares from us to cover sales of shares by the underwriters which exceed the number of shares specified in the table above. The underwriters have 30 days from the date of this prospectus to exercise this overallotment option. If any shares are purchased with this overallotment option, the underwriters will purchase shares in approximately the same proportion as shown in the table above. If any additional common shares are purchased, the underwriters will offer the additional shares on the same terms as those on which the shares are being offered.

 

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The underwriting fee is equal to the public offering price per share less the amount paid by the underwriters to us per share. The underwriting fee is $             per share. The following table shows the per share and total underwriting discounts and commissions (excluding a discretionary structuring fee, payable in our sole discretion) to be paid to the underwriters assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares.

 

Underwriting Discount (1)    Without
overallotment
exercise
   With full
overallotment
exercise
 

Per Share

   $                 $             

Total

   $      $  
 

 

(1)  

The underwriters will be entitled to receive $             per share from us at closing. The underwriters will forego the receipt of payment of $             per share, subject to the following. We will agree to pay the $             per share to the underwriters when the capital deployment hurdle (as described herein) is satisfied. If this requirement is not satisfied, the aggregate underwriting discount paid by us, based on $             per share (or         % of the public offering price) would be $            . The underwriting discount excludes a discretionary structuring fee, payable in our sole discretion only upon satisfaction of the capital deployment hurdle, of $            , or         % of the public offering price in the aggregate to J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. If capital deployment hurdle is not satisfied, the aggregate underwriting discount would be $            . The following presents this information both assuming that the capital deployment hurdle is met and assuming that it is not met:

 

Capital Deployment Hurdle Is Not Met    Per Share
 

Public offering price

   $             

Initial underwriting discount paid by us at closing (        %)

   $  

Total underwriting discount paid by us if capital deployment hurdle is not met (        %)

 

   $

 

 

 

Capital Deployment Hurdle Is Met    Per Share
 

Public offering price

   $  

Initial underwriting discount paid by us at closing (        %)

   $  

Additional underwriting discount paid by us if capital deployment hurdle is met (        %)

   $  

Payment of discretionary structuring fee

   $  

Total underwriting discount paid by us if capital deployment hurdle is met (        %)

   $  

The capital deployment hurdle numerator is the cumulative acquisition of hotel properties, net of cash acquired (or substantially similar financial measures), that we will report in our statements of cash flows for all periods following the offering. The capital deployment hurdle denominator is net proceeds received from the offering and the concurrent private placements (including net proceeds received from any exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option, but excluding any deferred underwriting compensation or structuring fee payable to the underwriters). The capital deployment hurdle is satisfied when the capital deployment hurdle numerator divided by the capital deployment hurdle denominator is greater than 50%. The additional underwriting discount is payable within five business days following our filing of a quarterly or annual report after the capital deployment hurdle is satisfied.

We estimate that the total expenses of the offering, including registration, filing and listing fees, printing fees and legal and accounting expenses, but excluding the underwriting discounts, commissions and the discretionary structuring fee (which is payable in our sole discretion), will be approximately $2,500,000.

A prospectus in electronic format may be made available on the web sites maintained by one or more underwriters, or selling group members, if any, participating in the offering. The

 

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underwriters may agree to allocate a number of shares to underwriters and selling group members for sale to their online brokerage account holders. Internet distributions will be allocated by the representatives to underwriters and selling group members that may make Internet distributions on the same basis as other allocations.

We have agreed that we will not (i) offer, pledge, announce the intention to sell, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file with the SEC a registration statement under the Securities Act relating to, any common shares or securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any of our common shares, or publicly disclose the intention to make any offer, sale, pledge, disposition or filing, or (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers all or a portion of the economic consequences associated with the ownership of any common shares or any such other securities (regardless of whether any of these transactions are to be settled by the delivery of common shares or such other securities, in cash or otherwise), in each case without the prior written consent of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. for a period of 180 days after the date of this prospectus, other than the common shares to be sold hereunder and in respect of any of our common shares issued under our existing incentive plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (1) during the last 17 days of the 180-day restricted period, we issue an earnings release or material news or a material event relating to our company occurs; or (2) prior to the expiration of the 180-day restricted period, we announce that we will release earnings results during the 16-day period beginning on the last day of the 180-day period, the restrictions described above shall continue to apply until the expiration of the 18-day period beginning on the issuance of the earnings release or the occurrence of the material news or material event.

Our trustees and executive officers, and certain shareholders, have entered into lock-up agreements with the underwriters pursuant to which each of these persons or entities, with limited exceptions, for a period of 180 days after the date of this prospectus, may not, without the prior written consent of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., (1) offer, pledge, announce the intention to sell, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any of our common shares or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for our common shares (including, without limitation, common shares or such other securities which may be deemed to be beneficially owned by such trustees, executive officers and shareholders in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC and securities which may be issued upon exercise of a share option or warrant); or (2) enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of the common shares or such other securities; whether any such transaction described in clause (1) or (2) above is to be settled by delivery of common shares or such other securities, in cash or otherwise; or (3) make any demand for or exercise any right with respect to the registration of any of our common shares or any security convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for our common shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (i) during the last 17 days of the 180-day restricted period, we issue an earnings release or material news or a material event relating to our company occurs, or (ii) prior to the expiration of the 180-day restricted period, we announce that we will release earnings results during the 16-day period beginning on the last day of the 180-day period, the restrictions described above shall continue to apply until the expiration of the 18-day period beginning on the issuance of the earnings release or the occurrence of the material news or material event.

 

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We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933.

We have applied to have our common shares approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CHSP.” In order to meet one of the requirements for listing our common shares on the NYSE, the underwriters have undertaken to sell 100 or more common shares to a minimum of 400 U.S. holders, and to ensure that the common shares have a minimum price of $4.00 per share at the time of listing, that there is an aggregate market value of publicly held shares of at least $40 million in the United States and that there are at least 1,100,000 publicly held common shares in the United States following completion of the offering.

In connection with the offering, the underwriters may engage in stabilizing transactions, which involves making bids for, purchasing and selling common shares in the open market for the purpose of preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the common shares while the offering is in progress. These stabilizing transactions may include making short sales of the common shares, which involves the sale by the underwriters of a greater number of common shares than they are required to purchase in the offering, and purchasing common shares on the open market to cover positions created by short sales. Short sales may be “covered” shorts, which are short positions in an amount not greater than the underwriters’ overallotment option referred to above, or may be “naked” shorts, which are short positions in excess of that amount. The underwriters may close out any covered short position either by exercising their overallotment option, in whole or in part, or by purchasing shares in the open market. In making this determination, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market compared to the price at which the underwriters may purchase shares through the overallotment option. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the common shares in the open market that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. To the extent that the underwriters create a naked short position, they will purchase shares in the open market to cover the position.

The underwriters have advised us that, pursuant to Regulation M of the Securities Act of 1933, they may also engage in other activities that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the common shares, including the imposition of penalty bids. This means that if the representatives of the underwriters purchase common shares in the open market in stabilizing transactions or to cover short sales, the representatives can require the underwriters that sold those shares as part of the offering to repay the underwriting discount received by them.

These activities may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of the common shares or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the common shares, and, as a result, the price of the common shares may be higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market. If the underwriters commence these activities, they may discontinue them at any time. The underwriters may carry out these transactions on the New York Stock Exchange, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

Prior to the offering, there has been no public market for our common shares. The IPO price was determined by negotiations between us and the representatives of the underwriters. In determining the IPO price, we and the representatives of the underwriters considered a number of factors including:

 

 

the information set forth in this prospectus and otherwise available to the representatives;

 

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our prospects and the history and prospects for the industry in which we compete;

 

 

an assessment of our management;

 

 

our prospects for future earnings;

 

 

the general condition of the securities markets at the time of the offering;

 

 

the recent market prices of, and demand for, publicly traded common shares of generally comparable companies; and

 

 

other factors deemed relevant by the underwriters and us.

Neither we nor the underwriters can assure investors that an active trading market will develop for our common shares, or that the shares will trade in the public market at or above the IPO price.

Other than in the United States, no action has been taken by us or the underwriters that would permit a public offering of the securities offered by this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required. The securities offered by this prospectus may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, nor may this prospectus or any other offering material or advertisements in connection with the offer and sale of any such securities be distributed or published in any jurisdiction, except under circumstances that will result in compliance with the applicable rules and regulations of that jurisdiction. Persons into whose possession this prospectus comes are advised to inform themselves about and to observe any restrictions relating to the offering and the distribution of this prospectus. This prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities offered by this prospectus in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or a solicitation is unlawful.

This document is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling with Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area which has implemented the Prospectus Directive (each, a “Relevant Member State”), from and including the date on which the European Union Prospectus Directive (the “EU Prospectus Directive”) is implemented in that Relevant Member State (the “Relevant Implementation Date”) an offer of securities described in this prospectus may not be made to the public in that Relevant Member State prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the shares which has been approved by the competent authority in that Relevant Member State or, where appropriate, approved in another Relevant Member State and notified to the competent authority in that Relevant Member State, all in accordance with the EU Prospectus Directive, except that it may, with effect from and including the Relevant Implementation Date, make an offer of shares to the public in that Relevant Member State at any time:

 

 

to legal entities which are authorized or regulated to operate in the financial markets or, if not so authorized or regulated, whose corporate purpose is solely to invest in securities;

 

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to any legal entity which has two or more of (1) an average of at least 250 employees during the last financial year; (2) a total balance sheet of more than 43,000,000 and (3) an annual net turnover of more than 50,000,000, as shown in its last annual or consolidated accounts;

 

 

to fewer than 100 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the EU Prospectus Directive) subject to obtaining the prior consent of the book-running manager for any such offer; or

 

 

in any other circumstances which do not require the publication by the Issuer of a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer of securities to the public” in relation to any securities in any Relevant Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the securities to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for the securities, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the EU Prospectus Directive in that Member State and the expression EU Prospectus Directive means Directive 2003/71/EC and includes any relevant implementing measure in each Relevant Member State.

Certain of the underwriters and their affiliates may provide from time to time in the future certain commercial banking, financial advisory, investment banking and other services for us in the ordinary course of their business, for which they may receive customary fees and commissions including as agent for or members of the syndicate for our proposed corporate credit facility. J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. may receive a discretionary structuring fee, payable in our sole discretion, equal to     % of the public offering price in the aggregate. In addition, from time to time, certain of the underwriters and their affiliates may effect transactions for their own account or the account of customers, and hold on behalf of themselves or their customers, long or short positions in our securities, and may do so in the future.

 

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Experts

The balance sheet of Chesapeake Lodging Trust, formerly Crown Hospitality Trust, as of August 31, 2009 appearing in this Prospectus and Registration Statement has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as set forth in their report thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and is included in reliance upon such report given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

Legal matters

Hogan & Hartson LLP will issue an opinion to us regarding the validity of the common shares offered hereby. Certain legal matters related to the offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by Clifford Chance US LLP. Clifford Chance US LLP will rely on the opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP for certain matters of Maryland law.

Where you can find more information

We have filed with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-11, including exhibits, schedules and amendments filed with the registration statement, of which this prospectus is a part, under the Securities Act with respect to the common shares we propose to sell in the offering. This prospectus does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement and exhibits and schedules to the registration statement. For further information with respect to our company and the common shares to be sold in the offering, reference is made to the registration statement, including the exhibits and schedules thereto. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other document referred to in this prospectus are not necessarily complete and, where that contract or other document has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, each statement in this prospectus is qualified in all respects by the exhibit to which the reference relates. Copies of the registration statement, including the exhibits and schedules to the registration statement, may be examined without charge at the public reference room of the SEC, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549. Information about the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0300. Copies of all or a portion of the registration statement can be obtained from the public reference room of the SEC upon payment of prescribed fees. Our SEC filings, including our registration statement, are also available to you, free of charge, on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov .

As a result of the offering, we will become subject to the information and periodic reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and will file periodic reports and other information with the SEC. These periodic reports and other information will be available for inspection and copying at the SEC’s public reference facilities and the website of the SEC referred to above.

Reports to shareholders

Following the offering, we will file periodic and annual reports with the SEC as required by the SEC’s rules and regulations. In addition, our annual proxy statement will be mailed to our shareholders accompanied or preceded by an annual report which meets the requirements of the SEC’s rules and regulations no later than 120 days following the end of our fiscal year. Our periodic quarterly reports will be filed with the SEC within 45 days following the end of the quarter, unless a shorter period is required by the rules and regulations of the SEC. Our annual reports will contain consolidated financial statements audited by our independent certified public accountants.

 

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Index to financial statements

 

     Page

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

   F-2

Balance sheet as of August 31, 2009

   F-3

Notes to financial statement

   F-4

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

The Board of Trustees of Chesapeake Lodging Trust,

We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Chesapeake Lodging Trust formerly Crown Hospitality Trust (the “Company”), as of August 31, 2009. The balance sheet is the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the balance sheet based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the balance sheet, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall balance sheet presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the balance sheet referred to above presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at August 31, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

New York, New York

September 28, 2009

 

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Chesapeake Lodging Trust formerly Crown Hospitality Trust

Balance Sheet

 

       August 31, 2009
 

Assets

  

Cash

   $ 125,000

Prepaid expenses

     125,000

Total assets

     250,000
      

Liabilities and shareholder’s equity

  

Liabilities

  

Related party loan

   $ 249,000

Shareholder’s equity

  

Common shares, $0.01 par value, 25,000,000 shares authorized, 100,000 shares issued and outstanding

   $ 1,000

Additional paid-in capital

    

Retained earnings

    
      

Total shareholder’s capital

   $ 1,000
      

Total liabilities and shareholder’s capital

   $ 250,000
 

See accompanying notes to financial statement.

 

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Table of Contents

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

Notes to financial statement

August 31, 2009

Note 1. Organization

Crown Hospitality Trust (the “Company”) was organized as a Maryland real estate investment trust on June 12, 2009 and changed its name to Chesapeake Lodging Trust on September 23, 2009. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Company initially was authorized to issue up to 25,000,000 common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share. The Company has not commenced operations.

The Company intends to elect and qualify to be taxed as a real estate investment trust, or REIT, for U.S. federal income tax purposes commencing with its taxable year ending December 31, 2009. In order to maintain its qualification as a REIT, the Company plans to distribute at least 90% of its taxable income in the form of qualifying distributions to its shareholders.

Note 2. Initial public offering and concurrent private placements

The Company intends to conduct an initial public offering, or IPO, of common shares, which it expects to complete during the fourth quarter of 2009.

Concurrently with the offering, in separate private placements, the Company will sell (1) up to 4.9% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $20 million of its common shares, to Hyatt Hotels Corporation, or Hyatt, and (2) up to 9.8% of the common shares to be outstanding following the offering, but in no event more than $25 million of its common shares to an institutional fund advised by BAMCO, Inc. on behalf of its investment advisory client, the Baron Small Cap Fund, or Baron, in each case, excluding common shares that may be sold pursuant to the underwriters’ overallotment option, and at the IPO price per share, less the greater of the underwriting discount or 6%. The Company also will sell an aggregate of 150,000 common shares to its non-executive chairman and certain of its executive officers at the IPO price per share.

The Company will contribute the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements to Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., which will be its operating partnership. The Company’s operating partnership intends to subsequently use the net proceeds received from the Company to repay Messrs. Francis and Vicari for loans which funded the Company’s offering costs.

Note 3. Significant accounting policies

Use of Estimates.     The preparation of the balance sheet in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the balance sheet. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Underwriting commissions and costs.      Underwriting commissions and costs to be incurred in connection with the Company’s common share offering will be reflected as a reduction of additional paid-in-capital.

 

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Deferred offering costs.     Deferred offering costs consist primarily of legal fees incurred through the date of the balance sheet that are related to the offering and the concurrent private placements that will be charged to capital upon the receipt of the net proceeds of the offering and the concurrent private placements or charged to expense if the offering or concurrent private placements are not completed.

Organization costs.     Costs incurred to organize the Company will be expensed as incurred. The Company has recorded as a deferred, prepaid expense a $125,000 retainer paid to the Company’s outside counsel.

Cash .     Cash is comprised of cash held in a major banking institution.

Related Party Transactions .    Mr. Francis, President, Chief Executive Officer and a Trustee, and Mr. Vicari, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Secretary and a Trustee, have loaned the Company an aggregate of $249,000. The loan is structured as a demand note and bears interest at the Federal Short Term Rate as announced by the Internal Revenue Service.

Note 4. Subsequent Event

We have evaluated subsequent events through September 28, 2009.

Sourcing Agreement with Hyatt.     The Company has entered into a sourcing agreement with Hyatt pursuant to which for three years following completion of the offering, the Company will provide Hyatt with an exclusive right of first offer to manage or franchise each hotel it acquires, to the extent those hotels are not operated under other brands and the Company determines that a brand relationship is desirable, and Hyatt may, in its sole discretion, identify and refer acquisition opportunities to the Company. The Company believes that its relationship with Hyatt will benefit its shareholders as a result of Hyatt’s strong brands and excellent hotel management services. The Company plans to continue to explore with Hyatt how to further its sourcing relationship in order to maximize the value of the relationship to both parties.

In addition, in order to streamline its process with Hyatt, the Company has negotiated a form of franchise agreement and a form of management agreement that it may use, subject to the completion of definitive agreements, to the extent it makes acquisitions pursuant to the sourcing agreement.

 

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Table of Contents

Through and including                     , 2009 (the 25th day after the date of this prospectus), all dealers that effect transactions in our common shares, whether or not participating in the offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealers’ obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as underwriters and with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.

12,500,000 common shares of beneficial interest

LOGO

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

 

Prospectus

Joint Book-Running Managers

 

J.P. Morgan

Deutsche Bank Securities

Lead-Manager

FBR Capital Markets

Co-Managers

 

 

KeyBanc Capital Markets   Baird     JMP Securities

                            , 2009


Table of Contents

Part II

Information not required in prospectus

Item 31. Other expenses of issuance and distribution.

The following table itemizes the expenses incurred by us in connection with the issuance and distribution of the securities being registered hereunder. All amounts shown are estimates except for the SEC registration fee, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., or FINRA, filing fee and the NYSE listing fee.

 

SEC registration fee

   $ 25,668

FINRA filing fee

     46,500

NYSE listing fee

     130,000

Printing and engraving fees

     150,000

Legal fees and expenses

     1,200,000

Accounting fees and expenses

     50,000

Transfer agent and registrar fees

     15,500

Trustee and officer liability insurance policy premium

     800,000

Miscellaneous expenses

     212,332

Total

   $ 2,500,000
 

Item 32. Sales to special parties.

None.

Item 33. Recent sales of unregistered securities.

On June 12, 2009, the registrant issued an aggregate of 100,000 common shares of beneficial interest to Messrs. Francis and Vicari in exchange for an aggregate of $1,000 in cash as its initial capitalization. Such issuance was exempt from the requirements of the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof.

Item 34. Indemnification of directors and officers.

The Maryland REIT law permits a Maryland REIT to indemnify and advance expenses to its trustees, officers, employees and agents to the same extent as permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law, or the MGCL, for directors and officers of Maryland corporations. The MGCL permits a corporation to indemnify its present and former directors and officers against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses incurred in connection with any proceeding to which they may be made, or are threatened to be made, a party by reason of their service in those capacities or in the defense of any claim, issue or matter in any such proceeding. However, a Maryland corporation is not permitted to provide this type of indemnification if the following is established:

 

 

the act or omission of the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and was committed in bad faith or was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty;

 

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Table of Contents
 

the director or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or

 

 

in the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful.

According to Maryland law, a court may also order indemnification if it determines that the director or officer is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification, even though the director or officer did not meet the prescribed standard of conduct or was adjudged liable on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received. However, a Maryland corporation may not indemnify a director or officer for an adverse judgment in a suit by or in the right of that corporation or for a judgment of liability on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received, unless in either case a court orders indemnification and then only for expenses. The MGCL permits a corporation to advance reasonable expenses to a director or officer upon the corporation’s receipt of the following:

 

 

a written affirmation by the director or officer of his good faith belief that he has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the corporation; and

 

 

a written undertaking by him or on his behalf to repay the amount paid or reimbursed by the corporation if it is ultimately determined that this standard of conduct was not met.

To the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, our declaration of trust and bylaws include provisions limiting the liability of our present and former trustees and officers or any individual who, at our request, serves or has served another real estate investment trust, corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a trustee, director, officer or partner (each, an “Indemnified Party”), from and against any claim or liability to which that person may become subject or which that person may incur by reason of his or her status in any of the foregoing capacities and to pay and advance their reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding. In addition, our bylaws, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, require us to indemnify any of our present and former trustees and officers or any individual who, at our request, serves or has served another real estate investment trust, corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a trustee, director, officer or partner from and against any claim or liability to which that person may become subject or which that person may incur by reason of his or her status in that capacity and to pay and advance their reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of the proceeding.

We also expect to enter into indemnification agreements with our trustees and our officers providing for procedures for indemnification by us to the fullest extent permitted by law and advancements by us of certain expenses and costs relating to claims, suits or proceedings arising from their service to us.

We expect to obtain an insurance policy under which our trustees and executive officers will be insured, subject to the limits of the policy, against certain losses arising from claims made against such trustees and officers by reason of any acts or omissions covered under such policy in their respective capacities as trustees or officers, including certain liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933.

We have been advised that the SEC has expressed the opinion that indemnification of trustees, officers or persons otherwise controlling a company for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 is against public policy and is therefore unenforceable.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 35. Treatment of proceeds from stock being registered.

None of the proceeds will be credited to an account other than the appropriate capital share account.

Item 36. Financial statements and exhibits.

 

(a)   Financial statements.     See page F-1 for an index of the financial statements that are being filed as part of this Registration Statement.

 

(b)   Exhibits.     Reference is made to the Exhibit Index attached hereto, which is made a part hereof by reference thereto.

Item 37. Undertakings.

 

(a)   Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, 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 Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 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 Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

(b)   The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriters at the closing, specified in the underwriting agreement certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

 

(c)   The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:

 

  (i)   For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

 

  (ii)   For the purposes determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered herein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

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Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-11 and has duly caused this Amendment No. 2 to the registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the city of Fairfield, State of New Jersey, on November 24, 2009.

 

    CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

/S/    James L. Francis        

   

James L. Francis

President and Chief

Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment No. 2 to the registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

   
Signatures    Title   Date
 

/S/    James L. Francis        

James L. Francis

  

President, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee (principal executive officer)

  November 24, 2009

/S/    Douglas W. Vicari        

Douglas W. Vicari

  

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Secretary and Trustee (principal financial and accounting officer)

  November 24, 2009
 

 

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Table of Contents

Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit
Number
  Exhibit Description
 
  1.1*  

Form of Underwriting Agreement

  3.1***  

Form of Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Declaration of Trust of Registrant

  3.2***  

Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of Registrant

  5.1*   Opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP regarding the validity of the securities being registered
  8.1*  

Opinion of Hogan & Hartson LLP regarding certain tax matters

10.1***  

Form of Employment Agreement between Registrant and James L. Francis

10.2***  

Form of Employment Agreement between Registrant and Douglas W. Vicari

10.3***  

Form of Employment Agreement between Registrant and D. Rick Adams

10.4***  

Form of Chesapeake Lodging Trust Equity Plan

10.5***  

Form of Restricted Share Award Agreement for Executive Officers

10.6***  

Form of Restricted Share Award Agreement for Trustees

10.7*   Form of Indemnification Agreement between Registrant and its Trustees and Executive Officers
10.8*  

Form of Limited Partnership Agreement of Chesapeake Lodging, L.P.

10.9†  

Sourcing Agreement dated September 28, 2009 between Hyatt Corporation and Registrant (filed as Exhibit 10.11 to Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 6, 2009)

10.10***   Share Purchase Agreement dated September 28, 2009 between Hyatt Corporation and Registrant
10.11***   Form of Registration Rights Agreement between Hyatt Corporation and Registrant
10.12***   Share Purchase Agreement dated November 4, 2009 between BAMCO, Inc. and Registrant
10.13***   Form of Registration Rights Agreement between BAMCO, Inc. and Registrant
10.14*   Share Purchase Agreement among James L. Francis, Douglas W. Vicari, Thomas A. Natelli and Registrant
10.15***  

Form of Franchise Agreement between Hyatt Franchising, L.L.C. and Registrant

10.16***  

Form of Management Agreement between Hyatt Corporation and Registrant

21.1*  

List of Subsidiaries of Registrant

23.1***  

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP

23.2*  

Consent of Hogan & Hartson LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1)

23.3*  

Consent of Hogan & Hartson LLP (included in Exhibit 8.1)

24.1  

Power of Attorney (included on the signature page to the initial filing of the

Registration Statement)

99.1†  

Consent of Thomas D. Eckert to be named as trustee

99.2†  

Consent of John W. Hill to be named as trustee

99.3†  

Consent of George F. McKenzie to be named as trustee

99.4†  

Consent of Thomas A. Natelli to be named as trustee

99.5***  

Consent of Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein to be named as trustee

 

 

  Previously filed
*   To be filed by amendment.

 

***   Filed herewith.

Exhibit 3.1

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

ARTICLES OF AMENDMENT AND RESTATEMENT OF DECLARATION OF TRUST

FIRST : Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “Trust”) formed under Title 8 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland (the “Maryland REIT Law”), desires to amend and restate its declaration of trust (as so amended and restated, the “Declaration of Trust”).

SECOND : The following provisions are all the provisions of the Declaration of Trust as hereby amended and restated:

ARTICLE I

FORMATION

The Trust is a real estate investment trust within the meaning of the Maryland REIT Law. The Trust shall not be deemed to be a general partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, joint stock partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, joint stock company or a corporation (but nothing herein shall preclude the Trust from being treated for tax purposes as an association under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time (the “Code”)).

ARTICLE II

NAME

The name of the Trust is:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board of Trustees” or the “Board”), without shareholder action, may amend this Declaration of Trust to change the name of the Trust as provided by Maryland law.

ARTICLE III

PURPOSES AND POWERS

Section 3.1 Purposes . The purposes for which the Trust is formed are to engage in any lawful act or activity, including, without limitation or obligation, to invest in and to acquire, hold, manage, administer, control and dispose of property (including mortgages) including, without limitation or obligation, engaging in business as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Code.

Section 3.2 Powers . The Trust shall have all of the powers granted to REITs by the Maryland REIT Law and all other powers set forth in the Declaration of Trust that are not inconsistent with law and are appropriate to promote and attain the purposes set forth in the Declaration of Trust.


ARTICLE IV

RESIDENT AGENT

The name of the resident agent of the Trust in the State of Maryland is Corporation Trust Incorporated, whose post office address is 300 East Lombard Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. The resident agent is a Maryland corporation. The Trust may have such offices or places of business within or outside the State of Maryland as the Board of Trustees may from time to time determine.

ARTICLE V

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Section 5.1 Powers . Subject to any express limitations contained in this Declaration of Trust or in the Bylaws of the Trust (the “Bylaws”), (a) the business and affairs of the Trust shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Trustees and (b) the Board shall have full, exclusive and absolute power, control and authority over any and all property of the Trust. The Board may take any action as in its sole judgment and discretion is necessary or appropriate to conduct the business and affairs of the Trust. This Declaration of Trust shall be construed with the presumption in favor of the grant of power and authority to the Board. Any construction of this Declaration of Trust or determination made in good faith by the Board concerning its powers and authority hereunder shall be conclusive. The enumeration and definition of particular powers of the Board of Trustees included in this Declaration of Trust or in the Bylaws shall in no way be limited or restricted by reference to or inference from the terms of this or any other provision of this Declaration of Trust or the Bylaws or construed or deemed by inference or otherwise in any manner to exclude or limit the powers conferred upon the Board or the trustees of the Trust (collectively, the “Trustees” and, individually, a “Trustee”) under the general laws of the State of Maryland or any other applicable laws.

The Board shall have the authority to cause the Trust to elect to qualify for federal income tax treatment as a REIT. Following such election, if the Board determines that it is no longer in the best interests of the Trust to continue to be qualified as a REIT, the Board may revoke or otherwise terminate the Trust’s REIT election pursuant to Section 856(g) of the Code. In addition, the Board, without any action by the holders of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust (collectively, the “Shareholders” and, individually, a “Shareholder”), shall have and may exercise, on behalf of the Trust, without limitation, the power to determine that compliance with any restriction or limitation on share ownership and transfers set forth in Article VII of this Declaration of Trust is no longer required in order for the Trust to qualify as a REIT.

The Board, without any action by the Shareholders, shall have and may exercise, on behalf of the Trust, without limitation, the power to terminate the status of the Trust as a REIT under the Code; to adopt, amend and repeal Bylaws; to elect officers in the manner prescribed in the Bylaws; to solicit proxies from the Shareholders; and to do any other acts and deliver any other documents necessary or appropriate to the foregoing powers.

Section 5.2 Number . Effective upon the filing of these Articles of Amendment and Restatement, the number of Trustees shall be set at two (2), but may hereafter be increased to a maximum of eleven (11) or decreased to not fewer than one (1) in accordance with the provisions set forth in the Bylaws. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if for any reason any or all of the Trustees cease to be Trustees, such event shall not terminate the Trust or affect the Declaration of Trust or the powers of the remaining Trustees, if any, nor shall it affect the right of Shareholders to elect

 

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additional Trustees in accordance with the Bylaws. The names and addresses of the current Trustees, who shall serve until the 2010 annual meeting of Shareholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualify, or until such later time (not to exceed three (3) years from the date they were last elected by the Shareholders) as determined by the Board of Trustees as hereinafter provided, are:

 

Name

  

Address

James L. Francis   

c/o Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Douglas W. Vicari   

c/o Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

The Board may increase the number of Trustees and, subject to Section 5.3 hereof, fill any vacancy resulting from an increase in the number of Trustees or the resignation, retirement, death or disqualification of an incumbent Trustee in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Bylaws. Election of Trustees by Shareholders shall require the vote and be in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Bylaws.

It shall not be necessary to list in the Declaration of Trust the names and addresses of any Trustees hereinafter elected.

Section 5.3 Resignation or Removal . Any Trustee may resign by written notice to the Board, effective upon execution and delivery to the Trust of such written notice or upon any future date specified in the notice. Subject to the rights of holders of one or more classes or series of Preferred Shares, as hereinafter defined, to elect one or more Trustees, a Trustee may be removed at any time, but only with cause, at a meeting of the Shareholders, by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two thirds of the shares of beneficial interest of the Trust (“Shares”) then outstanding and entitled to vote generally in the election of Trustees. For the purpose of this paragraph, “cause” shall mean, with respect to any particular trustee, conviction of a felony or a final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such trustee caused demonstrable, material harm to the Trust through gross negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty.

Section 5.4 Term . The Trustees shall be elected at each annual meeting of the Shareholders and shall serve until the next annual meeting of the Shareholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualify.

Section 5.5 Determinations by Board . The determination as to any of the following matters, made in good faith by or pursuant to the direction of the Board of Trustees consistent with the Declaration of Trust, shall be final and conclusive and shall be binding upon the Trust and every holder of Shares: the amount of the net income of the Trust for any period and the amount of assets at any time legally available for the payment of dividends, redemption of Shares or the payment of other distributions on Shares; the amount of paid-in surplus, net assets, other surplus, annual or other cash flow, funds from operations, net profit, net assets in excess of capital, undivided profits or excess of profits over losses on

 

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sales of assets; the amount, purpose, time of creation, increase or decrease, alteration or cancellation of any reserves or charges and the propriety thereof (whether or not any obligation or liability for which such reserves or charges shall have been created shall have been paid or discharged); any interpretation of the terms, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers or rights, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or distributions, qualifications or terms or conditions of redemption of any class or series of Shares; the fair value, or any sale, bid or asked price to be applied in determining the fair value, of any asset owned or held by the Trust or of any Shares; the number of Shares of any class of the Trust; any matter relating to the acquisition, holding and disposition of any assets by the Trust; or any other matter relating to the business and affairs of the Trust or required or permitted by applicable law, the Declaration of Trust or Bylaws or otherwise to be determined by the Board of Trustees.

ARTICLE VI

SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST

Section 6.1 Authorized Shares . The beneficial interest of the Trust shall be divided into Shares. The total number of Shares of all classes that the Trust has authority to issue is 500,000,000, of which 400,000,000 Shares are initially classified as common shares of beneficial interest, $0.01 par value per share (“Common Shares”), and 100,000,000 Shares are initially classified as preferred shares of beneficial interest, $0.01 par value per share (“Preferred Shares”). The Board is authorized to classify and reclassify any unissued Shares of any class or series of shares of beneficial interest into Shares of another class or series of shares of beneficial interest. If Shares of one class are classified or reclassified into Shares of another class of Shares pursuant to this Article VI, the number of authorized shares of the former class shall be automatically decreased and the number of shares of the latter class shall be automatically increased, in each case by the number of shares so classified or reclassified, so that the aggregate number of Shares of all classes that the Trust has authority to issue shall not be more than the total number of Shares set forth in the second sentence of this paragraph. The Board, without action by the Shareholders, may amend this Declaration of Trust to increase or decrease the aggregate number of Shares or the number of Shares of any class that the Trust has authority to issue. Subject to the provisions of Article VII, each Common Share shall entitle the holder thereof to one vote on each matter upon which holders of Common Shares are entitled to vote.

Section 6.2 Classified or Reclassified Shares . Prior to issuance of any Shares classified or reclassified, the Board of Trustees by resolution shall: (a) designate that class or series to distinguish it from all other classes and series of Shares; (b) specify the number of Shares to be included in the class or series; (c) set, subject to the provisions of Article VII and subject to the express terms of any class or series of Shares outstanding at the time, the preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption for each class or series; and (d) cause the Trust to file articles supplementary with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (the “SDAT”). Any of the terms of any class or series of Shares set pursuant to clause (c) of this Section 6.2 may be made dependent upon facts ascertainable outside the Declaration of Trust (including the occurrence of any event, including a determination or action by the Trust or any other person or body) and may vary among holders thereof, provided that the manner in which such facts or variations shall operate upon the terms of such class or series of Shares is clearly and expressly set forth in the articles supplementary filed with the SDAT.

Section 6.3 Dividends and Distributions . The Board of Trustees may from time to time authorize and the Trust shall declare to Shareholders such dividends or distributions in cash or other assets of the Trust or in Shares of the Trust or from another source as the Board of Trustees in its discretion shall determine. The Board of Trustees shall endeavor to authorize, and the Trust shall declare

 

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and pay, such dividends and distributions as shall be necessary for the Trust to qualify as a REIT under the Code; however, Shareholders shall have no right to any dividend or distribution unless and until authorized by the Board and declared and publicly disclosed by the Trust, but subject to any conditions established by the Board in connection with the declaration of any such dividend. The exercise of the powers and rights of the Board of Trustees pursuant to this Section 6.3 shall be subject to the preferences of any class or series of Shares at the time outstanding.

Section 6.4 Transferable Shares; Preferential Dividends . Notwithstanding any other provision in the Declaration of Trust, no determination shall be made by the Board of Trustees nor shall any transaction be entered into by the Trust that would cause any Shares or other beneficial interest in the Trust not to constitute “transferable shares” or “transferable certificates of beneficial interest” under Section 856(a)(2) of the Code or that would cause any distribution to constitute a preferential dividend as described in Section 562(c) of the Code.

Section 6.5 General Nature of Shares . All Shares shall be personal property entitling the Shareholders only to those rights provided in the Declaration of Trust. The Shareholders shall have no interest in the property of the Trust and shall have no right to compel any partition, division, dividend or distribution of the Trust or of the property of the Trust. The death of a Shareholder shall not terminate the Trust. The Trust is entitled to treat as Shareholders only those persons in whose names Shares are registered as holders of Shares on the share ledger of the Trust.

Section 6.6 Fractional Shares . The Trust may, without the consent or approval of any Shareholder, issue fractional Shares, eliminate a fraction of a Share by rounding up or down to a full Share, arrange for the disposition of a fraction of a Share by the person entitled to it, or pay cash for the fair value of a fraction of a Share.

Section 6.7 Divisions and Combinations of Shares . Subject to any express provision to the contrary in the terms of any class or series of Shares hereafter authorized, the Board of Trustees shall have the power to divide or combine the outstanding Shares of any class or series of Shares into a greater or lesser number of Shares (and without regard to any numerical limitation applicable to divisions or combinations of shares by a Maryland corporation that may be effected without the authorization of the stockholders of a Maryland corporation), without a vote of Shareholders.

Section 6.8 Declaration of Trust and Bylaws . All persons who shall acquire a Share shall acquire the same subject to the provisions of the Declaration of Trust and the Bylaws.

ARTICLE VII

RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND OWNERSHIP OF SHARES

Section 7.1 Definitions . For the purpose of this Article VII, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

Beneficial Ownership . The term “Beneficial Ownership” shall mean ownership of Shares by a Person, whether the interest in the Shares is held directly or indirectly (including by a nominee), and shall include interests that would be treated as owned through the application of Section 544 of the Code, as modified by Sections 856(h)(1)(B) and 856(h)(3) of the Code. The terms “Beneficial Owner,” “Beneficially Owns” and “Beneficially Owned” shall have the correlative meanings.

 

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Business Day . The term “Business Day” shall mean any day, other than a Saturday or Sunday, that is neither a legal holiday nor a day on which banking institutions in New York, New York are authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to close.

Charitable Beneficiary . The term “Charitable Beneficiary” shall mean one or more beneficiaries of the Charitable Trust as determined pursuant to Section 7.3.7, provided that each such organization must be described in Sections 501(c)(3), 170(b)(1)(A) and 170(c)(2) of the Code.

Charitable Trust . The term “Charitable Trust” shall mean any trust provided for in Section 7.2.1(b)(i) and Section 7.3.1.

Charitable Trustee . The term “Charitable Trustee” shall mean the Person unaffiliated with both the Trust and the relevant Prohibited Owner, that is appointed by the Trust to serve as trustee of the Charitable Trust.

Declaration of Trust . The term “Declaration of Trust” shall mean these Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Declaration of Trust as filed for record with the SDAT, and any amendments and supplements thereto.

Code . The term “Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or any successor statute.

Common Share Ownership Limit . The term “Common Share Ownership Limit” shall mean not more than 9.8% (in value or in number of shares, whichever is more restrictive) of the aggregate of the outstanding Common Shares of the Trust.

Constructive Ownership . The term “Constructive Ownership” shall mean ownership of Shares by a Person who is or would be treated as an owner of such Shares either actually or constructively through the application of Section 318(a) of the Code, as modified by Section 856(d)(5) of the Code. The terms “Constructive Owner,” “Constructively Own,” “Constructively Owns” and “Constructively Owned” shall have the correlative meanings.

Initial Date . The term “Initial Date” shall mean the date of the consummation of the initial public offering of the Trust (but only, with respect to such date, from and after such consummation).

Market Price . The term “Market Price” on any date shall mean, with respect to any class or series of outstanding Shares, the Closing Price for such Shares on such date. The “Closing Price” on any date shall mean the last sale price for such Shares, regular way, or, in case no such sale takes place on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular way, for such Shares, in either case as reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with respect to securities listed or admitted to trade on the NYSE or, if such Shares are not listed or admitted to trade on the NYSE, as reported on the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with respect to securities listed on the principal national securities exchange on which such Shares are listed or admitted to trade or, if such Shares are not listed or admitted to trade on any national securities exchange, the last quoted price, or, if not so quoted, the average of the high bid and low asked prices in the over-the-counter market, as reported by the principal automated quotation system that may then be in use or, if such Shares are not quoted by any such system, the average of the closing bid and asked prices as furnished by a professional market maker making a market in such Shares selected by the Board of Trustees or, in the event that no trading price is available for such Shares, the fair market value of the Shares, as determined in good faith by the Board of Trustees.

 

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NYSE . The term “NYSE” shall mean the New York Stock Exchange.

Person . The term “Person” shall mean an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, estate, trust (including, without limitation, a trust qualified under Sections 401(a) or 501(c)(17) of the Code), a portion of a trust permanently set aside for or to be used exclusively for the purposes described in Section 642(c) of the Code, association, private foundation within the meaning of Section 509(a) of the Code, joint stock company or other entity and also includes a group as that term is used for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Preferred Share Ownership Limit . The term “Preferred Share Ownership Limit” shall mean not more than 9.8% (in value or in number of shares, whichever is more restrictive) of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of such class or series of Preferred Shares of the Trust.

Prohibited Owner . The term “Prohibited Owner” shall mean, with respect to any purported Transfer, any Person who, but for the provisions of Section 7.2.1, would Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares in violation of the provisions of Section 7.2.1(a), and if appropriate in the context, shall also mean any Person who would have been the record owner of the Shares that the Prohibited Owner would have so owned.

REIT . The term “REIT” shall mean a real estate investment trust within the meaning of Sections 856 through 859 of the Code.

Restriction Termination Date . The term “Restriction Termination Date” shall mean the first day after the Initial Date on which the Board of Trustees determines that it is no longer in the best interests of the Trust to attempt to, or continue to, qualify as a REIT or that compliance with the restrictions and limitations on Beneficial Ownership, Constructive Ownership and Transfers of Shares set forth herein is no longer required in order for the Trust to qualify as a REIT.

SDAT . The term “SDAT” shall mean the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Shares . The term “Shares” shall mean all classes or series of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust, including, without limitation, Common Shares and Preferred Shares.

Transfer . The term “Transfer” shall mean any issuance, sale, transfer, gift, assignment, devise or other disposition, as well as any other event that causes any Person to acquire or have Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership, or any agreement to take any such actions or cause any such events, of Shares or the right to vote or receive dividends or distributions on Shares, including (a) a change in the capital structure of the Trust, (b) a change in the relationship between two or more Persons which causes a change in Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Shares, (c) the granting or exercise of any option or warrant (or any acquisition or disposition of any option or warrant), pledge, security interest, or similar right to acquire Shares, (d) any acquisition or disposition of any securities or rights convertible into or exchangeable for Shares or any interest in Shares or any exercise of any such conversion or exchange right and (e) transfers of interests in other entities that result in changes in Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Shares; in each case, whether voluntary or involuntary, whether owned of record, Constructively Owned or Beneficially Owned and whether by operation of law or otherwise. The terms “Transferring” and “Transferred” shall have the correlative meanings.

 

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Section 7.2 Shares .

Section 7.2.1 Ownership Limitations . During the period commencing on the Initial Date and prior to the Restriction Termination Date:

(a) Basic Restrictions .

(i) (1) No Person shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Common Shares in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit; and

     (2) No Person shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Preferred Shares in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit.

(ii) No Person shall actually or Beneficially Own Shares to the extent that (1) such Beneficial Ownership of Shares would result in the Trust being “closely held” within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Code (without regard to whether the ownership interest is held during the last half of a taxable year), (2) such Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Shares would result in the Trust owning (directly or indirectly) an interest in a tenant that is described in Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code for purposes of applying Section 856(c) of the Code or Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. (or any successor thereto) owning (directly or indirectly) an interest in a tenant that is described in Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code for purposes of applying Section 7704(d) of the Code, including but not limited to, as a result of any hotel management companies failing to qualify as “eligible independent contractors” as described in Section 856(d)(9) of the Code, or (3) such Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Shares would result in the Trust otherwise failing to qualify as a REIT or Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. (or any successor thereto) to fail to qualify as a partnership for federal income tax purposes.

(iii) No Person shall Transfer any Shares if, as a result of the Transfer, the Shares would be Beneficially Owned by fewer than 100 Persons (determined without reference to the rules of attribution under Section 544 of the Code). Subject to Section 7.4 and notwithstanding any other provisions contained herein, any Transfer of Shares (whether or not such Transfer is the result of a transaction entered into through the facilities of the NYSE or any other national securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system) that, if effective, would result in the Shares being Beneficially Owned by fewer than 100 Persons (determined under the principles of Section 856(a)(5) of the Code) shall be void ab initio , and the intended transferee shall acquire no rights in such Shares.

(b) Transfer in Trust . If any Transfer of Shares (whether or not such Transfer is the result of a transaction entered into through the facilities of the NYSE or any other national securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system) occurs which, if effective, would result in any Person Beneficially Owning or Constructively Owning Shares in violation of Section 7.2.1(a)(i) or (ii),

(i) then that number of Shares the Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of which otherwise would cause such Person to violate Section 7.2.1(a)(i) or (ii) (rounded up to the nearest whole share) shall be automatically transferred to a Charitable Trust for the benefit of a Charitable Beneficiary, as described in Section 7.3, effective as of the close of business on the Business Day prior to the date of such Transfer, and such Person shall acquire no rights in such Shares; or

(ii) if the transfer to the Charitable Trust described in clause (i) of this subparagraph would not be effective for any reason to prevent the violation of Section 7.2.1(a)(i) or (ii), or would not prevent the Trust from failing to qualify as a REIT, then the Transfer of that number of Shares that otherwise would cause any Person to violate Section 7.2.1(a)(i) or (ii) shall be void ab initio , and the intended transferee shall acquire no rights in such Shares.

 

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Section 7.2.2 Remedies for Breach . If the Board of Trustees or any duly authorized committee thereof shall at any time determine in good faith that a Transfer or other event has taken place that results in a violation of Section 7.2.1 or that a Person intends to acquire or has attempted to acquire Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of any Shares in violation of Section 7.2.1 (whether or not such violation is intended), the Board of Trustees or a committee thereof shall take such action as it deems advisable to refuse to give effect to or to prevent such Transfer or other event, including, without limitation, causing the Trust to redeem shares, refusing to give effect to such Transfer on the books of the Trust or instituting proceedings to enjoin such Transfer or other event; provided , however , that any Transfer or attempted Transfer or other event in violation of Section 7.2.1 shall automatically result in the transfer to the Charitable Trust described above, and, where applicable, such Transfer (or other event) shall be void ab initio as provided above irrespective of any action (or non-action) by the Board of Trustees or a committee thereof.

Section 7.2.3 Notice of Restricted Transfer . Any Person who acquires or attempts or intends to acquire Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Shares that will or may violate Section 7.2.1(a), or any Person who would have owned Shares that resulted in a transfer to the Charitable Trust pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.2.1(b), shall immediately give written notice to the Trust of such event or, in the case of such a proposed or attempted transaction, shall give at least fifteen (15) days prior written notice, and shall provide to the Trust such other information as the Trust may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such acquisition or ownership on the Trust’s status as a REIT.

Section 7.2.4 Owners Required To Provide Information . From the Initial Date and prior to the Restriction Termination Date:

(a) every owner of more than five percent (5%) (or such lower percentage as required by the Code or the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) of the outstanding Shares, within thirty (30) days after the end of each taxable year, shall give written notice to the Trust stating the name and address of such owner, the number of shares of each class or series of Shares Beneficially Owned and a description of the manner in which such Shares are held; provided, that a shareholder of record who holds outstanding Shares as nominee for another Person, which other Person is required to include in gross income the dividends or distributions received on such Shares (an “ Actual Owner ”), shall give written notice to the Trust stating the name and address of such Actual Owner and the number of Shares of such Actual Owner with respect to which the shareholder of record is nominee. Each such Actual Owner shall provide to the Trust such additional information as the Trust may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such Beneficial Ownership on the Trust’s status as a REIT and to ensure compliance with the Common Share Ownership Limit and the Preferred Share Ownership Limit; and

(b) each Person who is a Beneficial Owner or Constructive Owner of Shares and each Person (including the shareholder of record) who is holding Shares for a Beneficial Owner or Constructive Owner shall provide to the Trust such information as the Trust may request, in good faith, in order to determine the Trust’s status as a REIT and to comply with requirements of any taxing authority or governmental authority or to determine such compliance and to ensure compliance with the Common Share Ownership Limit and the Preferred Share Ownership Limit.

Section 7.2.5 Remedies Not Limited . Subject to Sections 5.4 and 7.4 hereof, nothing contained in this Section 7.2 shall limit the authority of the Board of Trustees to take such other action as it deems necessary or advisable to protect the Trust and the interests of its Shareholders in preserving the Trust’s qualification as a REIT.

 

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Section 7.2.6 Ambiguity . In the case of an ambiguity in the application of any of the provisions of this Section 7.2, Section 7.3 or any definition contained in Section 7.1, the Board of Trustees shall have the power to determine the application of the provisions of this Section 7.2 or Section 7.3 with respect to any situation based on the facts known to it. If Section 7.2 or 7.3 requires an action by the Board of Trustees and the Declaration of Trust fails to provide specific guidance with respect to such action, the Board of Trustees shall have the power to determine the action to be taken so long as such action is not contrary to the provisions of Sections 7.1, 7.2 or 7.3.

Section 7.2.7 Exemptions .

(a) The Board of Trustees, in its sole and absolute discretion, may exempt, prospectively or retroactively, a Person from the Common Share Ownership Limit and/or the Preferred Share Ownership Limit if: (i) such Person submits to the Board of Trustees information satisfactory to the Board of Trustees, in its reasonable discretion, demonstrating that such Person is not an individual for purposes of Section 542(a)(2) of the Code (determined taking into account Section 856(h)(3)(A) of the Code); (ii) such Person submits to the Board of Trustees information satisfactory to the Board, in its reasonable discretion, demonstrating that no Person who is an individual for purposes of Section 542(a)(2) of the Code (determined taking into account Section 856(h)(3)(A) of the Code) would be considered to Beneficially Own Common Shares in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or Preferred Shares in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit by reason of such Person’s ownership of Common Shares in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or Preferred Shares in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit pursuant to the exemption granted under this subparagraph (a); (iii) such Person submits to the Board of Trustees information satisfactory to the Board of Trustees, in its reasonable discretion, demonstrating that clauses (2) and (3) of subparagraph (a)(ii) of Section 7.2.1 will not be violated by reason of such Person’s ownership of Common Shares in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or Preferred Shares in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit pursuant to the exemption granted under this subparagraph (a); and (iv) such Person provides to the Board of Trustees such representations and undertakings, if any, as the Board of Trustees may, in its reasonable discretion, require to ensure that the conditions in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) hereof are satisfied and will continue to be satisfied throughout the period during which such Person owns Common Shares in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or Preferred Shares in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit pursuant to any exemption thereto granted under this subparagraph (a), and such Person agrees that any violation of such representations and undertakings or any attempted violation thereof will result in the application of the remedies set forth in Section 7.2 (including without limitation, Section 7.2.5) with respect to Common Shares held in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or Preferred Shares held in excess of the Preferred Share Ownership Limit with respect to such Person (determined without regard to the exemption granted such Person under this subparagraph (a)).

(b) Prior to granting any exemption pursuant to subparagraph (a) of this Section 7.2.7, the Board of Trustees, in its sole and absolute discretion, may require a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service or an opinion of counsel, in either case in form and substance satisfactory to the Board of Trustees, in its sole and absolute discretion as it may deem necessary or advisable in order to determine or ensure the Trust’s status as a REIT; provided , however , that the Board of Trustees shall not be obligated to require obtaining a favorable ruling or opinion in order to grant an exception hereunder.

(c) Subject to Section 7.2.1(a)(ii), an underwriter that participates in a public offering or a private placement of Shares (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for Shares) may

 

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Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for Shares) in excess of the Common Share Ownership Limit or the Preferred Share Ownership Limit, but only to the extent necessary to facilitate such public offering or private placement.

Section 7.2.8 Increase in the Common Share Ownership and the Preferred Share Ownership Limits . Subject to the limitations provided in Section 7.2.1(a)(ii) and this Section 7.2.8, the Board of Trustees may from time to time increase the Common Share Ownership Limit and the Preferred Share Ownership Limit; provided , however , that:

(a) The Common Share Ownership Limit and the Preferred Share Ownership Limit may not be increased if, after giving effect to such change, five Persons who are considered individuals pursuant to Section 542 of the Code, as modified by Section 856(h)(3) of the Code, could Beneficially Own, in the aggregate, more than 49.9% of the value of the outstanding Shares; and

(b) Prior to the modification of the Common Share Ownership Limit or the Preferred Share Ownership Limit pursuant to this Section 7.2.8, the Board of Trustees, in its sole and absolute discretion, may require such opinions of counsel, affidavits, undertakings or agreements as it may deem necessary or advisable in order to determine or ensure the Trust’s status as a REIT if the modification of the Common Share Ownership Limit or the Preferred Share Ownership Limit were to be made.

Section 7.2.9 Legend . Each certificate for Shares shall bear substantially the following legend:

The shares represented by this certificate are subject to restrictions on Beneficial Ownership, Constructive Ownership and Transfer. Subject to certain further restrictions and except as expressly provided in the Trust’s Declaration of Trust, (i) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own the Trust’s Common Shares in excess of 9.8 percent (in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive) of the outstanding Common Shares of the Trust; (ii) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Preferred Shares of the Trust in excess of 9.8 percent (in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive) of the total outstanding shares of such class or series of Preferred Shares of the Trust; (iii) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares that would result in the Trust owning (directly or indirectly) an interest in a tenant that is described in Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code for purposes of applying Section 856(c) of the Code or Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. (or any successor thereto) owning (directly or indirectly) an interest in a tenant that is described in Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code for purposes of applying Section 7704(d) of the Code including but not limited to, as a result of any hotel management companies failing to qualify as “eligible independent contractors” as described in Section 856(d)(9) of the Code, or (b) an amount that would cause the Trust to fail to satisfy any of the gross income requirements of Section 856(c) of the Code; (iv) no Person may Beneficially Own Shares that would result in the Trust being “closely held” under Section 856(h) of the Code (without regard to whether the ownership interest is held during the last half of a taxable year) or otherwise cause the Trust to fail to qualify as a real estate investment trust under the Code; and (v) no Person may Transfer Shares if such Transfer would result in the Shares of the Trust being owned by fewer than 100 Persons (as determined under the principles of Section 856(a)(5) of the Code). Any Person who Beneficially Owns or Constructively Owns, Transfers or attempts to

 

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Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares which causes or will cause a Person to Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares in excess or in violation of the above limitations set forth must immediately notify the Trust. If certain of the restrictions on transfer or ownership are violated, the Shares represented hereby will be automatically transferred to a Charitable Trustee of a Charitable Trust for the benefit of one or more Charitable Beneficiaries. In addition, upon the occurrence of certain events, attempted Transfers in violation of the restrictions described above may be void ab initio . A Person who attempts to Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Shares in violation of the ownership limitations described above shall have no claim, cause of action, or any recourse whatsoever against a transferor of such shares. All capitalized terms in this legend have the meanings defined in the Trust’s Declaration of Trust, as the same may be amended from time to time, a copy of which, including the restrictions on transfer and ownership, will be furnished to each holder of Shares of the Trust on request and without charge.

Instead of the foregoing legend, the certificate may state that the Trust will furnish a full statement about certain restrictions on transferability to a shareholder on request and without charge.

Section 7.3 Transfer of Shares in Trust .

Section 7.3.1 Ownership in Trust . Upon any purported Transfer or other event described in Section 7.2.1(b) that would result in a transfer of Shares to a Charitable Trust, such Shares shall be deemed to have been transferred to the Charitable Trustee as trustee of a Charitable Trust for the exclusive benefit of one or more Charitable Beneficiaries. Such transfer to the Charitable Trustee shall be deemed to be effective as of the close of business on the Business Day prior to the purported Transfer or other event that results in the transfer to the Charitable Trust pursuant to Section 7.2.1(b). The Charitable Trustee shall be appointed by the Trust and shall be a Person unaffiliated with the Trust and any Prohibited Owner. Each Charitable Beneficiary shall be designated by the Trust as provided in Section 7.3.7.

Section 7.3.2 Status of Shares Held by the Charitable Trustee . Shares held by the Charitable Trustee shall be issued and outstanding Shares of the Trust. The Prohibited Owner shall have no rights in the shares held by the Charitable Trustee. The Prohibited Owner shall not benefit economically from ownership of any Shares held in trust by the Charitable Trustee, shall have no rights to dividends or other distributions and shall not possess any rights to vote or other rights attributable to the Shares held in the Charitable Trust. The Prohibited Owner shall have no claim, cause of action, or any other recourse whatsoever against the purported transferor of such Shares.

Section 7.3.3 Dividend and Voting Rights . The Charitable Trustee shall have all voting rights and rights to dividends or other distributions with respect to Shares held in the Charitable Trust, which rights shall be exercised for the exclusive benefit of the Charitable Beneficiary. Any dividend or other distribution paid prior to the discovery by the Trust that Shares have been transferred to the Charitable Trustee shall be paid with respect to such shares to the Charitable Trustee upon demand and any dividend or other distribution authorized but unpaid shall be paid when due to the Charitable Trustee. Any dividends or distributions so paid over to the Charitable Trustee shall be held in trust for the Charitable Beneficiary. The Prohibited Owner shall have no voting rights with respect to shares held in the Charitable Trust and, subject to Maryland law, effective as of the date that Shares have been transferred to the Charitable Trustee, the Charitable Trustee shall have the authority (at the Charitable Trustee’s sole discretion) (i) to rescind as void any vote cast by a Prohibited Owner prior to the discovery by the Trust that Shares have been transferred to the Charitable Trustee and (ii) to recast such vote in accordance with the desires of the Charitable Trustee

 

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acting for the benefit of the Charitable Beneficiary; provided , however , that if the Trust has already taken irreversible action, then the Charitable Trustee shall not have the authority to rescind and recast such vote. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article VII, until the Trust has received notification that Shares have been transferred into a Charitable Trust, the Trust shall be entitled to rely on its share transfer and other shareholder records for purposes of preparing lists of Shareholders entitled to vote at meetings, determining the validity and authority of proxies and otherwise conducting votes of Shareholders.

Section 7.3.4 Rights Upon Liquidation . Upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of or any distribution of the assets of the Trust, the Charitable Trustee shall be entitled to receive, ratably with each other holder of shares of the class or series of Shares that is held in the Charitable Trust, that portion of the assets of the Trust available for distribution to the holders of such class or series (determined based upon the ratio that the number of shares of such class or series of Shares held by the Charitable Trustee bears to the total number of shares of such class or series of Shares then outstanding). The Charitable Trustee shall distribute any such assets received in respect of the shares held in the Charitable Trust in any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of, or distribution of the assets of the Trust, in accordance with Section 7.3.5.

Section 7.3.5 Sale of Shares by Charitable Trustee . Within twenty (20) days of receiving notice from the Trust that Shares have been transferred to the Charitable Trust, the Charitable Trustee shall sell the shares held in the Charitable Trust to a person, designated by the Charitable Trustee, whose ownership of the shares will not violate the ownership limitations set forth in Section 7.2.1(a). In connection with any such sale, the Charitable Trustee shall use good faith efforts to sell such shares at a fair market price. Upon such sale, the interest of the Charitable Beneficiary in the shares sold shall terminate and the Charitable Trustee shall distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the Prohibited Owner and to the Charitable Beneficiary as provided in this Section 7.3.5. The Prohibited Owner shall receive the lesser of (1) the price paid by the Prohibited Owner for the shares or, if the Prohibited Owner did not give value for the shares in connection with the event causing the shares to be held in the Charitable Trust ( e.g. , in the case of a gift, devise or other such transaction), the Market Price of the shares on the day of the event causing the shares to be held in the Charitable Trust and (2) the price per share received by the Charitable Trustee (net of any commissions and other expenses of sale) from the sale or other disposition of the shares held in the Charitable Trust. The Charitable Trustee may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and distributions which have been paid to the Prohibited Owner and are owed by the Prohibited Owner to the Charitable Trustee pursuant to Section 7.3.3 of this Article VII. Any net sales proceeds in excess of the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner shall be immediately paid to the Charitable Beneficiary. If, prior to the discovery by the Trust that Shares have been transferred to the Charitable Trustee, such shares are sold by a Prohibited Owner, then (i) such shares shall be deemed to have been sold on behalf of the Charitable Trust and (ii) to the extent that the Prohibited Owner received an amount for such shares that exceeds the amount that such Prohibited Owner was entitled to receive pursuant to this Section 7.3.5, such excess shall be paid to the Charitable Trustee upon demand.

Section 7.3.6 Purchase Right in Shares Transferred to the Charitable Trustee . Shares transferred to the Charitable Trustee shall be deemed to have been offered for sale to the Trust, or its designee, at a price per share equal to the lesser of (i) the price per share in the transaction that resulted in such transfer to the Charitable Trust (or, in the case of a devise or gift, the Market Price at the time of such devise or gift) and (ii) the Market Price on the date the Trust, or its designee, accepts such offer. The Trust may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and distributions which have been paid to the Prohibited Owner and are owed by the Prohibited Owner to the Charitable Trustee pursuant to Section 7.3.3 of this Article VII. The Trust may pay the amount of such reduction to the Charitable Trustee for the benefit of the Charitable Beneficiary. The Trust shall have the right to accept

 

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such offer until the Charitable Trustee has sold the Shares held in the Charitable Trust pursuant to Section 7.3.5. Upon such a sale to the Trust, the interest of the Charitable Beneficiary in the Shares sold shall terminate and the Charitable Trustee shall distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the Prohibited Owner.

Section 7.3.7 Designation of Charitable Beneficiaries . By written notice to the Charitable Trustee, the Trust shall designate one or more nonprofit organizations to be the Charitable Beneficiary of the interest in the Charitable Trust such that (i) the Shares held in the Charitable Trust would not violate the restrictions set forth in Section 7.2.1(a) in the hands of such Charitable Beneficiary and (ii) each such organization must be described in Sections 501(c)(3), 170(b)(1)(A) or 170(c)(2) of the Code.

Section 7.4 NYSE Transactions . Nothing in this Article VII shall preclude the settlement of any transaction entered into through the facilities of the NYSE or any other national securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system. The fact that the settlement of any transaction takes place shall not negate the effect of any other provision of this Article VII and any transferee in such a transaction shall be subject to all of the provisions and limitations set forth in this Article VII.

Section 7.5 Enforcement . The Trust is authorized specifically to seek equitable relief, including injunctive relief, to enforce the provisions of this Article VII.

Section   7.6 Non-waiver . No delay or failure on the part of the Trust or the Board of Trustees in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver of any right of the Trust or the Board of Trustees, as the case may be, except to the extent specifically waived in writing.

ARTICLE VIII

SHAREHOLDERS

Section 8.1 Meetings . There shall be an annual meeting of the Shareholders, to be held on proper notice at such time and location within or without the State of Maryland as shall be determined by or in the manner prescribed in the Bylaws, for the election of the Trustees, and for the transaction of any other business as may properly come before the meeting. Except as otherwise provided in the Declaration of Trust, special meetings of Shareholders may be called in the manner provided in the Bylaws. Failure to hold an annual meeting does not affect the validity of any act otherwise taken by or on behalf of the Trust or affect the legal existence of the Trust.

Section 8.2 Voting Rights .

(a) Subject to the provisions of any class or series of Shares then outstanding or as otherwise required by law, the Shareholders shall be entitled to vote only on the following matters: (i) election of Trustees as provided in Section 5.2 and the removal of Trustees as provided in Section 5.3; (ii) amendment of the Declaration of Trust as provided in Article X; (iii) termination of the Trust as provided in Section 12.2; (iv) merger or consolidation of the Trust, or the sale or disposition of substantially all of the property of the Trust, as provided in Article XI; (v) such other matters with respect to which the Board of Trustees has adopted a resolution declaring that a proposed action is advisable and directing that the matter be submitted to the Shareholders for approval or ratification; and (vi) such other matters as may be properly brought before a meeting by a Shareholder pursuant to the Bylaws.

(b) Each outstanding share entitled to vote, regardless of class, shall be entitled to one vote on each matter presented to Shareholders.

 

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(c) With the exception of the election and removal of Trustees in accordance with the Declaration and the Bylaws of the Trust and any matter as may be properly brought before a meeting by a Shareholder pursuant to the Bylaws and applicable laws, no action that would bind the Trust and the Trustees may be taken without the prior recommendation of the Trustees. Except with respect to the foregoing matters, no action taken by the Shareholders at any meeting shall in any way bind the Board of Trustees.

Section 8.3 Certain Rights of Stockholders .

(a) Except as may be provided by the Board of Trustees in setting the terms of classified or reclassified Shares pursuant to Section 6.5, no holder of Shares shall, as such holder, have any preemptive right to purchase or subscribe for any additional Shares of the Trust or any other security of the Trust which it may issue or sell .

(b) Shareholders of the Trust are not entitled to exercise the rights of objecting stockholders provided for under Title 3, Subtitle 2 or Title 3, Subtitle 7 of the Maryland General Corporation Law or under Section 8-501.1(c) of the Maryland REIT Law, or any successor statute to any of the foregoing statutory provisions.

Section 8.4 Action by Shareholders without a Meeting . No action required or permitted to be taken by the Shareholders may be taken without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent of the Shareholders.

ARTICLE IX

LIABILITY OF SHAREHOLDERS, TRUSTEES, OFFICERS,

EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS

AND TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN THEM AND THE TRUST

Section 9.1 Limitation of Shareholder Liability . No Shareholder shall be liable for any debt, claim, demand, judgment or obligation of any kind of, against or with respect to the Trust by reason of his being a Shareholder, nor shall any Shareholder be subject to any personal liability whatsoever, in tort, contract or otherwise, to any person in connection with the property or the affairs of the Trust by reason of his being a Shareholder.

Section 9.2 Limitation of Trustee and Officer Liability . To the maximum extent that Maryland law in effect from time to time permits limitation of the liability of trustees and officers of a Maryland real estate investment trust or directors or officers of a Maryland corporation, no Trustee or officer of the Trust shall be liable to the Trust or to any Shareholder for money damages, except to the extent that (a) the Trustee or officer actually received an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services, for the amount of the benefit or profit in money, property, or services actually received, or (b) a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to the Trustee or officer is entered in a proceeding based on a finding in the proceeding that the Trustee’s or officer’s action or failure to act was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty and was material to the cause of action adjudicated in the proceeding. Neither the amendment nor repeal of this Section 9, nor the adoption or amendment of any other provision of the Declaration of Trust inconsistent with this Section 9, shall apply to or affect in any respect the applicability of the preceding sentence with respect to any act or failure to act that occurred prior to such amendment, repeal or adoption.

Section 9.3 Indemnification . To the maximum extent permitted by, and in the manner permissible under, Maryland law in effect from time to time, and in accordance with applicable

 

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provisions of the Bylaws, the Trust shall indemnify, pay and advance expenses for the benefit of any present or former Trustee or officer (including any individual who, at the request of the Trust, serves or has served as a director, officer, partner, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or any other enterprise) against any claim or liability to which he or she may become subject by reason of service in such capacity. The Trust may, with the approval of its Board of Trustees, provide such indemnification or advancement of expenses to any present or former Trustee or officer who served a predecessor of the Trust, and to any employee or agent of the Trust or a predecessor of the Trust. Any amendment of this section shall be prospective only and shall not affect the applicability of this section with respect to any act or failure to act that occurred prior to such amendment.

Section 9.4 Transactions Between the Trust and its Trustees, Officers, Employees and Agents . Subject to any express restrictions in the Declaration of Trust or adopted by the Trustees in the Bylaws or by resolution, the Trust may enter into any contract or transaction of any kind with any person, including any Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust or any person affiliated with a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust, whether or not any of them has a financial interest in such transaction, provided, however, that in the case of any contract or transaction in which any Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust (or any person affiliated with such person) has a material financial interest in such transaction, then: (a) the fact of the interest shall be disclosed or known to: (i) the Board of Trustees, and the Board of Trustees shall approve or ratify the contract or transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of disinterested Trustees, even if the disinterested Trustees constitute less than a quorum, or (ii) the Shareholders entitled to vote on the matter, and the contract or transaction shall be authorized, approved or ratified by a majority of the votes cast by the Shareholders entitled to vote other than the votes of shares owned of record or beneficially by the interested party; or (b) the contract or transaction is fair and reasonable to the Trust.

Section 9.5 Express Exculpatory Clauses in Instruments . The Board of Trustees may cause to be inserted in every written agreement, undertaking or obligation made or issued on behalf of the Trust, an appropriate provision to the effect that neither the Shareholders nor the Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust shall be liable under any written instrument creating an obligation of the Trust, and all Persons shall look solely to the property of the Trust for the payment of any claim under or for the performance of that instrument. The omission of the foregoing exculpatory language from any instrument shall not affect the validity or enforceability of such instrument and shall not render any Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent liable thereunder to any third party nor shall the Trustees or any officer, employee or agent of the Trust be liable to anyone for such omission.

ARTICLE X

AMENDMENTS

Section 10.1 General . The Trust reserves the right from time to time to make any amendment to the Declaration of Trust, now or hereafter authorized by law, including, without limitation, any amendment altering the terms or contract rights, as expressly set forth in the Declaration of Trust, of any Shares. All rights and powers conferred by the Declaration of Trust on Shareholders, Trustees and officers are granted subject to this reservation. The Trust shall file any Articles of Amendment as required by Maryland law. All references to the Declaration of Trust shall include all amendments thereto.

Section 10.2 By Trustees . The Trustees may amend the Declaration of Trust from time to time, in the manner provided by the Maryland REIT Law, without any action by the Shareholders: (i) to qualify as a REIT under the Code or under the Maryland REIT Law, (ii) in any manner in which the charter of a Maryland corporation may be amended without shareholder approval, and (iii) as otherwise provided in the Declaration of Trust.

 

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Section 10.3 By Shareholders . Except as otherwise provided herein, any amendment to the Declaration of Trust shall be valid only after the Board of Trustees has adopted a resolution setting forth the proposed amendment and declaring such amendment advisable, and such amendment has been approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than a majority of the Shares then outstanding and entitled to vote thereon.

Section 10.4 Bylaws . The Board of Trustees shall have the exclusive power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of the Bylaws of the Trust and to make new Bylaws.

ARTICLE XI

MERGER, CONSOLIDATION OR SALE OF TRUST PROPERTY

Subject to the provisions of any class or series of Shares at the time outstanding, the Trust may (a) merge the Trust with or into another entity or merge another entity into the Trust, (b) consolidate the Trust with one or more other entities into a new entity or (c) sell, lease, exchange or otherwise transfer all or substantially all of the property of the Trust. The Board of Trustees in proposing such action shall adopt a resolution that declares that the proposed transaction is advisable on substantially the terms and conditions set forth or referred to in the resolution, and direct that the proposed transaction be submitted for consideration by the Shareholders. Except as otherwise provided by the Maryland REIT Law, the transaction must be approved the affirmative vote of holders of not less than a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter.

ARTICLE XII

DURATION AND TERMINATION OF TRUST

Section 12.1 Duration . The Trust shall continue perpetually unless terminated pursuant to Section 12.2 or pursuant to any applicable provision of the Maryland REIT Law.

Section 12.2 Termination .

(a) Subject to the provisions of any class or series of Shares at the time outstanding, the Trust may be terminated at any time only upon adoption of a resolution by the Board of Trustees declaring that the termination of the Trust is advisable and the approval thereof by the affirmative vote of two thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Upon the termination of the Trust:

(i) The Trust shall carry on no business except for the purpose of winding up its affairs.

(ii) The Trustees shall proceed to wind up the affairs of the Trust and all of the powers of the Trustees under the Declaration of Trust shall continue, including the powers to fulfill or discharge the Trust’s contracts, collect its assets, sell, convey, assign, exchange, transfer or otherwise dispose of all or any part of the remaining property of the Trust to one or more persons at public or private sale for consideration which may consist in whole or in part of cash, securities or other property of any kind, discharge or pay its liabilities and do all other acts appropriate to liquidate its business.

 

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(iii) After paying or adequately providing for the payment of all liabilities, and upon receipt of such releases, indemnities and agreements as the Trustees deem necessary for the protection of the Trust, the Trust may distribute the remaining property of the Trust among the Shareholders so that after payment in full or the setting apart for payment of such preferential amounts, if any, to which the holders of any Shares at the time outstanding shall be entitled, the remaining property of the Trust shall, subject to any participating or similar rights of Shares at the time outstanding, be distributed ratably among the holders of Common Shares at the time outstanding.

(b) After termination of the Trust, the liquidation of its business and the distribution to the Shareholders as herein provided, a majority of the Trustees shall execute and file with the Trust’s records a document certifying that the Trust has been duly terminated, and the Trustees shall be discharged from all liabilities and duties hereunder, and the rights and interests of all Shareholders shall cease.

ARTICLE XIII

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 13.1 Governing Law . The Declaration of Trust is executed and delivered in the State of Maryland with reference to the laws thereof, and the rights of all parties and the validity, construction and effect of every provision hereof shall be subject to and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland without regard to conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

Section 13.2 Reliance by Third Parties . Any certificate shall be final and conclusive as to any person dealing with the Trust if executed by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Trust or a Trustee, and if certifying to: (a) the number or identity of Trustees, officers of the Trust or Shareholders; (b) the due authorization of the execution of any document; (c) the action or vote taken, and the existence of a quorum, at a meeting of the Board of Trustees or Shareholders; (d) a copy of the Declaration of Trust or of the Bylaws as a true and complete copy as then in force; (e) an amendment to the Declaration of Trust; (f) the termination of the Trust; or (g) the existence of any fact relating to the affairs of the Trust. No purchaser, lender, transfer agent or other person shall be bound to make any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction purporting to be made by the Trust on its behalf or by any officer, employee or agent of the Trust.

Section 13.3 Severability .

(a) The provisions of the Declaration of Trust are severable, and if the Board of Trustees shall determine, with the advice of counsel, that any one or more of such provisions (the “Conflicting Provisions”) are in conflict with the Code, the Maryland REIT Law or other applicable federal or state laws, the Conflicting Provisions, to the extent of the conflict, shall be deemed never to have constituted a part of the Declaration of Trust, even without any amendment of the Declaration of Trust pursuant to Article X and without affecting or impairing any of the remaining provisions of the Declaration of Trust or rendering invalid or improper any action taken or omitted prior to such determination. No Trustee shall be liable for making or failing to make such a determination. In the event of any such determination by the Board of Trustees, the Board shall amend the Declaration of Trust in the manner provided in Section 10.2.

(b) If any provision of the Declaration of Trust shall be held invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, such holding shall apply only to the extent of any such invalidity or unenforceability and shall not in any manner affect, impair or render invalid or unenforceable such provision in any other jurisdiction or any other provision of the Declaration of Trust in any jurisdiction.

 

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Section 13.4 Construction . In the Declaration of Trust, unless the context otherwise requires, words used in the singular or in the plural include both the plural and singular and words denoting any gender include all genders. The title and headings of different parts are inserted for convenience and shall not affect the meaning, construction or effect of the Declaration of Trust. In defining or interpreting the powers and duties of the Trust and its Trustees and officers, reference may be made by the Trustees or officers, to the extent appropriate and not inconsistent with the Code or the Maryland REIT Law, to Titles 1 through 3 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, in accordance with the provisions of Title 3, Subtitles 6 and 7, of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, the Trust shall be included within the definition of “corporation” for purposes of such provisions.

Section 13.5 Recordation . The Declaration of Trust and any articles of amendment hereto or articles supplementary hereto shall be filed for record with the SDAT and may also be filed or recorded in such other places as the Trustees deem appropriate, but failure to file for record the Declaration of Trust or any articles of amendment hereto in any office other than in the State of Maryland shall not affect or impair the validity or effectiveness of the Declaration of Trust or any amendment hereto. A restated Declaration of Trust shall, upon filing, be conclusive evidence of all amendments contained therein and may thereafter be referred to in lieu of the original Declaration of Trust and the various articles of amendments thereto.

THIRD: The amendment to and restatement of the Declaration of Trust as hereinabove set forth have been duly advised by the Board of Trustees and approved by the Shareholders of the Trust as required by law.

FOURTH: The total number of shares of beneficial interest which the Trust had authority to issue immediately prior to this amendment and restatement was 25,000,000 common shares of beneficial interest, $0.01 par value per share. The aggregate par value of all shares of beneficial interest having par value was $250,000.

FIFTH: The total number of shares of beneficial interest which the Trust has authority to issue pursuant to the foregoing amendment and restatement of the Declaration of Trust is 500,000,000 shares, consisting of 400,000,000 Common Shares, $0.01 par value per share, and 100,000,000 Preferred Shares, $0.01 par value per share. The aggregate par value of all authorized shares of beneficial interest having par value is $5,000,000.

[Signature page follows.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, these Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Declaration of Trust have been executed on this     th day of November, 2009 by the undersigned, who acknowledge that to the best of their knowledge, information, and belief, the matters and facts set forth herein are true in all material respects and that this statement is made under the penalties for perjury.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

 

Name:
Its:

 

Attest

 

Name:
Its:

Exhibit 3.2

AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS

OF

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

ARTICLE I

Offices

Section 1. Registered Office . The registered office of Chesapeake Lodging Trust (the “Trust”) shall be in Baltimore, Maryland, and the registered agent in charge thereof shall be Corporation Trust Incorporated.

Section 2. Principal Office . The principal office of the Trust shall be located at such place or places as the board of trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) may designate.

Section 3. Other Offices . The Trust may also have offices at such other places both within and without the State of Maryland as the Board may from time to time determine.

ARTICLE II

Shareholders

Section 1. Place of Meetings . Meetings of the holders of the Trust’s shares of beneficial interest (“Shares”) may be held at such place (if any), either within or without the State of Maryland, as shall be designated from time to time by the Board, Chairman of the Board or the President and stated in the notice of the meeting or in a duly executed waiver of notice thereof. If authorized by the Board, and subject to such guidelines and procedures as the Board may adopt, shareholders and proxyholders not physically present at a meeting of shareholders may, by means of remote communication, participate in the meeting and be deemed present in person and vote at the meeting, whether such meeting is to be held in a designated place or solely by means of remote communication, provided that (i) the Trust shall implement reasonable measures to verify the identity and presence of shareholders, in person or by proxy, for quorum and voting purposes, (ii) the Trust shall implement reasonable measures to provide such shareholders and proxyholders a reasonable opportunity to participate in the meeting and to vote on matters submitted to the shareholders, including an opportunity to read or hear the proceedings in the meeting substantially concurrently with such proceedings, and (iii) if the shareholder or proxyholder votes or takes other action at the meeting by means of remote communication, a record of such vote or other action shall be maintained by the Trust. In lieu of holding a meeting of shareholders at a designated place, the Board may, in its sole discretion, determine that any meeting of shareholders may be held solely by means of remote communication.

Section 2. Annual Meetings . The annual meeting of the shareholders for the election of Trustees and for the transaction of any other business as may be properly brought before a meeting shall be held on such date and at such time and place (if any) to be fixed by the Board and stated in the notice of meeting, beginning with the year 2010. Failure to hold an annual meeting does not invalidate the Trust’s existence or affect any otherwise valid acts of the Trust.

Section 3. Special Meetings . The chairman of the board, the chief executive officer, the president or a majority of the Board may call special meetings of the shareholders. A special meeting of the shareholders shall be called by the secretary of the Trust upon the written request of shareholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all votes entitled to be cast at any such meeting. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at such meeting. Upon receipt of such request, the Trust shall inform such shareholders of the reasonably estimated cost of preparing and mailing a notice of the meeting and, upon payment of such costs to the Trust, the Trust shall deliver such notice to each shareholder entitled to notice of such meeting. The Board shall have the sole power to fix the record date for determining shareholders entitled to request a special meeting of shareholders and the date, time and place of the special meeting; provided , however , that the date of any special meeting shall not be more than 90 days after the record date for such meeting; and provided further, that if the Board fails to designate, within 20 days after the date that a valid request for a special meeting is received by the secretary, a date and time for the special meeting, then such meeting shall be held at 2:00 p.m. local time on the 90 th day after the meeting record date, or if such 90 th day is not a business day, on the first preceding business day; and provided further, that in the event that the Board fails to designate a place for the special meeting, then such meeting shall be held at the principal office of the Trust.


Section 4. Notice of Meetings . Notice of any meeting of shareholders, whether annual or special, stating the place (if any), date and time of the meeting, the means of remote communication, if any, by which the shareholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, and in the case of special meetings, the purpose for which such special meeting is called, shall be prepared and delivered by the Trust not less than 10 days or more than 90 days before the date of the meeting (except to the extent that such notice is waived or is not required to be provided pursuant to Maryland law). Notice shall be given personally, by mail, by electronic transmission by the Trust or by such other method of delivery to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law. Such notice shall be deemed to be given (a) if mailed, when deposited in the United States mail addressed to the shareholder at his or he post office address as it appears on the records of the Trust, with postage thereof prepaid, or (b) if sent by electronic transmission by the Trust, when sent.

Notice given by electronic transmission by the Trust shall be valid only as long as neither of the following has occurred: (a) the Trust is unable to deliver two consecutive notices to the shareholder by that means, or (b) the inability to so deliver the notices to the shareholder becomes known to the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary, the transfer agent or other person responsible for the giving of the notice.

An affidavit of the mailing or electronic transmission by the Trust or other means of giving any notice of any shareholders’ meeting shall be executed by the Secretary, Assistant Secretary or any transfer agent of the Trust giving the notice, and shall be filed and maintained in the minute book of the Trust.

Section 5. Record Date for Shareholder Meetings . For the purpose of determining the shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of shareholders or any adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or the allotment of any rights, or for the purpose of any other action, the Board may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the close of business on the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board, and which record date shall not be more than 90 nor less than 10 days before the date of any such meeting, and shall not be more than 90 days prior to any other action, except as provided by law.

In lieu of fixing a record date, the Board may provide that the share transfer books shall be closed for a stated prior but not longer than 20 days. If the share transfer books are closed for the purpose of determining shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of shareholders, such books shall be closed for at least ten days before the date of such meeting.

If no record date is fixed and the share transfer books are not closed for the determination of shareholders, (a) the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of shareholders shall be at the close of business on the day on which the notice of meeting is mailed or the 30 th day before the meeting, whichever is the closer date to the meeting; and (b) the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive payment of a dividend or an allotment of any other rights shall be the close of business on the day on which the resolution of the Board, declaring the dividend or allotment of rights, is adopted.

When a determination of shareholders entitled to vote at any meeting of shareholders has been made as provided in this section, such determination shall apply to any adjournment thereof, except when (i) the determination has been made through the closing of the transfer books and the stated period of closing has expired or (ii) the meeting is adjourned to a date more than 120 days after the record date fixed for the original meeting, in either of which case a new record date shall be determined as set forth herein.

Section 6. Voting of Shares by Certain Holders . Shares of the Trust registered in the name of a corporation, partnership, trust or other entity, if entitled to be voted, may be voted by the president or a vice president, a general partner or trustee thereof, as the case may be, or a proxy appointed by any of the foregoing individuals, unless some other person who has been appointed to vote such Shares pursuant to a bylaw or a resolution of the governing board of such corporation or other entity or agreement of the partners of the partnership presents a certified copy of such bylaw, resolution or agreement, in which case such person may vote such Shares. Any Trustee or other fiduciary may vote Shares registered in is or her name as such fiduciary, either in person or by proxy.

 

2


Shares of the Trust directly or indirectly owned by it shall not be voted at any meeting and shall not be counted in determining the total number of outstanding Shares entitled to be voted at any given time, unless they are held in a fiduciary capacity, in which case they may be voted and shall be counted in determining the total number of outstanding Shares at any given time.

The Board may adopt by resolution a procedure by which a shareholder may certify in writing to the Trust that any Shares registered in the name of the shareholder are held for the account of a specified person other than the shareholder. The resolution shall set forth the class of shareholders who may make the certification, the purpose for which the certification may be made, the form of certification and the information to be contained in it; if the certification is with respect to a record date or closing of the share transfer books, the time after the record date or closing of the share transfer books within which the certification must be received by the Trust; and any other provisions with respect to the procedure which the Board considers necessary or desirable. On receipt of such certification, the person specified in the certification shall be regarded as, for the purposes set forth in the certification, the shareholder of record of the specified shares in place of the shareholder who makes the certification.

Section 7. Quorum and Adjournment . Except as otherwise provided by law, the Declaration of Trust (the “Declaration”) or these bylaws, the holders of a majority in voting power of the outstanding Shares entitled to vote generally in the election of Trustees, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Where a separate vote by a class or series is required, the holders of a majority in voting power of the outstanding Shares of such class or series, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum entitled to take action with respect to the vote on that matter. If, however, such quorum shall not be present at any meeting of the shareholders, the shareholders entitled to vote at such meeting, present in person or by proxy, shall have the power to adjourn the meeting from time to time to a date not more than 120 days after the original record date without a new record date and without notice other than announcement at the meeting. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified.

Section 8. Chairman of Meetings . Meetings of the shareholders shall be presided over by the Chairman of the Board or, if the Chairman is not present, the President or such other Trustee or officer as may be designated by the Board to act as chairman, or if no designation has been made, a chairman shall be chosen at the meeting. The order of business at all meetings of the shareholders and the procedures at the meeting, including such regulation of the manner of voting and the conduct of discussion, shall be determined by the chairman of the meeting. The chairman of the meeting may prescribe such rules, regulation and procedures and take such action as, in the discretion of such chairman, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting, including, without limitation, (a) restricting admissions to the time set for the commencement of the meeting; (b) limiting attendance at the meeting to shareholders of record of the Trust, their duly authorized proxies or other such persons as the chairman of the meeting may determine; (c) limiting participation at the meeting on any other matter to shareholders of record of the Trust entitled to vote on such matter, their duly authorized proxies or other such persons as the chairman of the meeting may determine; (d) limiting the time allotted to questions or comments by participants; (e) maintaining order and security at the meeting; and (f) removing any shareholder or any other person who refuses to comply with meeting procedures, rules or guidelines as set forth by the chairman of the meeting. The chairman shall have the power and authority to determine and declare at the meeting that any proposed item of business was not properly brought before the meeting in accordance with Section 9 of this Article II, and any such business not properly brought before the meeting shall not be conducted.

Section 9. Notice of Shareholder Business . At any meeting of the shareholders, only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before the meeting. To be properly brought before a meeting of shareholders, business (other than the nomination of trustees, which is addressed in Section 10 of this Article II) must be (i) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto) given at the direction of the Board, (ii) properly brought before the meeting by or at the direction of the Board, or (iii) properly brought before a meeting by a shareholder. For business to be properly brought before a meeting by a shareholder, it must be a proper matter for shareholder action under Maryland law, and the shareholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the Secretary of the Trust. To be timely, notice by a shareholder must be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Trust, not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the one year anniversary of the prior year’s annual meeting (or not earlier than December 31, 2009 or later than January 31, 2010, in the case of the 2010 Annual Meeting). Notwithstanding the foregoing, notice given by a

 

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shareholder of a matter proposed to be included on the proxy card prepared by the Trust in respect of an annual meeting and that is actually included on such proxy card shall be deemed to have been given timely if the shareholder shall have complied with the requirements of Rule 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any successor provision then in effect, in which case the shareholder making the proposal in accordance with Rule 14a-8 will not be required to provide the additional information required by this Section 9.

Notice by a shareholder to the Secretary of the Trust shall set forth as to each matter the shareholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting (i) a description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting; (ii) the name and address of the shareholder proposing such business and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the business is being brought; (iii) a complete and accurate description of (A) the class or series and number of Shares which are, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially and of record by such shareholder and such beneficial owner, (B) any option, warrant, convertible security, share appreciation right, or similar right with an exercise or conversion privilege or a settlement payment or mechanism at a price related to any class or series of Shares or with a value derived in whole or in part from the value of any class or series of Shares, whether or not such instrument or right shall be subject to settlement in the underlying class or series of Shares or otherwise (a “Derivative Instrument”) directly or indirectly owned beneficially by such shareholder and any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of Shares, (C) any proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding, or relationship pursuant to which such shareholder has a right to vote any Shares, (D) any short interest in any Shares or other security of the Trust (for purposes of these Bylaws a person shall be deemed to have a short interest in a security if such person directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has the opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any decrease in the value of the subject security), (E) any rights to dividends on the Shares owned beneficially by such shareholder that are separated or separable from the underlying Shares, (F) any proportionate interest in Shares or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which such shareholder is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner; and (G) any performance-related fees (other than an asset-based fee) that such shareholder is entitled to based on any increase or decrease in the value of Shares or Derivative Instruments, if any, as of the date of such notice, including without limitation any such interests held by members of such shareholder’s immediate family sharing the same household (which information shall be supplemented by such shareholder and beneficial owner, if any, not later than 10 days after the record date for the meeting to disclose such ownership as of the record date); and (iv) any material interest of the shareholder and such other beneficial owner in such business. In no event shall an announcement of an adjournment or postponement of a meeting of shareholders commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a shareholder’s notice as described above.

Section 10. Nomination of Trustee Candidates . Subject to any provision of the Declaration or any Articles Supplementary establishing the rights of holders of any class or series of the Trust’s Shares then outstanding, nominations for the election or re-election of Trustees at any meeting of the shareholders at which trustees are to be elected may be made by (i) the Board or a duly authorized committee thereof or (ii) any shareholder entitled to vote in the election of Trustees generally who complies with the procedures set forth in these Bylaws and who is a shareholder of record at the time notice is delivered to the Secretary of the Trust. Subject to any provision of the Declaration or any Articles Supplementary establishing the rights of holders of any class or series of the Trust’s Shares then outstanding, any shareholder of record entitled to vote in the election of Trustees generally may nominate one or more persons for election or re-election as Trustees at an annual meeting only if timely notice of such shareholder’s intent to make such nominations has been given in writing to the Secretary of the Trust. To be timely, notice of a shareholder nomination for a Trustee to be elected must be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Trust, not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the one year anniversary of the prior year’s annual meeting in the case of an annual meeting (or not earlier than December 31, 2009 or later than January 31, 2010, in the case of the 2010 Annual Meeting), and not less than 60 days prior to the meeting in the case of a special meeting at which trustees are to be elected; provided , however , that if a public announcement of the date of the special meeting is not given at least 70 days before the scheduled date for such special meeting, then a shareholder’s nomination shall be timely if it is received at the principal executive offices of the Trust within 10 days following the date such public announcement of the meeting date is first given, whether by press release or other public filing.

Each such notice shall set forth: (i) the name and address of (x) the shareholder of record who intends to make the nomination and (y) of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is being made, together

 

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with a complete and accurate description of (A) the class or series and number of Shares which are, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially and of record by such shareholder and such beneficial owner, (B) any Derivative Instrument directly or indirectly owned beneficially by such shareholder and any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of Shares, (C) any proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding, or relationship pursuant to which such shareholder has a right to vote any Shares, (D) any short interest in any Shares or other security of the Trust, (E) any rights to dividends on the Shares owned beneficially by such shareholder that are separated or separable from the underlying Shares, (F) any proportionate interest in Shares or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which such shareholder is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner; and (G) any performance-related fees (other than an asset-based fee) that such shareholder is entitled to based on any increase or decrease in the value of Shares or Derivative Instruments, if any, as of the date of such notice, including without limitation any such interests held by members of such shareholder’s immediate family sharing the same household (which information shall be supplemented by such shareholder and beneficial owner, if any, not later than 10 days after the record date for the meeting to disclose such ownership as of the record date); (ii) a representation that the shareholder is the holder of record of the Trust’s Shares entitled to vote for the election of Trustees on the date of such notice and intends to remain a record holder through the date of the meeting and appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to nominate each person specified in the notice; (iii) a description of all the arrangements or understandings between the shareholder or such beneficial owner and each nominee and any other person (naming such person) pursuant to which the nomination is to be made by the shareholder; (iv) such other information regarding each nominee proposed by such shareholder as would be required to be included in solicitations of proxies for the election of Trustees in an election contest or is otherwise required pursuant to the federal securities laws and regulations, had the nominee been nominated, or intended to be nominated, by the Board; and (v) the name and address of each person to be nominated and the written consent of each nominee to serve as a Trustee of the Trust if so elected. In addition, the Trust may require any proposed nominee to furnish such other information, including (but without limitation) a completed questionnaire and representation letter, as may reasonably be required by the Trust to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee to serve as an independent trustee of the Trust or that could be material to a reasonable shareholder’s understanding of the independence, or lack thereof, of such nominee.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the number of Trustees to be elected at an annual meeting is increased and there is no public announcement by the Trust naming the nominees for the additional Board seats at least 110 days prior to such meeting, a shareholder’s notice required by this Section 10 shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for the additional Board seats, if it shall be delivered to the Secretary of the Trust no later than the close of business on the 10th day following the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Trust. In no event shall an announcement of an adjournment or postponement of a meeting of shareholders commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a shareholder’s notice as described above.

Section 11. Voting Rights; Proxies . Unless otherwise provided in the Declaration, each shareholder shall be entitled to one vote for each Share held by such shareholder. At any meeting of shareholders, every shareholder entitled to vote at a meeting of shareholders or to express consent or dissent to corporate action without a meeting may vote in person or may authorize another person or persons to act for such shareholder by proxy if such proxy is authorized by the shareholder or by his or her duly authorized agent or attorney-in-fact by a written authorization signed and delivered to the Trust, by an electronic transmission to the Trust or by any other manner permitted by law. Such proxy shall be filed with the secretary of the Trust in paper form or by electronic transmission to the Trust before or at the time of the meeting. A proxy shall be deemed signed if the shareholder’s name or other authorization is placed on the proxy (whether by manual signature, typewriting, electronic transmission or otherwise in accordance with Maryland law) by the shareholder or the shareholder’s attorney-in-fact. A validly executed proxy which does not state that it is irrevocable shall continue in full force and effect unless (a) revoked by the person executing it, before the vote pursuant to that proxy, by a writing delivered to the Trust stating that the proxy is revoked, or by a subsequent proxy executed by, or attendance at the meeting and voting in person by, the person executing the proxy; or (b) written notice of the death or incapacity of the maker of that proxy is received by the Trust before the vote pursuant to that proxy is counted; provided, however, that no proxy shall be valid after the expiration of eleven (11) months from the date of the proxy unless otherwise provided in the proxy.

Except as otherwise provided by law or by the Declaration:

(a) Trustees shall be elected by a plurality in voting power of the Shares present in person or represented by proxy at a meeting of the shareholders and entitled to vote in the election of Trustees; and

 

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(b) Whenever any corporate action other than the election of Trustees is to be taken, it shall be authorized by a vote of a greater number of votes for the matter than against the matter at a meeting of shareholders where a quorum is present, unless a higher vote is required herein or by statute or by the Declaration.

Any vote of shareholders may be taken by written ballot, and if so authorized by the Board, electronic transmission, telephonic communication or other means of remote communication shall constitute a written ballot. Every written ballot shall state the name of the shareholder or proxyholder voting and such other information as may be required under the procedures established for the meeting. If so authorized by the Board, and in addition to such guidelines and procedures as the Board may adopt, every shareholder vote taken by electronic or other means of remote communication shall set forth such information from which it can be determined to the reasonable satisfaction of the Trust that the communication was authorized by the shareholder or proxyholder. Every vote taken at the meeting shall be counted by an inspector or inspectors appointed by the chairman of the meeting. The Board shall, in advance of any meeting of the shareholders, appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting, decide upon the qualification of voters, count the votes, decide the results and make a written report thereof. The Board may designate one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act, and if no inspector or alternate is able to act at a meeting of shareholders, the person presiding at the meeting may, and to the extent required by law shall, appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his or her duties, shall take and sign an oath to faithfully execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability.

Section 12. Shareholder Action Without a Meeting . Except as otherwise prohibited or restricted by applicable law or the Declaration, any action that may be taken at any annual or special meeting of shareholders may be taken without a meeting and without prior notice, if consents, setting forth the actions so taken, are delivered to the Trust in writing or by electronic transmission by the holders of all outstanding Shares entitled to cast votes on the matter at a meeting of shareholders. Such delivery shall be by delivery to the Secretary of the Trust or such other officer or agent of the Trust as shall then maintain custody of the corporate records in which proceedings of meetings of shareholders are recorded. Delivery shall be by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, if in paper form, by electronic transmission to the Trust or by such other reasonable procedures as may be adopted by the Board. All such consents shall be filed with the Secretary of the Trust and shall be maintained in the corporate records.

Section 13. Control Share Acquisitions . Subtitle 7 of Title 3 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, or any successor statute, shall not apply to any control share acquisition (as such term is defined in such Subtitle 7). This section may be repealed, in whole or in part, whether before or after an acquisition of control shares and, upon such repeal, may, to the extent provided by any successor bylaw, apply to any prior or subsequent control share acquisition.

ARTICLE III

Board of Trustees

Section 1. General Powers . The business of the Trust shall be managed by or under the direction of its Board. In addition to the powers and authorities by these Bylaws expressly conferred upon them, the Board may exercise all such powers of the Trust and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by law or by the Declaration or these Bylaws required to be exercised or done by the shareholders. In the event of a vacancy in the Board, the remaining Trustees, except as otherwise provided by law, may exercise the powers of the full Board until the vacancy is filled. A Trustee shall be an individual at least 21 years of age who is not under legal disability. In case of failure to elect Trustees at an annual meeting of the shareholders, the Trustees holding over shall continue to direct the management of the business and affairs of the Trust until their successors are elected and qualified.

Section 2. Number . The number of Trustees, which shall constitute the entire Board, shall not be fewer than one or more than eleven (11) members, as shall be determined by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Trustees then in office.

Section 3. Vacancies . Vacancies resulting from death, resignation or retirement of a Trustee and newly created Board seats resulting from any increase in the authorized number of Trustees may be filled only by the

 

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affirmative vote of a majority of the Trustees then in office, though less than a quorum, and Trustees so chosen shall hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders and until their successors have been duly elected and qualified.

Section 4. Resignation . Any Trustee may resign at any time by giving notice in writing or by electronic transmission of his or her resignation to the Board. A resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein or, if not so specified, immediately upon its receipt. Unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.

Section 5. Removal . Any Trustee may be removed from office at any time but only for cause and then only by the affirmative vote or written consent of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all of the then outstanding Shares entitled to vote generally in the election of Trustees, voting together as a single class. For the purpose of this paragraph, “cause” shall mean, with respect to any particular trustee, conviction of a felony or a final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such trustee caused demonstrable, material harm to the Trust through gross negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty.

Section 6. Meetings . The Chairman of the Board shall preside at all meetings of the Board at which he or she shall be present. In his or her absence, such other Trustee as may from time to time be designated to serve as the Presiding Trustee by the Board shall so preside or, if both the Chairman and the Presiding Trustee are absent for a particular meeting, the Board shall choose a chairman of the meeting who shall preside thereat.

(a) Regular Meetings . Regular meetings of the Board may be held without notice at such time and place, within or without the State of Maryland, as shall be determined from time to time by the Board; provided that any Trustee who is absent when such a determination is made shall be given notice of the determination. A regular meeting of the Board may be held without notice immediately after and at the same place as the annual meeting of shareholders.

(b) Special Meetings . Special meetings of the Board may be called by the Chairman of the Board, the President or two or more Trustees and may be held at any time and place, within or without the State of Maryland. The Secretary of the Trust or the officer or one of the Trustees calling the meeting shall give notice of the time and place of any special meeting of Trustees to each Trustee.

(c) Notice . Notice, if required, shall be given by (i) giving notice to such Trustee in person or by telephone, facsimile, electronic transmission or voice message system at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the meeting, (ii) delivering written notice by hand, to his or her last known business or home address at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the meeting, or (iii) mailing written notice to his or her last known business or home address at least 3 days in advance of the meeting. Notice of any meeting of the Board or any committee thereof need not be given to any Trustee who shall submit, either before or after the time stated therein, a waiver of notice in writing or by electronic transmission or who shall attend the meeting, other than for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning thereof to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. A notice or waiver of notice of a meeting of the Board, if required, need not specify the purpose or purposes of the meeting.

Section 7. Quorum and Adjournment . Except as may be otherwise specifically provided by law, the Declaration or these Bylaws, at all meetings of the Board, a majority of the entire Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting of the Board, the Trustees present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present. If the place, date and time of the new meeting are not announced at the adjourned meeting, notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to all Trustees. The act of a majority of the Trustees present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the Board.

Section 8. Action Without a Meeting . Unless otherwise provided by the Declaration or these Bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board or any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting, if all the members of the Board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and the writing or writings or transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board or committee. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form.

 

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Section 9. Meetings by Telephone Conference or Other Method of Remote Communication . Trustees or any member of any committee designated by the Board may participate in a meeting of the Board or such committee by means of a telephone conference, electronic video screen communication or other communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting pursuant to this Section 9 shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.

Section 10. Dividends . To the extent permitted by law, the Board shall have full power and discretion, subject to the provisions of the Declaration and the terms of any other corporate document or instrument binding upon the Trust, to determine what, if any, dividends or distributions shall be declared and paid or made. Dividends and other distributions may be paid in cash, property or Shares, subject to the provisions of law and the Declaration. Before payment of any dividends or other distributions, there may be set aside out of any funds of the Trust available for dividends or other distributions such sum or sums as the Board may from time to time, in their absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve fund for contingencies, for equalizing dividends or other distributions, for repairing or maintaining any property of the Trust or for such other purpose as the Board shall determine to be in the best interest of the Trust, and the Board may modify or abolish any such reserve in the manner in which it was created.

Section 11. Committees . The Board may designate one or more committees to serve at the pleasure of the Board; each committee shall consist of one or more of the Trustees of the Trust, with such lawfully delegated powers and duties as the Board shall therefore confer. The Board may designate one or more Trustees as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, if no alternate member has been designated by the Board, the member or members present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board to act at the meeting in the place of the absent or disqualified member. Any committee, to the extent allowed by law and provided in the resolution establishing such committee, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board in the management of the business and affairs of the Trust.

At all meetings of such committee, a majority of its members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The act of the committee members present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of such committee. Each committee shall keep regular minutes and report to the Board when required. Except as the Board may otherwise determine, any committee may make rules for the conduct of its business, but unless otherwise provided by such rules, its business shall be conducted as nearly as possible in the same manner as is provided in these Bylaws for the Board.

Section 12. Compensation of Trustees . Each Trustee who is not an employee or officer of the Trust or its subsidiaries may be paid such compensation for their services as such and such reimbursement for expenses of attendance at meetings as the Board may from time to time determine.

Section 13. Interested Trustee Transactions . The procedures provided for under Section 2-419 of the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”) shall be available for and apply to any contract or other transaction between the Trust and any of its Trustees or between the Trust and any other trust, corporation, firm or other entity in which any of its Trustees is a trustee or director or has a material financial interest.

ARTICLE IV

Officers

Section 1. General . The officers of the Trust shall include a President, a Secretary and a Treasurer, and such other officers as may be appointed by the Board. The same person may hold any number of offices unless otherwise prohibited by law, the Declaration or these Bylaws. Officers shall be entitled to such compensation or reimbursement as shall be fixed or allowed from time to time by the Board.

 

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Section 2. Term, Resignation and Removal . The officers of the Trust shall be elected annually by the Board at the first meeting of the Board held in each calendar year; provided , however , that the President shall have the power and authority under these Bylaws to appoint officers at the level of vice president and below without approval of the Board at any time. If the election of officers shall not be held at such meeting, such election shall be held as soon thereafter as may be convenient. Each officer shall exercise and perform such duties as shall be determined from time to time by the Board, and all officers shall hold office until their successors are chosen and qualified, unless a different term is specified in the vote appointing him or her, or until their earlier death, resignation or removal. Any officer may resign by delivering his or her resignation in writing or by electronic transmission to the Trust at its principal office or to the Secretary of the Trust. Such resignation shall be effective upon receipt unless it is specified to be effective at some other time or upon the happening of some other event. Any officers may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board. The Board shall fill any vacancy occurring in any office of the Trust; provided , however , that the President shall have the power and authority under these Bylaws to fill any vacancy occurring in any office at the level of vice president and below without approval of the Board at any time.

Section 3. President . Unless otherwise provided by the Board, the President shall have full responsibility and authority for management of the operations of the Trust, subject to the authority of the Board. The President shall have the power to sign Share certificates, contracts, obligations and other instruments of the Trust that are authorized and shall have general supervision and direction of all of the other officers, employees and agents of the Trust. To the extent permitted by law, the President shall also exercise any such powers and perform any such duties that are delegated to him or her by the Board.

Section 4. Secretary . The Secretary shall perform such duties and shall have such powers as the Board or the President may from time to time prescribe. The Secretary or his or her designee shall attend all meetings of the Board and all meetings of shareholders and record all the proceedings thereat in the corporate records kept for that purpose; the Secretary or his or her designee shall also perform like duties for the committees of the Board when required. The Secretary shall have the duty and power to give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the shareholders and special meetings of the Board, to maintain a Share ledger and prepare lists of shareholders and their addresses as required, and to be custodian of the corporate seal and to affix and attest the same on documents so requiring it. The Secretary shall see that all books, reports, statement, certificates and other documents and records required by law to be kept or filed are properly kept or filed, as the case may be.

Section 5. Treasurer . The Treasurer shall perform such duties and shall have such powers as the Board or the President may from time to time prescribe. The Treasurer shall have the care and custody of the funds including the borrowing thereof, the securities, receipts and disbursements of the Trust, and shall sign all instruments that require his or her signature. The Treasurer shall deposit all funds and other valuables in the name and credit of the Trust with such depositories as authorized, disburse such funds as authorized, make proper accounts of such funds, and render to the Board and the President, whenever requested, an account of his or her transactions as Treasurer.

ARTICLE V

Shares of Beneficial Interest

Section 1. Certificated and Uncertificated Shares . The Trust’s Shares may be certificated or uncertificated, as provided under Maryland law. All certificates representing Shares shall be numbered and shall be entered in the books of the Trust as they are issued. They shall exhibit the holder’s name and number of Shares and shall be signed by the Chairman of the Board or the President and the Treasurer or the Secretary of the Trust. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Trust with the same effect as if he were such officer, transfer agent or registrar. Each certificate representing Shares which are restricted as to their beneficial ownership or transferability, shall have a statement of such restriction, limitation, preference or redemption provision, or a summary thereof, plainly stated on the certificate. In lieu of such statement or summary, the Trust may set forth upon the face or back of the certificate a statement that the Trust will furnish to any shareholder, upon request and without charge, a full statement of such information. At the time of issue or transfer of Shares without certificates, the Trust shall send the shareholder a written statement of information required on the certificates by Section 8-203 of Title 8 of the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

 

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Section 2. Lost Certificates . The Trust may issue a new Share certificate in place of any previously issued certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen, or destroyed, upon such terms and conditions as the Board may prescribe for the protection of the Trust or any transfer agent or registrar, including the presentation of reasonable evidence of such loss, theft or destruction and the giving of such indemnity, not to exceed double the value of the Shares represented thereby, as a condition precedent to the issuance of the new certificate.

Section 3. Transfers . Each certificate for Shares which are subject to any restriction on transfer pursuant to the Declaration, these Bylaws, applicable securities laws or any agreement among any number of shareholders or among such holders and the Trust shall have conspicuously noted on the face or back the certificate either the full text of the restriction or a statement of the existence of such a restriction.

Except as otherwise established by rules and regulations established by the Board, and subject to applicable law, transfers of Shares shall be made on the books of the Trust by the surrender to the Trust or its transfer agent of a certificate, in the case of Shares represented by a certificate, or uncertificated security representing such Shares properly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignment or authority to transfer, a written assignment or power of attorney properly executed, and with such proof of authority or authenticity of signature as the Trust or its transfer agent may reasonably require. Except as may be otherwise required by law, the Declaration or these Bylaws, the Trust shall be entitled to treat the record holder of Shares as shown on its books as the owner of such Shares for all purposes, including the payment of dividends and the right to vote such Shares, regardless of any transfer, pledge or other disposition of such Shares, until the Shares have been transferred on the books of the Trust in accordance with the requirements of these Bylaws.

Section 4. Share Ledger . The Trust shall maintain at its principal office or at the office of its counsel, accountants or transfer agent, an original or duplicate Share ledger containing the name and address of each shareholder and the number of Shares of each class held by such shareholder.

Section 5. Fractional Shares . The Board may issue fractional Shares or provide for the issuance of scrip, all on such terms and under such conditions as they may determine.

ARTICLE VI

General Provisions

Section 1. Fiscal Year . The fiscal year of the Trust shall be as specified by the Board.

Section 2. Corporate Seal . The corporate seal, if one is adopted, shall be in such form as shall be approved by the Board. Whenever the Trust is permitted or required to affix its seal to a document, it shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of any law, rule or regulation relating to a seal to place the word “(SEAL)” adjacent to the signature of the person authorized to execute the document on behalf of the Trust.

Section 3. Voting Shares in Other Business Entities . Except as the Board may otherwise designate, shares or equity interests in other corporations or business entities that are held by the Trust shall be represented and voted only by the President, the Secretary, the Treasurer or a proxy appointed by any of them, or by such other officer of the Trust as may be designated by resolution of the Board.

Section 4. Contracts . Any officer having the power to sign certificates, contracts, obligations and other instruments of the Trust may delegate such power to any other officer or employee of the Trust, provided that the delegating officer shall be accountable for the actions of that officer or employee to whom power was delegated.

Section 5. Obligations . All checks and drafts on the Trust’s bank accounts and all bills of exchange and promissory notes, and all acceptances, obligations, bonds and other orders or instruments for the payment of money, shall be signed by such officer, employee, or agent, as shall be authorized from time to time by the Board. The Board may, in its discretion, also provide for the countersignature or registration of any or all such orders, instruments or obligations for the payment of money.

 

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Section 6. Evidence of Authority . A certificate by the Secretary as to any action taken by the shareholders, Trustees, a committee or any officer or representative of the Trust, shall as to all persons who rely on the certificate in good faith be conclusive evidence of such action.

Section 7. Severability . Any determination that any provision of these Bylaws is for any reason inapplicable, illegal or ineffective shall not affect or invalidate any other provision of these Bylaws.

Section 8. Facsimile Signatures . In addition to the provisions for use of facsimile signatures elsewhere specifically authorized by these Bylaws, facsimile signatures of any officer or officers of the Trust maybe used whenever and as authorized by the Board or a committee thereof.

Section 9. Plural . As contained in these Bylaws, references to the singular shall include the singular and the plural.

Section 10. Electronic Transmission . For purposes of these Bylaws, “electronic transmission” means any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved, and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process.

ARTICLE VII

Indemnification

Section 1. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses . To the maximum extent permitted by, and in the manner permissible under, Maryland law in effect from time to time, the Trust shall indemnify and pay and advance expenses for the benefit of any present or former Trustee or officer (including any individual who, at the request of the Trust, serves or has served as a director, officer, partner, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or any other enterprise) against any claim or liability to which he or she may become subject by reason of service in such capacity. The Trust may, with the approval of the Board, provide such indemnification or payment or reimbursement of expenses to any Trustee, officer or shareholder or any former Trustee, officer or shareholder who served a predecessor of the Trust and to any employee or agent of the Trust or a predecessor of the Trust and, with respect to persons other than Trustees and officers, may provide indemnification to such further extent as shall be permitted by applicable law.

Neither the amendment nor repeal of this Article, or the adoption or amendment of any other provision of the Declaration or these Bylaws inconsistent with this Article, shall apply to or affect in any respect the applicability of this Article with respect to any act or omission that occurred prior to the effective date of such amendment, repeal or adoption.

Any indemnification or payment or reimbursement of the expenses permitted by these Bylaws shall be furnished in accordance with the procedures provided for indemnification or payment or reimbursement of expenses, as the case may be, under Section 2-418 of the MGCL for directors of Maryland corporations and under any resolution of the Board or indemnification contract that the Trust shall approve or adopt. The Trust may provide to Trustees, officers, employees, agents and shareholders of such other and further indemnification or payment or reimbursement of expenses, as the case ay be, to the fullest extent permitted by the MGCL, as in effect from time to time, for directors of Maryland corporations, and, with respect to persons other than Trustees or officers, to such further extent as shall be permitted by applicable law.

Section 2. Non-Exclusive Rights . The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided in this Article VII shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which any person may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, resolution of the Board, or other vote of shareholders or disinterested Trustees, or otherwise, both as to action in such person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be such Trustee, officer, employee, or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, and administrators of such person.

 

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Section 3. Insurance . The Trust may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of the Trust, any predecessor of the Trust or any subsidiary of the Trust, any predecessor of the Trust or any subsidiary of the Trust, or is or was serving at the request of the Trust as a director, officer, employee, or agent of Another Enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person in any such capacity, or arising out of such person’s status as such, whether or not the Trust would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability under the provisions of this Article VII or otherwise.

Section 4. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Article VII shall be held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (1) the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Article VII (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph or clause containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby; and (2) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Article VII (including, without limitation, each such portion of any paragraph or clause containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested by the provision held invalid, illegal, or unenforceable.

ARTICLE VIII

Amendment

The Board shall have the exclusive power to adopt, alter, amend or repeal any provision of these Bylaws and to make new Bylaws.

*            *            *

The foregoing Bylaws were adopted by the Board of Trustees on November     , 2009.

 

 

Secretary

 

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Exhibit 10.1

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made this [            ] day of [            ] , 2009, by Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “Company”), and Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “REIT”), each with its principal place of business at 710 Route 46 East, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004, and James L. Francis, residing at the address on file with the REIT (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS, the REIT is the general partner of the Company; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into this agreement to reflect the Executive’s executive capacities in the REIT’s business and to provide for the Company’s and the REIT’s employment of the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the parties wish to set forth the terms and conditions of that employment;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by the parties hereto, the parties agree as follows:

 

1. Term of Employment

The Company and the REIT hereby employ the Executive, and the Executive hereby accepts employment with the Company and the REIT, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. Unless terminated earlier pursuant to Section 5, the Executive’s employment pursuant to this Agreement shall be for the three (3) year period commencing on the date of closing of the initial public offering of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest pursuant to the REIT’s registration statement on Form S-11 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commencement Date”) and ending on the third anniversary of the Commencement Date (the “Initial Term”). The Initial Term shall be extended for an additional twelve (12) months on each anniversary of the Commencement Date unless the Company or the Executive provides written notice to the contrary at least ninety (90) days before the applicable anniversary of the Commencement Date. The Initial Term, together with any such extensions, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” In the event that the Board of Trustees of the REIT (the “Board of Trustees”) determines that active efforts to complete the closing of the initial public offering have been abandoned, this Agreement shall become null and void.

 

2. Title; Duties

The Executive shall be employed as President and Chief Executive Officer of the REIT. The Executive shall report to the Board of Trustees, who shall have the authority to direct, control and supervise the activities of the Executive. The Executive shall perform such services consistent with his position as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Trustees and are consistent with the bylaws of the REIT and the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Company as it may be amended from time to time, including, but not limited to, managing the affairs of the REIT and the Company.


3. Extent of Services

 

  (a) General . The Executive agrees not to engage in any business activities during the Employment Period except those which are for the sole benefit of the Company or the REIT and their subsidiaries (the Company and the REIT are hereinafter referred to as the “Company Group”), and to devote his entire business time, attention, skill and effort to the performance of his duties under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may, without impairing or otherwise adversely affecting the Executive’s performance of his duties to the Company Group, (i) engage in personal investments and charitable, professional and civic activities, and (ii) with the prior approval of the Board of Trustees, serve on the boards of directors of corporations other than the REIT, provided, however, that no such approval shall be necessary for the Executive’s continued service on any board of directors on which he was serving on the date of this Agreement, all of which have been previously disclosed to the Board of Trustees in writing and provided further, that in no event shall the Executive be permitted to serve on the board of directors of any other entity that owns, operates, acquires, sells, develops and/or manages any hotel or similar asset in the lodging industry. The Executive shall perform his duties to the best of his ability, shall adhere to the Company Group’s published policies and procedures, and shall use his best efforts to promote the Company Group’s interests, reputation, business and welfare.

 

  (b) Corporate Opportunities . The Executive agrees that he will not take personal advantage of any business opportunities which arise during his employment with the Company Group and which may be of benefit to the Company Group. All material facts regarding such opportunities must be promptly reported by the Executive to the Board of Trustees for consideration by the Company Group.

 

4. Compensation and Benefits

 

  (a) Salary . The Company shall pay the Executive a gross base annual salary (“Base Salary”) of $700,000. The salary shall be payable in arrears in approximately equal semi-monthly installments (except that the first and last such semi-monthly installments may be prorated if necessary) on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, minus such deductions as may be required by law or reasonably requested by the Executive. The REIT’s Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) shall review his Base Salary annually in conjunction with its regular review of employee salaries and may increase (but not decrease) his Base Salary as in effect from time to time as the Compensation Committee shall deem appropriate.

 

  (b)

Annual Bonus . Executive shall be entitled to earn bonuses with respect to each fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), based upon Executive’s and the Company Group’s achievement of performance objectives set by the Company, with a threshold bonus of fifty percent (50%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), a targeted bonus of one hundred percent (100%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), and a

 

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maximum bonus of one hundred fifty percent (150%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year). Any such bonus earned by the Executive shall be paid annually by March 15 of the year following the end of the year for which the bonus was earned.

 

  (c) Restricted Share Grants . The Company shall grant to the Executive 153,000 of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest subject to certain time vesting requirements and other conditions set forth in the applicable award agreement. The Company shall also grant to the Executive 40,000 of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest subject to attainment of certain performance goals and other conditions set forth in the applicable award agreement.

 

  (d) Other Benefits . The Executive shall be entitled to paid time off and holiday pay in accordance with the Company Group’s policies in effect from time to time and shall be eligible to participate in such life, health, and disability insurance, pension, deferred compensation and incentive plans, options and awards, performance bonuses and other benefits as the Company Group extends, as a matter of policy, to its executive employees. The Company Group shall maintain a disability insurance policy or plan covering the Executive during the Employment Period.

 

  (e) Reimbursement of Business Expenses . The Company shall reimburse the Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other expenses incurred or paid by the Executive in connection with, or related to, the performance of his duties, responsibilities or services under this Agreement, upon presentation by the Executive of documentation, expense statements, vouchers, and/or such other supporting information as the Company may reasonably request.

 

  (f) Physical Examinations . The Company shall pay or reimburse the Executive for all uninsured costs of a comprehensive annual physical examination by a physician of his choice annually up to $10,000 per year.

 

  (g) Financial Planning . The Company shall pay or reimburse the Executive for reasonable financial planning services annually up to $15,000 per year.

 

  (h) Timing of Reimbursements . Any reimbursement under this Agreement that is taxable to the Executive shall be made by December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Executive incurred the expense.

 

5. Termination

 

  (a)

Termination by the Company for Cause . The Company may terminate the Executive’s employment under this Agreement at any time for Cause, upon written notice by the Company to the Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” for termination shall mean any of the following: (i) the conviction of the Executive of, or the entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere by the Executive to, any felony; (ii) fraud, misappropriation or embezzlement by the Executive; (iii) the Executive’s willful failure or gross negligence in the performance of his

 

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assigned duties for the Company Group, which failure or negligence continues for more than fifteen (15) calendar days following the Executive’s receipt of written notice of such willful failure or gross negligence; (iv) the Executive’s breach of any of his fiduciary duties to the Company Group; (v) any act or omission of the Executive that has a demonstrated and material adverse impact on the Company Group’s reputation for honesty and fair dealing; or (vi) the breach by the Executive of any material term of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company Without Cause or by the Executive Without Good Reason . Either party may terminate this Agreement at any time without Cause (in the case of the Company) or without Good Reason (in the case of the Executive), upon giving the other party sixty (60) days’ written notice. At the Company’s sole discretion, it may substitute sixty (60) days’ salary (or any lesser portion for any shortened period provided) in lieu of notice. Any salary paid to the Executive in lieu of notice shall not be offset against any entitlement the Executive may have to the Severance Payment pursuant to Section 6(c).

 

  (c) Termination by Executive for Good Reason . The Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement at any time for Good Reason, upon written notice by the Executive to the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason for termination shall mean, without the Executive’s consent, (i) the assignment to the Executive of substantial duties or responsibilities inconsistent with the Executive’s position at the Company Group, or any other action by the Company Group which results in a substantial diminution of the Executive’s duties or responsibilities other than any such reduction which is remedied by the Company Group within 30 days of receipt of written notice thereof from the Executive; (ii) a requirement that the Executive work principally from a location outside the fifty (50) mile radius from the Company’s address first written above or the headquarters to be established upon the closing of the Company’s initial public offering; (iii) a substantial reduction in the Executive’s aggregate Base Salary and other compensation taken as a whole, excluding any reductions caused by the failure to achieve performance targets. Good Reason shall not exist pursuant to any subsection of this Section 5(c) unless (A) the Executive shall have delivered notice to the Board within 90 days of the initial occurrence of such event constituting Good Reason, and (B) the Board fails to remedy the circumstances giving rise to the Executive’s notice within 30 days of receipt of notice. The Executive must terminate his employment under this Section 5(c) at a time agreed reasonably with the Company, but in any event within two years from the initial occurrence of an event constituting Good Reason.

 

  (d) Executive’s Death or Disability . The Executive’s employment shall terminate immediately upon his death or, upon written notice as set forth below, his Disability. As used in this Agreement, “Disability” shall mean such physical or mental impairment as would render the Executive eligible to receive benefits under the long-term disability insurance policy or plan then made available by the Company Group to the Executive. If the Employment Period is terminated by reason of the Executive’s Disability, either party shall give thirty (30) days’ advance written notice to that effect to the other.

 

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6. Effect of Termination

 

  (a) General . Regardless of the reason for any termination of this Agreement, the Executive (or the Executive’s estate if the Employment Period ends on account of the Executive’s death) shall be entitled to (i) payment of any unpaid portion of his Base Salary through the effective date of termination; (ii) reimbursement for any outstanding reasonable business expense he has incurred in performing his duties hereunder; (iii) continued insurance benefits to the extent required by law; (iv) payment of any vested but unpaid rights as required independent of this Agreement by the terms of any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan, or any other employee benefit plan or program of the Company Group; and (v) except in the case of Termination by the Company for Cause, any bonus or incentive compensation that was approved but not paid.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason . If the Company terminates the Executive’s employment for Cause or the Executive terminates his employment without Good Reason, the Executive shall have no rights or claims against the Company Group except to receive the payments and benefits described in Section 6(a).

 

  (c) Termination by the Company Without Cause . Except as provided in Section 6(d), if the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of twenty-four (24) months (the “Severance Payment”). The Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the twenty-four (24) month severance period referenced in Section 6(c)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the twenty-four (24) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

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  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to two (2) times the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.

None of the benefits described in this Section 6(c) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (d) Termination Following Change in Control . If, during the Employment Period and within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, the Company (or its successor) terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b) or the Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason pursuant to Section 5(c), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of thirty-six (36) months (the “Control Change Severance Payment”). The Control Change Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the thirty-six (36) month severance period referenced in Section 6(d)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the thirty-six (36) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

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  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to three (3) times the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.

 

  (v)         (A) In the event that any Control Change Severance Payment, insurance benefits, accelerated vesting, pro-rated bonus or other benefit payable to the Executive (under this Agreement or otherwise), shall (1) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) (“Parachute Payments”) and (2) be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Company shall pay to the Executive an additional amount (the “Gross-Up Amount”) such that the net benefits retained by the Executive after the deduction of the Excise Tax (including interest and penalties) and any federal, state or local income and employment taxes (including interest and penalties) upon the Gross-Up Amount shall be equal to the benefits that would have been delivered hereunder had the Excise Tax not been applicable and the Gross-Up Amount not been paid. Any such Gross-Up Amount shall be paid by the end of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the Excise Tax was paid.

(B) For purposes of determining the Gross-Up Amount: (1) Parachute Payments provided under arrangements with the Executive other than under any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan or program of the Company (collectively, the “Plan”) and this Agreement, if any, shall be taken into account in determining the total amount of Parachute Payments received by the Executive so that the amount of excess Parachute Payments that are attributable to provisions of the Plan and Agreement is maximized; and (2) the Executive shall be deemed to pay federal, state and local income taxes at the highest marginal rate of taxation for the Executive’s taxable year in which the Parachute Payments are includable in the Executive’s income for purposes of federal, state and local income taxation.

(C) The determination of whether the Excise Tax is payable, the amount thereof, and the amount of any Gross-Up Amount shall be made in writing in good faith by a nationally recognized independent certified public accounting firm selected by the Company and approved by the Executive, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld (the

 

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“Accounting Firm”). If such determination is not finally accepted by the Internal Revenue Service (or state or local revenue authorities) on audit, then appropriate adjustments shall be computed (including Executive’s return of excess payments) based upon the amount of Excise Tax and any interest or penalties so determined; provided, however, that the Executive in no event shall owe the Company any interest on any portion of the Gross-Up Amount that is returned to the Company. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 6(d)(v), to the extent not otherwise specified herein, reasonable assumptions and approximations may be made with respect to applicable taxes and reasonable, good faith interpretations of the Code may be relied upon. The Company and the Executive shall furnish such information and documents as may be reasonably requested in connection with the performance of the calculations under this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall bear all costs incurred in connection with the performance of the calculations contemplated by this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall pay the Gross-Up Amount to the Executive no later than sixty (60) days following receipt of the Accounting Firm’s determination of the Gross-Up Amount.

 

  (vi) None of the benefits described in this Section 6(d) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (vii) For purposes of this Agreement, a “Change in Control” shall mean any of the following events:

(A) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity;

(B) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity; or

(C) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons who are shareholders or affiliates of the Company or affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of shares of beneficial interest of the Company.

 

  (e) Termination In the Event of Death or Disability.

 

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(i) If the Executive’s employment terminates because of his death, any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group shall become fully vested as of the date of his death. In addition, the Executive’s estate shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his death occurs.

(ii) In the event the Executive’s employment terminates due to his Disability, he shall be entitled to receive his Base Salary until such date as he shall commence receiving disability benefits pursuant to any long-term disability insurance policy or plan provided to him by the Company Group. In addition, as of the effective date of the termination notice specified in Section 5(d), the Executive shall vest in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously granted to him by the Company Group. The Executive also shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his employment terminates due to his Disability.

 

7. Confidentiality

 

  (a) Definition of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges that he may be furnished or may otherwise receive or have access to confidential information which relates to the Company Group’s past, present or future business activities, strategies, services or products, research and development; financial analysis and data; improvements, inventions, processes, techniques, designs or other technical data; profit margins and other financial information; fee arrangements; terms and contents of leases, asset management agreements and other contracts; tenant and vendor lists or other compilations for marketing or development; confidential personnel and payroll information; or other information regarding administrative, management, financial, marketing, leasing or sales activities of the Company Group, or of a third party which provided proprietary information to the Company Group on a confidential basis. All such information, including any materials or documents containing such information, shall be considered by the Company Group and the Executive as proprietary and confidential (the “Proprietary Information”).

 

  (b) Exclusions . Notwithstanding the foregoing, Proprietary Information shall not include information in the public domain not as a result of a breach of any duty by the Executive or any other person.

 

  (c) Obligations . Both during and after the Employment Period, the Executive agrees to preserve and protect the confidentiality of the Proprietary Information and all physical forms thereof, whether disclosed to him before this Agreement is signed or afterward. In addition, the Executive shall not (i) disclose or disseminate the Proprietary Information to any third party, including employees of the Company Group (or their affiliates) without a legitimate business need to know during the Employment Period; (ii) remove the Proprietary Information from the Company Group’s premises without a valid business purpose; or (iii) use the Proprietary Information for his own benefit or for the benefit of any third party.

 

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  (d) Return of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that all the Proprietary Information used or generated during the course of working for the Company Group is the property of the Company Group. The Executive agrees to deliver to the Company Group all documents and other tangibles (including diskettes and other storage media) containing the Proprietary Information at any time upon request by the Board of Trustees during his employment and immediately upon termination of his employment.

 

8. Noncompetition

 

  (a) Restriction on Competition . For the period of the Executive’s employment with the Company Group and for twelve (12) months following the expiration or termination of the Executive’s employment by the Company Group (the “Restricted Period”), the Executive agrees not to engage, directly or indirectly, as an owner, director, trustee, manager, member, employee, consultant, partner, principal, agent, representative, stockholder, or in any other individual, corporate or representative capacity, in any of the following: (i) any public or private lodging company, or (ii) any other business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive shall not be deemed to have violated this Section 8(a) solely by reason of his passive ownership of 1% or less of the outstanding stock of any publicly traded corporation or other entity.

 

  (b) Non-Solicitation of Clients . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees not to solicit, directly or indirectly, on his own behalf or on behalf of any other person(s), any client of the Company Group to whom the Company Group had provided services at any time during the Executive’s employment with the Company Group in any line of business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment or that the Company Group is actively soliciting, for the purpose of marketing or providing any service competitive with any service then offered by the Company Group.

 

  (c) Non-Solicitation of Employees . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees that he will not, directly or indirectly, hire or attempt to hire or cause any business, other than an affiliate of the Company Group, to hire any person who is then or was at any time during the preceding six (6) months an employee of the Company Group and who is at the time of such hire or attempted hire, or was at the date of such employee’s separation from the Company Group a vice president, senior vice president or executive vice president or other senior executive employee of the Company Group.

 

  (d)

Acknowledgement . The Executive acknowledges that he will acquire much Proprietary Information concerning the past, present and future business of the Company Group as the result of his employment, as well as access to the

 

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relationships between the Company and the REIT and their clients and employees. The Executive further acknowledges that the business of the Company Group is very competitive and that competition by him in that business during his employment, or after his employment terminates, would severely injure the Company Group. The Executive understands and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Section 8 are reasonable and are required for the Company Group’s legitimate protection, and do not unduly limit his ability to earn a livelihood.

 

  (e) Rights and Remedies upon Breach . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that any breach by him of any of the provisions of Sections 7 and 8 (the “Restrictive Covenants”) would result in irreparable injury and damage for which money damages would not provide an adequate remedy. Therefore, if the Executive breaches, or threatens to commit a breach of, any of the provisions of the Restrictive Covenants, the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, shall have the following rights and remedies, each of which rights and remedies shall be independent of the other and severally enforceable, and all of which rights and remedies shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available to the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, under law or in equity (including, without limitation, the recovery of damages):

 

  (i) The right and remedy to have the Restrictive Covenants specifically enforced (without posting bond and without the need to prove damages) by any court of competent jurisdiction, including, without limitation, the right to an entry against the Executive of restraining orders and injunctions (preliminary, mandatory, temporary and permanent) against violations, threatened or actual, and whether or not then continuing, of such covenants; and

 

  (ii) The right and remedy to require the Executive to account for and pay over to the Company and its affiliates all compensation, profits, monies, accruals, increments or other benefits (collectively, “Benefits”) derived or received by him as the result of any transactions constituting a breach of the Restrictive Covenants, and the Executive shall account for and pay over such Benefits to the Company and, if applicable, its affected affiliates.

 

  (f) Without limiting Section 12(i), if any court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction determines that any of the Restrictive Covenants, or any part thereof, is unenforceable because of the duration or geographical scope of such provision, then, after such determination has become final and unappealable, the duration or scope of such provision, as the case may be, shall be reduced so that such provision becomes enforceable and, in its reduced form, such provision shall then be enforceable and shall be enforced.

 

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9. Executive Representation

The Executive represents and warrants to the Company Group that he is not now under any obligation of a contractual or other nature to any person, business or other entity which is inconsistent or in conflict with this Agreement or which would prevent him from performing his obligations under this Agreement.

 

10. Arbitration

 

  (a) Except as provided in Section 10(b), any disputes between the Company Group and the Executive in any way concerning the Executive’s employment, the termination of his employment, this Agreement or its enforcement shall be submitted at the initiative of either party to mandatory arbitration in Maryland before a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association, or its successor, then in effect. The decision of the arbitrator shall be rendered in writing, shall be final, and may be entered as a judgment in any court in the State of Maryland. The parties irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction of the federal and state courts located in Maryland for this purpose. Each party shall be responsible for its or his own costs incurred in such arbitration and in enforcing any arbitration award, including attorneys’ fees and expenses.

 

  (b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company or the REIT, in its sole discretion, may bring an action in any court of competent jurisdiction to seek injunctive relief and such other relief as the Company or the REIT shall elect to enforce the Restrictive Covenants. If the courts of any one or more of such jurisdictions hold the Restrictive Covenants wholly unenforceable by reason of breadth of scope or otherwise it is the intention of the Company Group and the Executive that such determination not bar or in any way affect the Company Group’s right, or the right of any of its affiliates, to the relief provided in Section 8(e) above in the courts of any other jurisdiction within the geographical scope of such Restrictive Covenants, as to breaches of such Restrictive Covenants in such other respective jurisdictions, such Restrictive Covenants as they relate to each jurisdiction being, for this purpose, severable, diverse and independent covenants, subject, where appropriate, to the doctrine of res judicata. The parties hereby agree to waive any right to a trial by jury for any and all disputes hereunder (whether or not relating to the Restrictive Covenants).

 

11. Required Delay For Certain Deferred Compensation and Section 409A.

In the event that any compensation with respect to the Executive’s termination is “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”), the common shares of beneficial interest of the Company or any affiliate is publicly traded on an established securities market or otherwise, and the Executive is determined to be a “specified employee,” as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, payment of such compensation shall be delayed as required by Section 409A. Such delay shall last six (6) months from the date of the Executive’s “separation from service” (within the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-1(h))

 

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with the Company, except in the event of the Executive’s death. On the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service with the Company, or, if earlier, the Executive’s death, the Company will make a catch-up payment to the Executive equal to the total amount of such payments that would have been made during the six (6)-month period but for this Section 11. Such catch-up payment shall bear simple interest at the prime rate of interest as published by The Wall Street Journal ’s bank survey as of the first day of the six (6)-month period, which such interest shall be paid with the catch-up payment. Wherever payments under this Agreement are to be made in installments, each such installment shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A. Whenever a payment under this Agreement specifies a payment period with reference to a number of days, the actual date of payment within the specified period shall be within the sole discretion of the Company.

 

12. Miscellaneous

 

  (a) Notices . All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effective (i) upon personal delivery, (ii) upon deposit with the United States Postal Service, by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or (iii) in the case of facsimile transmission or delivery by nationally recognized overnight delivery service, when received, addressed as follows:

 

  (i) If to the Company or the REIT, to:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

Fax No. (201) 599-0527

 

  (ii) If to the Executive, to:

James L. Francis

Address on file with the REIT

or to such other address or addresses as either party shall designate to the other in writing from time to time by like notice.

 

  (b) Pronouns . Whenever the context may require, any pronouns used in this Agreement shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms, and the singular forms of nouns and pronouns shall include the plural, and vice versa.

 

  (c) Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement.

 

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  (d) Amendment . This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument executed by both the Company and the Executive, which amendment or modification is consented to by the REIT.

 

  (e) Governing Law . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws principles.

 

  (f) Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of both parties and their respective successors and assigns, including any entity with which or into which the Company or the REIT may be merged or which may succeed to its assets or business or any entity to which the Company or the REIT may assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that the obligations of the Executive are personal and shall not be assigned or delegated by him.

 

  (g) Waiver . No delays or omission by the Company, the REIT or the Executive in exercising any right under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of that or any other right. A waiver or consent by the Company shall not be effective unless consented to by the REIT. A waiver or consent given by the Company or the Executive on any one occasion shall be effective only in that instance and shall not be construed as a bar or waiver of any right on any other occasion.

 

  (h) Captions . The captions appearing in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and in no way define, limit or affect the scope or substance of any section of this Agreement.

 

  (i) Severability . In case any provision of this Agreement shall be held by a court or arbitrator with jurisdiction over the parties to this Agreement to be invalid, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, such provision shall be restated to reflect as nearly as possible the original intentions of the parties in accordance with applicable law, and the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall in no way be affected or impaired thereby.

 

  (j) Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:
CHESAPEAKE LODGING, L.P.
By:   Chesapeake Lodging Trust, its general partner
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:
JAMES L. FRANCIS
 

 

 

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Exhibit A

WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT

THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT (this “ Release ”) is entered into as of [            ] (the “ Effective Date ”), by James L. Francis (“ Executive ”) in consideration of severance pay (the “ Severance Payment ”) provided to Executive by Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Company ”), pursuant to the Employment Agreement by and between the Company, Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. and Executive (the “ Employment Agreement ”).

1. Waiver and Release . Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, Executive, on his own behalf and on behalf of his heirs, executors, administrators, attorneys and assigns, hereby unconditionally and irrevocably releases, waives and forever discharges the Company and each of its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and the subsidiaries, directors, trustees, owners, members, shareholders, officers, agents, and employees of the Company and its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and subsidiaries (collectively, all of the foregoing are referred to as the “ Employer ”), from any and all causes of action, claims and damages, including attorneys’ fees, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release, concerning his employment or separation from employment. Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, this Release includes, but is not limited to, any payments, benefits or damages arising under any federal law (including, but not limited to, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Executive Order 11246, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, each as amended); any claim arising under any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations (including, but not limited to, any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations requiring that advance notice be given of certain workforce reductions); and any claim arising under any common law principle or public policy, including, but not limited to, all suits in tort or contract, such as wrongful termination, defamation, emotional distress, invasion of privacy or loss of consortium. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Release to the contrary, this Release does not encompass, and Executive does not release, waive or discharge, the obligations of the Company (a) to make the payments and provide the other benefits contemplated by the Employment Agreement, or (b) under any restricted shares agreement, option agreement or other agreement pertaining to Executive’s equity ownership, or (c) under any indemnification or similar agreement with Executive.

Executive understands that by signing this Release, he is not waiving any claims or administrative charges which cannot be waived by law. He is waiving, however, any right to monetary recovery or individual relief should any federal, state or local agency (including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) pursue any claim on his behalf arising out of or related to his employment with and/or separation from employment with the Company.

 

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Executive further agrees without any reservation whatsoever, never to sue the Employer or become a party to a lawsuit on the basis of any and all claims of any type lawfully and validly released in this Release.

2. Acknowledgments . Executive is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily. He acknowledges that:

 

  (a) He is hereby advised in writing to consult an attorney before signing this Release;

 

  (b) He has relied solely on his own judgment and/or that of his attorney regarding the consideration for and the terms of this Release and is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily of his own free will;

 

  (c) He is not entitled to the Severance Payment unless he agrees to and honors the terms of this Release;

 

  (d) He has been given at least twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider this Release, or he or she expressly waives his right to have at least twenty-one (21) days to consider this Release;

 

  (e) He may revoke this Release within seven (7) calendar days after signing it by submitting a written notice of revocation to the Employer. He further understands that this Release is not effective or enforceable until after the seven (7) day period of revocation has expired without revocation, and that if he or she revokes this Release within the seven (7) day revocation period, he will not receive the Severance Payment;

 

  (f) He has read and understands the Release and further understands that, subject to the limitations contained herein, it includes a general release of any and all known and unknown, foreseen or unforeseen claims presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release that he may have against the Employer; and

 

  (g) No statements made or conduct by the Employer has in any way coerced or unduly influenced him or her to execute this Release.

3. No Admission of Liability . This Release does not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing on the part of the Employer, the Employer does not admit there has been any wrongdoing whatsoever against the Executive, and the Employer expressly denies that any wrongdoing has occurred.

4. Entire Agreement . There are no other agreements of any nature between the Employer and Executive with respect to the matters discussed in this Release, except as expressly stated herein, and in signing this Release, Executive is not relying on any agreements or representations, except those expressly contained in this Release.

 

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5. Execution . It is not necessary that the Employer sign this Release following Executive’s full and complete execution of it for it to become fully effective and enforceable.

6. Severability . If any provision of this Release is found, held or deemed by a court of competent jurisdiction to be void, unlawful or unenforceable under any applicable statute or controlling law, the remainder of this Release shall continue in full force and effect.

7. Governing Law . This Release shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland, excluding the choice of law rules thereof.

8. Headings . Section and subsection headings contained in this Release are inserted for the convenience of reference only. Section and subsection headings shall not be deemed to be a part of this Release for any purpose, and they shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has duly executed this Agreement as of the day and year first herein above written.

 

EXECUTIVE:

 

James L. Francis

 

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Exhibit 10.2

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made this [            ] day of [            ] , 2009, by Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “Company”), and Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “REIT”), each with its principal place of business at 710 Route 46 East, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004, and Douglas W. Vicari, residing at [ Address ] (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS, the REIT is the general partner of the Company; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into this agreement to reflect the Executive’s executive capacities in the REIT’s business and to provide for the Company’s and the REIT’s employment of the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the parties wish to set forth the terms and conditions of that employment;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by the parties hereto, the parties agree as follows:

 

1. Term of Employment

The Company and the REIT hereby employ the Executive, and the Executive hereby accepts employment with the Company and the REIT, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. Unless terminated earlier pursuant to Section 5, the Executive’s employment pursuant to this Agreement shall be for the three (3) year period commencing on the date of closing of the initial public offering of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest pursuant to the REIT’s registration statement on Form S-11 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commencement Date”) and ending on the third anniversary of the Commencement Date (the “Initial Term”). The Initial Term shall be extended for an additional twelve (12) months on each anniversary of the Commencement Date unless the Company or the Executive provides written notice to the contrary at least ninety (90) days before the applicable anniversary of the Commencement Date. The Initial Term, together with any such extensions, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” In the event that the Board of Trustees of the REIT (the “Board of Trustees”) determines that active efforts to complete the closing of the initial public offering have been abandoned, this Agreement shall become null and void.

 

2. Title; Duties

The Executive shall be employed as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Treasurer and Secretary of the REIT. The Executive shall report to the Board of Trustees, who shall have the authority to direct, control and supervise the activities of the Executive. The Executive shall perform such services consistent with his position as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Trustees and are consistent with the bylaws of the REIT and the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Company as it may be amended from time to time, including, but not limited to, managing the affairs of the REIT and the Company.


3. Extent of Services

 

  (a) General . The Executive agrees not to engage in any business activities during the Employment Period except those which are for the sole benefit of the Company or the REIT and their subsidiaries (the Company and the REIT are hereinafter referred to as the “Company Group”), and to devote his entire business time, attention, skill and effort to the performance of his duties under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may, without impairing or otherwise adversely affecting the Executive’s performance of his duties to the Company Group, (i) engage in personal investments and charitable, professional and civic activities, and (ii) with the prior approval of the Board of Trustees, serve on the boards of directors of corporations other than the REIT, provided, however, that no such approval shall be necessary for the Executive’s continued service on any board of directors on which he was serving on the date of this Agreement, all of which have been previously disclosed to the Board of Trustees in writing and provided further, that in no event shall the Executive be permitted to serve on the board of directors of any other entity that owns, operates, acquires, sells, develops and/or manages any hotel or similar asset in the lodging industry. The Executive shall perform his duties to the best of his ability, shall adhere to the Company Group’s published policies and procedures, and shall use his best efforts to promote the Company Group’s interests, reputation, business and welfare.

 

  (b) Corporate Opportunities . The Executive agrees that he will not take personal advantage of any business opportunities which arise during his employment with the Company Group and which may be of benefit to the Company Group. All material facts regarding such opportunities must be promptly reported by the Executive to the Board of Trustees for consideration by the Company Group.

 

4. Compensation and Benefits

 

  (a) Salary . The Company shall pay the Executive a gross base annual salary (“Base Salary”) of $475,000. The salary shall be payable in arrears in approximately equal semi-monthly installments (except that the first and last such semi-monthly installments may be prorated if necessary) on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, minus such deductions as may be required by law or reasonably requested by the Executive. The REIT’s Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) shall review his Base Salary annually in conjunction with its regular review of employee salaries and may increase (but not decrease) his Base Salary as in effect from time to time as the Compensation Committee shall deem appropriate.

 

  (b)

Annual Bonus . Executive shall be entitled to earn bonuses with respect to each fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), based upon Executive’s and the Company Group’s achievement of performance objectives set by the Company, with a threshold bonus of thirty-five percent (35%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), a targeted bonus of seventy-five percent (75%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), and a

 

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maximum bonus of one hundred twenty-five percent (125%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year). Any such bonus earned by the Executive shall be paid annually by March 15 of the year following the end of the year for which the bonus was earned.

 

  (c) Restricted Share Grants . The Company shall grant to the Executive 102,000 of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest subject to certain time vesting requirements and other conditions set forth in the applicable award agreement. The Company shall also grant to the Executive 25,000 of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest subject to attainment of certain performance goals and other conditions set forth in the applicable award agreement.

 

  (d) Other Benefits . The Executive shall be entitled to paid time off and holiday pay in accordance with the Company Group’s policies in effect from time to time and shall be eligible to participate in such life, health, and disability insurance, pension, deferred compensation and incentive plans, options and awards, performance bonuses and other benefits as the Company Group extends, as a matter of policy, to its executive employees. The Company Group shall maintain a disability insurance policy or plan covering the Executive during the Employment Period.

 

  (e) Reimbursement of Business Expenses . The Company shall reimburse the Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other expenses incurred or paid by the Executive in connection with, or related to, the performance of his duties, responsibilities or services under this Agreement, upon presentation by the Executive of documentation, expense statements, vouchers, and/or such other supporting information as the Company may reasonably request.

 

  (f) Physical Examinations. The Company shall pay or reimburse the Executive for all uninsured costs of a comprehensive annual physical examination by a physician of his choice annually up to $10,000 per year.

 

  (g) Financial Planning . The Company shall pay or reimburse the Executive for reasonable financial planning services annually up to $15,000 per year.

 

  (h) Timing of Reimbursements . Any reimbursement under this Agreement that is taxable to the Executive shall be made by December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Executive incurred the expense.

 

5. Termination

 

  (a)

Termination by the Company for Cause . The Company may terminate the Executive’s employment under this Agreement at any time for Cause, upon written notice by the Company to the Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” for termination shall mean any of the following: (i) the conviction of the Executive of, or the entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere by the Executive to, any felony; (ii) fraud, misappropriation or embezzlement by the Executive; (iii) the Executive’s willful failure or gross negligence in the performance of his

 

- 3 -


 

assigned duties for the Company Group, which failure or negligence continues for more than fifteen (15) calendar days following the Executive’s receipt of written notice of such willful failure or gross negligence; (iv) the Executive’s breach of any of his fiduciary duties to the Company Group; (v) any act or omission of the Executive that has a demonstrated and material adverse impact on the Company Group’s reputation for honesty and fair dealing; or (vi) the breach by the Executive of any material term of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company Without Cause or by the Executive Without Good Reason . Either party may terminate this Agreement at any time without Cause (in the case of the Company) or without Good Reason (in the case of the Executive), upon giving the other party sixty (60) days’ written notice. At the Company’s sole discretion, it may substitute sixty (60) days’ salary (or any lesser portion for any shortened period provided) in lieu of notice. Any salary paid to the Executive in lieu of notice shall not be offset against any entitlement the Executive may have to the Severance Payment pursuant to Section 6(c).

 

  (c) Termination by Executive for Good Reason . The Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement at any time for Good Reason, upon written notice by the Executive to the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason for termination shall mean, without the Executive’s consent, (i) the assignment to the Executive of substantial duties or responsibilities inconsistent with the Executive’s position at the Company Group, or any other action by the Company Group which results in a substantial diminution of the Executive’s duties or responsibilities other than any such reduction which is remedied by the Company Group within 30 days of receipt of written notice thereof from the Executive; (ii) a requirement that the Executive work principally from a location outside the fifty (50) mile radius from the Company’s address first written above or the headquarters to be established upon the closing of the Company’s initial public offering; (iii) a substantial reduction in the Executive’s aggregate Base Salary and other compensation taken as a whole, excluding any reductions caused by the failure to achieve performance targets. Good Reason shall not exist pursuant to any subsection of this Section 5(c) unless (A) the Executive shall have delivered notice to the Board within 90 days of the initial occurrence of such event constituting Good Reason, and (B) the Board fails to remedy the circumstances giving rise to the Executive’s notice within 30 days of receipt of notice. The Executive must terminate his employment under this Section 5(c) at a time agreed reasonably with the Company, but in any event within two years from the initial occurrence of an event constituting Good Reason.

 

  (d) Executive’s Death or Disability . The Executive’s employment shall terminate immediately upon his death or, upon written notice as set forth below, his Disability. As used in this Agreement, “Disability” shall mean such physical or mental impairment as would render the Executive eligible to receive benefits under the long-term disability insurance policy or plan then made available by the Company Group to the Executive. If the Employment Period is terminated by reason of the Executive’s Disability, either party shall give thirty (30) days’ advance written notice to that effect to the other.

 

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6. Effect of Termination

 

  (a) General . Regardless of the reason for any termination of this Agreement, the Executive (or the Executive’s estate if the Employment Period ends on account of the Executive’s death) shall be entitled to (i) payment of any unpaid portion of his Base Salary through the effective date of termination; (ii) reimbursement for any outstanding reasonable business expense he has incurred in performing his duties hereunder; (iii) continued insurance benefits to the extent required by law; (iv) payment of any vested but unpaid rights as required independent of this Agreement by the terms of any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan, or any other employee benefit plan or program of the Company Group; and (v) except in the case of Termination by the Company for Cause, any bonus or incentive compensation that was approved but not paid.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason . If the Company terminates the Executive’s employment for Cause or the Executive terminates his employment without Good Reason, the Executive shall have no rights or claims against the Company Group except to receive the payments and benefits described in Section 6(a).

 

  (c) Termination by the Company Without Cause . Except as provided in Section 6(d), if the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of twenty-four (24) months (the “Severance Payment”). The Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the twenty-four (24) month severance period referenced in Section 6(c)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the twenty-four (24) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

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  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to two (2) times the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.

None of the benefits described in this Section 6(c) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (d) Termination Following Change in Control . If, during the Employment Period and within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, the Company (or its successor) terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b) or the Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason pursuant to Section 5(c), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of thirty-six (36) months (the “Control Change Severance Payment”). The Control Change Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the thirty-six (36) month severance period referenced in Section 6(d)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the thirty-six (36) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

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  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to three (3) times the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.

 

  (v)         (A) In the event that any Control Change Severance Payment, insurance benefits, accelerated vesting, pro-rated bonus or other benefit payable to the Executive (under this Agreement or otherwise), shall (1) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) (“Parachute Payments”) and (2) be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Company shall pay to the Executive an additional amount (the “Gross-Up Amount”) such that the net benefits retained by the Executive after the deduction of the Excise Tax (including interest and penalties) and any federal, state or local income and employment taxes (including interest and penalties) upon the Gross-Up Amount shall be equal to the benefits that would have been delivered hereunder had the Excise Tax not been applicable and the Gross-Up Amount not been paid. Any such Gross-Up Amount shall be paid by the end of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the Excise Tax was paid.

(B) For purposes of determining the Gross-Up Amount: (1) Parachute Payments provided under arrangements with the Executive other than under any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan or program of the Company (collectively, the “Plan”) and this Agreement, if any, shall be taken into account in determining the total amount of Parachute Payments received by the Executive so that the amount of excess Parachute Payments that are attributable to provisions of the Plan and Agreement is maximized; and (2) the Executive shall be deemed to pay federal, state and local income taxes at the highest marginal rate of taxation for the Executive’s taxable year in which the Parachute Payments are includable in the Executive’s income for purposes of federal, state and local income taxation.

(C) The determination of whether the Excise Tax is payable, the amount thereof, and the amount of any Gross-Up Amount shall be made in writing in good faith by a nationally recognized independent certified public accounting firm selected by the Company and approved by the Executive, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld (the

 

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“Accounting Firm”). If such determination is not finally accepted by the Internal Revenue Service (or state or local revenue authorities) on audit, then appropriate adjustments shall be computed (including Executive’s return of excess payments) based upon the amount of Excise Tax and any interest or penalties so determined; provided, however, that the Executive in no event shall owe the Company any interest on any portion of the Gross-Up Amount that is returned to the Company. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 6(d)(v), to the extent not otherwise specified herein, reasonable assumptions and approximations may be made with respect to applicable taxes and reasonable, good faith interpretations of the Code may be relied upon. The Company and the Executive shall furnish such information and documents as may be reasonably requested in connection with the performance of the calculations under this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall bear all costs incurred in connection with the performance of the calculations contemplated by this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall pay the Gross-Up Amount to the Executive no later than sixty (60) days following receipt of the Accounting Firm’s determination of the Gross-Up Amount.

 

  (vi) None of the benefits described in this Section 6(d) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (vii) For purposes of this Agreement, a “Change in Control” shall mean any of the following events:

(A) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity;

(B) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity; or

(C) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons who are shareholders or affiliates of the Company or affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of shares of beneficial interest of the Company.

 

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  (e) Termination In the Event of Death or Disability .

 

  (i) If the Executive’s employment terminates because of his death, any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group shall become fully vested as of the date of his death. In addition, the Executive’s estate shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his death occurs.

 

  (ii) In the event the Executive’s employment terminates due to his Disability, he shall be entitled to receive his Base Salary until such date as he shall commence receiving disability benefits pursuant to any long-term disability insurance policy or plan provided to him by the Company Group. In addition, as of the effective date of the termination notice specified in Section 5(d), the Executive shall vest in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously granted to him by the Company Group. The Executive also shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his employment terminates due to his Disability.

 

7. Confidentiality

 

  (a) Definition of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges that he may be furnished or may otherwise receive or have access to confidential information which relates to the Company Group’s past, present or future business activities, strategies, services or products, research and development; financial analysis and data; improvements, inventions, processes, techniques, designs or other technical data; profit margins and other financial information; fee arrangements; terms and contents of leases, asset management agreements and other contracts; tenant and vendor lists or other compilations for marketing or development; confidential personnel and payroll information; or other information regarding administrative, management, financial, marketing, leasing or sales activities of the Company Group, or of a third party which provided proprietary information to the Company Group on a confidential basis. All such information, including any materials or documents containing such information, shall be considered by the Company Group and the Executive as proprietary and confidential (the “Proprietary Information”).

 

  (b) Exclusions . Notwithstanding the foregoing, Proprietary Information shall not include information in the public domain not as a result of a breach of any duty by the Executive or any other person.

 

  (c)

Obligations . Both during and after the Employment Period, the Executive agrees to preserve and protect the confidentiality of the Proprietary Information and all physical forms thereof, whether disclosed to him before this Agreement is signed or afterward. In addition, the Executive shall not (i) disclose or disseminate the

 

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Proprietary Information to any third party, including employees of the Company Group (or their affiliates) without a legitimate business need to know during the Employment Period; (ii) remove the Proprietary Information from the Company Group’s premises without a valid business purpose; or (iii) use the Proprietary Information for his own benefit or for the benefit of any third party.

 

  (d) Return of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that all the Proprietary Information used or generated during the course of working for the Company Group is the property of the Company Group. The Executive agrees to deliver to the Company Group all documents and other tangibles (including diskettes and other storage media) containing the Proprietary Information at any time upon request by the Board of Trustees during his employment and immediately upon termination of his employment.

 

8. Noncompetition

 

  (a) Restriction on Competition . For the period of the Executive’s employment with the Company Group and for twelve (12) months following the expiration or termination of the Executive’s employment by the Company Group (the “Restricted Period”), the Executive agrees not to engage, directly or indirectly, as an owner, director, trustee, manager, member, employee, consultant, partner, principal, agent, representative, stockholder, or in any other individual, corporate or representative capacity, in any of the following: (i) any public or private lodging company, or (ii) any other business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive shall not be deemed to have violated this Section 8(a) solely by reason of his passive ownership of 1% or less of the outstanding stock of any publicly traded corporation or other entity.

 

  (b) Non-Solicitation of Clients . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees not to solicit, directly or indirectly, on his own behalf or on behalf of any other person(s), any client of the Company Group to whom the Company Group had provided services at any time during the Executive’s employment with the Company Group in any line of business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment or that the Company Group is actively soliciting, for the purpose of marketing or providing any service competitive with any service then offered by the Company Group.

 

  (c) Non-Solicitation of Employees . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees that he will not, directly or indirectly, hire or attempt to hire or cause any business, other than an affiliate of the Company Group, to hire any person who is then or was at any time during the preceding six (6) months an employee of the Company Group and who is at the time of such hire or attempted hire, or was at the date of such employee’s separation from the Company Group a vice president, senior vice president or executive vice president or other senior executive employee of the Company Group.

 

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  (d) Acknowledgement . The Executive acknowledges that he will acquire much Proprietary Information concerning the past, present and future business of the Company Group as the result of his employment, as well as access to the relationships between the Company and the REIT and their clients and employees. The Executive further acknowledges that the business of the Company Group is very competitive and that competition by him in that business during his employment, or after his employment terminates, would severely injure the Company Group. The Executive understands and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Section 8 are reasonable and are required for the Company Group’s legitimate protection, and do not unduly limit his ability to earn a livelihood.

 

  (e) Rights and Remedies upon Breach . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that any breach by him of any of the provisions of Sections 7 and 8 (the “Restrictive Covenants”) would result in irreparable injury and damage for which money damages would not provide an adequate remedy. Therefore, if the Executive breaches, or threatens to commit a breach of, any of the provisions of the Restrictive Covenants, the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, shall have the following rights and remedies, each of which rights and remedies shall be independent of the other and severally enforceable, and all of which rights and remedies shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available to the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, under law or in equity (including, without limitation, the recovery of damages):

 

  (i) The right and remedy to have the Restrictive Covenants specifically enforced (without posting bond and without the need to prove damages) by any court of competent jurisdiction, including, without limitation, the right to an entry against the Executive of restraining orders and injunctions (preliminary, mandatory, temporary and permanent) against violations, threatened or actual, and whether or not then continuing, of such covenants; and

 

  (ii) The right and remedy to require the Executive to account for and pay over to the Company and its affiliates all compensation, profits, monies, accruals, increments or other benefits (collectively, “Benefits”) derived or received by him as the result of any transactions constituting a breach of the Restrictive Covenants, and the Executive shall account for and pay over such Benefits to the Company and, if applicable, its affected affiliates.

 

  (f) Without limiting Section 12(i), if any court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction determines that any of the Restrictive Covenants, or any part thereof, is unenforceable because of the duration or geographical scope of such provision, then, after such determination has become final and unappealable, the duration or scope of such provision, as the case may be, shall be reduced so that such provision becomes enforceable and, in its reduced form, such provision shall then be enforceable and shall be enforced.

 

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9. Executive Representation

The Executive represents and warrants to the Company Group that he is not now under any obligation of a contractual or other nature to any person, business or other entity which is inconsistent or in conflict with this Agreement or which would prevent him from performing his obligations under this Agreement.

 

10. Arbitration

 

  (a) Except as provided in Section 10(b), any disputes between the Company Group and the Executive in any way concerning the Executive’s employment, the termination of his employment, this Agreement or its enforcement shall be submitted at the initiative of either party to mandatory arbitration in Maryland before a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association, or its successor, then in effect. The decision of the arbitrator shall be rendered in writing, shall be final, and may be entered as a judgment in any court in the State of Maryland. The parties irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction of the federal and state courts located in Maryland for this purpose. Each party shall be responsible for its or his own costs incurred in such arbitration and in enforcing any arbitration award, including attorneys’ fees and expenses.

 

  (b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company or the REIT, in its sole discretion, may bring an action in any court of competent jurisdiction to seek injunctive relief and such other relief as the Company or the REIT shall elect to enforce the Restrictive Covenants. If the courts of any one or more of such jurisdictions hold the Restrictive Covenants wholly unenforceable by reason of breadth of scope or otherwise it is the intention of the Company Group and the Executive that such determination not bar or in any way affect the Company Group’s right, or the right of any of its affiliates, to the relief provided in Section 8(e) above in the courts of any other jurisdiction within the geographical scope of such Restrictive Covenants, as to breaches of such Restrictive Covenants in such other respective jurisdictions, such Restrictive Covenants as they relate to each jurisdiction being, for this purpose, severable, diverse and independent covenants, subject, where appropriate, to the doctrine of res judicata. The parties hereby agree to waive any right to a trial by jury for any and all disputes hereunder (whether or not relating to the Restrictive Covenants).

 

11. Required Delay For Certain Deferred Compensation and Section 409A.

In the event that any compensation with respect to the Executive’s termination is “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”), the common shares of beneficial interest of the Company or any affiliate is publicly traded on an established securities market or otherwise, and the Executive is determined to be a “specified employee,” as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, payment of such compensation shall be delayed as required by Section 409A. Such delay shall last six (6) months from the date of the Executive’s “separation from service” (within the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-1(h))

 

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with the Company, except in the event of the Executive’s death. On the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service with the Company, or, if earlier, the Executive’s death, the Company will make a catch-up payment to the Executive equal to the total amount of such payments that would have been made during the six (6)-month period but for this Section 11. Such catch-up payment shall bear simple interest at the prime rate of interest as published by The Wall Street Journal ’s bank survey as of the first day of the six (6)-month period, which such interest shall be paid with the catch-up payment. Wherever payments under this Agreement are to be made in installments, each such installment shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A. Whenever a payment under this Agreement specifies a payment period with reference to a number of days, the actual date of payment within the specified period shall be within the sole discretion of the Company.

 

12. Miscellaneous

 

  (a) Notices . All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effective (i) upon personal delivery, (ii) upon deposit with the United States Postal Service, by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or (iii) in the case of facsimile transmission or delivery by nationally recognized overnight delivery service, when received, addressed as follows:

 

(i)    If to the Company or the REIT, to:
   Chesapeake Lodging Trust
   710 Route 46 East
   Suite 206
   Fairfield, NJ 07004
   Attention: Chief Financial Officer
   Fax No. (201) 599-0527
(ii)    If to the Executive, to:
   Douglas W. Vicari
   Address on file with the REIT
or to such other address or addresses as either party shall designate to the other in writing from time to time by like notice.

 

  (b) Pronouns . Whenever the context may require, any pronouns used in this Agreement shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms, and the singular forms of nouns and pronouns shall include the plural, and vice versa.

 

  (c) Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement.

 

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  (d) Amendment . This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument executed by both the Company and the Executive, which amendment or modification is consented to by the REIT.

 

  (e) Governing Law . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws principles.

 

  (f) Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of both parties and their respective successors and assigns, including any entity with which or into which the Company or the REIT may be merged or which may succeed to its assets or business or any entity to which the Company or the REIT may assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that the obligations of the Executive are personal and shall not be assigned or delegated by him.

 

  (g) Waiver . No delays or omission by the Company, the REIT or the Executive in exercising any right under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of that or any other right. A waiver or consent by the Company shall not be effective unless consented to by the REIT. A waiver or consent given by the Company or the Executive on any one occasion shall be effective only in that instance and shall not be construed as a bar or waiver of any right on any other occasion.

 

  (h) Captions . The captions appearing in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and in no way define, limit or affect the scope or substance of any section of this Agreement.

 

  (i) Severability . In case any provision of this Agreement shall be held by a court or arbitrator with jurisdiction over the parties to this Agreement to be invalid, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, such provision shall be restated to reflect as nearly as possible the original intentions of the parties in accordance with applicable law, and the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall in no way be affected or impaired thereby.

 

  (j) Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

  James L. Francis
  President and Chief Executive Officer
CHESAPEAKE LODGING, L.P.
By:   Chesapeake Lodging Trust, its general partner
By:  

 

  James L. Francis
  President and Chief Executive Officer
DOUGLAS W. VICARI
 

 

 

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Exhibit A

WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT

THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT (this “ Release ”) is entered into as of [            ] (the “ Effective Date ”), by Douglas W. Vicari (“ Executive ”) in consideration of severance pay (the “ Severance Payment ”) provided to Executive by Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Company ”), pursuant to the Employment Agreement by and between the Company, Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. and Executive (the “ Employment Agreement ”).

1. Waiver and Release . Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, Executive, on his own behalf and on behalf of his heirs, executors, administrators, attorneys and assigns, hereby unconditionally and irrevocably releases, waives and forever discharges the Company and each of its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and the subsidiaries, directors, trustees, owners, members, shareholders, officers, agents, and employees of the Company and its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and subsidiaries (collectively, all of the foregoing are referred to as the “ Employer ”), from any and all causes of action, claims and damages, including attorneys’ fees, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release, concerning his employment or separation from employment. Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, this Release includes, but is not limited to, any payments, benefits or damages arising under any federal law (including, but not limited to, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Executive Order 11246, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, each as amended); any claim arising under any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations (including, but not limited to, any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations requiring that advance notice be given of certain workforce reductions); and any claim arising under any common law principle or public policy, including, but not limited to, all suits in tort or contract, such as wrongful termination, defamation, emotional distress, invasion of privacy or loss of consortium. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Release to the contrary, this Release does not encompass, and Executive does not release, waive or discharge, the obligations of the Company (a) to make the payments and provide the other benefits contemplated by the Employment Agreement, or (b) under any restricted shares agreement, option agreement or other agreement pertaining to Executive’s equity ownership, or (c) under any indemnification or similar agreement with Executive.

Executive understands that by signing this Release, he is not waiving any claims or administrative charges which cannot be waived by law. He is waiving, however, any right to monetary recovery or individual relief should any federal, state or local agency (including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) pursue any claim on his behalf arising out of or related to his employment with and/or separation from employment with the Company.

 

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Executive further agrees without any reservation whatsoever, never to sue the Employer or become a party to a lawsuit on the basis of any and all claims of any type lawfully and validly released in this Release.

2. Acknowledgments . Executive is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily. He acknowledges that:

 

  (a) He is hereby advised in writing to consult an attorney before signing this Release;

 

  (b) He has relied solely on his own judgment and/or that of his attorney regarding the consideration for and the terms of this Release and is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily of his own free will;

 

  (c) He is not entitled to the Severance Payment unless he agrees to and honors the terms of this Release;

 

  (d) He has been given at least twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider this Release, or he or she expressly waives his right to have at least twenty-one (21) days to consider this Release;

 

  (e) He may revoke this Release within seven (7) calendar days after signing it by submitting a written notice of revocation to the Employer. He further understands that this Release is not effective or enforceable until after the seven (7) day period of revocation has expired without revocation, and that if he or she revokes this Release within the seven (7) day revocation period, he will not receive the Severance Payment;

 

  (f) He has read and understands the Release and further understands that, subject to the limitations contained herein, it includes a general release of any and all known and unknown, foreseen or unforeseen claims presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release that he may have against the Employer; and

 

  (g) No statements made or conduct by the Employer has in any way coerced or unduly influenced him or her to execute this Release.

3. No Admission of Liability . This Release does not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing on the part of the Employer, the Employer does not admit there has been any wrongdoing whatsoever against the Executive, and the Employer expressly denies that any wrongdoing has occurred.

4. Entire Agreement . There are no other agreements of any nature between the Employer and Executive with respect to the matters discussed in this Release, except as expressly stated herein, and in signing this Release, Executive is not relying on any agreements or representations, except those expressly contained in this Release.

 

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5. Execution . It is not necessary that the Employer sign this Release following Executive’s full and complete execution of it for it to become fully effective and enforceable.

6. Severability . If any provision of this Release is found, held or deemed by a court of competent jurisdiction to be void, unlawful or unenforceable under any applicable statute or controlling law, the remainder of this Release shall continue in full force and effect.

7. Governing Law . This Release shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland, excluding the choice of law rules thereof.

8. Headings . Section and subsection headings contained in this Release are inserted for the convenience of reference only. Section and subsection headings shall not be deemed to be a part of this Release for any purpose, and they shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has duly executed this Agreement as of the day and year first herein above written.

 

EXECUTIVE:

 

Douglas W. Vicari

 

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Exhibit 10.3

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made this [            ] day of [            ] , 2009, by Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “Company”), and Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “REIT”), each with its principal place of business at 710 Route 46 East, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004, and D. Rick Adams, residing at the address on file with the REIT (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS, the REIT is the general partner of the Company; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into this agreement to reflect the Executive’s executive capacities in the REITs business and to provide for the Company’s and the REIT’s employment of the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the parties wish to set forth the terms and conditions of that employment;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by the parties hereto, the parties agree as follows:

 

1. Term of Employment

The Company and the REIT hereby employ the Executive, and the Executive hereby accepts employment with the Company and the REIT, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. Unless terminated earlier pursuant to Section 5, the Executive’s employment pursuant to this Agreement shall be for the two (2) year period commencing on the date of closing of the initial public offering of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest pursuant to the REIT’s registration statement on Form S-11 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commencement Date”) and ending on the second anniversary of the Commencement Date (the “Initial Term”). The Initial Term shall be extended for an additional twelve (12) months on each anniversary of the Commencement Date unless the Company or the Executive provides written notice to the contrary at least ninety (90) days before the applicable anniversary of the Commencement Date. The Initial Term, together with any such extensions, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” In the event that the Board of Trustees of the REIT (the “Board of Trustees”) determines that active efforts to complete the closing of the initial public offering have been abandoned, this Agreement shall become null and void.

 

2. Title; Duties

The Executive shall be employed as Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of the REIT. The Executive shall report to the Board of Trustees, who shall have the authority to direct, control and supervise the activities of the Executive. The Executive shall perform such services consistent with his position as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Trustees and are consistent with the bylaws of the REIT and the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Company as it may be amended from time to time, including, but not limited to, managing the affairs of the REIT and the Company.


3. Extent of Services

 

  (a) General . The Executive agrees not to engage in any business activities during the Employment Period except those which are for the sole benefit of the Company or the REIT and their subsidiaries (the Company and the REIT are hereinafter referred to as the “Company Group”), and to devote his entire business time, attention, skill and effort to the performance of his duties under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may, without impairing or otherwise adversely affecting the Executive’s performance of his duties to the Company Group, (i) engage in personal investments and charitable, professional and civic activities, and (ii) with the prior approval of the Board of Trustees, serve on the boards of directors of corporations other than the REIT, provided, however, that no such approval shall be necessary for the Executive’s continued service on any board of directors on which he was serving on the date of this Agreement, all of which have been previously disclosed to the Board of Trustees in writing and provided further, that in no event shall the Executive be permitted to serve on the board of directors of any other entity that owns, operates, acquires, sells, develops and/or manages any hotel or similar asset in the lodging industry. The Executive shall perform his duties to the best of his ability, shall adhere to the Company Group’s published policies and procedures, and shall use his best efforts to promote the Company Group’s interests, reputation, business and welfare.

 

  (b) Corporate Opportunities . The Executive agrees that he will not take personal advantage of any business opportunities which arise during his employment with the Company Group and which may be of benefit to the Company Group. All material facts regarding such opportunities must be promptly reported by the Executive to the Board of Trustees for consideration by the Company Group.

 

4. Compensation and Benefits

 

  (a) Salary . The Company shall pay the Executive a gross base annual salary (“Base Salary”) of $275,000. The salary shall be payable in arrears in approximately equal semi-monthly installments (except that the first and last such semi-monthly installments may be prorated if necessary) on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, minus such deductions as may be required by law or reasonably requested by the Executive. The REIT’s Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) shall review his Base Salary annually in conjunction with its regular review of employee salaries and may increase (but not decrease) his Base Salary as in effect from time to time as the Compensation Committee shall deem appropriate.

 

  (b)

Annual Bonus . Executive shall be entitled to earn bonuses with respect to each fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), based upon Executive’s and the Company Group’s achievement of performance objectives set by the Company, with a threshold bonus of twenty- five percent (25%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), a targeted bonus of fifty percent (50%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year), and a


 

maximum bonus of seventy-five percent (75%) of Executive’s annual salary for such fiscal year (or partial fiscal year). Any such bonus earned by the Executive shall be paid annually by March 15 of the year following the end of the year for which the bonus was earned.

 

  (c) Restricted Share Grants . The Company shall grant to the Executive 40,000 of the REIT’s common shares of beneficial interest subject to certain time vesting requirements and other conditions set forth in the applicable award agreement.

 

  (d) Other Benefits . The Executive shall be entitled to paid time off and holiday pay in accordance with the Company Group’s policies in effect from time to time and shall be eligible to participate in such life, health, and disability insurance, pension, deferred compensation and incentive plans, options and awards, performance bonuses and other benefits as the Company Group extends, as a matter of policy, to its executive employees. The Company Group shall maintain a disability insurance policy or plan covering the Executive during the Employment Period.

 

  (e) Reimbursement of Business Expenses . The Company shall reimburse the Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other expenses incurred or paid by the Executive in connection with, or related to, the performance of his duties, responsibilities or services under this Agreement, upon presentation by the Executive of documentation, expense statements, vouchers, and/or such other supporting information as the Company may reasonably request.

 

  (f) Timing of Reimbursements . Any reimbursement under this Agreement that is taxable to the Executive shall be made by December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Executive incurred the expense.

 

5. Termination

 

  (a) Termination by the Company for Cause . The Company may terminate the Executive’s employment under this Agreement at any time for Cause, upon written notice by the Company to the Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” for termination shall mean any of the following: (i) the conviction of the Executive of, or the entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere by the Executive to, any felony; (ii) fraud, misappropriation or embezzlement by the Executive; (iii) the Executive’s willful failure or gross negligence in the performance of his assigned duties for the Company Group, which failure or negligence continues for more than fifteen (15) calendar days following the Executive’s receipt of written notice of such willful failure or gross negligence; (iv) the Executive’s breach of any of his fiduciary duties to the Company Group; (v) any act or omission of the Executive that has a demonstrated and material adverse impact on the Company Group’s reputation for honesty and fair dealing; or (vi) the breach by the Executive of any material term of this Agreement.


  (b) Termination by the Company Without Cause or by the Executive Without Good Reason . Either party may terminate this Agreement at any time without Cause (in the case of the Company) or without Good Reason (in the case of the Executive), upon giving the other party sixty (60) days’ written notice. At the Company’s sole discretion, it may substitute sixty (60) days’ salary (or any lesser portion for any shortened period provided) in lieu of notice. Any salary paid to the Executive in lieu of notice shall not be offset against any entitlement the Executive may have to the Severance Payment pursuant to Section 6(c).

 

  (c) Termination by Executive for Good Reason . The Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement at any time for Good Reason, upon written notice by the Executive to the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason for termination shall mean, without the Executive’s consent, (i) the assignment to the Executive of substantial duties or responsibilities inconsistent with the Executive’s position at the Company Group, or any other action by the Company Group which results in a substantial diminution of the Executive’s duties or responsibilities other than any such reduction which is remedied by the Company Group within 30 days of receipt of written notice thereof from the Executive; (ii) a requirement that the Executive work principally from a location outside the fifty (50) mile radius from the Company’s address first written above or the headquarters to be established upon the closing of the Company’s initial public offering; (iii) a substantial reduction in the Executive’s aggregate Base Salary and other compensation taken as a whole, excluding any reductions caused by the failure to achieve performance targets. Good Reason shall not exist pursuant to any subsection of this Section 5(c) unless (A) the Executive shall have delivered notice to the Board within 90 days of the initial occurrence of such event constituting Good Reason, and (B) the Board fails to remedy the circumstances giving rise to the Executive’s notice within 30 days of receipt of notice. The Executive must terminate his employment under this Section 5(c) at a time agreed reasonably with the Company, but in any event within two years from the initial occurrence of an event constituting Good Reason.

 

  (d) Executive’s Death or Disability . The Executive’s employment shall terminate immediately upon his death or, upon written notice as set forth below, his Disability. As used in this Agreement, Disability shall mean such physical or mental impairment as would render the Executive eligible to receive benefits under the long-term disability insurance policy or plan then made available by the Company Group to the Executive. If the Employment Period is terminated by reason of the Executive’s Disability, either party shall give thirty (30) days’ advance written notice to that effect to the other.

 

6. Effect of Termination

 

  (a)

General . Regardless of the reason for any termination of this Agreement, the Executive (or the Executive’s estate if the Employment Period ends on account of the Executive’s death) shall be entitled to (i) payment of any unpaid portion of his Base Salary through the effective date of termination; (ii) reimbursement for any


 

outstanding reasonable business expense he has incurred in performing his duties hereunder; (iii) continued insurance benefits to the extent required by law; (iv) payment of any vested but unpaid rights as required independent of this Agreement by the terms of any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan, or any other employee benefit plan or program of the Company Group; and (v) except in the case of Termination by the Company for Cause, any bonus or incentive compensation that was approved but not paid.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason . If the Company terminates the Executive’s employment for Cause or the Executive terminates his employment without Good Reason, the Executive shall have no rights or claims against the Company Group except to receive the payments and benefits described in Section 6(a).

 

  (c) Termination by the Company Without Cause . Except as provided in Section 6(d), if the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of twelve (12) months (the “Severance Payment”). The Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the twelve (12) month severance period referenced in Section 6(c)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the twelve (12) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.


None of the benefits described in this Section 6(c) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A ) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (d) Termination Following Change in Control . If, during the Employment Period and within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, the Company (or its successor) terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause pursuant to Section 5(b) or the Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason pursuant to Section 5(c), the Executive shall be entitled to receive, in addition to the items referenced in Section 6(a), the following:

 

  (i) continued payment of his Base Salary, at the rate in effect on his last day of employment, for a period of twenty-four (24) months (the “Control Change Severance Payment”). The Control Change Severance Payment shall be paid in approximately equal installments on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates, subject to all legally required payroll deductions and withholdings for sums owed by the Executive to the Company Group;

 

  (ii) continued payment by the Company for the Executive’s life and health insurance coverage during the twenty-four (24) month severance period referenced in Section 6(d)(i) to the same extent that the Company paid for such coverage immediately prior to the termination of the Executive’s employment and subject to the eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions of such insurance coverage, provided that if any such insurance coverage shall become unavailable during the twenty-four (24) month severance period, the Company thereafter shall be obliged only to pay to the Executive an amount which, after reduction for income and employment taxes, is equal to the employer premiums for such insurance for the remainder of such severance period;

 

  (iii) vesting as of the last day of his employment in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group; and

 

  (iv) a bonus equal to two (2) times the greater of (x) the average of all bonuses paid to the Executive (taking into account a payment of no bonus or a payment of a bonus of $0) over the preceding thirty-six (36) months (or the period of the Executive’s employment if shorter), and (y) the most recent bonus paid to the Executive. Such bonus shall be paid to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the end of the fiscal year in which such termination occurs.


  (v)             (A) In the event that any Control Change Severance Payment, insurance benefits, accelerated vesting, pro-rated bonus or other benefit payable to the Executive (under this Agreement or otherwise), shall (1) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) (“Parachute Payments”) and (2) be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 (as it may be amended or replaced) of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then the Company shall pay to the Executive an additional amount (the “Gross-Up Amount”) such that the net benefits retained by the Executive after the deduction of the Excise Tax (including interest and penalties) and any federal, state or local income and employment taxes (including interest and penalties) upon the Gross-Up Amount shall be equal to the benefits that would have been delivered hereunder had the Excise Tax not been applicable and the Gross-Up Amount not been paid. Any such Gross-Up Amount shall be paid by the end of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the Excise Tax was paid.

(B) For purposes of determining the Gross-Up Amount: (1) Parachute Payments provided under arrangements with the Executive other than under any bonus or other incentive pay or equity plan or program of the Company (collectively, the “Plan”) and this Agreement, if any, shall be taken into account in determining the total amount of Parachute Payments received by the Executive so that the amount of excess Parachute Payments that are attributable to provisions of the Plan and Agreement is maximized; and (2) the Executive shall be deemed to pay federal, state and local income taxes at the highest marginal rate of taxation for the Executive’s taxable year in which the Parachute Payments are includable in the Executive’s income for purposes of federal, state and local income taxation.

(C) The determination of whether the Excise Tax is payable, the amount thereof, and the amount of any Gross-Up Amount shall be made in writing in good faith by a nationally recognized independent certified public accounting firm selected by the Company and approved by the Executive, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld (the “Accounting Firm”). If such determination is not finally accepted by the Internal Revenue Service (or state or local revenue authorities) on audit, then appropriate adjustments shall be computed (including Executive’s return of excess payments) based upon the amount of Excise Tax and any interest or penalties so determined; provided, however, that the Executive in no event shall owe the Company any interest on any portion of the Gross-Up Amount that is returned to the Company. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 6(d)(v), to the extent not otherwise specified herein, reasonable assumptions and approximations


may be made with respect to applicable taxes and reasonable, good faith interpretations of the Code may be relied upon. The Company and the Executive shall furnish such information and documents as may be reasonably requested in connection with the performance of the calculations under this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall bear all costs incurred in connection with the performance of the calculations contemplated by this Section 6(d)(v). The Company shall pay the Gross-Up Amount to the Executive no later than sixty (60) days following receipt of the Accounting Firm’s determination of the Gross-Up Amount.

 

  (vi) None of the benefits described in this Section 6(d) will be payable unless the Executive has signed a general release (attached hereto as Exhibit A ) within 45 days of date of termination, which has (and not until it has) become irrevocable, satisfactory to the Company in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, releasing the Company, its affiliates, including the REIT, and their officers, trustees and employees, from any and all claims or potential claims arising from or related to the Executive’s employment or termination of employment.

 

  (vii) For purposes of this Agreement, a “Change in Control” shall mean any of the following events:

(A) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity;

(B) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity; or

(C) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons who are shareholders or affiliates of the Company or affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of shares of beneficial interest of the Company.

 

  (e) Termination In the Event of Death or Disability .

 

  (i) If the Executive’s employment terminates because of his death, any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously issued to the Executive by the Company Group shall become fully vested as of the date of his death. In addition, the Executive’s estate shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his death occurs.


  (ii) In the event the Executive’s employment terminates due to his Disability, he shall be entitled to receive his Base Salary until such date as he shall commence receiving disability benefits pursuant to any long-term disability insurance policy or plan provided to him by the Company Group. In addition, as of the effective date of the termination notice specified in Section 5(d), the Executive shall vest in any unvested portion of any option and any restricted shares previously granted to him by the Company Group. The Executive also shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of any performance bonus to which he otherwise would have been entitled for the fiscal year in which his employment terminates due to his Disability.

 

7. Confidentiality

 

  (a) Definition of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges that he may be furnished or may otherwise receive or have access to confidential information which relates to the Company Group’s past, present or future business activities, strategies, services or products, research and development; financial analysis and data; improvements, inventions, processes, techniques, designs or other technical data; profit margins and other financial information; fee arrangements; terms and contents of leases, asset management agreements and other contracts; tenant and vendor lists or other compilations for marketing or development; confidential personnel and payroll information; or other information regarding administrative, management, financial, marketing, leasing or sales activities of the Company Group, or of a third party which provided proprietary information to the Company Group on a confidential basis. All such information, including any materials or documents containing such information, shall be considered by the Company Group and the Executive as proprietary and confidential (the “Proprietary Information”).

 

  (b) Exclusions . Notwithstanding the foregoing, Proprietary Information shall not include information in the public domain not as a result of a breach of any duty by the Executive or any other person.

 

  (c) Obligations . Both during and after the Employment Period, the Executive agrees to preserve and protect the confidentiality of the Proprietary Information and all physical forms thereof, whether disclosed to him before this Agreement is signed or afterward. In addition, the Executive shall not (i) disclose or disseminate the Proprietary Information to any third party, including employees of the Company Group (or their affiliates) without a legitimate business need to know during the Employment Period; (ii) remove the Proprietary Information from the Company Group’s premises without a valid business purpose; or (iii) use the Proprietary Information for his own benefit or for the benefit of any third party.

 

  (d)

Return of Proprietary Information . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that all the Proprietary Information used or generated during the course of working for the Company Group is the property of the Company Group. The Executive


 

agrees to deliver to the Company Group all documents and other tangibles (including diskettes and other storage media) containing the Proprietary Information at any time upon request by the Board of Trustees during his employment and immediately upon termination of his employment.

 

8. Noncompetition

 

  (a) Restriction on Competition . For the period of the Executive’s employment with the Company Group and for twelve (12) months following the expiration or termination of the Executive’s employment by the Company Group (the “Restricted Period”), the Executive agrees not to engage, directly or indirectly, as an owner, director, trustee, manager, member, employee, consultant, partner, principal, agent, representative, stockholder, or in any other individual, corporate or representative capacity, in any of the following: (i) any public or private lodging company, or (ii) any other business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive shall not be deemed to have violated this Section 8(a) solely by reason of his passive ownership of 1% or less of the outstanding stock of any publicly traded corporation or other entity.

 

  (b) Non-Solicitation of Clients . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees not to solicit, directly or indirectly, on his own behalf or on behalf of any other person(s), any client of the Company Group to whom the Company Group had provided services at any time during the Executive’s employment with the Company Group in any line of business that the Company Group conducts as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment or that the Company Group is actively soliciting, for the purpose of marketing or providing any service competitive with any service then offered by the Company Group.

 

  (c) Non-Solicitation of Employees . During the Restricted Period, the Executive agrees that he will not, directly or indirectly, hire or attempt to hire or cause any business, other than an affiliate of the Company Group, to hire any person who is then or was at any time during the preceding six (6) months an employee of the Company Group and who is at the time of such hire or attempted hire, or was at the date of such employee’s separation from the Company Group a vice president, senior vice president or executive vice president or other senior executive employee of the Company Group.

 

  (d) Acknowledgement . The Executive acknowledges that he will acquire much Proprietary Information concerning the past, present and future business of the Company Group as the result of his employment, as well as access to the relationships between the Company and the REIT and their clients and employees. The Executive further acknowledges that the business of the Company Group is very competitive and that competition by him in that business during his employment, or after his employment terminates, would severely injure the Company Group. The Executive understands and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Section 8 are reasonable and are required for the Company Group’s legitimate protection, and do not unduly limit his ability to earn a livelihood.


  (e) Rights and Remedies upon Breach . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that any breach by him of any of the provisions of Sections 7 and 8 (the “Restrictive Covenants”) would result in irreparable injury and damage for which money damages would not provide an adequate remedy. Therefore, if the Executive breaches, or threatens to commit a breach of, any of the provisions of the Restrictive Covenants, the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, shall have the following rights and remedies, each of which rights and remedies shall be independent of the other and severally enforceable, and all of which rights and remedies shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available to the Company and its affiliates, including the REIT, under law or in equity (including, without limitation, the recovery of damages):

 

  (i) The right and remedy to have the Restrictive Covenants specifically enforced (without posting bond and without the need to prove damages) by any court of competent jurisdiction, including, without limitation, the right to an entry against the Executive of restraining orders and injunctions (preliminary, mandatory, temporary and permanent) against violations, threatened or actual, and whether or not then continuing, of such covenants; and

 

  (ii) The right and remedy to require the Executive to account for and pay over to the Company and its affiliates all compensation, profits, monies, accruals, increments or other benefits (collectively, “Benefits”) derived or received by him as the result of any transactions constituting a breach of the Restrictive Covenants, and the Executive shall account for and pay over such Benefits to the Company and, if applicable, its affected affiliates.

 

  (f) Without limiting Section 12(i), if any court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction determines that any of the Restrictive Covenants, or any part thereof, is unenforceable because of the duration or geographical scope of such provision, then, after such determination has become final and unappealable, the duration or scope of such provision, as the case may be, shall be reduced so that such provision becomes enforceable and, in its reduced form, such provision shall then be enforceable and shall be enforced.

 

9. Executive Representation

The Executive represents and warrants to the Company Group that he is not now under any obligation of a contractual or other nature to any person, business or other entity which is inconsistent or in conflict with this Agreement or which would prevent him from performing his obligations under this Agreement.


10. Arbitration

 

  (a) Except as provided in Section 10(b), any disputes between the Company Group and the Executive in any way concerning the Executive’s employment, the termination of his employment, this Agreement or its enforcement shall be submitted at the initiative of either party to mandatory arbitration in Maryland before a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association, or its successor, then in effect. The decision of the arbitrator shall be rendered in writing, shall be final, and may be entered as a judgment in any court in the State of Maryland. The parties irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction of the federal and state courts located in Maryland for this purpose. Each party shall be responsible for its or his own costs incurred in such arbitration and in enforcing any arbitration award, including attorneys’ fees and expenses.

 

  (b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company or the REIT, in its sole discretion, may bring an action in any court of competent jurisdiction to seek injunctive relief and such other relief as the Company or the REIT shall elect to enforce the Restrictive Covenants. If the courts of any one or more of such jurisdictions hold the Restrictive Covenants wholly unenforceable by reason of breadth of scope or otherwise it is the intention of the Company Group and the Executive that such determination not bar or in any way affect the Company Group’s right, or the right of any of its affiliates, to the relief provided in Section 8(e) above in the courts of any other jurisdiction within the geographical scope of such Restrictive Covenants, as to breaches of such Restrictive Covenants in such other respective jurisdictions, such Restrictive Covenants as they relate to each jurisdiction being, for this purpose, severable, diverse and independent covenants, subject, where appropriate, to the doctrine of res judicata. The parties hereby agree to waive any right to a trial by jury for any and all disputes hereunder (whether or not relating to the Restrictive Covenants).

 

11. Required Delay For Certain Deferred Compensation and Section 409A.

In the event that any compensation with respect to the Executive’s termination is “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”), the common shares of beneficial interest of the Company or any affiliate is publicly traded on an established securities market or otherwise, and the Executive is determined to be a “specified employee,” as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, payment of such compensation shall be delayed as required by Section 409A. Such delay shall last six (6) months from the date of the Executive’s “separation from service” (within the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-1(h)) with the Company, except in the event of the Executive’s death. On the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service with the Company, or, if earlier, the Executive’s death, the Company will make a catch-up payment to the Executive equal to the total amount of such payments that would have been made during the six (6)-month period but for this Section 11. Such catch-up payment shall bear simple interest at the prime rate of interest as published by The Wall Street Journal ’s bank survey as of the first day of the six (6)-month period, which such interest shall be paid with the catch-up payment. Wherever payments under


this Agreement are to be made in installments, each such installment shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A. Whenever a payment under this Agreement specifies a payment period with reference to a number of days, the actual date of payment within the specified period shall be within the sole discretion of the Company.

 

12. Miscellaneous

 

  (a) Notices . All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effective (i) upon personal delivery, (ii) upon deposit with the United States Postal Service, by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or (iii) in the case of facsimile transmission or delivery by nationally recognized overnight delivery service, when received, addressed as follows:

 

  (i) If to the Company or the REIT, to:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 Route 46 East

Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

Fax No. (201) 599-0527

 

  (ii) If to the Executive, to:

D. Rick Adams

Address on file with the REIT

or to such other address or addresses as either party shall designate to the other in writing from time to time by like notice.

 

  (b) Pronouns . Whenever the context may require, any pronouns used in this Agreement shall include the corresponding masculine, feminine or neuter forms, and the singular forms of nouns and pronouns shall include the plural, and vice versa.

 

  (c) Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement.

 

  (d) Amendment . This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument executed by both the Company and the Executive, which amendment or modification is consented to by the REIT.

 

  (e) Governing Law . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws principles.


  (f) Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of both parties and their respective successors and assigns, including any entity with which or into which the Company or the REIT may be merged or which may succeed to its assets or business or any entity to which the Company or the REIT may assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that the obligations of the Executive are personal and shall not be assigned or delegated by him.

 

  (g) Waiver . No delays or omission by the Company, the REIT or the Executive in exercising any right under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of that or any other right. A waiver or consent by the Company shall not be effective unless consented to by the REIT. A waiver or consent given by the Company or the Executive on any one occasion shall be effective only in that instance and shall not be construed as a bar or waiver of any right on any other occasion.

 

  (h) Captions . The captions appearing in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and in no way define, limit or affect the scope or substance of any section of this Agreement.

 

  (i) Severability . In case any provision of this Agreement shall be held by a court or arbitrator with jurisdiction over the parties to this Agreement to be invalid, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, such provision shall be restated to reflect as nearly as possible the original intentions of the parties in accordance with applicable law, and the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall in no way be affected or impaired thereby.

 

  (j) Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

  James L. Francis
  President and Chief Executive Officer
CHESAPEAKE LODGING, L.P.
By:   Chesapeake Lodging Trust, itsgeneral partner
By:  

 

  James L. Francis
  President and Chief Executive Officer
D. RICK ADAMS
 

 


Exhibit A

WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT

THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE AGREEMENT (this “ Release ”) is entered into as of [            ] (the “ Effective Date ”), by D. Rick Adams (“ Executive ”) in consideration of severance pay (the “ Severance Payment ”) provided to Executive by Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Company ”), pursuant to the Employment Agreement by and between the Company, Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. and Executive (the “ Employment Agreement ”).

1. Waiver and Release . Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, Executive, on his own behalf and on behalf of his heirs, executors, administrators, attorneys and assigns, hereby unconditionally and irrevocably releases, waives and forever discharges the Company and each of its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and the subsidiaries, directors, trustees, owners, members, shareholders, officers, agents, and employees of the Company and its affiliates, parents, successors, predecessors, and subsidiaries (collectively, all of the foregoing are referred to as the “ Employer ”), from any and all causes of action, claims and damages, including attorneys’ fees, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release, concerning his employment or separation from employment. Subject to the last sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 1, this Release includes, but is not limited to, any payments, benefits or damages arising under any federal law (including, but not limited to, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Executive Order 11246, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, each as amended); any claim arising under any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations (including, but not limited to, any state or local laws, ordinances or regulations requiring that advance notice be given of certain workforce reductions); and any claim arising under any common law principle or public policy, including, but not limited to, all suits in tort or contract, such as wrongful termination, defamation, emotional distress, invasion of privacy or loss of consortium. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Release to the contrary, this Release does not encompass, and Executive does not release, waive or discharge, the obligations of the Company (a) to make the payments and provide the other benefits contemplated by the Employment Agreement, or (b) under any restricted shares agreement, option agreement or other agreement pertaining to Executive’s equity ownership, or (c) under any indemnification or similar agreement with Executive.

Executive understands that by signing this Release, he is not waiving any claims or administrative charges which cannot be waived by law. He is waiving, however, any right to monetary recovery or individual relief should any federal, state or local agency (including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) pursue any claim on his behalf arising out of or related to his employment with and/or separation from employment with the Company.


Executive further agrees without any reservation whatsoever, never to sue the Employer or become a party to a lawsuit on the basis of any and all claims of any type lawfully and validly released in this Release.

2. Acknowledgments . Executive is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily. He acknowledges that:

 

  (a) He is hereby advised in writing to consult an attorney before signing this Release;

 

  (b) He has relied solely on his own judgment and/or that of his attorney regarding the consideration for and the terms of this Release and is signing this Release knowingly and voluntarily of his own free will;

 

  (c) He is not entitled to the Severance Payment unless he agrees to and honors the terms of this Release;

 

  (d) He has been given at least twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider this Release, or he or she expressly waives his right to have at least twenty-one (21) days to consider this Release;

 

  (e) He may revoke this Release within seven (7) calendar days after signing it by submitting a written notice of revocation to the Employer. He further understands that this Release is not effective or enforceable until after the seven (7) day period of revocation has expired without revocation, and that if he or she revokes this Release within the seven (7) day revocation period, he will not receive the Severance Payment;

 

  (f) He has read and understands the Release and further understands that, subject to the limitations contained herein, it includes a general release of any and all known and unknown, foreseen or unforeseen claims presently asserted or otherwise arising through the date of his signing of this Release that he may have against the Employer; and

 

  (g) No statements made or conduct by the Employer has in any way coerced or unduly influenced him or her to execute this Release.

3. No Admission of Liability . This Release does not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing on the part of the Employer, the Employer does not admit there has been any wrongdoing whatsoever against the Executive, and the Employer expressly denies that any wrongdoing has occurred.

4. Entire Agreement . There are no other agreements of any nature between the Employer and Executive with respect to the matters discussed in this Release, except as expressly stated herein, and in signing this Release, Executive is not relying on any agreements or representations, except those expressly contained in this Release.


5. Execution . It is not necessary that the Employer sign this Release following Executive’s full and complete execution of it for it to become fully effective and enforceable.

6. Severability . If any provision of this Release is found, held or deemed by a court of competent jurisdiction to be void, unlawful or unenforceable under any applicable statute or controlling law, the remainder of this Release shall continue in full force and effect.

7. Governing Law . This Release shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland, excluding the choice of law rules thereof.

8. Headings . Section and subsection headings contained in this Release are inserted for the convenience of reference only. Section and subsection headings shall not be deemed to be a part of this Release for any purpose, and they shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has duly executed this Agreement as of the day and year first herein above written.

 

EXECUTIVE:

 

D. Rick Adams

Exhibit 10.4

 

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

             Page

1.

  PURPOSE    1

2.

  DEFINITIONS    1

3.

  ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN    5
  3.1.   Board    5
  3.2.   Committee    5
  3.3.   Terms of Awards    6
  3.4.   Deferral Arrangement    7
  3.5.   No Liability    7
  3.6.   Share Issuance/Book-Entry    7
  3.7.   No Repricing    7

4.

  SHARE SUBJECT TO THE PLAN    7
  4.1.   Number of Shares Available for Awards and Share Usage    7
  4.2.   Adjustments in Authorized Shares    8

5.

  DURATION AND AMENDMENTS    8
  5.1.   Effective Date    8
  5.2.   Term    8
  5.3.   Amendment and Termination of the Plan    8

6.

  AWARD ELIGIBILITY AND LIMITATIONS    9
  6.1.   Service Providers; Outside Trustees; Other Persons    9
  6.2.   Successive Awards    9
  6.3.   Limitation on Shares Subject to Awards and Cash Awards    9
  6.4.   Stand-Alone, Additional, Tandem, and Substitute Awards    9

7.

  AWARD AGREEMENT    10

8.

  TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS    10
  8.1.   Option Price    10
  8.2.   Vesting    10
  8.3.   Term    10
  8.4.   Termination of Service    10
  8.5.   Method of Exercise    10
  8.6.   Rights of Holders of Options    11
  8.7.   Delivery of Share Certificates    11
  8.8.   Limitations on Incentive Share Options    11
  8.9.   Notice of Disqualifying Disposition    11

9.

  TRANSFERABILITY OF OPTIONS    11
  9.1.   Transferability of Options    11
  9.2.   Transfers    11

10.

  SHARE APPRECIATION RIGHTS    12
  10.1.   Right to Payment    12
  10.2.   Other Terms    12

11.

  RESTRICTED SHARES AND SHARE UNITS    13
  11.1.   Grant of Restricted Shares or Share Units    13

 

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  11.2.   Restrictions    13
  11.3.   Restricted Shares Certificates    13
  11.4.   Rights of Holders of Restricted Shares    13
  11.5.   Rights of Holders of Share Units    14
    11.5.1.   No Voting and Dividend Rights    14
    11.5.2.   Creditor’s Rights    14
  11.6.   Termination of Service    14
  11.7.   Purchase of Restricted Shares    14
  11.8.   Delivery of Shares    14

12.

  UNRESTRICTED SHARES AWARDS    15

13.

  FORM OF PAYMENT FOR OPTIONS AND RESTRICTED SHARES AND SHARE UNITS    15
  13.1.   General Rule    15
  13.2.   Surrender of Shares    15
  13.3.   Cashless Exercise    15
  13.4.   Other Forms of Payment    15
14. DIVIDEND EQUIVALENT RIGHTS    16
  14.1.   Dividend Equivalent Rights    16
  14.2.   Termination of Service    16
15. PERFORMANCE AND ANNUAL INCENTIVE AWARDS    16
  15.1.   Performance Conditions    16
  15.2.   Performance or Annual Incentive Awards Granted to Designated Covered Employees    17
    15.2.1.   Performance Goals Generally    17
    15.2.2.   Business Criteria    17
    15.2.3.   Timing For Establishing Performance Goals    17
    15.2.4.   Performance or Annual Incentive Award Pool    18
    15.2.5.   Settlement of Performance or Annual Incentive Awards; Other Terms    18
  15.3.   Written Determinations    18
  15.4.   Status of Section 15.2 Awards Under Code Section 162(m)    18

16.

  PARACHUTE LIMITATIONS    18

17.

  REQUIREMENTS OF LAW    19
  17.1.   General    19
  17.2.   Rule 16b-3    20
18. EFFECT OF CHANGES IN CAPITALIZATION    20
  18.1.   Changes in Shares    20
  18.2.   Changes in Capitalization; Merger; Liquidation    21
  18.3.   Adjustments    21
  18.4.   No Limitations on Company    21

19.

  GENERAL PROVISIONS    21
  19.1.   Disclaimer of Rights    21
  19.2.   Nonexclusivity of the Plan    22
  19.3.   Withholding Taxes    22

 

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  19.4.   Captions    23
  19.5.   Other Provisions    23
  19.6.   Number And Gender    23
  19.7.   Severability    23
  19.8.   Governing Law    23
  19.9.   Code Section 409A    23

 

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CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “Company”), sets forth herein the terms of its Equity Plan (as amended from time to time, the “Plan”), as follows:

 

1. PURPOSE

This Plan is intended to (a) provide incentive to eligible persons to stimulate their efforts toward the continued success of the Company and to operate and manage their businesses in a manner that will provide for the long-term growth and profitability of the Company; and (b) provide a means of obtaining, rewarding and retaining key personnel. To this end, the Plan provides for the grant of share options, share appreciation rights, restricted shares, share units, unrestricted shares, dividend equivalent rights and cash awards. Any of these awards may, but need not, be made as performance incentives to reward attainment of annual or long-term performance goals in accordance with the terms hereof. Share options granted under the Plan may be non-qualified share options or incentive share options, as provided herein.

 

2. DEFINITIONS

For purposes of interpreting the Plan and related documents (including Award Agreements), the following definitions shall apply:

2.1 “Affiliate” means, with respect to the Company, any company or other trade or business that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Company within the meaning of Rule 405 of Regulation C under the Securities Act, including, without limitation, any Subsidiary. For purposes of granting Options or Share Appreciation Rights, an entity may not be considered an Affiliate unless the Company holds a “controlling interest” in such entity, where the term “controlling interest” has the same meaning as provided in Treasury Regulations section 1.414(c)-2(b)(2)(i), provided that the language “at least 50 percent” is used instead of “at least 80 percent” and, provided further, that where granting of Options or Share Appreciation Rights is based upon a legitimate business criteria, the language “at least 20 percent” is used instead of “at least 80 percent” each place it appears in Treasury Regulations section 1.414(c)-2(b)(2)(i).

2.2 “Annual Incentive Award” means an Award made subject to attainment of performance goals (as described in Section 15 ) over a performance period of up to and including one year (the fiscal year, unless otherwise specified by the Committee).

2.3 “Award” means a grant of an Option, Share Appreciation Right, Restricted Share, Unrestricted Share, Share Unit, Dividend Equivalent Right, or cash award under the Plan.

2.4 “Award Agreement” means the written or electronic agreement between the Company and a Grantee that evidences and sets out the terms and conditions of an Award.

2.5 “Benefit Arrangement” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 16 hereof.

2.6 “Board” means the Board of Trustees of the Company.


2.7 “Cause” unless otherwise provided by the Board or the Committee in the Award Agreement, has the same meaning as provided in the employment agreement between the Service Provider and the Company or any Affiliate of the Company, on the date of Termination of Employment, or if no such definition or employment agreement exists, “Cause” means conduct amounting to (i) fraud or dishonesty against the Company or any Affiliate of the Company, (ii) Service Provider’s willful misconduct, repeated refusal to follow the reasonable directions of the Board, any executive officer or departmental head of the Company or any Affiliate, or knowing violation of law in the course of performance of the duties of Service Provider’s employment with the Company or any Affiliate of the Company, (iii) repeated absences from work without a reasonable excuse, (iv) intoxication with alcohol or drugs while on the Company’s or any Affiliate of the Company’s premises or while performing Services for the Company or any of its Affiliates, (v) a conviction or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or a crime involving dishonesty, or (vi) a material breach or violation of the terms of any employment or other agreement to which Service Provider and the Company, or, if applicable, any Affiliate of the Company are parties.

2.8 “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as now in effect or as hereafter amended.

2.9 “Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board or other committee of the Board to which authority has been delegated pursuant to Section 3.2 .

2.10 “Company” means Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate trust.

2.11 “Corporate Transaction” means (i) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity, (ii) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity, or (iii) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons who are shareholders or Affiliates of the Company or Affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of shares of beneficial interest of the Company.

2.12 “Covered Employee” means a Grantee who is a Covered Employee within the meaning of Section 162(m)(3) of the Code.

2.13 “Disability” has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained by the Company or, if applicable, any Affiliate of the Company for the Service Provider. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of the Service Provider, Disability shall mean that condition described in Code Section 22(e)(3), as amended from time to time. In the event of a dispute, the determination of Disability shall be made by the Board and shall be supported by advice of a physician competent in the area to which such Disability relates.

2.14 “Dividend Equivalent” means a right, granted to a Grantee under Section 14 hereof, to receive cash, Shares, other Awards or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of Shares, or other periodic payments.

 

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2.15 “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as now in effect or as hereafter amended.

2.16 “Fair Market Value” means the value of a Share, determined as follows: if on the Grant Date or other determination date the Shares are listed on an established national or regional stock exchange, or is publicly traded on an established securities market, the Fair Market Value of a Share shall be the closing price of the Shares on such exchange or in such market (if there is more than one such exchange or market, the principal exchange or market on which the Shares are listed) on the Grant Date or such other determination date or, if no sale of Shares is reported for such date, the Fair Market Value shall be the Fair Market Value on the next preceding day on which any sale shall have been reported. If the Shares are not listed on such an exchange, quoted on such system or traded on such a market, Fair Market Value shall be the value of the Shares as determined by the Board in good faith. For purposes of determining taxable income and the amount of the related tax withholding obligation under Section 19.3, notwithstanding this Section 2.16 or Section 19.3, for any Shares that are sold on the same day that such shares are first legally saleable pursuant to the terms of the applicable award agreement, Fair Market Value shall be determined based upon the sale price for such Shares so long as the grantee has provided the Company with advance written notice of such sale.

2.17 “Family Member” means a person who is a spouse, former spouse, child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, niece, nephew, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother, sister, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, including adoptive relationships, of the Grantee, any person sharing the Grantee’s household (other than a tenant or employee), a trust in which any one or more of these persons have more than fifty percent of the beneficial interest, a foundation in which any one or more of these persons (or the Grantee) control the management of assets, and any other entity in which one or more of these persons (or the Grantee) own more than fifty percent of the voting interests.

2.18 “Grant Date” means, as determined by the Board or the Committee, the latest to occur of (i) the date as of which the Board or such Committee approves an Award, (ii) the date on which the recipient of an Award first becomes eligible to receive an Award under Section 6 hereof, or (iii) such other date as may be specified by the Board or such Committee.

2.19 “Grantee” means a person who receives or holds an Award under the Plan.

2.20 “Incentive Share Option” means an “incentive stock option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, or the corresponding provision of any subsequently enacted tax statute, as amended from time to time.

2.21 “Non-qualified Share Option” means an Option that is not an Incentive Share Option.

2.22 “Option” means an option to purchase one or more Shares pursuant to the Plan.

2.23 “Option Price” means the purchase price for each Share subject to an Option.

2.24 “Other Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 16 hereof.

2.25 “Outside Trustee” means a member of the Board who is not an officer or employee of the Company.

 

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2.26 “Performance Award” means an Award made subject to the attainment of performance goals (as described in Section 15 ) over a performance period of more than one year.

2.27 “Plan” means this Chesapeake Lodging Trust Equity Plan, as amended, modified or restated from time to time.

2.28 “Purchase Price” means the purchase price for each Share pursuant to a grant of Restricted Shares or Share Units.

2.29 “Reporting Person” means a person who is required to file reports under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act.

2.30 “Restricted Shares” means Shares, awarded to a Grantee pursuant to Section 11 hereof.

2.31 “SAR Exercise Price” means the per share exercise price of an SAR granted to a Grantee under Section 10 hereof.

2.32 “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as now in effect or as hereafter amended.

2.33 “Service” means service as an employee, officer, Outside Trustee or other Service Provider of the Company or an Affiliate. Unless otherwise stated in the applicable Award Agreement, a Grantee’s change in position or duties shall not result in interrupted or terminated Service, so long as such Grantee continues to be an employee, officer, Outside Trustee or other Service Provider of the Company or an Affiliate. Subject to the preceding sentence, whether a termination of Service shall have occurred for purposes of the Plan shall be determined by the Board, which determination shall be final, binding and conclusive.

2.34 “Service Provider” means an employee, officer or Outside Trustee of the Company or an Affiliate, or an individual who is a consultant or adviser providing services to the Company or an Affiliate.

2.35 “Shares” means the common shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share, of the Company.

2.36 “Share Appreciation Right” or “SAR” means a right granted to a Grantee under Section 10 hereof.

2.37 “Share Unit” means a bookkeeping entry representing the equivalent of a Share, awarded to a Grantee pursuant to Section 11 hereof.

2.38 “Subsidiary” means any “subsidiary corporation” of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code.

2.39 “Substitute Award” means an Award granted upon assumption of, or in substitution for, an outstanding award previously granted by a company or other entity acquired by the Company or any Affiliate with which the Company or any Affiliate combines.

 

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2.40 “Termination Date” means the date upon which an Option or SAR shall terminate or expire, as set forth in Section 8.3 hereof.

2.41 “Ten Percent Shareholder” means an employee who owns more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of outstanding shares of beneficial interest in the Company or any of its Subsidiaries. In determining share ownership, the attribution rules of Section 424(d) of the Code shall be applied.

2.42 “Unrestricted Share” means an Award pursuant to Section 12 hereof.

 

3. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN

3.1. Board

The Board shall have such powers and authorities related to the administration of the Plan as are consistent with the Company’s declaration of trust and by-laws, in each case, as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, and applicable law. The Board shall have full power and authority to take all actions and to make all determinations required or provided for under the Plan, any Award or any Award Agreement, and shall have full power and authority to take all such other actions and make all such other determinations not inconsistent with the specific terms and provisions of the Plan that the Board deems to be necessary or appropriate to the administration of the Plan, any Award or any Award Agreement. All such actions and determinations shall be by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the Board present at a meeting or by unanimous consent of the Board executed in writing in accordance with the Company’s declaration of trust and by-laws, in each case, as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, and applicable law. The interpretation and construction by the Board of any provision of the Plan, any Award or any Award Agreement shall be final and conclusive.

3.2. Committee

The Board from time to time may delegate to the Committee such powers and authorities related to the administration and implementation of the Plan, as set forth in Section 3.1 above and other applicable provisions, as the Board shall determine, consistent with the declaration of trust and by-laws of the Company, in each case, as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, and applicable law. The Board may also appoint one or more separate committees of the Board, each composed of one or more trustees of the Company who need not be Outside Trustees, who may administer the Plan with respect to employees or other Service Providers who are not executive officers or trustees of the Company or its Affiliates, may grant Awards under the Plan to such employees or other Service Providers, and may determine all terms of such Awards. In addition, the Committee may delegate to one or more executive officers of the Company or its Affiliates the authority to grant Awards to employees or other Service Providers who are not executive officers or trustees of the Company. Such delegation shall specify the maximum number of Shares that may be granted by such officer(s), as well as the time period during which the delegation shall remain in effect. In the event that the Plan, any Award or any Award Agreement entered into hereunder provides for any action to be taken by or determination to be made by the Board, such action may be taken or such determination may be made by the Committee if the power and authority to do so has been delegated to the Committee by the Board as provided for in this Section. Unless otherwise expressly determined by the Board, any such action or determination by the Committee shall be final, binding and conclusive. To the extent permitted by law, the Committee may delegate its authority under the Plan to a member of the Board.

 

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3.3. Terms of Awards

Subject to the other terms and conditions of the Plan, the Board shall have full and final authority to:

(i) designate Grantees,

(ii) determine the type or types of Awards to be made to a Grantee,

(iii) determine the number of Shares to be subject to an Award,

(iv) establish the terms and conditions of each Award (including, but not limited to, the exercise price of any Option, the nature and duration of any restriction or condition (or provision for lapse thereof) relating to the vesting, exercise, transfer, or forfeiture of an Award or the Shares subject thereto, the treatment of an Award in the event of a Corporate Transaction and any terms or conditions that may be necessary to qualify Options as Incentive Share Options),

(v) prescribe the form of each Award Agreement evidencing an Award, and

(vi) amend, modify, or supplement the terms of any outstanding Award, subject to Section 3.7. Such authority specifically includes the authority, in order to effectuate the purposes of the Plan but without amending the Plan, to make or modify Awards to eligible individuals who are foreign nationals or are individuals who are employed outside the United States to recognize differences in local law, tax policy, or custom.

The Board shall have the right, in its discretion, to make Awards in substitution or exchange for any other award under another plan of the Company, any Affiliate, or any business entity to be acquired by the Company or an Affiliate. The Committee may retain the right in an Award Agreement to cause a forfeiture of the gain realized by a Grantee on account of actions taken by the Grantee in violation or breach of or in conflict with any non-competition agreement, any agreement prohibiting solicitation of employees or clients of the Company or any Affiliate thereof or any confidentiality obligation with respect to the Company or any Affiliate thereof, to the extent specified in such Award Agreement applicable to the Grantee. Furthermore, the Company may annul an Award if the Grantee is an employee of the Company or an Affiliate thereof and is terminated for Cause as defined in the applicable Award Agreement or the Plan or any other agreement with the Grantee, as applicable.

Furthermore, if the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement due to the material noncompliance of the Company as a result of misconduct, with regard to any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws, the individuals subject to automatic forfeiture under Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and any Grantee who knowingly engaged in the misconduct, was grossly negligent in engaging in the misconduct, knowingly failed to prevent the misconduct or was grossly negligent in failing to prevent the misconduct, shall reimburse the Company the amount of any payment in settlement of an Award earned or accrued during the 12-month period following the first public issuance or filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (whichever first occurred) of the financial document that contained such material noncompliance.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan or any provision of any Award Agreement, if the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement, then Grantees shall forfeit any cash or Shares received in connection with an Award (or an amount equal to the fair market value of such Shares on the date of delivery if the Grantee no longer holds the Shares) if pursuant to the terms of the Award

 

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Agreement for such Award, the amount of the Award earned or the vesting in the Award was explicitly based on the achievement of pre-established performance goals set forth in the Award Agreement (including earnings, gains, or other criteria) that are later determined, as a result of the accounting restatement, not to have been achieved.

3.4. Deferral Arrangement

The Board may permit or require the deferral of any award payment into a deferred compensation arrangement, subject to such rules and procedures as it may establish, which may include provisions for the payment or crediting of interest or dividend equivalents, including converting such credits into deferred Share equivalents and restricting deferrals to comply with hardship distribution rules affecting 401(k) plans. Any such deferrals shall be made in a manner that complies with Code Section 409A.

3.5. No Liability

No member of the Board or of the Committee shall be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Award or Award Agreement.

3.6. Share Issuance/Book-Entry.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan to the contrary, the issuance of the Shares under the Plan may be evidenced in such a manner as the Board, in its discretion, deems appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of one or more share certificates.

3.7. No Repricing.

Other than pursuant to Section 18 and except in connection with a Corporate Transaction involving the Company and/or any share dividend, share split, extraordinary cash dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, or exchange of shares, notwithstanding any other provision in the Plan to the contrary, the terms of outstanding Options or SARs may not be amended without shareholder approval to (i) reduce their Option Price or SAR Exercise Price, as applicable or (ii) cancel, exchange, substitute, buyout or surrender such outstanding Options or SARs in exchange for cash, other Awards or Options or SARs with an Option Price or SAR Exercise Price, as applicable, that is less than the Option Price or SAR Exercise Price, as applicable, of the original Options or SARs.

 

4. SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN

4.1. Number of Shares Available for Awards and Share Usage

Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 18 hereof, the number of Shares available for issuance under the Plan shall be 735,756, which amount shall, if the underwriters for the initial registered public offering of the Shares exercise their over-allotment option to purchase additional Shares pursuant to their underwriting agreement, be increased 45 days following the consummation of the initial registered public offering of the Shares by five percent (5%) of the number of Shares issued by the Company pursuant to the exercise of the underwriter’s over-allotment option with respect to such public offering. 735,756 Shares available for issuance under the Plan may be awarded as Incentive Share Options. Any Shares that are subject to Awards shall be counted against this limit as one (1) Share for every one (1) Share issued.

 

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Shares issued or to be issued under the Plan shall be authorized but unissued Shares. If any Shares covered by an Award granted under the Plan are not purchased or are forfeited or expire, or if an award in either case otherwise terminates without delivery of any Shares subject thereto or is settled in cash in lieu of Shares, then the number of Shares counted against the aggregate number of Shares available under the Plan with respect to such Award shall, to the extent of any such forfeiture, termination or expiration, again be available for making Awards under the Plan as set forth in this Section 4.1. Any Shares that again become available for grant pursuant to this Section 4.1 shall be added back as one (1) Share. Shares issued pursuant to Awards granted in substitution for awards held by employees of a business entity acquired by the Company or an Affiliate shall not count against the Shares available for issuance under the Plan.

4.2. Adjustments in Authorized Shares.

The Board shall have the right to substitute or assume Awards in connection with mergers, reorganizations, separations, or other transactions to which Section 424(a) of the Code applies. The number of Shares reserved pursuant to Section 4.1 shall be increased by the corresponding number of awards assumed and, in the case of a substitution, by the net increase in the number of Shares subject to awards before and after the substitution. Available shares under a shareholder approved plan of an acquired company (as appropriately adjusted to reflect the transaction) may be used for Awards under the Plan and do not reduce the number of Shares available under the Plan, subject to applicable stock exchange requirements.

 

5. DURATION AND AMENDMENTS

5.1. Effective Date

The Plan shall be effective as of the Effective Date, subject to approval of the Plan by the Company’s shareholders within one year of the Effective Date. Upon approval of the Plan by the shareholders of the Company as set forth above, all Awards made under the Plan on or after the Effective Date shall be fully effective as if the shareholders of the Company had approved the Plan on the Effective Date. If the shareholders fail to approve the Plan within one year of the Effective Date, any Awards made hereunder shall be null and void and of no effect.

5.2. Term

The Plan shall terminate automatically on [            ] and may be terminated on any earlier date as provided in Section 5.3 .

5.3. Amendment and Termination of the Plan

The Board may, at any time and from time to time, amend, suspend, or terminate the Plan as to any Shares as to which Awards have not been made. An amendment shall be contingent on approval of the Company’s shareholders only (i) to the extent stated by the Board or required by applicable law or (ii) if the amendment would (A) materially increase the benefits accruing to participants under the Plan, (B) materially increase the aggregate number of Shares that may be issued under the Plan, or (C) materially modify the requirements as to eligibility for participation in the Plan. No amendment will be made to the no repricing provisions of Section 8 of the Plan without the approval of the Company’s shareholders. No amendment, suspension, or termination of the Plan shall, without the consent of the Grantee, impair rights or obligations under any Award theretofore awarded under the Plan.

 

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6. AWARD ELIGIBILITY AND LIMITATIONS

6.1. Service Providers; Outside Trustees; Other Persons

Subject to this Section 6 , Awards may be made under the Plan to: (i) any Service Provider to the Company or of any Affiliate, including any such Service Provider who is an officer or trustee of the Company, or of any Affiliate, as the Board shall determine and designate from time to time and (ii) any other individual whose participation in the Plan is determined to be in the best interests of the Company by the Board.

6.2. Successive Awards

An eligible person may receive more than one Award, subject to such restrictions as are provided herein.

6.3. Limitation on Shares Subject to Awards and Cash Awards

(i) the maximum number of Shares subject to Options or SARs that can be issued under the Plan to any person eligible for an Award under Section 6 hereof is 350,000 (three hundred fifty thousand) in any calendar year;

(ii) the maximum number of Shares that can be issued under the Plan, other than pursuant to an Option, SAR, or Restricted Shares or Share Unit grant that is not performance based, to any person eligible for an Award under Section 6 hereof is 350,000 (three hundred fifty thousand) in any calendar year;

(iii) the maximum amount that may be earned as an Annual Incentive Award or other cash Award in any fiscal year by any one Grantee shall be $5,000,000 and the maximum amount that may be earned as a Performance Award or other cash Award in respect of a performance period by any one Grantee shall be $15,000,000.

The preceding limitations in this Section 6.3 are subject to adjustment as provided in Section 18 hereof.

6.4. Stand-Alone, Additional, Tandem, and Substitute Awards

Subject to Section 3.7, Awards granted under the Plan may, in the discretion of the Board, be granted either alone or in addition to, in tandem with, or in substitution or exchange for, any other Award or any award granted under another plan of the Company, any Affiliate, or any business entity to be acquired by the Company or an Affiliate, or any other right of a Grantee to receive payment from the Company or any Affiliate. Such additional, tandem, and substitute or exchange Awards may be granted at any time. If an Award is granted in substitution or exchange for another Award, the Board shall require the surrender of such other Award in consideration for the grant of the new Award. In addition, Awards may be granted in lieu of cash compensation, including in lieu of cash amounts payable under other plans of the Company or any Affiliate. Notwithstanding Sections 8.1 and 10.1 but subject to Section 3.7 , the Option Price of an Option or the grant price of an SAR that is a Substitute Award may be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the original date of grant; provided, that, the Option Price or grant price is determined in accordance with the principles of Code Section 424 and the regulations thereunder for any Incentive Share Option and consistent with Code Section 409A for any other Option or SAR.

 

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7. AWARD AGREEMENT

Each Award granted pursuant to the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement, in such form or forms as the Board shall from time to time determine. Award Agreements granted from time to time or at the same time need not contain similar provisions but shall be consistent with the terms of the Plan. Each Award Agreement evidencing an Award of Options shall specify whether such Options are intended to be Non-qualified Share Options or Incentive Share Options, and in the absence of such specification such options shall be deemed Non-qualified Share Options.

 

8. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS

8.1. Option Price

The Option Price of each Option shall be fixed by the Board and stated in the Award Agreement evidencing such Option. The Option Price of each Option shall be at least the Fair Market Value on the Grant Date of a Share; provided , however , that in the event that a Grantee is a Ten Percent Shareholder, the Option Price of an Option granted to such Grantee that is intended to be an Incentive Share Option shall be not less than 110 percent of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date. In no case shall the Option Price of any Option be less than the par value of a Share.

8.2. Vesting

Subject to Sections 8.3 and 18 hereof, each Option granted under the Plan shall become exercisable at such times and under such conditions as shall be determined by the Board and stated in the Award Agreement.

8.3. Term

Each Option granted under the Plan shall terminate, and all rights to purchase Shares thereunder shall cease, upon the expiration of ten years from the date such Option is granted, or under such circumstances and on such date prior thereto as is set forth in the Plan or as may be fixed by the Board and stated in the Award Agreement relating to such Option (the “Termination Date”); provided , however , that in the event that the Grantee is a Ten Percent Shareholder, an Option granted to such Grantee that is intended to be an Incentive Share Option shall not be exercisable after the expiration of five years from its Grant Date.

8.4. Termination of Service

Each Award Agreement shall set forth the extent to which the Grantee shall have the right to exercise the Option following termination of the Grantee’s Service. Such provisions shall be determined in the sole discretion of the Board, need not be uniform among all Options issued pursuant to the Plan, and may reflect distinctions based on the reasons for termination of Service. An Option that is intended to be an Incentive Share Option shall no longer be exercisable as an Incentive Share Option ninety (90) days after the termination of the Grantee’s Service.

8.5. Method of Exercise

An Option that is exercisable may be exercised by the Grantee’s delivery to the Company of written or electronic notice of exercise on any business day, on the form specified by the Company. Such notice shall specify the number of Shares with respect to which the Option is being exercised and shall be

 

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accompanied by payment in full of the Option Price of the Shares for which the Option is being exercised plus the amount (if any) of federal and/or other taxes which the Company many, in its sole and absolute judgment, determine to be required to withhold with respect to an Award pursuant to Section 19.3 .

8.6. Rights of Holders of Options

Unless otherwise stated in the applicable Award Agreement, an individual holding or exercising an Option shall have none of the rights of a shareholder (for example, the right to receive cash or dividend payments or distributions attributable to the subject Shares or to direct the voting of the subject Shares) until the Shares covered thereby are fully paid and issued to him. Except as provided in Section 18 hereof, no adjustment shall be made for dividends, distributions or other rights for which the record date is prior to the date of such issuance.

8.7. Delivery of Share Certificates

Promptly after the exercise of an Option by a Grantee and the payment in full of the Option Price, such Grantee shall be entitled to the issuance of a share certificate or certificates evidencing his or her ownership of the Shares subject to the Option. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan to the contrary, the Company may elect to satisfy any requirement under this Plan for the delivery of share certificates through the use of book-entry.

8.8. Limitations on Incentive Share Options

An Option shall constitute an Incentive Share Option only (i) if the Grantee of such Option is an employee of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company; (ii) to the extent specifically provided in the related Award Agreement; and (iii) to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time the Option is granted) of the Shares with respect to which all Incentive Share Options held by such Grantee become exercisable for the first time during any calendar year (under the Plan and all other plans of the Grantee’s employer and its Affiliates) does not exceed $100,000. This limitation shall be applied by taking Options into account in the order in which they were granted.

8.9. Notice of Disqualifying Disposition.

If any Grantee shall make any disposition of Shares issued pursuant to the exercise of an Incentive Share Option under the circumstances described in Code Section 421(b) (relating to certain disqualifying dispositions), such Grantee shall notify the Company of such disposition within ten (10) days thereof.

 

9. TRANSFERABILITY OF OPTIONS

9.1. Transferability of Options

Except as provided in Section 9.2 , during the lifetime of a Grantee, only the Grantee (or, in the event of legal incapacity or incompetency, the Grantee’s guardian or legal representative) may exercise an Option. Except as provided in Section 9.2 , no Option shall be assignable or transferable by the Grantee to whom it is granted, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution.

9.2. Transfers

If authorized in the applicable Award Agreement, a Grantee may transfer, not for value, all or part of an Option which is not an Incentive Share Option to any Family Member or to any entity that is

 

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exempt from income tax pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Code, or any successor provision. For the purpose of this Section 9.2 , a “not for value” transfer is a transfer which is (i) a gift, (ii) a transfer under a domestic relations order in settlement of marital property rights; or (iii) a transfer to an entity in which more than fifty percent of the voting interests are owned by Family Members (or the Grantee) in exchange for an interest in that entity. Following a transfer under this Section 9.2 , any such Option shall continue to be subject to the same terms and conditions as were applicable immediately prior to transfer. Subsequent transfers of transferred Options are prohibited except to Family Members of the original Grantee in accordance with this Section 9.2 or by will or the laws of descent and distribution. The events of termination of Service of Section 8.4 hereof shall continue to be applied with respect to the original Grantee, following which the Option shall be exercisable by the transferee only to the extent, and for the periods specified, in Section 8.4 .

 

10. SHARE APPRECIATION RIGHTS

The Board is authorized to grant Share Appreciation Rights (“SARs”) to Grantees on the following terms and conditions:

10.1. Right to Payment

A SAR shall confer on the Grantee to whom it is granted a right to receive, upon exercise thereof, an amount not greater than the excess of (A) the Fair Market Value of one Share on the date of exercise over (B) the grant price of the SAR, as determined by the Board. The Award Agreement for an SAR shall specify the SAR Exercise Price of the SAR, which shall be at least the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date. The Award Agreement for a SAR shall specify the SAR Exercise Price, which shall be at least the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date. SARs may be granted in conjunction with all or part of an Option granted under the Plan or at any subsequent time during the term of such Option, in conjunction with all or part of any other Award or without regard to any Option or other Award; provided that a SAR that is granted subsequent to the Grant Date of a related Option must have a SAR Exercise Price that is no less than the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Option Grant Date.

10.2. Other Terms

Each SAR granted under the Plan shall terminate upon the expiration of ten years from the Grant Date of such SAR or under such circumstances and on such date prior thereto as is set forth in the Plan or as may be fixed by the Board and stated in the Award Agreement relating to such SAR. The Board shall determine at the Grant Date or thereafter, the time or times at which and the circumstances under which a SAR may be exercised in whole or in part (including based on achievement of performance goals and/or future service requirements), the time or times at which SARs shall cease to be or become exercisable following termination of Service or upon other conditions, the method of exercise, method of settlement, form of consideration payable in settlement which may be cash or Shares, method by or forms in which Shares will be delivered or deemed to be delivered to Grantees, whether or not a SAR shall be in tandem or in combination with any other Award, and any other terms and conditions of any SAR, provided, however, that each SAR granted under the Plan shall terminate under such circumstances and on such date prior thereto as is set forth in the Plan or as may be fixed by the Board and stated in the Award Agreement relating to such SAR.

 

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11. RESTRICTED SHARES AND SHARE UNITS

11.1. Grant of Restricted Shares or Share Units

The Board may from time to time grant Restricted Shares or Share Units to persons eligible to receive Awards under Section 6 hereof, subject to such restrictions, conditions and other terms, if any, as the Board may determine.

11.2. Restrictions

At the time a grant of Restricted Shares or Share Units is made, the Board may, in its sole discretion, establish a period of time (a “restricted period”) applicable to such Restricted Shares or Share Units. Each Award of Restricted Shares or Share Units may be subject to a different restricted period. The Board may, in its sole discretion, at the time a grant of Restricted Shares or Share Units is made, prescribe restrictions in addition to or other than the expiration of the restricted period, including the satisfaction of corporate or individual performance objectives, which may be applicable to all or any portion of the Restricted Shares or Share Units in accordance with Section 15.1 and 15.2 . Neither Restricted Shares nor Share Units may be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged or otherwise encumbered or disposed of during the restricted period or prior to the satisfaction of any other restrictions prescribed by the Board with respect to such Restricted Shares or Share Units.

11.3. Restricted Shares Certificates

The Company shall issue, in the name of each Grantee to whom Restricted Shares has been granted, share certificates representing the total number of Restricted Shares granted to the Grantee, as soon as reasonably practicable after the Grant Date. The Board may provide in an Award Agreement that either (i) the Secretary of the Company, or his delegate, shall hold such certificates for the Grantee’s benefit until such time as the Restricted Shares are forfeited to the Company or the restrictions lapse, or (ii) such certificates shall be delivered to the Grantee, provided , however , that all such certificates, regardless of whether held by the Secretary, his delegate or delivered to the Grantee, shall bear a legend or legends that comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and makes appropriate reference to the restrictions imposed under the Plan and the Award Agreement. If the Company utilizes book-entry form with appropriate restrictions noted in the Company records, and the Grantee so requests, the Company will furnish without charge the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional, or other special rights of the Share and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Such requests shall be made in writing to the Company’s Secretary.

11.4. Rights of Holders of Restricted Shares

Unless the Board otherwise provides in an Award Agreement, holders of Restricted Shares shall have the right to vote such Shares and the right to receive any dividends declared or paid with respect to such Shares. The Board may provide that any dividends paid on Restricted Shares must be reinvested in Shares, which may or may not be subject to the same vesting conditions and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Shares. All distributions, if any, received by a Grantee with respect to Restricted Shares as a result of any share split, share dividend, combination of shares, or other similar transaction shall be subject to the restrictions applicable to the original Grant. Holders of Restricted Shares may not make an election under Code Section 83(b) with regard to the grant of Restricted Shares, and any holder who attempts to make such an election shall forfeit the Restricted Shares.

 

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11.5. Rights of Holders of Share Units

11.5.1. No Voting and Dividend Rights

Unless the Board otherwise provides in an Award Agreement, holders of Share Units shall have no rights as shareholders of the Company. The Board may provide in an Award Agreement evidencing a grant of Share Units that the holder of such Share Units shall be entitled to receive, upon the Company’s payment of a cash dividend on its outstanding Shares, a cash payment for each Share Unit held equal to the per-share dividend paid on the Shares. Such Award Agreement may also provide that such cash payment will be deemed reinvested in additional Share Units at a price per unit equal to the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date that such dividend is paid, subject to the same vesting conditions and restrictions applicable to such Share Units.

11.5.2. Creditor’s Rights

A holder of Share Units shall have no rights other than those of a general creditor of the Company. Share Units represent an unfunded and unsecured obligation of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable Award Agreement.

11.6. Termination of Service

Unless the Board otherwise provides in an Award Agreement or in writing after the Award Agreement is issued, upon the termination of a Grantee’s Service, any Restricted Shares or Share Units held by such Grantee that have not vested, or with respect to which all applicable restrictions and conditions have not lapsed, shall immediately be deemed forfeited. Upon forfeiture of Restricted Shares or Share Units, the Grantee shall have no further rights with respect to such Award, including but not limited to any right to vote Restricted Shares or any right to receive dividends with respect to Restricted Shares or Share Units.

11.7. Purchase of Restricted Shares

The Grantee shall be required, to the extent required by applicable law, to purchase the Restricted Shares from the Company at a Purchase Price equal to the greater of (i) the aggregate par value of the Shares represented by such Restricted Shares or (ii) the Purchase Price, if any, specified in the Award Agreement relating to such Restricted Shares. The Purchase Price shall be payable in a form described in Section 13 or, in the discretion of the Board, in consideration for past Services rendered to the Company or an Affiliate.

11.8. Delivery of Shares

Upon the expiration or termination of any restricted period and the satisfaction of any other conditions or restrictions prescribed by the Board as set forth in the Award agreement, the restrictions applicable to Restricted Shares or Share Units settled in Shares shall lapse, and, unless otherwise provided in the Award Agreement, a share certificate for such Shares shall be delivered, free of all such restrictions, to the Grantee or the Grantee’s beneficiary or estate, as the case may be. In the alternative, a book-entry no longer reflecting any restrictions may be made. Neither the Grantee, nor the Grantee’s beneficiary or estate, shall have any further rights with respect to a Share Unit once the Shares represented by the Share Unit have been delivered. Share Units may also be settled in cash upon the determination of the Board or as specified in the applicable Award Agreement.

 

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12. UNRESTRICTED SHARES AWARDS

The Board may, in its sole discretion, grant to any Grantee under the Plan (or sell at par value or such other higher purchase price determined by the Board) Unrestricted Share Awards pursuant to which Grantees may receive Shares free of any restrictions (“Unrestricted Shares”). Unrestricted Share Awards may be granted or sold in respect of past services, performance and other valid consideration, or in lieu of, or in addition to, any cash compensation due to such Grantee. A share certificate for such Shares shall be delivered, free of all restrictions, to the Grantee or the Grantee’s beneficiary or estate, as the case may be. In the alternative, a book-entry may be made.

 

13. FORM OF PAYMENT FOR OPTIONS AND RESTRICTED SHARES AND SHARE UNITS

13.1. General Rule

Payment of the Option Price for the Shares purchased pursuant to the exercise of an Option or the Purchase Price for Restricted Shares and Share Units shall be made in cash or in cash equivalents acceptable to the Company.

13.2. Surrender of Shares

To the extent the Award Agreement so provides, payment of the Option Price for Shares purchased pursuant to the exercise of an Option or the Purchase Price for Restricted Shares may be made all or in part through the tender or attestation to the Company of Shares, which shall be valued, for purposes of determining the extent to which the Option Price or Purchase Price has been paid thereby, at their Fair Market Value on the date of exercise or surrender. In addition, and also only to the extent the Award Agreement so provides, payment of the Option Price may be made by requesting that the Company withhold Shares that would otherwise be deliverable pursuant to the exercise of the Option, which Shares shall be valued at their Fair Market Value on the date of exercise.

13.3. Cashless Exercise

With respect to an Option only (and not with respect to Restricted Shares), to the extent the Award Agreement so provides and subject to compliance with applicable law, payment of the Option Price for Shares purchased pursuant to the exercise of an Option may be made all or in part by delivery (on a form acceptable to the Board) of an irrevocable direction to a licensed securities broker acceptable to the Company to sell Shares and to deliver all or part of the sales proceeds to the Company in payment of the Option Price and any withholding taxes described in Section 19.3 or, with the consent of the Company, by issuing the number of Shares equal in value to the difference between the Option Price and the Fair Market Value of the Shares subject to the portion of the Option being exercised.

13.4. Other Forms of Payment

To the extent the Award Agreement so provides, payment of the Option Price for Shares purchased pursuant to exercise of an Option or the Purchase Price for Restricted Shares may be made in any other form that is consistent with applicable laws, regulations and rules.

 

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14. DIVIDEND EQUIVALENT RIGHTS

14.1. Dividend Equivalent Rights

A Dividend Equivalent Right is an Award entitling the recipient to receive credits based on cash distributions that would have been paid on the Shares specified in the Dividend Equivalent Right (or other Award to which it relates) if such Shares had been issued to and held by the recipient. A Dividend Equivalent Right may be granted hereunder to any Grantee as a component of another Award other than an Option or SAR or as a freestanding award. The terms and conditions of Dividend Equivalent Rights shall be specified in the grant. Dividend Equivalents credited to the holder of a Dividend Equivalent Right may be paid currently or may be deemed to be reinvested in additional Shares, which may thereafter accrue additional equivalents. Any such reinvestment shall be at Fair Market Value on the date of reinvestment. Dividend Equivalent Rights may be settled in cash or Shares or a combination thereof, in a single installment or installments, all determined in the sole discretion of the Board. Subject to Code Section 409A, a Dividend Equivalent Right granted as a component of another Award may provide that such Dividend Equivalent Right shall be settled upon exercise, settlement, or payment of, or lapse of restrictions on, such other Award, and that such Dividend Equivalent Right shall expire or be forfeited or annulled under the same conditions as such other Award. A Dividend Equivalent Right granted as a component of another Award may also contain terms and conditions different from such other Award; provided, however, that Dividend Equivalents credited pursuant to a Dividend Equivalents Right granted as a component of another Award which vests or is earned based upon achievement of performance goals shall not vest or be paid unless the performance goals for such underlying Award are achieved.

14.2. Termination of Service

Except as may otherwise be provided by the Board either in the Award Agreement or in writing after the Award Agreement is issued, a Grantee’s rights in all Dividend Equivalent Rights or interest equivalents shall automatically terminate upon the Grantee’s termination of Service for any reason.

 

15. PERFORMANCE AND ANNUAL INCENTIVE AWARDS

15.1. Performance Conditions

The right of a Grantee to exercise or receive a grant or settlement of any Award, and the timing thereof, may be subject to such performance conditions as may be specified by the Board. The Board may use such business criteria and other measures of performance as it may deem appropriate in establishing any performance conditions, and may exercise its discretion to reduce the amounts payable under any Award subject to performance conditions, except as limited under Sections 15.2 hereof in the case of a Performance Award or Annual Incentive Award intended to qualify under Code Section 162(m). If and to the extent required under Code Section 162(m), any power or authority relating to a Performance Award or Annual Incentive Award intended to qualify under Code Section 162(m), shall be exercised by the Committee and not the Board.

 

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15.2. Performance or Annual Incentive Awards Granted to Designated Covered Employees

If and to the extent that the Committee determines that a Performance or Annual Incentive Award to be granted to a Grantee who is designated by the Committee as likely to be a Covered Employee should qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Code Section 162(m), the grant, exercise and/or settlement of such Performance or Annual Incentive Award shall be contingent upon achievement of pre-established performance goals and other terms set forth in this Section 15.2 .

15.2.1. Performance Goals Generally

The performance goals for such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards shall consist of one or more business criteria and a targeted level or levels of performance with respect to each of such criteria, as specified by the Committee consistent with this Section 15.2 . Performance goals shall be objective and shall otherwise meet the requirements of Code Section 162(m) and regulations thereunder including the requirement that the level or levels of performance targeted by the Committee result in the achievement of performance goals being “substantially uncertain.” The Committee may determine that such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards shall be granted, exercised and/or settled upon achievement of any one or more performance goals. Performance goals may differ for Performance or Annual Incentive Awards granted to any one Grantee or to different Grantees.

15.2.2. Business Criteria

One or more of the following business criteria for the Company, on a consolidated basis, and/or specified subsidiaries or business units of the Company (except with respect to the total shareholder return and earnings per Share criteria), shall be used exclusively by the Committee in establishing performance goals for such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards: (1) total shareholder return; (2) such total shareholder return as compared to total return (on a comparable basis) of a publicly available index such as, but not limited to, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index or the SNL U.S. REIT Hotel Index prepared by SNL Financial LC; (3) net income; (4) pretax earnings; (5) earnings before interest expense and taxes (EBIT), (6) earnings before interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA); (7) pretax operating earnings after interest expense and before bonuses, service fees, and extraordinary or special items; (8) operating margin; (9) earnings per Share; (10) return on equity, including risk-adjusted return on equity; (11) return on assets, (12) return on capital; (13) return on investment; (14) operating earnings; (15) working capital; (16) ratio of debt to shareholders’ equity, (17) revenue; (18) book value; (19) funds from operations (FFO) or FFO per Share; (20) funds (or cash) available for distribution (FAD), per Share, (22) cash flow; (22) economic value-added models or equivalent metrics; and (23) reduction in costs.

15.2.3. Timing For Establishing Performance Goals

Performance goals shall be established not later than the earlier of (i) 90 days after the beginning of any performance period applicable to such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards, (ii) the day on which 25% of any performance period applicable to such Awards has expired, and (iii) at such other date as may be required or permitted for “performance-based compensation” under Code Section 162(m).

 

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15.2.4. Performance or Annual Incentive Award Pool

The Committee may establish a Performance or Annual Incentive Award pool, which shall be an unfunded pool, for purposes of measuring performance in connection with Performance or Annual Incentive Awards.

15.2.5. Settlement of Performance or Annual Incentive Awards; Other Terms

Settlement of such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards shall be in cash, Shares, Restricted Shares, Share Units, other Awards or other property, in the discretion of the Committee. The Committee may, in its discretion, reduce the amount of a settlement otherwise to be made in connection with such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards. The Committee shall specify the circumstances in which such Performance or Annual Incentive Awards shall be paid or forfeited in the event of termination of Service by the Grantee prior to the end of a performance period or settlement of Performance Awards.

15.3. Written Determinations

All determinations by the Committee as to the establishment of performance goals, the amount of any Performance Award pool or potential individual Performance Awards and as to the achievement of performance goals relating to Performance Awards, and the amount of any Annual Incentive Award pool or potential individual Annual Incentive Awards and the amount of final Annual Incentive Awards, shall be made in writing in the case of any Award intended to qualify under Code Section 162(m). To the extent required to comply with, or not prohibited by, Code Section 162(m), the Committee may delegate any responsibility relating to such Performance Awards or Annual Incentive Awards.

15.4. Status of Section 15.2 Awards Under Code Section 162(m)

It is the intent of the Company that Performance Awards and Annual Incentive Awards under Section 15.2 hereof granted to persons who are designated by the Committee as likely to be Covered Employees within the meaning of Code Section 162(m) and regulations thereunder shall, if so designated by the Committee, constitute “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Code Section 162(m) and regulations thereunder. Accordingly, the terms of Section 15.2 , including the definitions of Covered Employee and other terms used therein, shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with Code Section 162(m) and regulations thereunder. The foregoing notwithstanding, because the Committee cannot determine with certainty whether a given Grantee will be a Covered Employee with respect to a fiscal year that has not yet been completed, the term Covered Employee as used herein shall mean only a person designated by the Committee, at the time of grant of Performance Awards or an Annual Incentive Award, as likely to be a Covered Employee with respect to that fiscal year. If any provision of the Plan or any Award Agreement relating to such Performance Awards or Annual Incentive Awards does not comply or is inconsistent with the requirements of Code Section 162(m) or regulations thereunder, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to such requirements.

 

16. PARACHUTE LIMITATIONS

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan or of any Award Agreement or agreement, contract, or understanding heretofore or hereafter entered into by a Grantee with the Company or any

 

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Affiliate, except an agreement, contract or understanding between the Grantee and the Company or any Affiliate that expressly addresses Section 280G of the Code (an “Other Agreement”), and notwithstanding any formal or informal plan or other arrangement for the direct or indirect provision of compensation to the Grantee (including groups or classes of Grantees or beneficiaries of which the Grantee is a member), whether or not such compensation is deferred, is in cash, or is in the form of a benefit to or for the Grantee (a “Benefit Arrangement”), if the Grantee is a “disqualified individual,” as defined in Section 280G(c) of the Code, any Option, Restricted Share or Share Unit held by that Grantee and any right to receive any payment or other benefit under this Plan shall not become exercisable or vested (i) to the extent that such right to exercise, vesting, payment, or benefit, taking into account all other rights, payments, or benefits to or for the Grantee under this Plan, all Other Agreements, and all Benefit Arrangements, would cause any payment or benefit to the Grantee under this Plan to be considered a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G(b)(2) of the Code as then in effect (a “Parachute Payment”) and (ii) if, as a result of receiving a Parachute Payment, the aggregate after-tax amounts received by the Grantee from the Company under this Plan, all Other Agreements, and all Benefit Arrangements would be less than the maximum after-tax amount that could be received by the Grantee without causing any such payment or benefit to be considered a Parachute Payment. In the event that the receipt of any such right to exercise, vesting, payment, or benefit under this Plan, in conjunction with all other rights, payments, or benefits to or for the Grantee under any Other Agreement or any Benefit Arrangement would cause the Grantee to be considered to have received a Parachute Payment under this Plan that would have the effect of decreasing the after-tax amount received by the Grantee as described in clause (ii) of the preceding sentence, then the Grantee shall have the right, in the Grantee’s sole discretion, to designate those rights, payments, or benefits under this Plan, any Other Agreements, and any Benefit Arrangements that should be reduced or eliminated so as to avoid having the payment or benefit to the Grantee under this Plan be deemed to be a Parachute Payment; provided, however, that to comply with Code Section 409A, the reduction or elimination will be performed in the order in which each dollar of value subject to an Award reduces the Parachute Payment to the greatest extent.

 

17. REQUIREMENTS OF LAW

17.1. General

The Company shall not be required to sell or issue any Shares under any Award if the sale or issuance of such Shares would constitute a violation by the Grantee, any other individual exercising an Option, or the Company or any Affiliate of any provision of any law or regulation of any governmental authority, including without limitation any federal or state securities laws or regulations. If at any time the Company shall determine, in its discretion, that the listing, registration or qualification of any Shares subject to an Award upon any securities exchange or under any governmental regulatory body is necessary or desirable as a condition of, or in connection with, the issuance or purchase of Shares hereunder, no Shares may be issued or sold to the Grantee or any other individual pursuant to such Award unless such listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval shall have been effected or obtained free of any conditions not acceptable to the Company, and any delay caused thereby shall in no way affect the date of termination of the Award or otherwise result in any claim or damages. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, specifically, in connection with the Securities Act, upon the exercise of any Option or any SAR that may be settled in Shares or the delivery of any Shares underlying an Award, unless a registration statement under such Act is in effect with respect to the Shares covered by such Award, the Company shall not be required to sell or issue such Shares unless the Board has received evidence satisfactory to it that the Grantee or any other individual may acquire such Shares pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act. Any determination in this connection by the Board shall be final, binding, and

 

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conclusive. The Company may, but shall in no event be obligated to, register any securities covered hereby pursuant to the Securities Act. The Company shall not be obligated to take any affirmative action in order to cause the exercise of an Option or SAR or the issuance of Shares pursuant to the Plan to comply with any law or regulation of any governmental authority. As to any jurisdiction that expressly imposes the requirement that an Option or any SAR that may be settled in Shares shall not be exercisable until the Shares covered by such Option or SAR are registered or are exempt from registration, the exercise of such Option or SAR (under circumstances in which the laws of such jurisdiction apply) shall be deemed conditioned upon the effectiveness of such registration or the availability of such an exemption.

17.2. Rule 16b-3

During any time when the Company has a class of equity security registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, it is the intent of the Company that Awards pursuant to the Plan and the exercise of Options or SARs granted hereunder will qualify for the exemption provided by Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act. To the extent that any provision of the Plan or action by the Board does not comply with the requirements of Rule 16b-3, it shall be deemed inoperative to the extent permitted by law and deemed advisable by the Board, and shall not affect the validity of the Plan. In the event that Rule 16b-3 is revised or replaced, the Board may exercise its discretion to modify this Plan, Awards and Award Agreements in any respect necessary to satisfy the requirements of, or to take advantage of any features of, the revised exemption or its replacement.

 

18. EFFECT OF CHANGES IN CAPITALIZATION

18.1. Changes in Shares

If the number of outstanding Shares is increased or decreased or the Shares are changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company on account of any recapitalization, reclassification, share split, reverse split, combination of shares, exchange of shares, share dividend or other distribution payable in capital share, or other increase or decrease in such shares effected without receipt of consideration by the Company occurring after the Effective Date, the number and kinds of shares for which grants of Awards may be made under the Plan shall be adjusted proportionately and accordingly by the Board. In addition, the number and kind of shares for which Awards are outstanding shall be adjusted proportionately and accordingly so that the proportionate interest of the Grantee immediately following such event shall, to the extent practicable, be the same as immediately before such event. Any such adjustment in outstanding Options, SARs, Restricted Shares or Share Units shall not change the aggregate Option Price, SAR Exercise Price or Purchase Price payable with respect to Shares that are subject to the unexercised portion of an outstanding Option or SAR, or an unvested portion of Restricted Shares or Share Units, as applicable, but shall include a corresponding proportionate adjustment in the Option Price, SAR Exercise Price or Purchase Price per Share; provided, however, that options that are not Incentive Share Options and SARs may be adjusted pursuant to Code Section 409A so that the difference between the aggregate exercise price over the aggregate fair market value remains the same before and after the adjustment. The conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be treated as an increase in Shares effected without receipt of consideration. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of any distribution to the Company’s shareholders of securities of any other entity or other assets (including an extraordinary dividend but excluding a non-extraordinary dividend) without receipt of consideration by the Company, the Company shall in such manner as the Company deems appropriate, adjust (i) the number and kind of shares subject to outstanding Awards and/or (ii) the exercise price or purchase price of outstanding Options, SARs, Restricted Shares and Share Units to reflect such distribution

 

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18.2. Changes in Capitalization; Merger; Liquidation

(a) In the event of a merger, consolidation, reorganization or other Corporate Transaction of the Company, the Board may make such adjustments with respect to Awards and take such other action as it deems necessary or appropriate to reflect such merger, consolidation, reorganization or other Corporate Transaction, including, without limitation, the substitution of new Awards, the termination or the adjustment of outstanding Awards, the acceleration of Awards or the removal of restrictions on outstanding Awards, all as may be provided in the applicable Award Agreement or, if not expressly addressed therein, as the Board subsequently may determine in the event of any such transaction.

(b) In addition to or instead of any adjustments authorized in Section 18.1(a) above, in the event of a merger, consolidation, reorganization or other Corporate Transaction of the Company, the Board may elect, in its sole discretion, to cancel or repurchase any outstanding Awards issued under the Plan and pay or deliver, or cause to be paid or delivered, to the holder thereof an amount in cash or securities having a value (as determined by the Board acting in good faith), in the case of an Award consisting of Restricted Shares or Share Units, equal to the formula or fixed price per Share paid to holders of the Shares in connection with such transaction and, in the case of Options or SARs, equal to the product of the number of Shares subject to the Option or SAR multiplied by the amount, if any, by which (I) the formula or fixed price per Share paid to holders of Shares pursuant to such transaction exceeds (II) the Option Price or SAR Exercise Price applicable to such Option or SAR. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Share Units subject to Code Section 409A shall be cancelled on a Corporate Transaction only to the extent such Corporate Transaction constitutes a “change in control event” within the meaning of Code Section 409A.

18.3. Adjustments

Adjustments under this Section 18 related to Shares or securities of the Company shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive. No fractional Shares or other securities shall be issued pursuant to any such adjustment, and any fractions resulting from any such adjustment shall be eliminated in each case by rounding downward to the nearest whole Share. The Board may provide in the Award Agreements at the time of grant, or any time thereafter with the consent of the Grantee, for different provisions to apply to an Award in place of those described in Section 18 .

18.4. No Limitations on Company

The existence of this Plan and the Awards granted pursuant to this Plan shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Company to make or authorize any adjustment, reclassification, reorganization or other change in its capital or business structure, any merger or consolidation of the Company, any issue of debt or equity securities having preferences or priorities as to the Shares or the rights thereof, the dissolution or liquidation of the Company, any sale or transfer of all or any part of its business or assets, or any other act or proceeding.

 

19. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19.1. Disclaimer of Rights

No provision in the Plan or in any Award or Award Agreement shall be construed to confer upon any individual the right to remain in the employ or service of the Company or any Affiliate, or to interfere in any way with any contractual or other right or authority of the Company or any Affiliate either to increase or decrease the compensation or other payments to any individual at any time, or to terminate any employment or other relationship between any individual and the Company or any Affiliate. In addition, notwithstanding

 

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anything contained in the Plan to the contrary, unless otherwise stated in the applicable Award Agreement, no Award granted under the Plan shall be affected by any change of duties or position of the Grantee, so long as such Grantee continues to provide service. The obligation of the Company to pay any benefits pursuant to this Plan shall be interpreted as a contractual obligation to pay only those amounts described herein, in the manner and under the conditions prescribed herein. The Plan shall in no way be interpreted to require the Company to transfer any amounts to a third party trustee or otherwise hold any amounts in trust or escrow for payment to any Grantee or beneficiary under the terms of the Plan and Awards.

19.2. Nonexclusivity of the Plan

Neither the adoption of the Plan nor the submission of the Plan to the shareholders of the Company for approval shall be construed as creating any limitations upon the right and authority of the Board, the Company or its Affiliates to adopt such other incentive compensation arrangements (which arrangements may be applicable either generally to a class or classes of individuals or specifically to a particular individual or particular individuals) as the Board, the Company or its Affiliates in their discretion determines desirable, including, without limitation, the granting of Share options otherwise than under the Plan.

19.3. Withholding Taxes

The Company or an Affiliate, as the case may be, shall have the right to deduct or withhold from payments of any kind otherwise due to a Grantee (including by withholding Shares otherwise deliverable under an Award) any Federal, state, or local taxes of any kind required by law to be withheld with respect to the vesting of or other lapse of restrictions applicable to an Award or upon the issuance of any Shares upon the exercise of an Option or pursuant to an Award. At the time of such vesting, lapse, or exercise, the Grantee shall pay to the Company or the Affiliate, as the case may be, any amount that the Company or the Affiliate may reasonably determine to be necessary to satisfy such withholding obligation. Subject to the prior approval of the Company or the Affiliate, which may be withheld by the Company or the Affiliate, as the case may be, in its sole discretion, the Grantee may elect to satisfy such obligations, in whole or in part, (i) by causing the Company or the Affiliate to withhold Shares otherwise issuable to the Grantee or (ii) by delivering to the Company or the Affiliate Shares already owned by the Grantee. The Shares so delivered or withheld shall have an aggregate Fair Market Value equal to such withholding obligations. The Fair Market Value of the Shares used to satisfy such withholding obligation shall be determined by the Company or the Affiliate as of the date that the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined. A Grantee who has made an election pursuant to this Section 19.3 may satisfy his or her withholding obligation only with Shares that are not subject to any repurchase, forfeiture, unfulfilled vesting, or other similar requirements. The maximum number of Shares that may be withheld from any Award to satisfy any federal, state or local tax withholding requirements upon the exercise, vesting, lapse of restrictions applicable to such Award or payment of Shares pursuant to such Award, as applicable, cannot exceed such number of Shares having a Fair Market Value equal to the minimum statutory amount required by the Applicable Entity to be withheld and paid to any such federal, state or local taxing authority with respect to which such exercise, vesting, lapse of restrictions or payment of Shares. For purposes of determining taxable income and the amount of the related tax withholding obligation under this Section 19.3, notwithstanding Section 2.16 or this Section 19.3, for any Shares that are sold on the same day that such Shares are first legally saleable pursuant to the terms of the applicable award agreement; Fair Market Value shall be determined based upon the sale price for such Shares so long as the grantee has provided the Company with advance written notice of such sale.

 

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19.4. Captions

The use of captions in this Plan or any Award Agreement is for the convenience of reference only and shall not affect the meaning of any provision of the Plan or such Award Agreement.

19.5. Other Provisions

Each Award granted under the Plan may contain such other terms and conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be determined by the Board, in its sole discretion.

19.6. Number And Gender

With respect to words used in this Plan, the singular form shall include the plural form, the masculine gender shall include the feminine gender, etc., as the context requires.

19.7. Severability

If any provision of the Plan or any Award Agreement shall be determined to be illegal or unenforceable by any court of law in any jurisdiction, the remaining provisions hereof and thereof shall be severable and enforceable in accordance with their terms, and all provisions shall remain enforceable in any other jurisdiction.

19.8. Governing Law

The validity and construction of this Plan and the instruments evidencing the Award hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland, other than any conflicts or choice of law rule or principle that might otherwise refer construction or interpretation of this Plan and the Award Agreements to the substantive laws of any other jurisdiction.

19.9. Code Section 409A

The Board or the Committee, as applicable, intends to comply with Section 409A of the Code, or an exemption to Section 409A, with regard to Awards hereunder that constitute nonqualified deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A. To the extent that the Board or the Committee, as applicable, determines that a Grantee would otherwise be subject to the additional 20% tax imposed on certain nonqualified deferred compensation plans pursuant to Section 409A as a result of any provision of any Award granted under this Plan, such provision shall be deemed amended to the minimum extent necessary to avoid application of such additional tax. The nature of any such amendment shall be determined by the Board or the Committee, as applicable.

 

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Exhibit 10.5

Grant No.: «NUM»

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

RESTRICTED SHARES AGREEMENT

for Executive Officers

Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “Company”), hereby grants common shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share (“Shares”), to the Grantee named below, subject to the vesting and other conditions set forth below. Additional terms and conditions of the grant are set forth in the attached Restricted Shares Agreement (the “Agreement”) and in the Company’s Equity Plan (as amended from time to time, the “Plan”).

Name of Grantee: «FIRST_NAME» «MIDDLE_NAME» «LAST_NAME»

Grantee’s Social Security Number: «SSN»

Number of Restricted Shares: «SHARES»

Grant Date: «GRANT_DATE»

Vest Base Date: «VEST_BASE_DATE»

Vesting Schedule: The Shares shall vest as follows:

By your signature below, you agree to all of the terms and conditions described herein, in the attached Agreement and in the Plan, a copy of which has been made available to you. You acknowledge that you have carefully reviewed the Plan, and agree that the Plan will control in the event any provision of this cover sheet or Agreement should appear to be inconsistent.

 

 

    Date:  

                     

 
Grantee        

 

    Date:  

 

 
Chesapeake Lodging Trust        
Title:        

Attachment

This is not a share certificate or a negotiable instrument.

 

1


CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

RESTRICTED SHARES AGREEMENT

 

Restricted Shares    This Agreement evidences an award of Shares in the number set forth on the cover sheet and subject to the vesting and other conditions set forth herein, in the Plan and on the cover sheet (the “Restricted Shares”).
Transfer of Unvested Restricted Shares    Unvested Restricted Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise encumbered, whether by operation of law or otherwise, nor may the Restricted Shares be made subject to execution, attachment or similar process. If you attempt to do any of these things, the Restricted Shares will immediately become forfeited.
Issuance and Vesting   

The Company will issue your Restricted Shares in the name set forth on the cover sheet and your Restricted Shares will be subject to the vesting schedule set forth on the cover sheet.

[Corporate Transaction    Notwithstanding your vesting schedule, upon the closing of a Corporate Transaction of the Company, while you are an employee of the Company or an Affiliate, the Restricted Shares will become 100% vested (i) if the Restricted Shares are not assumed, or equivalent restricted securities are not substituted for the Restricted Shares, by the Company or its successor, or (ii) upon your Involuntary Termination within the 12-month period following the closing of the Corporate Transaction.

 

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For purposes of this Agreement:

 

• “Corporate Transaction” means (i) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity, (ii) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity, or (iii) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons who are shareholders or Affiliates of the Company or Affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of Shares of the Company or its successor.

 

• “Involuntary Termination” means termination of your Service by reason of (i) your involuntary dismissal by the Company for reasons other than Cause; or (ii) your voluntary resignation following (x) a change in your position with the Company which materially reduces your duties and responsibilities or the level of management to which you report, (y) a material reduction in your level of compensation (including base salary, fringe benefits and target bonus) or (z) a relocation of your place of employment by more than fifty (50) miles, provided and only if such change, reduction or relocation is brought about by the Company without your consent. ]

Evidence of Issuance    The issuance of the Shares under the grant of Restricted Shares evidenced by this Agreement shall be evidenced in such a manner as the Company, in its discretion, will deem appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of one or more share certificates, with any unvested Restricted Shares bearing the appropriate restrictions imposed by this Agreement. As your interest in the Restricted Shares vests, the recordation of the number of Restricted Shares attributable to you will be appropriately modified if necessary. Insofar as any share certificates are issued for unvested Restricted Shares, such certificates shall be held in escrow and shall contain an appropriate legend.
Forfeiture of Unvested Restricted Shares    Unless the termination of your Service triggers accelerated vesting of your Restricted Shares pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the Plan, or any other written agreement between the Company (or any Affiliate) and you, you will automatically forfeit to the Company all of the unvested Restricted Shares in the event your Service terminates for any reason.

 

3


Forfeiture of Rights   

If you should take actions in violation or breach of or in conflict with any non-competition agreement, any agreement prohibiting solicitation of employees or clients of the Company or any entity that is an Affiliate or any confidentiality obligation with respect to the Company or any entity that is an Affiliate, the Company has the right to cause an immediate forfeiture of your rights to the Restricted Shares awarded under this Agreement, and the Restricted Shares shall immediately expire.

 

In addition, if you have vested in Restricted Shares awarded under this Agreement during the two year period prior to your actions, you will owe the Company a cash payment (or forfeiture of shares) in an amount determined as follows: (1) for any Shares that you have sold prior to receiving notice from the Company, the amount will be the proceeds received from the sale(s), and (2) for any Shares that you still own, the amount will be the number of Shares owned times the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the date you receive notice from the Company (provided, that the Company may require you to satisfy your payment obligations hereunder either by forfeiting and returning to the Company the Shares or any other shares or making a cash payment or a combination of these methods as determined by the Company in its sole discretion).

Leaves of Absence   

For purposes of this Agreement, your Service does not terminate when you go on a bona fide employee leave of absence that was approved by the Company in writing if the terms of the leave provide for continued Service crediting, or when continued Service crediting is required by applicable law. Your Service terminates in any event when the approved leave ends unless you immediately return to active employee work.

 

The Company determines, in its sole discretion, which leaves count for this purpose, and, applying the term Service when your Service terminates for all purposes under the Plan.

Section 83(b) Election Prohibited    You may not make an election under Section 83 of the Internal Revenue Code (a “Section 83(b) Election”) to be taxed at the time the unvested Restricted Shares are acquired rather than when such Restricted Shares become vested. If you do make a Section 83(b) Election, you will forfeit all of the Restricted Shares.

 

4


Withholding Taxes    You agree as a condition of this grant that you will make acceptable arrangements to pay any withholding or other taxes that may be due as a result of the vesting or receipt of the Restricted Shares. In the event that the Company determines that any federal, state, local or foreign tax or withholding payment is required relating to the vesting or receipt of Shares arising from this grant, the Company shall have the right to require such payments from you, or withhold such amounts from other payments due to you from the Company or any Affiliate (including withholding the delivery of vested Shares otherwise deliverable under this Agreement).
Retention Rights    This Agreement and the grant evidenced hereby do not give you the right to be retained by the Company (or any Affiliate) in any capacity. Unless otherwise specified in an employment or other written agreement between the Company (or any Affiliate) and you, the Company (and any Affiliate) reserve the right to terminate your Service at any time and for any reason.
Shareholder Rights   

You will be entitled to receive, upon the Company’s payment of a cash dividend on outstanding Shares, an amount of cash, Restricted Shares or Share Units (as determined by the Company from time to time) equal to the per-share dividend paid on the Restricted Shares that you hold as of the record date for such dividend. No adjustments are made for dividends or other rights if the applicable record date occurs before your certificate is issued (or an appropriate book entry is made), except as described in the Plan.

 

OR (for performance based vesting)

 

[ You will be entitled to receive, upon the Company’s payment of a cash dividend on outstanding Shares, an amount of cash, Restricted Shares or Share Units (as determined by the Company from time to time) equal to the per-share dividend paid on the Restricted Shares that you hold as of the record date for such dividend, which shall be subject to the same vesting, forfeiture and other conditions as the associated Restricted Shares. Such dividends will be paid only if and when the applicable Restricted Shares are no longer subject to any restrictions pursuant to the vesting schedule set forth on the cover sheet. No adjustments are made for dividends or other rights if the applicable record date occurs before your certificate is issued (or an appropriate book entry is made), except as described in the Plan. ]

 

Your grant shall be subject to the terms of any applicable agreement of merger, liquidation or reorganization in the event the Company is subject to such corporate activity.

 

5


Legends    If and to the extent that the Shares are represented by certificates rather than book entry, all certificates representing the Shares issued under this grant shall, where applicable, have endorsed thereon the following legends:
   “THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN VESTING, FORFEITURE AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND OPTIONS TO PURCHASE SUCH SHARES SET FORTH IN AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE REGISTERED HOLDER, OR HIS OR HER PREDECESSOR IN INTEREST. A COPY OF SUCH AGREEMENT IS ON FILE AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE COMPANY AND WILL BE FURNISHED UPON WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY BY THE HOLDER OF RECORD OF THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE.”
Applicable Law    This Agreement will be interpreted and enforced under the laws of the State of Maryland, other than any conflicts or choice of law rule or principle that might otherwise refer construction or interpretation of this Agreement to the substantive law of another jurisdiction.
The Plan   

The text of the Plan is incorporated in this Agreement by reference.

 

Certain capitalized terms used in this Agreement are defined in the Plan, and have the meaning set forth in the Plan.

 

This Agreement, the associated cover sheet, and the Plan constitute the entire understanding between you and the Company regarding this grant. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning this grant are superseded; except that any written employment, consulting, confidentiality, non-competition and/or severance agreement between you and the Company (or any Affiliate) shall supersede this Agreement with respect to its subject matter.

Data Privacy   

In order to administer the Plan, the Company may process personal data about you. Such data includes, but is not limited to, information provided in this Agreement or the cover sheet hereto and any changes thereto, other appropriate personal and financial data about you such as your contact information, payroll information and any other information that might be deemed appropriate by the Company to facilitate the administration of the Plan.

 

By accepting this grant, you give explicit consent to the Company to process any such personal data.

Code Section 409A    It is intended that this Award comply with Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”) or an exemption to Section 409A. To the extent that the Company determines that you would be subject to the additional 20% tax imposed on certain non-qualified deferred compensation plans pursuant to Section 409A as a result of any provision of this Agreement, such provision shall be deemed amended to the minimum extent necessary to avoid application of such additional tax. The nature of any such amendment shall be determined by the Company.

By signing the cover sheet of this Agreement, you agree to all of the terms and conditions described above and in the Plan.

 

6

Exhibit 10.6

Grant No.: «NUM»

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

RESTRICTED SHARES AGREEMENT

FOR TRUSTEES

Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “Company”), hereby grants common shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share (“Shares”), to the Grantee named below, subject to the vesting and other conditions set forth below. Additional terms and conditions of the grant are set forth in the attached Restricted Shares Agreement (the “Agreement”) and in the Company’s Equity Plan (as amended from time to time, the “Plan”).

Name of Grantee: «FIRST_NAME» «MIDDLE_NAME» «LAST_NAME»

Grantee’s Social Security Number: «SSN»

Number of Restricted Shares: «SHARES»

Grant Date: «GRANT_DATE»

Vest Base Date: «VEST_BASE_DATE»

Vesting Schedule:

[ALL] vested on the date of the Company’s first Annual Meeting of Shareholders following the Grant Date.

By your signature below, you agree to all of the terms and conditions described herein, in the attached Agreement and in the Plan, a copy of which has been made available to you. You acknowledge that you have carefully reviewed the Plan, and agree that the Plan will control in the event any provision of this cover sheet or Agreement should appear to be inconsistent.

 

 

    Date:  

                     

 
Grantee        

 

    Date:  

 

 
Chesapeake Lodging Trust        
Title:        

Attachment

This is not a share certificate or a negotiable instrument.


CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

EQUITY PLAN

RESTRICTED SHARES AGREEMENT

FOR TRUSTEES

 

Restricted Shares    This Agreement evidences an award of Shares in the number set forth on the cover sheet and subject to the vesting and other conditions set forth herein, in the Plan and on the cover sheet (the “Restricted Shares”).
Transfer of Unvested Restricted Shares    Unvested Restricted Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise encumbered, whether by operation of law or otherwise, nor may the Restricted Shares be made subject to execution, attachment or similar process. If you attempt to do any of these things, the Restricted Shares will immediately become forfeited.
Issuance and Vesting   

The Company will issue your Restricted Shares in the name set forth on the cover sheet.

 

Your right to the Shares under this Restricted Shares grant and this Agreement shall vest in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth on the cover sheet so long as you continue in Service on the vesting dates set forth on the cover sheet.

 

Notwithstanding your vesting schedule, the Restricted Shares will become 100% vested upon your termination of Service due to your death or Disability.

[Corporate Transaction   

Notwithstanding your vesting schedule, upon the closing of a Corporate Transaction of the Company, while you are a Trustee of the Company, the Restricted Shares will become 100% vested (i) if the Restricted Shares are not assumed, or equivalent restricted securities are not substituted for the Restricted Shares, by the Company or its successor or (ii) you do not continue as a Trustee of the Company or its successor.

 

For purposes of this Agreement:

 

• “Corporate Transaction” means (i) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with one or more other entities in which the Company is not the surviving entity, (ii) a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity, or (iii) any transaction (including without limitation a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving entity) which results in any person or entity (other than persons, who are shareholder or Affiliates of the Company or Affiliates of such shareholders immediately prior to the transaction) owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of all classes of Shares of the Company or its successor.

 

2


Evidence of Issuance    The issuance of the Shares under the grant of Restricted Shares evidenced by this Agreement shall be evidenced in such a manner as the Company, in its discretion, will deem appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of one or more share certificates, with any unvested Restricted Shares bearing the appropriate restrictions imposed by this Agreement. As your interest in the Restricted Shares vests, the recordation of the number of Restricted Shares attributable to you will be appropriately modified if necessary. Insofar as any share certificates are issued for unvested Restricted Shares, such certificates shall be held in escrow and shall contain an appropriate legend.
Forfeiture of Unvested Restricted Shares    Unless the termination of your Service triggers accelerated vesting of your Restricted Shares pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the Plan, or any other written agreement between the Company (or any Affiliate) and you, you will automatically forfeit to the Company all of the unvested Restricted Shares in the event your Service terminates for any reason.
Section 83(b) Election Prohibited    You may not make an election under Section 83 of the Internal Revenue Code (a “Section 83(b) Election”) to be taxed at the time the unvested Restricted Shares are acquired rather than when such Restricted Shares become vested. If you do make a Section 83(b) Election, you will forfeit all of the Restricted Shares.
Withholding Taxes    You agree as a condition of this grant that you will make acceptable arrangements to pay any withholding or other taxes that may be due as a result of the vesting or receipt of the Restricted Shares. In the event that the Company determines that any federal, state, local or foreign tax or withholding payment is required relating to the vesting or receipt of Shares arising from this grant, the Company shall have the right to require such payments from you, or withhold such amounts from other payments due to you from the Company or any Affiliate (including withholding the delivery of vested Shares otherwise deliverable under this Agreement).
Retention Rights    This Agreement and the grant evidenced hereby do not give you the right to be retained by the Company (or any Affiliate) in any capacity.
Shareholder Rights    You will be entitled to receive, upon the Company’s payment of a cash dividend on outstanding Shares, an amount of cash, Restricted Shares or Share Units (as determined by the Company from time to time) equal to the per-share dividend paid on the Restricted Shares that you

 

3


  

hold as of the record date for such dividend. No adjustments are made for dividends or other rights if the applicable record date occurs before your certificate is issued (or an appropriate book entry is made), except as described in the Plan.

 

Your grant shall be subject to the terms of any applicable agreement of merger, liquidation or reorganization in the event the Company is subject to such corporate activity.

Legends   

If and to the extent that the Shares are represented by certificates rather than book entry, all certificates representing the Shares issued under this grant shall, where applicable, have endorsed thereon the following legends:

 

“THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN VESTING, FORFEITURE AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND OPTIONS TO PURCHASE SUCH SHARES SET FORTH IN AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE REGISTERED HOLDER, OR HIS OR HER PREDECESSOR IN INTEREST. A COPY OF SUCH AGREEMENT IS ON FILE AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE COMPANY AND WILL BE FURNISHED UPON WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY BY THE HOLDER OF RECORD OF THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE.”

Applicable Law    This Agreement will be interpreted and enforced under the laws of the State of Maryland, other than any conflicts or choice of law rule or principle that might otherwise refer construction or interpretation of this Agreement to the substantive law of another jurisdiction.
The Plan   

The text of the Plan is incorporated in this Agreement by reference.

 

Certain capitalized terms used in this Agreement are defined in the Plan, and have the meaning set forth in the Plan.

 

This Agreement, the associated cover sheet, and the Plan constitute the entire understanding between you and the Company regarding this grant. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning this grant are superseded; except that any written employment, consulting, confidentiality, non-competition and/or severance agreement between you and the Company (or any Affiliate) shall supersede this Agreement with respect to its subject matter.

Data Privacy    In order to administer the Plan, the Company may process personal data about you. Such data includes, but is not limited to, information provided in this Agreement or the cover sheet hereto and any changes thereto, other appropriate personal and financial data about you such as your contact information, payroll information and any other information that might be deemed appropriate by the Company to facilitate the administration of the Plan.

 

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   By accepting this grant, you give explicit consent to the Company to process any such personal data.
Code Section 409A    It is intended that this Award comply with Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”) or an exemption to Section 409A. To the extent that the Company determines that you would be subject to the additional 20% tax imposed on certain non-qualified deferred compensation plans pursuant to Section 409A as a result of any provision of this Agreement, such provision shall be deemed amended to the minimum extent necessary to avoid application of such additional tax. The nature of any such amendment shall be determined by the Company.

By signing the cover sheet of this Agreement, you agree to all of the terms and conditions described above and in the Plan.

 

5

Exhibit 10.10

EXECUTION VERSION

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

SHARE PURCHASE AGREEMENT

SHARE PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) made as of this 28 th day of September, 2009, by and among Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Trust ”), and Hyatt Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“ Purchaser ”).

WHEREAS, the Trust intends to file a registration statement on Form S-11 (as heretofore amended, the “ Registration Statement ”) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with a proposed initial public offering (the “ IPO ”) of common shares of beneficial interest of the Trust, par value $0.01 per share (the “ Common Shares ”); and

WHEREAS, concurrent with the consummation of the IPO, the Trust desires to issue and sell, and Purchaser desires to purchase and acquire, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Common Shares as provided in this Agreement;

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows:

1. Sale and Purchase of Shares . Subject to and concurrent with the consummation of the IPO and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Trust agrees to issue and sell to Purchaser, and Purchaser hereby agrees to purchase and acquire from the Trust, such whole number of Common Shares (the “ Shares ”) equivalent to the quotient of (a) $20,000,000 (the “ Purchase Price ”) divided by (b) the price per Common Share sold in the IPO, without the payment of any underwriting discount, commissions and/or related fees and expenses (the “ Price Per Share ”); provided, that Purchaser shall not be obligated to acquire Shares in an amount exceeding 4.9% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a fully diluted basis determined at the Closing (assuming consummation of the IPO and the purchase of the Shares by the Purchaser hereunder) and shall be entitled to reduce the Purchase Price accordingly.

2. Closing . The closing of the purchase and sale of the Shares hereunder will take place at the offices of the Trust or the Trust’s legal counsel concurrently with, and shall be subject to, the completion of the IPO (the “ Closing ”). At the Closing, the Trust shall deliver to Purchaser one or more certificates evidencing the Shares, registered in Purchaser’s or its designee’s name, upon the payment of the Purchase Price in immediately available funds by wire transfer to an account designated by the Trust to Purchaser in writing at least 3 business days prior to the Closing.

3. Representations and Warranties of the Trust . In connection with the issuance and sale of the Shares, the Trust hereby represents and warrants to Purchaser as of the Closing the following:

3.1 The Trust (a) has been duly organized and is validly existing as a real estate investment trust in good standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of

 

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Maryland and (b) has the real estate investment trust power and authority to enter into this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement (as defined below) and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby and in the Registration Statement and to own or lease and operate its assets and carry on its business as described in the Registration Statement. The authorized capitalization of the Trust is as is set forth in the Registration Statement.

3.2 All real estate investment trust action necessary to be taken by the Trust to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement has been duly and validly taken. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Trust. This Agreement constitutes, and the Registration Rights Agreement, upon execution and delivery thereof, will constitute, the valid, binding and enforceable obligations of the Trust, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and by general principles of equity. The issuance and sale by the Trust of the Shares does not (a) conflict with, or result in a default under, the declaration of trust or bylaws of the Trust any material contract by which the Trust or any of its subsidiaries’ respective property is bound, or any federal or state laws or regulations or decree, ruling or judgment of any United States or state court applicable to the Trust or its property or (b) result in the imposition of any claim, lien, pledge, deed of trust, option, charge, encumbrance or other restriction or limitation (each, a “Lien”), or any obligation to create any Lien, under any material contract by which the Trust or any of its subsidiaries’ respective property is bound or under the declaration of trust or bylaws of the Trust.

3.3 The Shares have been duly and validly authorized and upon issuance in accordance with, and payment pursuant to, the terms hereof, (a) the Shares will be fully paid and non assessable, free from preemptive rights, rights of first refusal or similar rights and (b) Purchaser will have good title to the Shares, free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances of any kind, other than transfer restrictions hereunder and under other agreements described herein or in the Registration Rights Agreement.

3.4 No consent, approval, authorization or order of, or registration, qualification or filing with, any governmental entity or any other third party is required to be obtained or made by the Trust for the execution, delivery or performance by the Trust of this Agreement, the Registration Rights Agreement or the consummation by the Trust of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, except such as have been already obtained or made or as may be required under the Securities Act or the rules promulgated under the Securities Act or state securities or blue sky laws or as may be required by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

3.5 Subject to the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the Purchaser, it is not necessary in connection with the offer, sale and delivery of the Shares to the Purchaser in the manner contemplated by this Agreement to register the Shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”).

3.6 Neither the Trust nor any affiliate of the Trust (as defined under Rule 501(b) under the Securities Act) has, directly or indirectly, (a) sold, offered for sale, solicited offers to buy or otherwise negotiated in respect of, any security (as defined in the Securities Act) which is

 

2


or will be integrated with the sale of the Shares in a manner that would require the registration of the Shares under the Securities Act or (b) except for the Common Shares to be sold in the IPO, offered, solicited offers to buy or sold the Shares by any form of general solicitation or general advertising (as those terms are used in Rule 502(c) under the Securities Act) or in any manner involving a public offering within the meaning of Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

3.7 Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the Trust is not a party to any, and there are no pending, or to the knowledge of the Trust, threatened, legal, administrative, arbitral or other proceedings, claims, actions or governmental investigations of any nature against the Trust or any of its subsidiaries or to which any of their respective assets are subject relating to or which challenges the validity or propriety of the transactions contemplated hereby or by the Registration Rights Agreement.

3.8 The Trust’s proposed method of operation will enable it to meet the requirements for taxation as a real estate investment trust under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “ Code ”) for its for its taxable year ending December 31, 2009, and in the future. The Consolidated Subsidiaries that are partnerships have been and will continue to be treated as partnerships or as “disregarded entities” for U.S. federal income tax purposes and not as corporations, associations taxable as corporations or as publicly traded partnerships that are taxable as corporations.

3.9 To the Trust’s knowledge, the Trust qualifies as a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” within the meaning of Section 897(h) of the Code.

3.10 The Trust covenants and agrees with the Purchaser that the Purchaser may rely on the representations and warranties of the Trust and its subsidiaries that shall be set forth in the underwriting agreement to be entered into between the Trust and the representative(s) of the several underwriters of the IPO named therein (the “ Underwriting Agreement ”) as if such representations and warranties were made to the Purchaser herein.

4. Representations and Warranties of Purchaser . Purchaser hereby represents and warrants to the Trust that:

4.1 Purchaser is an “accredited investor” as that term is defined in Rule 501 under the Securities Act.

4.2 The Shares are being acquired for Purchaser’s own account, only for investment purposes and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any public distribution or public offering thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act.

4.3 Purchaser has been duly incorporated and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and has all necessary power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.

4.4 All corporate action necessary to be taken by Purchaser to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and all other agreements and instruments delivered by Purchaser in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby has

 

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been duly and validly taken. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Purchaser, and constitutes the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of Purchaser, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and by general principles of equity. The purchase by Purchaser of the Shares does not conflict with the organizational documents of Purchaser or with any material contract under which Purchaser or its property is bound, or any laws or regulations or decree, ruling or judgment of any court applicable to Purchaser or its property.

4.5 Purchaser understands and acknowledges that the offering of the Shares pursuant to this Agreement will not be registered under the Securities Act on the grounds that the offering and sale of the Shares is exempt from registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof and exempt from registration pursuant to applicable state securities or blue sky laws, and that the Trust’s reliance upon such exemptions is predicated upon Purchaser’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement. Purchaser understands and acknowledges that the Shares will be characterized as “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and such laws and may not be sold unless the Shares are subsequently registered under the Securities Act and qualified under state law or unless an exemption from such registration and such qualification is available.

4.6 Purchaser (a) is sufficiently experienced in financial and business matters to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks involved in purchasing the Shares and to make an informed decision relating thereto, (b) has the ability to bear the economic risk of Purchaser’s prospective investment in the Shares and (c) has not been offered the Shares by any form of advertisement, article, notice or other communication published in any newspaper, magazine, or similar medium; or broadcast over television or radio; or any seminar or meeting whose attendees have been invited by any such medium. Purchaser (a) has been furnished with the materials relating to the business, operations, financial condition, assets and liabilities of the Trust and other matters relevant to Purchaser’s investment in the Shares, which have been requested by Purchaser and (b) Purchaser has had adequate opportunity to ask questions of, and receive answers from, the officers, employees, agents, accountants and representatives of the Trust concerning the business, operations, financial condition, assets and liabilities of the Trust and all other matters relevant to its investment in the Shares.

4.7 Purchaser has a substantive, pre-existing relationship with the Trust and was directly contacted by the Trust or its agents not in connection with the IPO. Purchaser (a) was not identified or contacted through the marketing of the IPO and (b) did not independently contact the Trust as a result of the general solicitation by means of the Registration Statement.

4.8 Purchaser has not incurred any liability for any finder’s fees or similar payments in connection with the transactions herein contemplated.

4.9 Purchaser will have available at the closing sufficient funds to acquire the Shares to be purchased by Purchaser pursuant to this Agreement.

 

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5. Covenants of the Trust . The Trust covenants and agrees with the Purchaser that it will, and will cause its subsidiaries to, comply in all material respects with their respective covenants contained in the Underwriting Agreement and further covenants and agrees that it will, and will cause its subsidiaries to, use reasonable best efforts to:

5.1 Timely file with the New York Stock Exchange or such other national securities exchange as on which the Shares are listed or included for trading (the “ Exchange ”) all documents and notices required by the Exchange of listed issuers with securities that are traded on the Exchange.

5.2 Meet the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the Code for the taxable year ending December 31, 2009 and for its future taxable years, unless the Trust’s Board of Trustees determines that it is no longer in the best interests of the Trust to be so qualified.

5.3 The Trust will promptly notify the Purchaser if the Trust has actual knowledge that it (i) no longer qualifies or (ii) is reasonably likely to cease to qualify for treatment as a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” within the meaning of Section 897(h) of the Code.

5.4 The Trust will cause Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. or such entity as the Trust may organize as its “operating partnership” as described in the Registration Statement, promptly following the organization of such partnership, to execute and deliver to the Purchaser a joinder agreement in the form attached as Exhibit A hereto.

6. Public Announcements . Except as may be required by applicable law, no party hereto shall make any public announcements or otherwise communicate with any news media with respect to this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, without prior consultation with the other parties as to the timing and contents of any such announcement or communications; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall prevent any party from promptly making all filings with any governmental entity or disclosures with the stock exchange, if any, on which such party’s capital stock is listed, as may, in its judgment, be required in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. If any party decides that it must make any such required filing it will advise the other parties prior to making such filing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties hereto acknowledge that the transactions contemplated hereby have been disclosed in the Registration Statement and that this Agreement has been or will be filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.

7. Conditions of Closing of Purchaser . The respective obligations of Purchaser to acquire the Shares from the Trust at the Closing are subject to the fulfillment to Purchaser’s reasonable satisfaction on or prior to the Closing of each of the following conditions:

7.1 Each representation and warranty made by the Trust in Section 3 above and in the Underwriting Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though made as of the Closing.

 

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7.2 All covenants, agreements and conditions contained in this Agreement to be performed or complied with by the Trust on or prior to the Closing shall have been performed or complied with by them in all respects.

7.3 The Trust shall have delivered at or prior to the date of the Closing to the Purchaser or its designee an executed copy of the Registration Rights Agreement among the Trust and Purchaser, substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto (the “ Registration Rights Agreement ”).

7.4 The Purchaser shall have received a written opinion of counsel to the Trust, in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Purchaser, with respect to certain trust, partnership, tax and securities law matters.

7.5 The material terms of the business and the proposed methods of operation of the business of the Trust shall not have changed in any material respect from those described in the Registration Statement, other than changes consented to by Purchaser (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed).

8. Further Assurances .

8.1 Each party hereto shall execute and deliver such instruments and take such other actions prior to or after the Closing as any other party may reasonably request in order to carry out the intent of this Agreement, including without limitation obtaining any required consents or approvals from third parties.

8.2 Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that prior to the six month anniversary of the Closing, the Trust grants superior or more favorable rights and/or terms, including, without limitation, granting warrants, to any other Person in connection with the issuance of Common Shares (or other securities that are convertible into, exchangeable or exercisable for, Common Shares), any such superior or more favorable rights and/or terms shall be deemed to have been granted simultaneously to the Purchaser with respect to Purchaser’s Shares and the Trust shall promptly prepare and execute such documents to reflect and provide the Purchaser with the benefit of such superior or more favorable rights and/or terms with respect to the Shares; provided, however, that this Section 8.2 shall not apply with respect to the issuance of any equity securities of the Trust (which for this purpose shall include, without limitation, securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity securities of the Trust, any equity or profit participation rights, or any rights, options, or warrants to purchase any of the foregoing issued by the Trust subsequent to the date hereof) that consist of issuances to employees of the Trust or any of its subsidiaries in connection with the performance of services in such capacity and made pursuant to any plan adopted by the Board and in effect at the Closing.

9. Successors and Assigns . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all covenants and agreements contained in this Agreement by or on behalf of any of the parties hereto shall bind and inure to the benefit of the respective successors of the parties hereto whether so expressed or not. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary herein, the parties may not assign this Agreement or their obligations hereunder.

 

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10. Amendments . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived, in whole or in part, except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.

11. Counterparts ; Facsimile . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. This Agreement or any counterpart may be executed via facsimile transmission, and any such executed facsimile copy shall be treated as an original.

12. Governing Law . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. The parties hereby agree that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submit to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The parties hereby waive any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and agree not to plead or claim that such courts represent an inconvenient forum.

13. Waiver of Jury Trial . EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, RELEASES AND RELINQUISHES AND ALL RIGHTS IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY ACTIONS ARISING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY AS A RESULT OR IN CONSEQUENCE OF THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATIONS, ANY CLAIM OR ACTION TO REMEDY ANY BREACH OR ALLEGED BREACH HEREOF, TO ENFORCE ANY TERM HEREOF, OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY RIGHT, BENEFIT OR OBLIGATION ACCORDED OR IMPOSED BY THIS AGREEMENT.

14. Third Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement is intended for the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns, and is not for the benefit of, nor may any provision hereof be enforced by, any other person; provided, that the Underwriters shall be third party beneficiaries of this Agreement.

15. Legends . Each certificate, if any, representing the Shares shall be endorsed with the following legends or a substantially similar legends:

The shares represented by this certificate have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Act ”), and may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred except pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Act, or pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Act.

16. Severability . In case any provision of this Agreement shall be found by a court of law to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

17. Survival . The provisions of Section 3 hereof shall survive indefinitely.

 

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18. Indemnification . The Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Purchaser and each person, if any, who (a) controls the Purchaser within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act or (b) is controlled by or is under common control with the Purchaser from and against any and all losses, claims, liabilities, expenses and damages (including, but not limited to, any and all reasonable investigative, legal and other expenses incurred in connection with, and any and all amounts paid in settlement (in accordance with this paragraph) that arise out of, or are based upon, (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, not misleading, (ii) or any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) forming part of the Registration Statement, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus (as defined in the Underwriting Agreement), any “issuer information” filed or required to be filed pursuant to Rule 433(d) under the Securities Act or any Pricing Disclosure Package (as defined in the Underwriting Agreement) (including any Pricing Disclosure Package that has subsequently been amended), or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading or (iii) any breach by any of the indemnifying parties of any of their respective representations, warranties and agreements made to the Purchaser or referred to herein. This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability that the Trust might otherwise have. If for any reason the foregoing indemnification is unavailable to the Purchaser or insufficient to hold it harmless, then the Trust shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by the Purchaser as a result of such loss, claim, liability, expense or damage in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative economic interests of the Trust on the one hand and the Purchaser on the other hand in the matters contemplated by this letter as well as the relative fault of the Trust and Purchaser with respect to such loss, claim, liability or damage and any other relevant equitable considerations. Any party that proposes to assert the right to be indemnified under this Section 18 in connection with a claim by a third party will, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action against such party in respect of which a claim is to be made against an indemnifying party or parties under this Section 18, notify each such indemnifying party of the commencement of such action. An indemnifying party will not, in any event, be liable for any settlement of any action or claim effected without its written consent. No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of each indemnified party, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action or proceeding relating to the matters contemplated by this Section 18 (whether or not any indemnified party is a party thereto), unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising or that may arise out of such claim, action or proceeding.

19. Termination . This Agreement shall be terminated prior to the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby if (a) prior to the closing of the IPO, the Underwriting Agreement is terminated pursuant to its terms or (b) the Closing has not occurred within 180 days following the date hereof. The Purchaser may also terminate this Agreement prior to the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby upon a material breach of the representations and warranties or covenants of the Trust contained herein. In the event of any termination of this Agreement, this Agreement shall become null and void and have no effect, without any liability to any person in respect hereof on the part of any party hereto, except for such liability resulting from such party’s breach of this Agreement prior to such termination.

 

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20. Remedies and Waivers . No delay or omission on the part of any party to this Agreement in exercising any right, power or remedy provided by law or under this Agreement shall (a) impair such right power or remedy or (b) operate as a waiver thereof. The single or partial exercise of any right, power or remedy provided by law or under this Agreement shall not preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, power or remedy. The rights, powers and remedies provided in this Agreement are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights, power and remedies provided by law.

21. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the other documents delivered pursuant hereto constitute the full and entire understanding and agreement among the parties with regard to the subject matter hereof and thereof and they supersede, merge, and render void every other prior written and/or oral understanding or agreement among or between the parties hereto.

22. Notices . Any notice or other communication required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered personally (by courier or otherwise), telegraphed, telexed, emailed, sent by facsimile transmission or sent by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid and return receipt requested, or by express mail. Any such notice shall be deemed given when so delivered personally, telegraphed, telexed, emailed or sent by facsimile transmission or, if mailed, three (3) days after the date of deposit in the United States mails, as follows:

If to the Trust:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 U.S Highway 46, Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Facsimile:

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

If to Purchaser:

Global Head, Real Estate and Development

71 South Wacker Drive, 12 th Floor

Chicago, Illinois 60606

Facsimile: (312) 780-5282

With a concurrent copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

Michael Pucker

Latham & Watkins LLP

233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 5800

Chicago, Illinois 60606

facsimile: (312) 993-9767

Any party may, by notice given in accordance with this Section 22 to the other party, designate another address or person for receipt of notices hereunder; provided, that notice of such a change shall be effective upon receipt.

 

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23. Expenses . Whether or not the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are consummated, the Trust, on one hand, and the Purchaser, on the other hand, shall, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, pay the costs, fees and expenses incident to its negotiation, preparation, execution, delivery and performance hereof, including the fees and expenses of its counsel, accountants, advisors and other representatives.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

TRUST:
CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

/s/ Douglas Vicani

Name:   Douglas Vicani
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
PURCHASER:
HYATT CORPORATION
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

TRUST:
CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  
PURCHASER:
HYATT CORPORATION
By:  

/s/ H. Charles Floyd

Name:   H. Charles Floyd
Title:   Exec. Vice President, North America Operations


EXHIBIT A

[Form of Joinder Agreement to Purchase Agreement]

[Date]

[Address of Purchaser]

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Reference is made to the Share Purchase Agreement (the “ Share Purchase Agreement ”) dated September 28, 2009, initially by and among Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Trust ”), and Hyatt Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“ Purchaser ”), concerning the purchase of the Shares (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreement) from the Trust by the Purchaser. Capitalized terms used herein but not defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the Share Purchase Agreement.

The undersigned agrees that this letter agreement is being executed and delivered in connection with the issue and sale of the Shares pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement and to induce the Purchaser to purchase the Shares thereunder and is being executed concurrently with the organization of the undersigned.

1. Joinder . The undersigned hereby agrees to be bound by the terms, conditions and other provisions of Section 3.10, Section 6, Section 7.2, Section 7.4, Section 8 through Section 14 and Section 16 through Section 23 of the Share Purchase Agreement with all attendant rights, duties and obligations stated therein, with the same force and effect as if originally named as the Trust and as if such party executed the Share Purchase Agreement on the date thereof

2. Representations , Warranties and Agreements . The undersigned represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the Purchaser on and as of the date hereof that:

2.1 The undersigned has the corporate power to execute and deliver this letter agreement and all corporate action required to be taken by it for the due and proper authorization, execution, delivery and performance of this letter agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby has been duly and validly taken; this letter agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the undersigned.

2.2 The representations, warranties and agreements of the undersigned set forth or referred to in the Share Purchase Agreement are true and correct on and as of the date hereof

3. Governing Law . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. The parties hereby agree that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submit to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The parties hereby waive any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and agree not to plead or claim that such courts represent an inconvenient forum.


4. Counterparts ; Facsimile . This letter agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. This letter agreement or any counterpart may be executed via facsimile transmission, and any such executed facsimile copy shall be treated as an original.

5. Amendments . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived, in whole or in part, except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.


If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our agreement, please indicate your acceptance of this letter agreement by signing in the space provided below, whereupon this letter agreement will become a binding agreement between the undersigned party hereto and the Purchaser in accordance with its terms.

 

[CHESAPEAKE LODGING, L.P.]
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

Exhibit 10.11

EXECUTION VERSION

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

This REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT is entered into as of this              day of             , 2009, by and among Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Trust ”) and Hyatt Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“ Purchaser ”).

WHEREAS, the Trust, the Operating Partnership (as defined below) and Purchaser are parties to a Share Purchase Agreement, dated as of September 26, 2009 (the “ Share Purchase Agreement ”), pursuant to which concurrently with the Trust’s proposed initial public offering (the “ IPO ”), the Trust agreed to issue in a private placement to Purchaser and Purchaser agreed to purchase a number of Common Shares set forth in the Share Purchase Agreement (the “ Shares ”); and

WHEREAS, the Trust and Purchaser desire to enter into this Agreement to provide Purchaser and certain of its permitted transferees with certain registration rights described herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Definitions . The following capitalized terms used herein have the following meanings:

Affiliate ” means (a) any Person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with such other Person, (b) any executive officer or general partner of such other Person and (c) any legal entity for which such Person acts as executive officer or general partner, and “control” for these purposes means the direct or indirect power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of another Person, whether by operation of law or regulation, through ownership of securities, as trustee or executor or in any other manner.

Agreement ” means this Registration Rights Agreement, as amended, restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time.

Board ” means the board of trustees of the Trust.

Business Day ” means any day, other than a Saturday or Sunday or a day on which commercial banks in New York, New York are authorized or required by law to close.

Commission ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any other federal agency then administering the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

Common Shares ” means the Trust’s common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share, together with any class of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust or shares of capital stock of a successor to the entire business of the Trust which may be issued in exchange for such Common Shares.


Demand Registration ” is defined in Section 2.2.1 .

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

Holder ” means (a) Purchaser in its capacity as a holder of record of Registrable Securities, (b) any Affiliate of Purchaser that is a direct or indirect transferee of Registrable Securities from Purchaser or any subsequent Holder and (c) any direct or indirect transferee of transfer of not less than 20% of the initial number of Registrable Securities issued to Purchaser at the closing under the Share Purchase Agreement from Purchaser or any subsequent Holder. For purposes of this Agreement, the Trust may deem and treat the registered holder of Registrable Securities as the Holder and absolute owner thereof, unless notified to the contrary in writing by the registered Holder thereof.

Indemnified Party ” is defined in Section 6.3 .

Indemnifying Party ” is defined in Section 6.3 .

Inspectors ” is defined in Section 5.1.8 .

IPO ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

Long-Form Demand Registration ” is defined in Section 2.1.2 .

Losses ” is defined in Section 6.1 .

Majority-in-Interest ” means Holders of more than 50% of the Registrable Securities.

Maximum Threshold ” is defined in Section 2.4 .

Operating Partnership ” means Chesapeake Lodging, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.

Person ” means an individual or a real estate investment trust, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture, trust, unincorporated organization, association (including any group, organization, co-tenancy, plan, board, council or committee), government (including a country, state, county, or any other governmental or political subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof) or other entity (or series thereof).

Piggy-Back Registration ” is defined in Section 3.1 .

Pro Rata Adjusted ” is defined in Section 2.4 .

Prospectus ” means the prospectus or prospectuses included in any Registration Statement (including without limitation, any “free writing prospectus” (as defined in Rule 405

 

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under the Securities Act) and any prospectus subject to completion and a prospectus that includes any information previously omitted from a prospectus filed as part of an effective registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A promulgated under the Securities Act and any term sheet filed pursuant to Rule 434 under the Securities Act), as amended or supplemented by any prospectus supplement with respect to the terms of the offering of any portion of the Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement and by all other amendments and supplements to the prospectus, including post-effective amendments and all material incorporated by reference or deemed to be incorporated by reference in such prospectus or prospectuses.

Purchaser ” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

Records ” is defined in Section 5.1.8 .

Registration ” means a registration effected by preparing and filing a registration statement or similar document in compliance with the requirements of the Securities Act, and such registration statement becoming effective.

Registrable Securities ” means at any time the Shares, together with any class of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust or shares of capital stock of a successor to the entire business of the Trust which may be issued in exchange for such Shares or as payment of any dividend on such Shares. As to any particular Registrable Securities, such securities shall cease to be Registrable Securities on the earliest to occur of: (a) the date on which a Registration Statement with respect to the sale of such securities shall have become effective under the Securities Act and such securities shall have been sold, transferred, disposed of or exchanged in accordance with such Registration Statement; (b) the date on which such securities shall have ceased to be outstanding; (c) the date on which the Registrable Securities have been sold and all transfer restrictions and restrictive legends with respect to such Registrable Securities are removed upon the consummation of such sale; and (d) the date on which such securities shall have been assigned, sold, disposed of or otherwise transferred to any Person that is not and does not become a Holder upon receipt of such securities.

Registration Statement ” means any registration statement filed by the Trust with the Commission in compliance with the Securities Act for a public offering and sale of Common Shares or other securities of the Trust, including the Prospectus, amendments and supplements to such Registration Statement, including post-effective amendments, all exhibits and all materials incorporated by reference or deemed to be incorporated by reference in such Registration Statement (other than a registration statement (a) on Form S-4 or Form S-8, or their successors, (b) covering only securities proposed to be issued in exchange for securities or assets of another entity, (c) for an exchange offer or offering of securities solely to the Trust’s existing shareholders, (d) covering only an offering of debt that is convertible into equity securities of the Trust or (e) covering only a dividend reinvestment plan, direct stock purchase plan or at-the-market offering).

Resale Registration Statement ” is defined in Section 2.3 .

 

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Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

Share Purchase Agreement ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

Shares ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

Short-Form Demand Registration ” is defined in Section 2.2.1 .

Trust ” is defined in the preamble to this Agreement.

underwritten offering ” means a Registration in which securities of the Trust are sold to one or more underwriters for reoffering to the public.

2. Registration Rights .

2.1. Long-Form Registrations .

2.1.1 Subject to the terms of this Agreement, at any time at least one hundred eighty (180) days following the closing of the IPO, each Holder may request registration under the Securities Act on Form S-11 or any similar long-form Registration Statement for the offering of all or part of its Registrable Securities; provided , that with respect to any requests under this Section 2.1.1, the anticipated aggregate offering amount of the Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement shall exceed $12,500,000 (net of underwriting discounts and commissions).

2.1.2 Within ten (10) days after receipt of any written request pursuant to Section 2.1.1, the Trust will give written notice of such request to all other holders of Registrable Securities and will use reasonable best efforts to include in such registration all Registrable Securities with respect to which the Trust has received written requests for inclusion within thirty (30) days after delivery of the Trust’s notice, and, thereupon the Trust will use its reasonable best efforts to effect, at the earliest possible date, the registration under the Securities Act. All registrations requested pursuant to Section 2.1.1 are referred to herein as “ Long-Form Demand Registrations .”

2.1.3 Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 2.1, (a) the Trust shall not be obligated to effect a Long-Form Demand Registration at any time when the Trust is eligible at the time of the request to file a Registration Statement on an appropriate form for an offering to be made on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act or any successor thereof, and (b) the Trust shall not be obligated to effect more than two (2) Long-Form Demand Registrations for all Holders in the aggregate pursuant to Section 2.1.1.

 

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2.2 Short-Form Registrations .

2.2.1 In addition to the Long-Form Demand Registrations provided pursuant to Section 2.1 above, commencing on the date on which the Trust becomes eligible to register securities issued by it on an appropriate form for an offering to be made on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act or any successor thereof (“ Short-Form Demand Registrations ” and, together with the Long-Form Demand Registrations, “ Demand Registrations ”), each Holder will be entitled to request registrations under the Securities Act of all or part of its Registrable Securities; provided , that with respect to any requests under this Section 2.2.1, the anticipated aggregate offering amount of the Registrable Securities covered by a Short-Form Demand Registration shall exceed $7,500,000 (net of underwriting discounts and commissions).

2.2.2 Within ten (10) days after receipt of any request pursuant to Section 2.2.1, the Trust will give written notice of such request to all other holders of Registrable Securities and will use reasonable best efforts to include in such registration all Registrable Securities with respect to which the Trust has received written requests for inclusion within ten (10) days after delivery of the Trust’s notice. Upon closing of the IPO, the Trust will use its reasonable best efforts to make Short-Form Demand Registrations available for the sale of Registrable Securities. Demand Registrations will be Short-Form Demand Registrations whenever the Trust is permitted to use any applicable short form. If for marketing or other reasons, any underwriters with respect to any Short-Form Demand Registration request the inclusion in the Registration Statement of information that is not required under the Securities Act to be included in a Registration Statement on the applicable form for the Short-Form Demand Registration, the Trust will provide such information as may be reasonably requested for inclusion by such underwriters in the applicable Registration Statement. Each Holder shall be limited to two (2) Short-Form Demand Registrations.

2.2.3 The Trust shall prepare and file such additional Registration Statements as necessary every three years (or such other period of time as may be required to maintain continuously effective Resale Registration Statements (as defined below) in connection with Short-Form Demand Registrations) and use its reasonable best efforts to cause any such Registration Statement to be declared effective by the Commission (if it is not an automatic shelf registration statement) so that a Resale Registration Statement remains continuously effective, subject to Section 2.6, with respect to resales of Registrable Securities registered pursuant to a Short-Form Demand Registration as and for the periods required hereunder, each such subsequent Registration Statement to constitute a Resale Registration Statement hereunder.

2.3 Additional Securities . The Trust may include in the Registration Statement relating to any such Demand Registrations (the “ Resale Registration Statement ”) additional securities of the class of Registrable Securities to be registered thereunder, including securities to be sold for the Trust’s own account or the account of Persons who are not Holders of Registrable Securities.

2.4 Underwritten Offering; Reduction of Offering . Holders of Registrable Securities shall have the right to request that a Demand Registration be effected as an underwritten offering

 

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at any time, subject to this Section 2 . All Holders proposing to participate in such underwriting shall (a) enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such underwriting by a Majority-in-Interest of the Registrable Securities included in such offering, which underwriter(s) shall be reasonably acceptable to the Trust; provided that with respect to such underwriting agreement or any other documents reasonably required under such agreement, (i) no Holder shall be required to make any representation or warranty with respect to or on behalf of the Company or any other stockholder of the Company and (ii) the liability of any Holder shall be limited as provided in Section 6.2 hereof, and (b) complete and execute all questionnaires, powers-of-attorney, indemnities, opinions and other documents required under the terms of such underwriting agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall the Trust be obligated to effect more than one underwritten offering hereunder in any single six-month period. If the managing underwriter(s) for an underwritten offering advise(s) the Trust and the Holders in writing that the dollar amount or number of Registrable Securities which the Holders desire to sell, taken together with all other Common Shares or other securities which the Trust desires to sell and the Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights held by other shareholders of the Trust who desire to sell or otherwise, exceeds the maximum dollar amount or maximum number of securities that can be sold in such offering without adversely affecting the proposed offering price, the timing, the distribution method, or the probability of success of such offering (such maximum dollar amount or maximum number of securities, as applicable, the “ Maximum Threshold ”), then the Trust shall include in such registration: (w)  first , the Registrable Securities ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Securities which such Holders have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Securities or other securities held by each such Person (such proportion is referred to herein as “ Pro Rata Adjusted ”)) that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (x)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (w), the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (y)  third , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (w) and (x), the Common Shares or other securities for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual arrangements with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (z)  fourth , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (w), (x) and (y), the Common Shares that other shareholders desire to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold to the extent that the Trust, in its sole discretion, wishes to permit such sales pursuant to this clause (z).

A request for an underwritten offering may be withdrawn by a Majority-in-Interest included in such offering prior to the consummation thereof, and, in such event, such withdrawal shall not be treated as a request for an underwritten offering which shall have been effected pursuant to the immediately preceding paragraph. In no event will a Demand Registration count as a Demand Registration unless at least fifty percent (50%) of all Registrable Securities requested to be registered in such Demand Registration by the Holders initiating such Demand Registration are, in fact, registered in such registration.

2.5 Inclusion in Resale Registration Statement . The Trust shall give written notice to all Holders at least 20 Business Days prior to the anticipated filing date of the Resale

 

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Registration Statement, which notice shall include a questionnaire seeking information from the Holders deemed necessary or advisable by the Trust or its counsel in order to file the Resale Registration Statement. At the time the Resale Registration Statement is declared effective (or becomes effective, if the Resale Registration Statement is an automatic shelf registration statement), each Holder that has delivered to the Trust a duly completed and executed questionnaire on or prior to the date which is ten Business Days prior to such time of effectiveness shall be named as a selling shareholder in the Resale Registration Statement and the related Prospectus in such a manner as to permit such Holder to deliver such Prospectus to purchasers of Registrable Securities in accordance with applicable law. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, after effectiveness of the Resale Registration Statement, the Trust shall file a supplement to such Prospectus or amendment to the Resale Registration Statement upon request of any Holder as necessary to name as selling shareholders therein any Holders that provide to the Trust duly completed and executed questionnaires and shall use reasonable best efforts to cause any post-effective amendment to such Resale Shelf Registration Statement filed for such purpose to be declared effective (if it is not an automatic shelf registration statement) by the Commission as promptly as reasonably practicable after the filing thereof.

2.6 Suspension of Use of Registration Statement . Upon prior written notice to the Holders, the Trust may suspend the use of a Resale Registration Statement pursuant to this Section 2 on up to two occasions during any period of twelve consecutive months for a reasonable time specified in the notice but not exceeding 90 days in the aggregate during any such twelve month period (which period may not be extended or renewed), if (a) the Board determines in good faith that permitting sales under the Registration Statement would materially and adversely affect an offering of securities of the Trust; (b) a Piggy-Back Registration (defined below) in which Holders were able to participate and include at least fifty percent (50%) of all Registrable Securities tendered by such Holders for registration in such Piggy-Back Registration was completed within the prior 90 days; or (c) the Trust is in possession of material non-public information and the Board determines in good faith that the disclosure of such information during the period specified in such notice would not be in the best interests of the Trust.

3. Piggy-Back Registration .

3.1 Piggy-Back Rights . At any time at least one hundred eighty (180) days following the closing of the IPO, if the Trust proposes to file a Registration Statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering of equity securities by the Trust for its own account or for shareholders of the Trust for their account and the registration form to be used may be used for any registration of Registrable Securities, then the Trust shall (a) give written notice of such proposed filing and offering to the Holders of Registrable Securities as soon as practicable but in no event less than ten (10) Business Days before the anticipated filing date, which notice shall describe the amount and type of securities to be included in such offering, the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed managing underwriter(s), if any, of the offering, and (b) offer to the Holders of Registrable Securities in such notice the opportunity to register the sale of such number of Registrable Securities as such Holders may request in writing within five Business Days following receipt of such notice (a “ Piggy-Back Registration ”). If at any time after giving written notice of its intention to register any securities and prior to the effective date of the Registration Statement filed in connection with such registration, the Trust

 

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shall determine for any reason not to register or to delay registration of such securities, the Trust may, at its election, give written notice of such determination to each Holder of Registrable Securities and, (x) in the case of a determination not to register, shall be relieved of its obligation to register any Registrable Securities in connection with such registration, and (y) in the case of a determination to delay registering, shall be permitted to delay registering any Registrable Securities for the same period as the delay in registering such other securities. The Trust shall cause such Registrable Securities to be included in such registration and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the managing underwriter(s) of a proposed underwritten offering to permit the Registrable Securities requested to be included in a Piggy-Back Registration on the same terms and conditions as any similar securities of the Trust and to permit the sale or other disposition of such Registrable Securities in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. All Holders of Registrable Securities proposing to distribute their securities through a Piggy-Back Registration that involves an underwriter(s) shall enter into an underwriting agreement in reasonable and customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such Piggy-Back Registration; provided that with respect to such underwriting agreement or any other documents reasonably required under such agreement, (i) no Holder shall be required to make any representation or warranty with respect to or on behalf of the Company or any other stockholder of the Company and (ii) the liability of any Holder shall be limited as provided in Section 6.2 hereof and (ii) complete and execute all questionnaires, powers-of-attorney, indemnities, opinions and other documents reasonably required under the terms of such underwriting agreement. No registration effected under this Section 3 shall relieve the Trust of its obligations to effect a Demand Registration required by Section 2.

3.2 Reduction of Offering . If the managing underwriter(s) for a Piggy-Back Registration that is to be an underwritten offering advises the Trust and the Holders of Registrable Securities that in their opinion the dollar amount or number of Common Shares or other securities which the Trust desires to sell, taken together with Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been demanded pursuant to written contractual arrangements with third parties, the Registrable Securities as to which registration has been requested under this Section 3 , and the Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to the written contractual piggy-back registration rights of other shareholders of the Trust, exceeds the Maximum Threshold, then the Trust shall include in any such registration:

(a) If the registration is undertaken for the Trust’s account: (i)  first , the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (ii)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (i), the Registrable Securities and the Common Shares or other securities proposed to be sold for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Securities and Common Shares or other securities which such Holders and other Persons have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Securities and Common Shares or other securities held by each such Holder or other Person); and

 

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(b) If the registration is a “ demand ” registration undertaken at the demand of one or more Persons other than the Trust and any Holder, (i)  first , the Common Shares or other securities for the account of such demanding Persons that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (ii)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (i), the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (iii)  third , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii), the Registrable Securities and the Common Shares or other securities proposed to be sold for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Securities and Common Shares or other securities which such Holders and other Persons have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Securities and Common Shares or other securities held by each such Holder or other Person).

3.3 Withdrawal . Any Holder of Registrable Securities may elect to withdraw such Holder’s request for inclusion of Registrable Securities in any Piggy-Back Registration by giving written notice to the Trust of such request to withdraw prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or filing of a Prospectus naming such Holder as a selling shareholder, as applicable. The Trust (whether on its own determination or as the result of a withdrawal by Persons making a demand pursuant to written contractual obligations) may withdraw a Registration Statement at any time prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement without thereby incurring any liability to the Holders of Registrable Securities. Notwithstanding any such withdrawal, the Trust shall pay all expenses incurred by the Holders of Registrable Securities in connection with such Piggy-Back Registration as provided in Section 5.3 .

4. Restrictions on Public Sale by the Trust .

The Trust agrees not to effect any public sale or distribution (other than, in the case of the Trust, in connection with (a) any merger, acquisition or similar transaction that involves the public offering of securities, (b) public sales or distributions solely by and for the account of the Trust of securities issued pursuant to any employee benefit or similar plan, including equity incentive plans or upon exercise or conversion by the holders thereof of other derivative securities issued by the Trust that are then outstanding, or (c) any dividend reinvestment plan, direct stock purchase plan or at-the-market offering program then existing), of any securities during the period commencing on the date the Trust receives a request for an underwritten offering from any Holder and continuing until 90 days after the commencement of an underwritten offering (or for such shorter period as the lead underwriter(s) shall request after consultation with a Majority-in-Interest) unless earlier terminated by the lead underwriter(s) in such underwritten offering.

 

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5. Registration Procedures .

5.1. Filings . In connection with the filing of any Registration Statement as provided in this Agreement, the paragraphs below shall be applicable:

5.1.1 Filing of Registration Statement . The Trust shall (a) prepare and file with the Commission a Registration Statement on any form for which the Trust then qualifies or which counsel for the Trust shall deem appropriate and which form shall be available for the sale of all Registrable Securities to be registered thereunder in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof, which shall comply as to form with the requirements of the applicable form and include all financial statements required by the SEC to be filed therewith, (b) use its reasonable best efforts to cause such Registration Statement to be declared (if it is not an automatic shelf registration statement) and remain effective for the period required by Section 5.1.3 , (c) not take any action that would cause a Registration Statement to contain a material misstatement or omission or to be not effective and usable for resale of Registrable Securities during the period that such Registration Statement is required to be effective and usable, (d) use its reasonable best efforts to cause each Registration Statement and the related Prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto, as of the effective date of such Registration Statement, amendment or supplement to comply in all material respects with any requirements of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations of the SEC and (e) cause such Registration Statement and the related Prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto not to contain any untrue statement of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading during the period that such Registration Statement is required to be effective and usable.

5.1.2 Copies . The Trust shall, upon request, prior to filing a Registration Statement or Prospectus in respect of Registrable Securities, or any amendment or supplement thereto, furnish without charge to the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration, any underwriter and such Holders’ or underwriter’s legal counsel, copies of such Registration Statement as proposed to be filed, each amendment and supplement to such Registration Statement (in each case including all exhibits thereto and documents incorporated by reference therein), the Prospectus included in such Registration Statement (including each preliminary Prospectus) and such other documents as the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration, underwriter or legal counsel for any such Holders or underwriter may reasonably request. Following the filing of such Registration Statement, the Trust shall furnish to the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such registration (in each case in an electronic format, unless otherwise required by applicable law), without charge, such number of copies of such Registration Statement, each amendment and supplement thereto (in each case including all exhibits thereto and documents incorporated by reference therein), the Prospectus included in such Registration Statement (including each preliminary Prospectus) and such other documents as the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration, underwriter or legal counsel for any such Holders or underwriter may reasonably request in order to facilitate the disposition of the Registrable Securities owned by such Holders. Each Holder of Registrable Securities included in the Registration Statement shall have the right to request in writing that the Trust modify any information contained in such Registration Statement, amendment and supplement thereto pertaining solely to such Holder or which such counsel to Holder may reasonably request in order to ensure that the Registration Statement complies with the Securities Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and the Trust shall use its reasonable best efforts to comply with such request; provided, however , that the Trust shall not have any obligation to so modify any information if the Trust reasonably expects that so doing would cause the Prospectus to contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

 

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5.1.3 Amendments and Supplements . The Trust shall prepare and file with the Commission such amendments, including post-effective amendments, and supplements to such Registration Statement and the Prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep such Registration Statement effective and in compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act until all Registrable Securities and other securities covered by such Registration Statement have been disposed of in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution set forth in such Registration Statement or such securities have been withdrawn.

5.1.4 Notification . After the filing of a Registration Statement, the Trust shall promptly, and in no event more than three Business Days after such filing, notify the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement of such filing, and shall further promptly notify such Holders of the occurrence, and in no event more than three Business Days after such occurrence of any of the following and, if requested by any Holder, confirm such advice in writing: (a) when such Registration Statement becomes effective; (b) when any post-effective amendment to such Registration Statement becomes effective; (c) the issuance by the Commission of any stop order; and (d) any request by the Commission for any amendment or supplement to such Registration Statement or any Prospectus relating thereto or for additional information or of the occurrence of an event requiring the preparation of a supplement or amendment to such Prospectus so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of the securities covered by such Registration Statement, such Prospectus will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and promptly make available to the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement any such supplement or amendment; except that before filing with the Commission a Registration Statement or Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto, including documents incorporated by reference, the Trust shall furnish to the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement and to the legal counsel for any such Holders, copies of all such documents proposed to be filed sufficiently in advance of filing to provide such Holders and legal counsel with a reasonable opportunity to review such documents and comment thereon, and the Trust shall not file any Registration Statement or Prospectus or amendment or supplement thereto, including documents incorporated by reference, to which such Holders or their legal counsel shall reasonably object. The Trust shall use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the withdrawal of any order suspending the effectiveness or qualification of a Registration Statement or suspending or preventing the use of any related Prospectus at the earliest possible time.

5.1.5 State Securities Laws Compliance . The Trust shall use its best efforts to (a) register or qualify the Registrable Securities covered by the Registration Statement under such securities or “blue sky” laws of such jurisdictions in the United States as the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement (in light of their intended plan of distribution) may reasonably request and (b) take such action as reasonably necessary to cause such Registrable Securities covered by the Registration Statement to be registered with or approved by such other governmental authorities as may be necessary by virtue of the business and operations of the Trust and do any and all other acts and things that may be necessary or

 

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advisable to enable the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement to consummate the disposition of such Registrable Securities in such jurisdictions; provided, however , that the Trust shall not be required to qualify generally to do business in any jurisdiction where it would not otherwise be required to qualify but for this paragraph, consent to general service of process in any such jurisdiction or subject itself to taxation in any such jurisdiction.

5.1.6 Agreements for Disposition . The Trust shall enter into customary agreements (including, if applicable, an underwriting agreement in customary form) and take such other actions as are reasonably required in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable Securities. Such Holders of Registrable Securities shall agree to such representations, warranties, covenants and indemnification and contribution obligations for selling shareholders as are customarily contained in agreements of that type used by the underwriters.

5.1.7 Cooperation . (a) The management of the Trust shall cooperate fully in any offering of Registrable Securities hereunder, which cooperation shall include, without limitation, the preparation of the Registration Statement with respect to such offering and all other offering materials and related documents, and participation in meetings with underwriters, attorneys, accountants and potential purchasers, including without limitation, participation in any roadshow for an underwritten offering.

(b) The Trust shall, upon request, furnish to the lead underwriter of an underwritten offering of Registrable Securities, if any, without charge, at least one signed copy of each Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto, including financial statements and schedules, all documents incorporated therein by reference and all exhibits; and furnish to each Holder of Registrable Securities, without charge, at least one conformed copy of each Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto (without documents incorporated therein by reference or exhibits thereto, unless requested) and shall cooperate with the selling Holders of Registrable Securities and the lead underwriter of an underwritten offering of Registrable Securities, if any, to facilitate the timely preparation and delivery of certificates representing Registrable Securities to be sold and not bearing any restrictive legends; and enable such Registrable Securities to be in such denominations (consistent with the provisions of the governing documents thereof) and registered in such names as the selling Holders or the lead underwriter of an underwritten offering of Registrable Securities, if any, may reasonably request at least three business days prior to any sale of Registrable Securities.

5.1.8 Records . The Trust shall make available for inspection by the Holders of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement, any underwriter participating in any disposition pursuant to such Registration Statement and any attorney, accountant or other professional retained by any Holder of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement or any underwriter (collectively, the “ Inspectors ”), all financial and other records, pertinent corporate documents and properties of the Trust (collectively, the “ Records ”) as shall be reasonably necessary to enable them to exercise their due diligence responsibility, and cause the Trust’s officers, trustees and employees to supply all information reasonably requested by

 

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any of them in connection with such Registration Statement. Records which the Trust determines, in good faith, to be confidential and which it notifies the Inspectors are confidential shall not be disclosed by the Inspectors unless (a) the disclosure of such Records is necessary to avoid or correct a misstatement or omission in such Registration Statement or (b) the release of such Records is ordered pursuant to a subpoena or other order from a court of competent jurisdiction. Each Holder of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement agrees that information obtained by it as a result of such inspections shall be deemed confidential and shall not be used by it as the basis for any market transactions in the securities of the Trust unless and until such is made generally available to the public. Each Holder of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement further agrees that it will, upon learning that disclosure of such Records is sought in a court of competent jurisdiction, give notice to the Trust and allow the Trust, at its expense, to undertake appropriate action to prevent disclosure of the Records deemed confidential.

5.1.9 Opinions and Comfort Letters . If a Registration Statement in respect of Registrable Securities includes an underwritten offering, the Trust shall furnish (a) any opinion of counsel to the Trust delivered to any underwriter and (b) any comfort letter from the Trust’s independent public accountants delivered to any underwriter, each in the form reasonably requested by counsel to such underwriter and shall furnish to each Holder of Registrable Securities included in such Registration Statement a signed counterpart, addressed to such Holder, of any such opinion of counsel or comfort letter.

5.1.10 Earnings Statement . The Trust shall make available to its shareholders, as soon as practicable but not more than 12 months after the effective date of the Registration Statement, an earnings statement satisfying the provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and Rule 158 thereunder.

5.1.11 Listing . To the extent any Registrable Securities are not then listed on an exchange, the Trust shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause all Registrable Securities included in any Registration Statement to be listed on such exchanges or otherwise designated for trading in the same manner as similar securities issued by the Trust are then listed or designated.

5.2. Obligation to Suspend Distribution . Upon receipt of any notice from the Trust of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 5.1.4(d) , each Holder of Registrable Securities included in any registration shall immediately discontinue disposition of such Registrable Securities pursuant to the Registration Statement covering such Registrable Securities until such Holder receives the supplemented or amended Prospectus contemplated by Section 5.1.4(d) and, if so directed by the Trust, each such Holder will destroy all copies, other than permanent file copies then in such Holder’s possession, of the most recent Prospectus covering such Registrable Securities at the time of receipt of such notice.

5.3. Registration Expenses . The Trust shall pay the following costs and expenses incurred in connection with (a) any Demand Registration pursuant to Section 2 and (b) any Piggy-Back Registration pursuant to Section 3 , and all expenses incurred in performing or complying with its other obligations under this Agreement, whether or not the Registration

 

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Statement becomes effective, including, without limitation: (i) all registration and filing fees; (ii) fees and expenses of compliance with securities or “blue sky” laws (including fees and disbursements of counsel in connection with blue sky qualifications of the Registrable Securities); (iii) printing expenses; (iv) the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Registrable Securities as required by Section 5.1.11 ; (v) Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. fees; (vi) fees and disbursements of counsel for the Trust and fees and expenses for independent public accountants retained by the Trust (including the expenses or costs associated with the delivery of any opinions or comfort letters requested pursuant to Section 5.1.9 ); and (vii) the fees and expenses of any special experts retained by the Trust in connection with such Registration. The Trust shall have no obligation to pay any other costs or expenses in the course of any Registration contemplated hereby. The Trust shall have the right to exclude any Holder that does not agree to bear its expenses (except as expressly provided in the second preceding sentence) from the applicable Registration. The obligation of the Trust to bear the expenses described in this Section 5.3 shall apply irrespective of whether a Registration becomes effective, is withdrawn or suspended, is converted to another form of Registration and irrespective of when any of the foregoing shall occur.

5.4. Information . In connection with the filing of any Registration Statement covering Registrable Securities, the Holders of Registrable Securities shall provide such information as may reasonably be requested by the Trust in connection with the preparation of any Registration Statement in order to effect the Registration of any Registrable Securities and in connection with the Trust’s obligation to comply with federal and applicable state securities laws. If a Holder fails to provide such information after reasonably requested, the Trust may omit such Holder’s Registrable Securities from such Registration Statement.

6. Indemnification and Contribution .

6.1. Indemnification by the Trust . The Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless to the fullest extent permitted by law each Holder of Registrable Securities, and each of their respective officers, employees, Affiliates, trustees, directors, partners, members, attorneys and agents, and each Person, if any, who controls (within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act) such Holder of Registrable Securities from and against any expenses, losses, judgments, claims, damages or liabilities (“ Losses ”) arising out of or based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement under which the sale of such Registrable Securities was registered under the Securities Act, Prospectus (including any preliminary Prospectus), or any amendment thereof or supplement thereto, or arising out of or based upon any omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in the case of the Prospectus in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; provided , however , that the Trust will not be liable in any such case to any Holder to the extent that any such Loss arises out of or is based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made in such Registration Statement, Prospectus, or any such amendment thereof or supplement thereto, in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished to the Trust, in writing, by such Holder expressly for use therein.

 

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6.2. Indemnification by Holders of Registrable Securities . In connection with any Registration Statement in which a Holder is participating and as a condition to such participation, each Holder of Registrable Securities agrees, severally and not jointly, to indemnify and hold harmless to the fullest extent permitted by law the Trust, and each of its officers, employees, Affiliates, trustees and agents, and each Person who controls the Trust within the meaning of the Securities Act and each underwriter (if any), and each Person, if any, who controls such underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act, against any Losses, insofar as such Losses (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement under which the sale of such Registrable Securities was registered under the Securities Act, Prospectus (including any preliminary Prospectus), or any amendment thereof or supplement thereto, or arise out of or are based upon any omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statement therein, in the case of the Prospectus in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, if the statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished in writing to the Trust by such Holder expressly for use therein. Each Holder’s indemnification obligations hereunder shall be several and not joint and shall be limited to the amount of gross proceeds actually received by such Holder from sales of Registrable Securities giving rise to such obligations.

Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of the Trust or any Indemnified Party and shall survive the transfer of such securities by any Holder.

6.3. Conduct of Indemnification Proceedings . Promptly after receipt by any Person of any notice of any Loss or any action in respect of which indemnity may be sought pursuant to Section 6.1 or 6.2 , such Person (the “ Indemnified Party ”) shall, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against any other Person for indemnification hereunder, notify such other Person (the “ Indemnifying Party ”) in writing of the Loss or action; provided , however , that the failure by the Indemnified Party to notify the Indemnifying Party shall not relieve the Indemnifying Party from any liability which the Indemnifying Party may have to such Indemnified Party hereunder, except and solely to the extent the Indemnifying Party is actually and materially prejudiced by such failure. If the Indemnified Party is seeking indemnification with respect to any claim or action brought against the Indemnified Party, then the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to participate in such claim or action, and, to the extent that it wishes, jointly with all other Indemnifying Parties, to assume control of the defense thereof with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party. After notice from the Indemnifying Party to the Indemnified Party of its election to assume control of the defense of such claim or action, the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by the Indemnified Party in connection with the defense thereof other than reasonable costs of investigation; provided , however , that in any action in which both the Indemnified Party and the Indemnifying Party are named as defendants or if such Indemnified Party or parties determines in good faith that a conflict of interest exists and that therefore it is advisable for such Indemnified Party or parties to be represented by separate counsel or that, upon advice of counsel, there may be legal defenses available to it or them which are different from or in addition to those available to the Indemnifying Party, then the Indemnifying Party or parties shall not be entitled to assume such defense and the Indemnified Party or parties shall be

 

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entitled to separate counsel at the Indemnifying Party’s or parties’ expense. If an Indemnifying Party or parties is not so entitled to assume the defense of such action or does not assume such defense, after having received the notice referred to in the first sentence of this paragraph, the Indemnifying Party or parties will pay the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel for the Indemnified Party or parties (limited in each jurisdiction to one counsel for all Indemnified Parties under this Agreement). The Indemnified Party shall have the right to employ separate counsel (but no more than one such separate counsel, which firm shall be designated in writing by those Indemnified Parties who sold a majority of the Registrable Shares sold by all such Indemnified Parties) to represent the Indemnified Party or parties and their respective controlling Persons who may be subject to liability arising out of any claim in respect of which indemnity may be sought by the Indemnified Party or parties against the Indemnifying Party or parties, with the fees and expenses of such counsel to be paid by such Indemnifying Party. No Indemnifying Party shall, without the prior written consent of any Indemnified Party or parties, consent to entry of judgment or effect any settlement of any claim or pending or threatened proceeding in respect of which the Indemnified Party or parties are or could have been a party and indemnity could have been sought hereunder by such Indemnified Party, unless such judgment or settlement includes an unconditional release of such Indemnified Party from all liability arising out of such claim or proceeding and does not include any statement of admission of fault, culpability or failure to act by or on behalf of such Indemnified Party.

6.4. Contribution .

6.4.1 If the indemnification provided for in this Section 6 is unavailable to any Indemnified Party or insufficient to hold it harmless in respect of any Loss referred to herein, then each such Indemnifying Party, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Party or parties, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such Indemnified Party or parties as a result of such Loss in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the Indemnified Parties and the Indemnifying Parties in connection with the actions or omissions which resulted in such Loss, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of any Indemnified Party and any Indemnifying Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by such Indemnified Party or such Indemnifying Party and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission.

6.4.2 The parties agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 6.4 were determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding Section 6.4.1 .

6.4.3 The amount paid or payable by an Indemnifying Party as a result of any Loss shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any legal or other expenses incurred by such Indemnified Party in connection with investigating or defending any such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 6.4 , no Holder of Registrable Securities shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the dollar amount by which the gross proceeds actually received by such Holder from the sale of Registrable

 

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Securities exceeds the amount of any damages that such Holder has otherwise been required to pay by reason of such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. No Person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any Person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

6.4.4 The indemnity and contribution agreements contained in this Section 6 are in addition to any liability which the Indemnifying Parties may otherwise have to the Indemnified Parties hereunder, under applicable law or at equity, and shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Indemnified Party or any officer, employee, Affiliate, trustee, director, partner, member, attorney, agent or controlling person of such Indemnified Party and shall survive the transfer of Registrable Securities.

7. Underwriting and Distribution .

7.1. Rule 144 . At such times as the Trust is obligated to file reports in compliance with either Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Trust covenants that it shall file any reports required to be filed by it under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act and shall take such further action as the Holders of Registrable Securities may reasonably request, all to the extent required from time to time to enable such Holders to sell Registrable Securities (subject to any contractual obligation of such Holders to the contrary) without registration under the Securities Act within the limitation of the exemptions provided by Rule 144 under the Securities Act, as such Rules may be amended from time to time, or any similar Rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission. Upon the request of any Holder, the Trust will deliver to such Holder a written statement as to whether it has complied with such requirements.

8. Miscellaneous .

8.1. Assignment; No Third Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement and the rights, duties and obligations of the Trust hereunder may not be assigned or delegated by the Trust in whole or in part. This Agreement and the rights, duties and obligations of the Holders of Registrable Securities hereunder may be freely assigned or delegated by such Holder of Registrable Securities in conjunction with and to the extent of (a) any transfer of Registrable Securities to any Affiliate of Purchaser, or (b) any transfer of not less than 20% of the initial number of Registrable Securities issued to Purchaser at the closing under the Share Purchase Agreement to any Person (subject to any contractual obligation of such Holders to the contrary). This Agreement and the provisions hereof shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of each of the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns; provided , however , that no such transfer or assignment shall be binding upon or obligate the Trust to any such assignee, and no such assignee shall be deemed a Holder hereunder, unless and until the Trust shall have received written notice of such transfer or assignment as herein provided and a written agreement of the assignee to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or benefits on any Persons that are not party hereto other than as expressly set forth in Article 6 and this Section 8.1 .

 

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8.2. Notices . All notices, demands, requests, consents, approvals or other communications required or permitted to be given hereunder or which are given with respect to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be personally served, delivered by reputable overnight courier service with charges prepaid, or transmitted by hand delivery, telex or facsimile, addressed as set forth below, or to such other address as such party shall have specified most recently by written notice. Notice shall be deemed given on the date of service or transmission if personally served or transmitted by telex or facsimile; provided , however , that if such service or transmission is not on a Business Day or is after normal business hours, then such notice shall be deemed given on the next Business Day. Notice otherwise sent as provided herein shall be deemed given on the next Business Day following timely delivery of such notice to a reputable overnight courier service with an order for next-day delivery.

To the Trust:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 Route 46 East, Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Facsimile: (201) 599-0527

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

To each Holder, at the address most recently provided by such Holder to the Trust with a copy to Latham & Watkins LLP, 233 South Wacker Drive, Suite 5800, Chicago, Illinois 60606, Facsimile: (312) 993-9767, Attention: Michael A Pucker.

8.3. Severability . This Agreement shall be deemed severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any term or provision hereof shall not affect the validity or enforceability of this Agreement or of any other term or provision hereof. Furthermore, in lieu of any such invalid or unenforceable term or provision, the parties hereto intend that there shall be added as a part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such invalid or unenforceable provision as may be possible that is valid and enforceable.

8.4. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by facsimile and in multiple counterparts, and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

8.5. Entire Agreement . This Agreement (including all agreements entered into pursuant hereto and all certificates and instruments delivered pursuant hereto and thereto) constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements, representations, understandings, negotiations and discussions among the parties, whether oral or written.

8.6. Modifications and Amendments . The provisions of this Agreement, including the provisions of this sentence, may not be amended, modified or supplemented, and waivers or consents to departures from the provisions hereof may not be given unless the Trust has obtained the written consent of a Majority-In-Interest of Registrable Securities outstanding at such time.

 

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8.7. Titles and Headings . Titles and headings of sections of this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction of any provision of this Agreement.

8.8. Waivers and Extensions . Any party to this Agreement may waive any right, breach or default which such party has the right to waive, provided , that such waiver will not be effective against the waiving party unless it is in writing, is signed by such party, and specifically refers to this Agreement. Waivers may be made in advance or after the right waived has arisen or the breach or default waived has occurred. Any waiver may be conditional. No waiver of any breach of any agreement or provision herein contained shall be deemed a waiver of any preceding or succeeding breach thereof nor of any other agreement or provision herein contained. No waiver or extension of time for performance of any obligations or acts shall be deemed a waiver or extension of the time for performance of any other obligations or acts.

8.9. Remedies Cumulative . In the event that the Trust fails to observe or perform any covenant or agreement to be observed or performed under this Agreement, each Holder of Registrable Securities may proceed to protect and enforce its rights by suit in equity or action at law, whether for specific performance of any term contained in this Agreement or for an injunction against the breach of any such term or in aid of the exercise of any power granted in this Agreement or to enforce any other legal or equitable right, or to take any one or more of such actions, without being required to post a bond. None of the rights, powers or remedies conferred under this Agreement shall be mutually exclusive, and each such right, power or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to any other right, power or remedy, whether conferred by this Agreement or now or hereafter available at law, in equity, by statute or otherwise.

8.10. Governing Law; Jurisdiction . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York without reference to its internal conflicts of laws principles.

8.11. Specific Performance . The parties hereto acknowledge that there would be no adequate remedy at law if any party fails to perform in any material respect any of its obligations hereunder, and accordingly agree that each party, in addition to any other remedy to which it may be entitled at law or in equity, shall be entitled to compel specific performance of the obligations of any other party under this Agreement in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement in any court of the United States or any State thereof having jurisdiction, without the requirement of proving actual damages or posting a bond.

8.12. Holdback Agreement . In connection with an underwritten primary or secondary offering to the public conducted at any time following the IPO, each Holder of Registrable Securities agrees, subject to any exceptions that may be agreed upon at the time of such offering, not to sell or otherwise transfer or dispose of any Registrable Securities (or other securities) of the Trust held by them (other than Registrable Securities included in such offering in accordance with the terms hereof) for a period equal to the lesser of 60 days following the effective date of a Registration Statement of the Trust filed under the Securities Act or such shorter period as to which the managing underwriter(s) shall agree; provided that each executive officer and member of the board of trustees of the Trust also agrees to such restrictions. Such agreement shall be in

 

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writing in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trust and the managing underwriter. The Trust may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the Registrable Securities (or other securities of the Trust) subject to the foregoing restriction until the end of said period.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Registration Rights Agreement to be executed and delivered as of the date first written above.

 

TRUST:
CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:
PURCHASER:
HYATT CORPORATION
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

Exhibit 10.12

Execution Copy

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST

SHARE PURCHASE AGREEMENT

SHARE PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) made as of this 4th day of November, 2009, by and among Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Trust ”), and BAMCO, Inc., a New York corporation (“ Purchaser ”).

WHEREAS, the Trust has filed a registration statement on Form S-11 (as heretofore amended, the “ Registration Statement ”) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with a proposed initial public offering (the “IPO”) of common shares of beneficial interest of the Trust, par value $0.01 per share (the “ Common Shares ”); and

WHEREAS, concurrent with the consummation of the IPO, the Trust desires to issue and sell, and Purchaser, on behalf of its investment advisory client the Baron Small Cap Fund, desires to purchase and acquire, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Common Shares as provided in this Agreement;

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows:

1. Sale and Purchase of Shares . Subject to and concurrent with the consummation of the IPO and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Trust agrees to issue and sell to Purchaser, and Purchaser hereby agrees to purchase and acquire from the Trust, such whole number of Common Shares (the “ Shares ”) equivalent to the quotient of (a) $25,000,000 (the “ Purchase Price ”) divided by (b) the price per Common Share sold in the IPO minus the greater of (x) the underwriting discounts or commissions shown on the cover page of the final prospectus forming part of the Registration Statement or (y) 6% (the “ Price Per Share ”); provided, that Purchaser shall not be obligated to acquire Shares in an amount exceeding 9.8% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a fully diluted basis determined at the Closing (assuming consummation of the IPO and the purchase of the Shares by the Purchaser hereunder and the purchase of such other Common Shares as may be sold by the Trust in other private placement transactions proposed to close concurrently with such closings) and shall be entitled to reduce the Purchase Price accordingly.

2. Closing . The closing of the purchase and sale of the Shares hereunder will take place at the offices of the Trust or the Trust’s legal counsel concurrently with, and shall be subject to, the completion of the IPO (the “ Closing ”). At the Closing, the Trust shall deliver to, or upon the direction of, Purchaser one or more certificates evidencing the Shares, registered in Purchaser’s or its designee’s name, upon the payment of the Purchase Price in immediately available funds by wire transfer to an account designated by the Trust to Purchaser in writing at least 3 business days prior to the Closing.

3. Representations and Warranties of the Trust . In connection with the issuance and sale of the Shares, the Trust hereby represents and warrants to Purchaser as of the Closing the following:

3.1 The Trust (a) has been duly organized and is validly existing as a real estate investment trust in good standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland and (b) has the real estate investment trust power and authority to enter into this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement (as defined below) and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby and in the Registration Statement and to own or lease and operate its assets and carry on its business as described in the Registration Statement. The authorized capitalization of the Trust is as is set forth in the Registration Statement.


3.2 All real estate investment trust action necessary to be taken by the Trust to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement has been duly and validly taken. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Trust. This Agreement constitutes, and the Registration Rights Agreement, upon execution and delivery thereof, will constitute, the valid, binding and enforceable obligations of the Trust, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and by general principles of equity. The issuance and sale by the Trust of the Shares does not (a) conflict with, or result in a default under, the declaration of trust or bylaws of the Trust, any material contract by which the Trust or any of its subsidiaries’ respective property is bound, or any federal or state laws or regulations or decree, ruling or judgment of any United States or state court applicable to the Trust or its property or (b) result in the imposition of any claim, lien, pledge, deed of trust, option, charge, encumbrance or other restriction or limitation (each, a “Lien”), or any obligation to create any Lien, under any material contract by which the Trust or any of its subsidiaries’ respective property is bound or under the declaration of trust or bylaws of the Trust.

3.3 The Shares have been duly and validly authorized and upon issuance in accordance with, and payment pursuant to, the terms hereof, (a) the Shares will be fully paid and non assessable, free from preemptive rights, rights of first refusal or similar rights and (b) Purchaser will have good title to the Shares, free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances of any kind, other than transfer restrictions hereunder and under other agreements described herein or in the Registration Rights Agreement.

3.4 No consent, approval, authorization or order of, or registration, qualification or filing with, any governmental entity or any other third party is required to be obtained or made by the Trust for the execution, delivery or performance by the Trust of this Agreement, the Registration Rights Agreement or the consummation by the Trust of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, except such as have been already obtained or made or as may be required under the Securities Act or the rules promulgated under the Securities Act or state securities or blue sky laws or as may be required by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

3.5 Subject to the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the Purchaser, it is not necessary in connection with the offer, sale and delivery of the Shares to the Purchaser in the manner contemplated by this Agreement to register the Shares under the Securities Act.

 

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3.6 Neither the Trust nor any affiliate of the Trust (as defined under Rule 501(b) under the Securities Act) has, directly or indirectly, (a) sold, offered for sale, solicited offers to buy or otherwise negotiated in respect of, any security (as defined in the Securities Act) which is or will be integrated with the sale of the Shares in a manner that would require the registration of the Shares under the Securities Act or (b) except for the Common Shares to be sold in the IPO, offered, solicited offers to buy or sell the Shares by any form of general solicitation or general advertising (as those terms are used in Rule 502(c) under the Securities Act) or in any manner involving a public offering within the meaning of Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

3.7 Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the Trust is not a party to any, and there are no pending, or to the knowledge of the Trust, threatened, legal, administrative, arbitral or other proceedings, claims, actions or governmental investigations of any nature against the Trust or any of its subsidiaries or to which any of their respective assets are subject relating to or which challenges the validity or propriety of the transactions contemplated hereby or by the Registration Rights Agreement.

3.8 The Trust’s proposed method of operation will enable it to meet the requirements for taxation as a real estate investment trust under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “ Code ”) for its taxable year ending December 31 of the calendar year in which the Closing shall occur, and in the future. The Consolidated Subsidiaries that are partnerships have been and will continue to be treated as partnerships or as “disregarded entities” for U.S. federal income tax purposes and not as corporations, associations taxable as corporations or as publicly traded partnerships that are taxable as corporations.

3.9 To the Trust’s knowledge, the Trust qualifies as a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” within the meaning of Section 897(h) of the Code.

3.10 The Trust covenants and agrees with the Purchaser that the Purchaser may rely on the representations and warranties of the Trust and its subsidiaries that shall be set forth in the underwriting agreement to be entered into between the Trust and the representative(s) of the several underwriters of the IPO named therein (the “ Underwriting Agreement ”) as if such representations and warranties were made to the Purchaser herein.

4. Representations and Warranties of Purchaser . Purchaser hereby represents and warrants to the Trust that:

4.1 Purchaser is an “accredited investor” as that term is defined in Rule 501 under the Securities Act.

4.2 The Shares are being acquired by the Purchaser on behalf of its investment advisory client the Baron Small Cap Fund, only for investment purposes and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any public distribution or public offering thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act.

4.3 Purchaser has been duly incorporated and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of New York and has all necessary power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

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4.4 All corporate action necessary to be taken by Purchaser to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and all other agreements and instruments delivered by Purchaser in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby has been duly and validly taken. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Purchaser, and constitutes the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of Purchaser, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and by general principles of equity. The purchase by Purchaser of the Shares does not conflict with the organizational documents of Purchaser or with any material contract under which Purchaser or its property is bound, or any laws or regulations or decree, ruling or judgment of any court applicable to Purchaser or its property.

4.5 Purchaser understands and acknowledges that the offering of the Shares pursuant to this Agreement will not be registered under the Securities Act on the grounds that the offering and sale of the Shares is exempt from registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof and exempt from registration pursuant to applicable state securities or blue sky laws, and that the Trust’s reliance upon such exemptions is predicated upon Purchaser’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement. Purchaser understands and acknowledges that the Shares will be characterized as “restricted securities” under the Securities Act and such laws and may not be sold unless the Shares are subsequently registered under the Securities Act and qualified under state law or unless an exemption from such registration and such qualification is available.

4.6 Purchaser (a) is sufficiently experienced in financial and business matters to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks involved in purchasing the Shares and to make an informed decision relating thereto, (b) has the ability to bear the economic risk of Purchaser’s prospective investment in the Shares and (c) has not been offered the Shares by any form of advertisement, article, notice or other communication published in any newspaper, magazine, or similar medium; or broadcast over television or radio; or any seminar or meeting whose attendees have been invited by any such medium. Purchaser (a) has been furnished with the materials relating to the business, operations, financial condition, assets and liabilities of the Trust and other matters relevant to Purchaser’s investment in the Shares, which have been requested by Purchaser and (b) Purchaser has had adequate opportunity to ask questions of, and receive answers from, the officers, employees, agents, accountants and representatives of the Trust concerning the business, operations, financial condition, assets and liabilities of the Trust and all other matters relevant to its investment in the Shares.

4.7 Purchaser has a substantive, pre-existing relationship with the Trust and was directly contacted by the Trust or its agents not in connection with the IPO. Purchaser (a) was not identified or contacted through the marketing of the IPO and (b) did not independently contact the Trust as a result of the general solicitation by means of the Registration Statement.

4.8 Purchaser has not incurred any liability for any finder’s fees or similar payments in connection with the transactions herein contemplated.

4.9 Purchaser will have available at the closing sufficient funds to acquire the Shares to be purchased by Purchaser pursuant to this Agreement.

 

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5. Covenants of the Trust . The Trust covenants and agrees with the Purchaser that it will, and will cause its subsidiaries to, comply in all material respects with their respective covenants contained in the Underwriting Agreement and further covenants and agrees that it will, and will cause its subsidiaries to, use reasonable best efforts to:

5.1 Timely file with the New York Stock Exchange or such other national securities exchange as on which the Shares are listed or included for trading (the “ Exchange ”) all documents and notices required by the Exchange of listed issuers with securities that are traded on the Exchange.

5.2 Meet the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the Code for the taxable year ending December 31, 2009 and for its future taxable years, unless the Trust’s Board of Trustees determines that it is no longer in the best interests of the Trust to be so qualified.

5.3 The Trust will cause Chesapeake Lodging, L.P. or such entity as the Trust may organize as its “operating partnership” as described in the Registration Statement, promptly following the organization of such partnership, to execute and deliver to the Purchaser a joinder agreement in the form attached as Exhibit A hereto.

6. Public Announcements . Except as may be required by applicable law, no party hereto shall make any public announcements or otherwise communicate with any news media with respect to this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, without prior consultation with the other parties as to the timing and contents of any such announcement or communications; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall prevent any party from promptly making all filings with any governmental entity or disclosures with the stock exchange, if any, on which such party’s capital stock is listed, as may, in its judgment, be required in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. If any party decides that it must make any such required filing it will advise the other parties prior to making such filing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties hereto acknowledge that the transactions contemplated hereby have been disclosed in the Registration Statement and that this Agreement has been or will be filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.

7. Conditions of Closing of Purchaser . The respective obligations of Purchaser to acquire the Shares from the Trust at the Closing are subject to the fulfillment to Purchaser’s reasonable satisfaction on or prior to the Closing of each of the following conditions:

7.1 Each representation and warranty made by the Trust in Section 3 above and in the Underwriting Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though made as of the Closing.

7.2 All covenants, agreements and conditions contained in this Agreement to be performed or complied with by the Trust on or prior to the Closing shall have been performed or complied with by it in all respects.

7.3 The Trust shall have delivered at or prior to the date of the Closing to the Purchaser or its designee an executed copy of the Registration Rights Agreement among the Trust and Purchaser, substantially in the form of Exhibit B hereto (the “ Registration Rights Agreement ”).

 

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7.4 The Purchaser shall have received a written opinion of counsel to the Trust, in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Purchaser, with respect to certain trust, partnership, tax and securities law matters.

7.5 The material terms of the business and the proposed methods of operation of the business of the Trust shall not have changed in any material respect from those described in the Registration Statement, other than changes consented to by Purchaser (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed).

8. Further Assurances; Holdback Agreement . Each party hereto shall execute and deliver such instruments and take such other actions prior to or after the Closing as any other party may reasonably request in order to carry out the intent of this Agreement, including without limitation obtaining any required consents or approvals from third parties. If requested by the managing underwriters of the IPO, Purchaser or its designee holding the Shares shall enter into a customary lock-up agreement restricting sales and certain other dispositions of the Shares for a period not to exceed 180 days following the Closing.

9. Successors and Assigns . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all covenants and agreements contained in this Agreement by or on behalf of any of the parties hereto shall bind and inure to the benefit of the respective successors of the parties hereto whether so expressed or not. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary herein, the parties may not assign this Agreement or their obligations hereunder.

10. Amendments . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived, in whole or in part, except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.

11. Counterparts; Facsimile . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. This Agreement or any counterpart may be executed via facsimile transmission, and any such executed facsimile copy shall be treated as an original.

12. Governing Law . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York. The parties hereby agree that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submit to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The parties hereby waive any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and agree not to plead or claim that such courts represent an inconvenient forum.

13. Waiver of Jury Trial . EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, RELEASES AND RELINQUISHES AND ALL RIGHTS IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY ACTIONS ARISING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY AS A RESULT OR IN CONSEQUENCE OF THIS AGREEMENT,

 

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INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATIONS, ANY CLAIM OR ACTION TO REMEDY ANY BREACH OR ALLEGED BREACH HEREOF, TO ENFORCE ANY TERM HEREOF, OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY RIGHT, BENEFIT OR OBLIGATION ACCORDED OR IMPOSED BY THIS AGREEMENT.

14. Third Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement is intended for the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns, and is not for the benefit of, nor may any provision hereof be enforced by, any other person; provided, that the Underwriters shall be third party beneficiaries of this Agreement.

15. Legends . Each certificate, if any, representing the Shares shall be endorsed with the following legends or substantially similar legends:

The shares represented by this certificate have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Act”), and may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred except pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Act, or pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Act.

16. Severability . In case any provision of this Agreement shall be found by a court of law to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

 

17. Survival . The provisions of Section 3 hereof shall survive indefinitely.

18. Indemnification . The Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Purchaser and each person, if any, who (a) controls the Purchaser within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act or (b) is controlled by or is under common control with the Purchaser from and against any and all losses, claims, liabilities, expenses and damages (including, but not limited to, any and all reasonable investigative, legal and other expenses incurred in connection with, and any and all amounts paid in settlement (in accordance with this paragraph) that arise out of, or are based upon, (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, not misleading, (ii) or any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) forming part of the Registration Statement, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus (as defined in the Underwriting Agreement), any “issuer information” filed or required to be filed pursuant to Rule 433(d) under the Securities Act or any Pricing Disclosure Package (as defined in the Underwriting Agreement) (including any Pricing Disclosure Package that has subsequently been amended), or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading or (iii) any breach by any of the indemnifying parties of any of their respective representations, warranties and agreements made to the Purchaser or referred to herein. This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability that the Trust might otherwise have. If for any reason the foregoing indemnification is unavailable to the Purchaser or insufficient to hold it harmless, then the Trust shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by the Purchaser as a result of such loss, claim, liability, expense or

 

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damage in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative economic interests of the Trust on the one hand and the Purchaser on the other hand in the matters contemplated by this letter as well as the relative fault of the Trust and Purchaser with respect to such loss, claim, liability or damage and any other relevant equitable considerations. Any party that proposes to assert the right to be indemnified under this Section 18 in connection with a claim by a third party will, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action against such party in respect of which a claim is to be made against an indemnifying party or parties under this Section 18, notify each such indemnifying party of the commencement of such action. An indemnifying party will not, in any event, be liable for any settlement of any action or claim effected without its written consent. No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of each indemnified party, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action or proceeding relating to the matters contemplated by this Section 18 (whether or not any indemnified party is a party thereto), unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising or that may arise out of such claim, action or proceeding.

19. Termination . This Agreement shall be terminated prior to the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby if (a) prior to the closing of the IPO, the Underwriting Agreement is terminated pursuant to its terms or (b) the Closing has not occurred within 180 days following the date hereof. The Purchaser may also terminate this Agreement prior to the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby upon a material breach of the representations and warranties or covenants of the Trust contained herein. In the event of any termination of this Agreement, this Agreement shall become null and void and have no effect, without any liability to any person in respect hereof on the part of any party hereto, except for such liability resulting from such party’s breach of this Agreement prior to such termination.

20. Remedies and Waivers . No delay or omission on the part of any party to this Agreement in exercising any right, power or remedy provided by law or under this Agreement shall (a) impair such right power or remedy or (b) operate as a waiver thereof. The single or partial exercise of any right, power or remedy provided by law or under this Agreement shall not preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, power or remedy. The rights, powers and remedies provided in this Agreement are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights, power and remedies provided by law.

21. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the other documents delivered pursuant hereto constitute the full and entire understanding and agreement among the parties with regard to the subject matter hereof and thereof and they supersede, merge, and render void every other prior written and/or oral understanding or agreement among or between the parties hereto.

21. Notices . Any notice or other communication required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered personally (by courier or otherwise), telegraphed, telexed, emailed, sent by facsimile transmission or sent by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid and return receipt requested, or by express mail. Any such notice shall be deemed given when so delivered personally, telegraphed, telexed, emailed or sent by facsimile transmission or, if mailed, three (3) days after the date of deposit in the United States mails, as follows or, in each case, to such other address as a party may provide to the other in writing:

If to the Trust:

Chesapeake Lodging Trust

710 U.S Highway 46, Suite 206

Fairfield, NJ 07004

Facsimile: 201.599.0527

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

 

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If to Purchaser:

Patrick M. Patalino

General Counsel

Baron Capital

767 Fifth Avenue, 49th Floor

New York, NY 10153

Tel: 212.583.2119

Fax: 212.583.2014

Any party may, by notice given in accordance with this Section 21 to the other party, designate another address or person for receipt of notices hereunder; provided, that notice of such a change shall be effective upon receipt.

22. Expenses . Whether or not the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are consummated, the Trust, on one hand, and the Purchaser, on the other hand, shall, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, pay the costs, fees and expenses incident to its negotiation, preparation, execution, delivery and performance hereof, including the fees and expenses of its counsel, accountants, advisors and other representatives.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above:

 

TRUST:
CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

/s/ Douglas Vicari

  Name: Douglas Vicari
  Title: Chief Financial Officer
PURCHASER:
BAMCO, INC.
By:  

/s/ Peggy Wong

  Name: Peggy Wong
  Title: Chief Financial Officer


EXHIBIT A

[Form of Joinder Agreement to Purchase Agreement]

[Date]

[Address of Purchaser]

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Reference is made to the Share Purchase Agreement (the “ Share Purchase Agreement ”) dated [                      ], 2009, initially by and among Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “ Trust ”), and Bamco, Inc., a New York corporation (“ Purchaser ”), concerning the purchase of the Shares (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreement) from the Trust by the Purchaser. Capitalized terms used herein but not defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the Share Purchase Agreement.

The undersigned agrees that this letter agreement is being executed and delivered in connection with the issue and sale of the Shares pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement and to induce the Purchaser to purchase the Shares thereunder and is being executed concurrently with the organization of the undersigned.

1.                 Joinder . The undersigned hereby agrees to be bound by the terms, conditions and other provisions of Section 3.10, Section 6, Section 7.2, Section 7.4, Section 8 through Section 14 and Section 16 through Section 23 of the Share Purchase Agreement with all attendant rights, duties and obligations stated therein, with the same force and effect as if originally named as the Trust and as if such party executed the Share Purchase Agreement on the date thereof.

2.                 Representations, Warranties and Agreements . The undersigned represents and warrants to, and agrees with, the Purchaser on and as of the date hereof that:

2.1        The undersigned has the corporate power to execute and deliver this letter agreement and all corporate action required to be taken by it for the due and proper authorization, execution, delivery and performance of this letter agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby has been duly and validly taken; this letter agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the undersigned.

2.2        The representations, warranties and agreements of the undersigned set forth or referred to in the Share Purchase Agreement are true and correct on and as of the date hereof.

3.                 Governing Law . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York. The parties hereby agree that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submit to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The parties hereby waive any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and agree not to plead or claim that such courts represent an inconvenient forum.

4.                 Counterparts; Facsimile . This letter agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. This letter agreement or any counterpart may be executed via facsimile transmission, and any such executed facsimile copy shall be treated as an original.

5.                 Amendments . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived, in whole or in part, except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.

If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our agreement, please indicate your acceptance of this letter agreement by signing in the space provided below, whereupon this letter agreement will become a binding agreement between the undersigned party hereto and the Purchaser in accordance with its terms.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING, L.P.
By:    
 

Name:

Title:

Exhibit 10.13

Execution Copy

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

This Registration Rights Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of                     , 2009, by and between Chesapeake Lodging Trust, a Maryland real estate investment trust (the “Trust”), and BAMCO, Inc., on behalf of its investment advisory client, the Baron Small Cap Fund (each, a “Holder” and collectively, the “Holders”).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the Holders have agreed to purchase directly from the Trust in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), common shares of beneficial interest, par value $.01 per share, of the Trust (“Common Shares”); and

WHEREAS, the Trust has agreed to register for resale by the Holders such Common Shares on the terms set forth herein;

NOW THEREFORE, the parties hereby agree as follows:

1. Definitions .

As used in this Agreement, the following terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the following meanings:

Commission : The United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Exchange Act : The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission pursuant thereto.

FINRA : Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

IPO : The underwritten initial public offering of the Trust’s Common Shares.

Proceeding : An action, claim, suit or proceeding (including, without limitation, an investigation or partial proceeding, such as a deposition), whether commenced or, to the knowledge of the person subject thereto, threatened.

Prospectus : The prospectus included in any Registration Statement, and all other amendments and supplements to any such prospectus, including post-effective amendments, and all material incorporated by reference or deemed to be incorporated by reference, if any, in such prospectus.

Register , Registered , Registration : Such terms shall refer to a registration effected by preparing and filing a Registration Statement in compliance with the Securities Act and applicable rules and regulations thereunder, and the declaration or ordering of the effectiveness of such Registration Statement.

 

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Registrable Shares : Each of the Common Shares to be acquired by the Holder directly from the Trust in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, until (i) the date on which it has been registered effectively pursuant to the Securities Act and disposed of in accordance with any Registration Statement relating to it, (ii) the date on which either it is distributed to the public pursuant to Rule 144 (or any similar provisions then in effect) or is saleable pursuant to Rule 144 promulgated by the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act without limitation as to volume or manner of sale, or (iii) the date on which it is saleable, without restriction, pursuant to an available exemption from registration under the Securities Act, or (iv) the date on which it is sold to the Trust.

Registration Expenses : Any and all expenses incident to performance of or compliance with this Agreement, including without limitation: (i) all Commission, stock exchange, FINRA registration, listing and filing fees, (ii) all fees and expenses incurred in connection with compliance with federal or state securities or blue sky laws (including any registration, listing and filing fees and reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel in connection with blue sky qualification of any of the Registrable Shares and the preparation of a Blue Sky Memorandum and compliance with the rules of FINRA), (iii) all expenses of printing, delivering and distributing any Registration Statement, any Prospectus, any amendments or supplements thereto, any certificates and other documents relating to the performance of and compliance with this Agreement, (iv) all fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of any of the Registrable Shares on any securities exchange or The Nasdaq Stock Market, (v) the fees and disbursements of counsel for the Trust and of the independent public accountants (including, without limitation, the expenses of any special audit and “cold comfort” letters required by or incident to such performance) of the Trust and (vi) any fees and disbursements customarily paid by issuers or sellers of securities (including the fees and expenses of any experts retained by the Trust in connection with any Registration Statement), provided , however , that Registration Expenses shall exclude brokers’ commissions and transfer taxes, if any, relating to the sale or disposition of Registrable Shares by a Holder and the fees and expenses of any counsel to any Holder.

Rule 144 : Rule 144 promulgated by the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act, as such rule may be amended from time to time, or any similar rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission as a replacement thereto having substantially the same effect as such rule.

Rule 424 : Rule 424 promulgated by the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act, as such rule may be amended from time to time, or any similar rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission as a replacement thereto having substantially the same effect as such rule.

2. Registration Rights .

2.1 Long-Form Registration .

2.1.1 Subject to the terms of this Agreement, at any time at least one hundred eighty (180) days following the closing of the IPO, the Holder may request registration under the Securities Act on Form S-11 or any similar long-form Registration Statement for the offering of

 

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all or part of its Registrable Shares; provided , that with respect to any requests under this Section 2.1.1, the anticipated aggregate offering amount of the Registrable Shares covered by such Registration Statement shall exceed $15,000,000 (net of underwriting discounts and commissions).

2.1.2 Within ten (10) days after receipt of any written request pursuant to Section 2.1.1, the Trust will give written notice of such request to all other holders of Registrable Shares and will use reasonable best efforts to include in such registration all Registrable Shares with respect to which the Trust has received written requests for inclusion within thirty (30) days after delivery of the Trust’s notice, and, thereupon the Trust will use its reasonable best efforts to effect, at the earliest possible date, the registration under the Securities Act. All registrations requested pursuant to Section 2.1.1 are referred to herein as “ Long-Form Demand Registrations .”

2.1.3 Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 2.1, (a) the Trust shall not be obligated to effect a Long-Form Demand Registration at any time when the Trust is eligible at the time of the request to file a Registration Statement on an appropriate form for an offering to be made on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act or any successor thereof, (b) the Trust shall not be obligated to effect more than one (1) Long-Form Demand Registration for all Holders in the aggregate, and (c) no Holder may make a Long-Form Demand Registration if such Holder has been offered the opportunity (whether or not accepted) to exercise Piggy-back Registration Rights pursuant to Section 2.6 hereof within the six months prior to the purported date of the making of such a request for a Long-Form Demand Registration.

2.2 Short-Form Registration .

2.2.1 In addition to the Long-Form Demand Registration provided pursuant to Section 2.1 above, commencing on the date on which the Trust becomes eligible to register securities issued by it on Form S-3 or another appropriate form for an offering to be made on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act or any successor thereof (“ Short-Form Demand Registration ” and, together with the Long-Form Demand Registration, “ Demand Registrations ”), the Holder will be entitled to request registration under the Securities Act of all or part of its Registrable Shares; provided , that with respect to any requests under this Section 2.2.1, the anticipated aggregate offering amount of the Registrable Shares covered by such Short-Form Demand Registration shall exceed $10,000,000 (net of underwriting discounts and commissions).

2.2.2 Within ten (10) days after receipt of any request pursuant to Section 2.2.1, the Trust will give written notice of such request to all other holders of Registrable Shares and will use reasonable best efforts to include in such registration all Registrable Shares with respect to which the Trust has received written requests for inclusion within ten (10) days after delivery of the Trust’s notice. Demand Registrations will be Short-Form Demand Registrations whenever the Trust is permitted to use any applicable short form. If for marketing or other reasons, any underwriters with respect to any Short-Form Demand Registration request the inclusion in the Registration Statement of information that is not required under the Securities Act to be included in a Registration Statement on the applicable form for the Short-Form Demand Registration, the

 

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Trust will provide such information as may be reasonably requested for inclusion by such underwriters in the applicable Registration Statement. The Trust shall not be obligated to effect more than one Short-Form Demand Registration for all Holders in the aggregate.

2.3 Additional Securities . The Trust may include in the Registration Statement relating to any such Demand Registrations (the “ Resale Registration Statement ”) additional securities of the class of Registrable Shares to be registered thereunder, including securities to be sold for the Trust’s own account or the account of Persons who are not Holders of Registrable Shares under this Agreement.

2.4 Underwritten Offering; Reduction of Offering . Holders of Registrable Shares shall have the right to request that a Demand Registration be effected as an underwritten offering at any time, subject to this Section 2.4 . All Holders proposing to participate in such underwriting shall (a) enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such underwriting by holders of a majority-in-interest of the Registrable Shares included in such offering, which underwriter(s) shall be reasonably acceptable to the Trust; provided that with respect to such underwriting agreement or any other documents reasonably required under such agreement, (i) no Holder shall be required to make any representation or warranty with respect to or on behalf of the Trust or any other shareholder and (ii) the liability of any Holder shall be limited as provided herein, and (b) complete and execute all questionnaires, powers-of-attorney, indemnities, opinions and other documents required under the terms of such underwriting agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall the Trust be obligated to effect more than one underwritten offering hereunder in any single six-month period. If the managing underwriter(s) for an underwritten offering advise(s) the Trust and the Holders in writing that the dollar amount or number of Registrable Shares which the Holders desire to sell, taken together with all other Common Shares or other securities which the Trust desires to sell and the Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights held by other shareholders of the Trust who desire to sell or otherwise, exceeds the maximum dollar amount or maximum number of securities that can be sold in such offering without adversely affecting the proposed offering price, the timing, the distribution method, or the probability of success of such offering (such maximum dollar amount or maximum number of securities, as applicable, the “ Maximum Threshold ”), then the Trust shall include in such registration: (w)  first , the Registrable Shares ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Shares which such Holders have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Shares or other securities held by each such Person (such proportion is referred to herein as “ Pro Rata Adjusted ”)) that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (x)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (w), the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (y)  third , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (w) and (x), the Common Shares or other securities for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual arrangements with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (z)  fourth , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (w), (x) and (y), the Common Shares that other shareholders desire to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold to the extent that the Trust, in its sole discretion, wishes to permit such sales pursuant to this clause (z).

 

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A request for an underwritten offering may be withdrawn prior to the consummation thereof, and, in such event, such withdrawal shall not be treated as a request for an underwritten offering which shall have been effected pursuant to the immediately preceding paragraph. In no event will a Demand Registration count as a Demand Registration unless at least fifty percent (50%) of all Registrable Shares requested to be registered in such Demand Registration by the Holders initiating such Demand Registration are, in fact, registered in such registration.

2.5 Inclusion in Resale Registration Statement . The Trust shall give written notice to all Holders at least 10 Business Days prior to the anticipated filing date of the Resale Registration Statement, which notice shall include a questionnaire seeking information from the Holders deemed necessary or advisable by the Trust or its counsel in order to file the Resale Registration Statement. At the time the Resale Registration Statement is declared effective (or becomes effective, if the Resale Registration Statement is an automatic shelf registration statement), each Holder that has delivered to the Trust a duly completed and executed questionnaire on or prior to the date which is ten Business Days prior to such time of effectiveness shall be named as a selling shareholder in the Resale Registration Statement and the related Prospectus in such a manner as to permit such Holder to deliver such Prospectus to purchasers of Registrable Shares in accordance with applicable law. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, after effectiveness of the Resale Registration Statement, the Trust shall file a supplement to such Prospectus or amendment to the Resale Registration Statement upon request of any Holder as necessary to name as selling shareholders therein any Holders that provide to the Trust duly completed and executed questionnaires and shall use reasonable best efforts to cause any post-effective amendment to such Resale Shelf Registration Statement filed for such purpose to be declared effective (if it is not an automatic shelf registration statement) by the Commission as promptly as reasonably practicable after the filing thereof.

2.6 Piggy-Back Registration .

2.6.1 Piggy-Back Rights . At any time at least one hundred eighty (180) days following the closing of the IPO and prior to the time the Trust becomes eligible to register securities issued by it on Form S-3 as contemplated by Section 2.2.1 hereof, if the Trust proposes to file a Registration Statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering of equity securities by the Trust for its own account or for shareholders of the Trust for their account and the registration form to be used may be used for any registration of Registrable Shares, then the Trust shall (a) give written notice of such proposed filing and offering to the Holders of Registrable Shares as soon as practicable but in no event less than ten (10) Business Days before the anticipated filing date, which notice shall describe the amount and type of securities to be included in such offering, the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed managing underwriter(s), if any, of the offering, and (b) offer to the Holders of Registrable Shares in such notice the opportunity to register the sale of such number of Registrable Shares as such Holders may request in writing within five Business Days following receipt of such notice (a “ Piggy-Back Registration ”). If at any time after giving written notice of its intention to

 

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register any securities and prior to the effective date of the Registration Statement filed in connection with such registration, the Trust shall determine for any reason not to register or to delay registration of such securities, the Trust may, at its election, give written notice of such determination to each Holder of Registrable Shares and, (x) in the case of a determination not to register, shall be relieved of its obligation to register any Registrable Shares in connection with such registration, and (y) in the case of a determination to delay registering, shall be permitted to delay registering any Registrable Shares for the same period as the delay in registering such other securities. The Trust shall cause such Registrable Shares to be included in such registration and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the managing underwriter(s) of a proposed underwritten offering to permit the Registrable Shares requested to be included in a Piggy-Back Registration on the same terms and conditions as any similar securities of the Trust and to permit the sale or other disposition of such Registrable Shares in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. All Holders of Registrable Shares proposing to distribute their securities through a Piggy-Back Registration that involves an underwriter(s) shall enter into an underwriting agreement in reasonable and customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such Piggy-Back Registration; provided that with respect to such underwriting agreement or any other documents reasonably required under such agreement, (i) no Holder shall be required to make any representation or warranty with respect to or on behalf of the Company or any other stockholder of the Company and (ii) the liability of any Holder shall be limited as provided in Section 6.2 hereof and (ii) complete and execute all questionnaires, powers-of-attorney, indemnities, opinions and other documents reasonably required under the terms of such underwriting agreement.

2.6.2 Reduction of Offering . If the managing underwriter(s) for a Piggy-Back Registration that is to be an underwritten offering advises the Trust and the Holders of Registrable Shares that in their opinion the dollar amount or number of Common Shares or other securities which the Trust desires to sell, taken together with Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been demanded pursuant to written contractual arrangements with third parties, the Registrable Shares as to which registration has been requested under this Section 3 , and the Common Shares or other securities, if any, as to which registration has been requested pursuant to the written contractual piggy-back registration rights of other shareholders of the Trust, exceeds the Maximum Threshold, then the Trust shall include in any such registration:

(a) If the registration is undertaken for the Trust’s account: (i)  first , the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (ii)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (i), the Registrable Shares and the Common Shares or other securities proposed to be sold for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Shares and Common Shares or other securities which such Holders and other Persons have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Shares and Common Shares or other securities held by each such Holder or other Person); and

 

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(b) If the registration is a “ demand ” registration undertaken at the demand of one or more Persons other than the Trust and any Holder, (i)  first , the Common Shares or other securities for the account of such demanding Persons that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; (ii)  second , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clause (i), the Common Shares or other securities that the Trust desires to sell that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold; and (iii)  third , to the extent that the Maximum Threshold has not been reached under the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii), the Registrable Shares and the Common Shares or other securities proposed to be sold for the account of other Persons that the Trust is obligated to register pursuant to written contractual piggy-back registration rights with such Persons and that can be sold without exceeding the Maximum Threshold ( pro rata in accordance with the number of Registrable Shares and Common Shares or other securities which such Holders and other Persons have requested be included in such underwritten offering, regardless of the number of Registrable Shares and Common Shares or other securities held by each such Holder or other Person).

2.6.3 Withdrawal . Any Holder of Registrable Shares may elect to withdraw such Holder’s request for inclusion of Registrable Shares in any Piggy-Back Registration by giving written notice to the Trust of such request to withdraw prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or filing of a Prospectus naming such Holder as a selling shareholder, as applicable. The Trust (whether on its own determination or as the result of a withdrawal by Persons making a demand pursuant to written contractual obligations) may withdraw a Registration Statement at any time prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement without thereby incurring any liability to the Holders of Registrable Shares.

3. Registration Procedures . In connection with the Trust’s obligations with respect to any Registration Statement pursuant to this Agreement, the Trust shall:

(a) prepare and file with the Commission, as specified in this Agreement, a Registration Statement that complies as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the Commission;

(b) prepare and file with the Commission such amendments and post-effective amendments to each Registration Statement as may be necessary to keep the Registration Statement effective for the applicable period, cause each such Prospectus to be supplemented by any required prospectus supplement, and as so supplemented to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 or any similar rule that may be adopted under the Securities Act;

(c) furnish to each Holder of Registrable Shares, without charge, as many copies of each Prospectus, and any amendment or supplement thereto and such other documents as such Holder may reasonably request, in order to facilitate the public sale or other disposition of the Registrable Shares pursuant to such Registration Statement; the Trust consents to the use in compliance with applicable law of any such Prospectus by the Holder of Registrable Shares, if any, in connection with the offering and sale of the Registrable Shares covered by any such Prospectus;

 

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(d) use commercially reasonable efforts to register or qualify, or obtain exemption for registration or qualification for, all Registrable Shares by the time such Registration Statement is declared effective by the Commission under all applicable state securities or “blue sky” laws of such jurisdictions as any Holder of Registrable Shares covered by a Registration Statement shall reasonably request in writing, keep each such registration or qualification or exemption effective during the period such Registration Statement is required to be kept effective and do any and all other acts and things that may be reasonably necessary or advisable to enable such Holder to consummate the disposition in each such jurisdiction of such Registrable Shares owned by such Holder; provided , however , that the Trust shall not be required to (i) qualify generally to do business in any jurisdiction or to register as a broker or dealer in such jurisdiction where it would not otherwise be required to qualify but for this Section 3(d), (ii) subject itself to taxation in any such jurisdiction, or (iii) submit to the general service of process in any such jurisdiction; provided , further , that if the Trust fails to list the Registrable Shares on a national stock exchange or qualify for quotation on an automatic quotation system at or prior to the time such Registration Statement is declared effective by the Commission because it fails to meet requirements for such listing or quotation regarding the number of holders of its Common Shares, the obligation in this Section 3(d) shall not require the Trust to register or qualify the Registrable Shares in any jurisdiction where the Trust reasonably concludes, based upon the advice of securities counsel, that such registration or qualification would require unreasonable effort (including, without limitation, amendments to the Trust’s articles of amendment and restatement of declaration of trust or bylaws) or expense;

(e) notify each Holder of Registrable Shares promptly and, if requested by a Holder, confirm such advice in writing (i) when the Registration Statement has become effective and when any post-effective amendments and supplements thereto become effective, (ii) of the issuance by the Commission or any state securities authority of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of such Registration Statement or the initiation of any proceedings for that purpose, and (iii) of the happening of any event during the period the Registration Statement is effective as a result of which such Registration Statement or the related Prospectus contains any untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and (iv) upon the occurrence of any such event, use commercially reasonable efforts to prepare a supplement or post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or any document incorporated therein by reference or file any other required document so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of the Registrable Shares, such Prospectus will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;

(f) use commercially reasonable efforts to avoid the issuance of, or if issued to obtain the withdrawal of, any enjoining order suspending the use or effectiveness of such Registration Statement or the lifting of any suspension of the qualification (or exemption from qualification) of any of the Registrable Shares for sale in any jurisdiction, at the earliest possible moment;

 

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(g) use commercially reasonable efforts to list all Registrable Shares on each securities exchange or quotation system on which the Common Shares are then listed; and

(h) pay, or cause to be paid, the Registration Expenses.

4. Covenants of Holders .

(a) Each Holder agrees to furnish to the Trust such information regarding such Holder, the securities of the Trust held by such Holder and the proposed method of distribution by such Holder of the Registrable Shares owned by such Holder as the Trust may from time to time reasonably request in writing or as shall be required to effect the registration of such Holder’s resale of Registrable Shares. Each Holder further agrees to furnish promptly to the Trust in writing all information required from time to time to make the information previously furnished by such Holder not misleading.

(b) Each Holder agrees that, upon receipt of any notice from the Trust of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 3(e)(iii) hereof, such Holder will immediately discontinue disposition of Registrable Shares pursuant to any Registration Statement until such Holder’s receipt of copies of the supplemented or amended Prospectus. If so directed by the Trust, each Holder will deliver to the Trust all copies of the Prospectus covering such Registrable Shares in the Holder’s possession at the time of receipt of such notice.

5. Black-Out Period .

(a) Following the effectiveness of any Registration Statement, the Trust may direct the Holders to suspend sales of the Registrable Shares for such times as the Trust deems necessary or advisable, including for up to 60 days in any 12-month period in the case of pending negotiations relating to, or consummation of, a transaction or the occurrence of an event (i) that would require additional disclosure of material information by the Trust in such Registration Statement, (ii) as to which the Trust has a bona fide business purpose for preserving confidentiality, or (iii) that renders the Trust unable to comply with Commission requirements, in each case under circumstances that would make it impractical or inadvisable to cause such Registration Statement to become effective or to promptly amend or supplement such Registration Statement on a post-effective basis, as applicable.

(b) In the case of an event that causes the Trust to suspend the effectiveness of any Registration Statement (a “Suspension Event”), the Trust may give notice (a “Suspension Notice”) to the Holders to suspend sales of the Registrable Shares so that the Trust may correct or update such Registration Statement; provided , however , that such suspension shall continue only for so long as the Suspension Event or its effect is continuing. The Holders shall not effect any sales of the Registrable Shares pursuant to such Registration Statement at any time after it has received a Suspension Notice from the Trust and, if so directed by the Trust, will deliver to the Trust all copies of the Prospectus covering the Registrable Shares held by them at the time of receipt of the Suspension Notice. The Holders may re-commence effecting sales of the Registrable Shares pursuant to such

 

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Registration Statement following further notice to such effect (an “End of Suspension Notice”) from the Trust, which End of Suspension Notice shall be given by the Trust promptly following the conclusion of any Suspension Event.

6. Indemnification and Contribution

(a) Indemnification by the Trust . The Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless (i) each Holder, (ii) each person, if any, who controls (within the meaning of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act) a Holder (any of the persons referred to in this clause (ii) being hereinafter referred to as a “Controlling Person”), and (iii) the respective officers, directors, partners, employees, representatives and agents of each Holder or any Controlling Person (any person referred to in clause (i), (ii) or (iii) may hereinafter be referred to as an “Indemnified Party”), as follows:

(i) from and against any and all loss, claim, liability, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto) including all documents incorporated therein by reference, or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, not misleading or arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto), including all documents incorporated therein by reference, or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;

(ii) from and against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, to the extent of the aggregate amount paid in settlement of any litigation, or investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or of any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, if such settlement is effected with the written consent of the Trust (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld);

(iii) from and against any and all expenses whatsoever (including reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel), as incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, in each case whether or not a party, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or omission, to the extent that any such expense is not paid under subparagraph (i) or (ii) above; and

(iv) provided that such indemnity pursuant to this Section 6(a) shall not (A) inure to the benefit of the Holder (or any Controlling Person thereof) to the extent that any such loss, claim, liability, damage or expense arises out of such Holder’s failure to send or give a copy of the final Prospectus, as the same may be then supplemented or amended, to the person asserting an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or

 

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alleged omission at or prior to the written confirmation of the sale of Registrable Shares to such person if such statement or omission was corrected in such final Prospectus and copies of such final Prospectus were timely delivered to the Holder or (B) apply to the Holder with respect to any loss, liability, claim, damage or expense to the extent arising out of any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished to the Trust by such Holder expressly for use in any Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto) or any Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto).

(b) Indemnification by Holders . Each Holder severally agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Trust, each of its trustees and officers (including each officer of the Trust who signed any Registration Statement), each Controlling Person of the Trust, and any other Holder selling securities under such Registration Statement or any of such other Holder’s partners, directors, officers or Controlling Persons, against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expenses described in the indemnity contained in Section 6(a) hereof ( provided , however , that any settlement described in Section 6(a)(ii) hereof is effected with the written consent of such Holder, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), as incurred, but only with respect to such untrue statement or omission, or alleged untrue statements or omissions, made in such Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto) or any Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished to the Trust by the Holder expressly for use in such Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto) or such Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto).

(c) Conduct of Indemnification Proceedings . Each Indemnified Party shall give reasonably prompt notice to each indemnifying party of any action or proceeding commenced against it in respect of which indemnity may be sought hereunder, but failure to so notify an indemnifying party shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have under this indemnity agreement except to the extent that the indemnifying party is actually prejudiced by such failure to give notice. If the indemnifying party so elects within a reasonable time after receipt of such notice, the indemnifying party may assume the defense of such action or proceeding at such indemnifying party’s own expense with counsel chosen by the indemnifying party and approved by the Indemnified Party or parties in such action or proceeding, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided , however , that if such Indemnified Party or parties reasonably determines that a conflict of interest exists where it is advisable for such Indemnified Party or parties to be represented by separate counsel or that, upon advice of counsel, there may be legal defenses available to them that are different from or in addition to those available to the indemnifying party, then the indemnifying party shall not be entitled to assume such defense and the Indemnified Party or parties shall be entitled to one separate counsel at the indemnifying party’s expense. If an indemnifying party is not entitled to assume the defense of such action or proceeding as a result of the proviso to the preceding sentence, such indemnifying party’s counsel shall be entitled to conduct such indemnifying party’s defense, and counsel for the Indemnified Party or parties shall be entitled to conduct the defense of such Indemnified Party or parties, it being understood that both such counsel will cooperate with each other to conduct the defense of such action or proceeding as efficiently as possible. If an indemnifying party is

 

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not so entitled to assume the defense of such action or does not assume such defense, after having received the notice referred to in the first sentence of this paragraph, the indemnifying party or parties will pay the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel for the Indemnified Party or Parties. In such event, however, no indemnifying party will be liable for any settlement effected without the written consent of such indemnifying party. No indemnifying party shall, without the consent of the Indemnified Party, consent to entry of any judgment or enter into a settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff to such Indemnified Party of a release from all liability in respect of such claim or litigation. If an indemnifying party is entitled to assume, and assumes, the defense of such action or proceeding in accordance with this paragraph, such indemnifying party shall not be liable for any fees and expenses for counsel for the Indemnified Parties incurred thereafter in connection with such action or proceeding.

(d) Contribution . In order to provide for just and equitable contribution in circumstances in which the indemnity agreement provided for in this Section 6 is for any reason held to be unenforceable, unavailable or insufficient although applicable in accordance with its terms, the Trust and Holder shall contribute to the aggregate losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses of the nature contemplated by such indemnity agreement incurred by the Trust and the Holder in such proportion that the percentage of the Holder’s total contribution under this Section 8(d) shall correspond to the percentage that the public offering price of the Holder’s Registrable Shares offered by and sold under such Registration Statement bears to the public offering price of all securities offered by and sold under such Registration Statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. For purposes of this Section 6(d), each Controlling Person of a Holder, if any, shall have the same rights to contribution as such Holder, and each trustee of the Trust, each officer of the Trust who signed such Registration Statement and each Controlling Person of the Trust, if any, shall have the same rights to contribution as the Trust. Each party entitled to contribution agrees that upon the service of a summons or other initial legal process upon it in any action instituted against it in respect of which contribution may be sought, it shall promptly give written notice of such service to the party or parties from whom contribution may be sought, but the omission so to notify such party or parties of any such service shall not relieve the party from whom contribution may be sought from any obligation it may have hereunder or otherwise.

(e) Survival . The obligations of the Trust and the Holders under this Section 6 shall survive the completion of any offering of Registrable Shares pursuant to any Registration Statement.

7. Market Stand-Off Agreement . Each Holder that is the beneficial owner of 5% or more of the then outstanding Common Shares hereby agrees that it shall not, to the extent requested by the Trust or an underwriter of securities of the Trust, directly or indirectly sell, offer to sell (including without limitation any short sale), grant any option or otherwise transfer or dispose of any Common Shares (other than to donees or partners of the Holder who agree to be similarly bound) within seven (7) days prior to and for up to sixty (60) days following the date of an underwriting agreement with respect to an underwritten public offering of the Trust’s securities (the “Stand-Off Period”); provided , however , that:

(a) with respect to the Stand-Off Period, such agreement shall not be applicable to Common Shares to be sold on the Holder’s behalf to the public in an underwritten offering pursuant to such registration statement;

 

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(b) all executive officers of the Trust then holding Common Shares shall enter into similar agreements;

(c) the Trust shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain similar agreements from each 5% or greater shareholder of the Trust; and

(d) the Holders shall be allowed any concession or proportionate release allowed to any (i) officer, (ii) trustee or (iii) other 5% or greater shareholder that entered into similar agreements.

In order to enforce the foregoing covenant, the Trust shall have the right to place restrictive legends on the certificates representing the Common Shares subject to this Section 7 and to impose stop transfer instructions with respect to the Registrable Shares and such other Common Shares of each Holder (and the Common Shares or securities of every other person subject to the foregoing restriction) until the end of such period.

8. Termination of the Trust’s Obligations . The Trust shall have no obligations pursuant to this Agreement with respect to any Registrable Shares proposed to be sold by a Holder in a registration pursuant to this Agreement if, in the opinion of counsel to the Trust, all such Registrable Shares proposed to be sold by a Holder may be sold in a three-month period without registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Rule 144.

9. Miscellaneous

(a) Amendments and Waivers . The provisions of this Agreement, including the provisions of this sentence, may not be amended, modified or supplemented, except in a written instrument executed by the Trust and the Holders of a majority of the then outstanding Registrable Shares. No waiver of rights or consent to departure from the provisions of this Agreement shall be effective unless set forth in a written instrument signed by the party to be charged therewith; provided , however , that a waiver of rights or consent to departure from the terms hereof on behalf of the Holders shall be effective if signed by the Holders of a majority of the then outstanding Registrable Shares.

(b) Notices . All notices and other communications provided for herein shall be made in writing by hand-delivery, next-day air courier, certified first-class mail, return receipt requested, telex or telecopy;

 

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(i) if to the Trust, to Chesapeake Lodging Trust, 710 Route 46, Suite 206, Fairfield, NJ 07004, Attention: CFO, Facsimile (201) 599-0527, or such other address as the Trust may provide the Holders in writing; and

(ii) if to any other person who is then the Holder of any Registrable Shares, to the address of such Holder as it appears on Schedule A hereto, or such other address as such Holder may provide the Trust in writing.

Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all such communications shall be deemed to have been duly given (v) when delivered by hand, if personally delivered, (w) one Business Day after being timely delivered to a next-day air courier, (x) five Business Days after being deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, if mailed, (y) when answered back, if telexed, or (z) when receipt is acknowledged by the recipient’s telecopier machine or otherwise, if telecopied.

(c) Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the successors and permitted assigns of each of the parties and shall inure to the benefit of each Holder. The Trust may assign its rights or obligations hereunder to any successor to the Trust’s business or with the prior written consent of Holders of a majority of the then outstanding Registrable Shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no assignee of the Trust shall have any of the rights granted under this Agreement until such assignee shall acknowledge its rights and obligations hereunder by a signed written agreement pursuant to which such assignee accepts such rights and obligations.

(d) Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original, and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same Agreement.

(e) Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial . This Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to be made under and shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York. The parties hereby agree that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submit to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The parties hereby waive any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and agree not to plead or claim that such courts represent an inconvenient forum. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, RELEASES AND RELINQUISHES AND ALL RIGHTS IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY ACTIONS ARISING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY AS A RESULT OR IN CONSEQUENCE OF THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATIONS, ANY CLAIM OR ACTION TO REMEDY ANY BREACH OR ALLEGED BREACH HEREOF, TO ENFORCE ANY TERM HEREOF, OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY RIGHT, BENEFIT OR OBLIGATION ACCORDED OR IMPOSED BY THIS AGREEMENT.

 

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(f) Severability . If any term, provision, covenant or restriction of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, void or unenforceable, the remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions set forth herein shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated, and the parties hereto shall use their reasonable efforts to find and employ an alternative means to achieve the same or substantially the same result as that contemplated by such term, provision, covenant or restriction. It is hereby stipulated and declared to be the intention of the parties that they would have executed the remaining terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions without including any of such that may be hereafter declared invalid, illegal, void or unenforceable.

(g) Headings . The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not limit or otherwise affect the terms of this Agreement. All references made in this Agreement to “Section” refer to such Section of this Agreement, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

 

CHESAPEAKE LODGING TRUST
By:  

 

Name:   James L. Francis
Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer
BAMCO, INC.
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

 

16

Exhibit 10.15

HYATT HOTEL

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

between

 

 

and

HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C.

DATED:                     , 200    


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page
ARTICLE I   

GRANT OF FRANCHISE, TERM AND AREA OF PROTECTION

   1

1.1.

   Grant of Franchise and Guaranty    1

1.2.

   Term    1

1.3.

   Rights in Area of Protection During AOP Term    1

1.4.

   No Other Restrictions    2
ARTICLE II   

DEVELOPMENT AND OPENING OF THE HOTEL

   3

2.1.

   Hotel Development – New Development    3

2.2.

   Hotel Development – Conversion of an Existing Facility    4

2.3.

   Pre-Opening Period and Technology System Installation    4

2.4.

   Opening the Hotel    5

2.5.

   Hyatt’s Role as an Advisor    5

2.6.

   Occupying the Site    6

ARTICLE III

  

TRAINING, GUIDANCE AND ASSISTANCE

   6

3.1.

   Orientation and Training    6

3.2.

   Pre-Opening Team    7

3.3.

   Manual    7

3.4.

   Centralized Services    8

3.5.

   General Guidance and Assistance    8

3.6.

   Other Arrangements and Delegation    8

3.7.

   Annual Conventions    8

ARTICLE IV

  

OPERATION OF THE HOTEL

   9

4.1.

   Centralized Services    9

4.2.

   Management of the Hotel    9

4.3.

   System Standards    10

4.4.

   Use and Sources of FF&E and Other Products and Services    11

4.5.

   CRS, GDS, ADS and Guest Room Rates    12

4.6.

   Food and Beverage Operations and Spa Operations    12

4.7.

   Upgrading the Hotel and CapEx Fund    13

4.8.

   Inspections/Compliance Assistance and Quality Assurance Program    13

4.9.

   Compliance With Laws    14

4.10.

   No Diverting Business    14

4.11.

   Data Privacy    14

4.12.

   No Brand Owners    14
ARTICLE V   

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING

   15

5.1.

   Grand Opening Marketing    15

5.2.

   Participation in Advertising and Marketing    15

 

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(continued)

 

          Page

5.3.

   Approval of Marketing Programs    15

5.4.

   Websites    15
ARTICLE VI   

FEES AND PAYMENTS

   16

6.1.

   Application Fee    16

6.2.

   Monthly Fees to Hyatt    16

6.3.

   Travel Agent Program and Reservation Fees    17

6.4.

   Late Fee and Late Payment Interest    17

6.5.

   Method of Payments    17

6.6.

   Application of Payments    17

6.7.

   Non-Refundability    17
ARTICLE VII   

BOOKS AND RECORDS, AUDITS AND REPORTING

   17

7.1.

   Financial Reports    17

7.2.

   Notification    18

7.3.

   Preparation and Maintenance of Books and Records    18

7.4.

   Audit    18

7.5.

   Annual Financial Information    19
ARTICLE VIII   

RELATIONSHIP OF THE PARTIES AND INDEMNIFICATION

   19

8.1.

   Relationship of the Parties    19

8.2.

   Franchisee’s Notices to Public Concerning Independent Status    19

8.3.

   Franchisee’s Indemnification of Hyatt    19

8.4.

   Hyatt’s Indemnification of Franchisee    21
ARTICLE IX   

INSURANCE

   22
ARTICLE X   

CONDEMNATION AND DAMAGE

   24

10.1.

   Condemnation    24

10.2.

   Damage    25

10.3.

   Extension of Term    26
ARTICLE XI   

PROPRIETARY RIGHTS

   26

11.1.

   Ownership and Goodwill of Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information    26

11.2.

   Limitations on Franchisee’s Use of Proprietary Marks    27

11.3.

   Notification of Infringements and Claims    27

11.4.

   Discontinuing Use of Proprietary Marks    27

11.5.

   Confidential Information    28

11.6.

   Innovations    29

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

          Page
ARTICLE XII   

TRANSFER

   29

12.1.

   Transfer by Hyatt    29

12.2.

   Transfer by Franchisee – Defined    29

12.3.

   Non-Control Transfers    30

12.4.

   Control Transfers    30

12.5.

   Permitted Transfers    32

12.6.

   Transfers of Equity Interest Upon Death    32

12.7.

   Registration of a Proposed Transfer of Equity Interests    32

12.8.

   Non-Waiver of Claims    33
ARTICLE XIII   

SUCCESSOR FRANCHISE

   33

13.1.

   Right to a Successor Franchise Agreement    33

13.2.

   Grant of a Successor Franchise    34

13.3.

   Agreements/Releases    35
ARTICLE XIV   

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

   35

14.1.

   Arbitration    35

14.2.

   Governing Law    37

14.3.

   Consent to Jurisdiction    37

14.4.

   Attorneys’ Fees    37

14.5.

   Waiver Of Punitive Damages And Jury Trial    38

14.6.

   Limitations of Claims    38
ARTICLE XV   

DEFAULT AND TERMINATION

   38

15.1.

   Termination by Hyatt After Opportunity to Cure    38

15.2.

   Termination by Hyatt Without Opportunity to Cure    39

15.3.

   Suspension of Rights and Services    41

15.4.

   General Provisions Concerning Default and Termination    42
ARTICLE XVI   

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS UPON EXPIRATION OR TERMINATION

   42

16.1.

   De-Identification    42

16.2.

   Pay Amounts Owed    43

16.3.

   Contacting Customers    44

16.4.

   Centralized Services    44

16.5.

   Liquidated Damages    44

16.6.

   Survival    45
ARTICLE XVII   

NOTICES

   45

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

          Page
ARTICLE XVIII   

GENERAL

   46

18.1.

   The Exercise of Hyatt’s Judgment    46

18.2.

   Severability and Interpretation    46

18.3.

   Waiver of Obligations and Force Majeure    47

18.4.

   Binding Effect    47

18.5.

   Entire Agreement and Construction    47

18.6.

   Hyatt’s Withholding of Consent    48

18.7.

   Cumulative Remedies    48
ARTICLE XIX   

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

   48
EXHIBITS      
Exhibit A        –         Defined Terms    A-1
Exhibit B        –         Area of Protection    B-1
Exhibit C        –         Centralized Services    C-1
Exhibit D        –         Right of First Offer for Strategic Markets    D-1

GUARANTY AND ASSUMPTION OF OBLIGATIONS

PIP (if applicable)

 

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HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C.

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

THIS FRANCHISE AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of                     , 200     (this “ Agreement ”) by and between                                         , a                      (“ Franchisee ”) and HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company (“ Hyatt ”).

PRELIMINARY STATEMENT

Franchisee is the owner of, or has the right to occupy, certain real property located in                      that is more particularly described on Exhibit B hereto (the “ Site ”). Hyatt has the exclusive right to grant franchises for the establishment and operation of Franchise System Hotels (defined in Exhibit A ). Hyatt and its Affiliates (defined in Exhibit A ) have designed the Hotel System (defined in Exhibit A ) so that the public associates Franchise System Hotels with first-class, high quality standards. Before signing this Agreement, Franchisee has independently investigated and evaluated the risks of investing in the hotel industry generally and acquiring a franchise from Hyatt specifically. Following Franchisee’s investigation and recognizing the benefits that Franchisee may derive from being identified with the Hotel System, Franchisee wishes to enter into this Agreement to obtain a franchise to use the Hotel System to operate a Franchise System Hotel located at the Site. In addition to other terms defined in this Agreement, the initial capitalized terms shall have the meanings set forth on Exhibit A .

NOW, THEREFORE , Franchisee and Hyatt agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

GRANT OF FRANCHISE, TERM AND AREA OF PROTECTION

1.1. Grant of Franchise and Guaranty . Hyatt grants Franchisee, and Franchisee accepts, the non-exclusive right and obligation to use the Hotel System during the Term (defined below in Section 1.2) to build or convert and operate the Hotel at the Site under the Proprietary Marks in accordance with this Agreement’s terms. Franchisee’s right to operate the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel will cease upon termination or expiration of this Agreement. Franchisee also must ensure that each Controlling Owner, signs Hyatt’s required form of Guaranty and Assumption of Obligations. [Guaranty to be discussed on a deal by deal basis].

1.2. Term . The term of this Agreement (the “ Term ”) will commence on the Effective Date and expire without notice effective twenty (20) years from the Opening Date, subject to its earlier termination as set forth in this Agreement.

1.3. Rights in Area of Protection During AOP Term . Subject to the one exception below, during the period beginning on the Effective Date and ending              years after the Opening Date (the “ AOP Term ”), neither Hyatt nor any of its Affiliates will open and operate, or authorize any other party to open and operate, any other Franchise System Hotels the physical premises of which are located within the Area of Protection. The one exception to this restriction is that, if Hyatt or any of its Affiliates acquire (whether through purchase, sale,


merger, consolidation, or other transaction) another chain, franchise system, group or portfolio of at least six (6) hotels, or acquire the right to operate or manage another chain, franchise system, group or portfolio of at least six (6) hotels, one (1) or more of which hotels are located, or are under contract or construction to be located, in the Area of Protection (as Hyatt and its Affiliates have the right to do), Hyatt and/or its Affiliates then will have the unrestricted right to convert, or cause to be converted, the acquired hotel(s) within the Area of Protection from its (or their) original trade identity to the Hotel System and then to operate, or authorize any other party to operate, such hotel(s) as Franchise System Hotels using the Hotel System, even if one (1) or more of the other acquired hotels, whether operating within or outside the Area of Protection, are not converted to Franchise System Hotels.

Franchisee acknowledges that its rights in the Area of Protection apply only during the AOP Term. Following the AOP Term, Franchisee will have no territorial rights or protection whatsoever, whether within or outside the Area of Protection, and Hyatt and its Affiliates may open and operate, and authorize any other parties to open and operate, other Franchise System Hotels the physical premises of which are located within the Area of Protection.

1.4. No Other Restrictions . Except for the limited exclusivity provided above, there are no restrictions on Hyatt or its Affiliates; Franchisee’s rights under this Agreement are nonexclusive in all respects; the Hotel has no territorial protection whatsoever; and Hyatt and its Affiliates have the right without any restrictions at all to engage in any and all activities Hyatt and they desire (including with respect to any and all types of lodging facilities), at any time and place, whether or not using the Proprietary Marks or any aspect of the Hotel System, whether or not those activities compete with the Hotel, and whether or not Hyatt or its Affiliates start those activities themselves or purchase, merge with, acquire, or affiliate with businesses that already engage in such activities. Hyatt and its Affiliates may engage in all activities not expressly prohibited in this Agreement. Hyatt and its Affiliates may use or benefit from, among other things, common hardware, software, communications equipment and services, administrative systems, reservation systems, franchise application procedures, central purchasing, approved vendor lists, and personnel, and may provide some or all of those Centralized Services specified on Exhibit C to other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels and other hotels, lodging facilities and other businesses, even if they compete with the Hotel. Franchisee will have no right to pursue any claims, demands, or damages as a result of these activities, whether under breach of contract, unfair competition, implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, divided loyalty, or other theories, because Franchisee has expressly allowed Hyatt and its Affiliates to engage in all such activities without restriction.

Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt’s Affiliates currently operate other franchised and non-franchised systems for lodging facilities (including full service and select service hotels, time-share or interval ownership facilities, vacation clubs and senior living facilities) that use different brand names, trademarks, and service marks, including those with the “Hyatt” name as part of their brand name (such as, for example and without limitation, “Grand Hyatt” and “Park Hyatt”), some of which might operate and have facilities in the Area of Protection during the AOP Term, that will compete directly with Franchisee. Except as expressly described in Section 1.3, none of those activities, even other uses of the “Hyatt” name, will constitute a violation of this Agreement. Only the operation of a Franchise System Hotel the physical premises of which

 

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are located within the Area of Protection during the AOP Term would constitute a violation of this Agreement, unless the one exception noted above applies.

ARTICLE II

DEVELOPMENT AND OPENING OF THE HOTEL

Franchisee acknowledges that every detail of the Hotel System is important to Hyatt to develop and maintain the Hotel System’s standards and public image. Franchisee agrees to comply strictly with the Hotel System’s details, as set forth in the Manual or otherwise in writing. Franchisee must bear the entire cost of developing and constructing the Hotel, including professional services, financing, insurance, licensing, contractors, permits, equipment, and furnishings.

2.1. Hotel Development – New Development . This Section 2.1 applies if Franchisee is constructing a new Hotel at the Site.

(a) Franchisee’s managing owner or senior operations officer shall attend at Franchisee’s expense a one (1)-day orientation briefing at Hyatt’s headquarters in Chicago, Illinois to acquaint Franchisee with Hyatt’s building process and support structure within three (3) months after the Effective Date.

(b) Franchisee must prepare and submit to Hyatt for its approval within four (4) months after the Effective Date preliminary plans for the Hotel, including site layout and outline specifications (the “ Preliminary Plans ”). The Preliminary Plans must comply with the Design Standards, Hotel System and System Standards.

(c) Franchisee must prepare and submit to Hyatt for its approval within six (6) months after the Effective Date complete working drawings and specifications for the Hotel, with such detail and containing such information that Hyatt requires, covering the Hotel property; all structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and life safety equipment and systems; major architectural features and systems, including site layout and outline specifications; and FF&E (the “ Detailed Plans ”). The Detailed Plans must comply with the Design Standards, Hotel System and System Standards.

(d) Construction of the Hotel may not begin until Hyatt has approved the Detailed Plans in writing. For purposes of this Agreement, construction of the Hotel is deemed to have begun upon pouring concrete for the Hotel’s foundation or finished slab. After Hyatt approves the Detailed Plans, Franchisee may not make any material changes without Hyatt’s prior written consent, which Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold. If material changes in the Detailed Plans are required during the course of construction, Franchisee must notify Hyatt and seek Hyatt’s consent immediately.

(e) Construction must begin within twelve (12) months after the Effective Date. Franchisee shall notify Hyatt within (5) days after Franchisee commences construction. Construction shall continue uninterrupted (unless interrupted by Force Majeure) until the Hotel is completed.

 

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2.2. Hotel Development – Conversion of an Existing Facility . This Section 2.2 applies if Franchisee is converting an existing hotel at the Site to a Franchise System Hotel.

(a) Franchisee agrees to renovate the Hotel in strict accordance with, and within the time frames set forth on, the attached PIP and in accordance with Franchisee’s Hotel renovation plans (the “ Renovation Plans ”). At Hyatt’s request, Franchisee agrees to submit the proposed Renovation Plans to Hyatt for Hyatt’s approval and Hyatt will respond to Franchisee’s request to review the Renovation Plans within 30 days of receipt. The Renovation Plans must comply with the attached PIP, the Hotel System and System Standards. If Hyatt requires Franchisee to submit the proposed Renovation Plans, renovations may not begin until Hyatt approves the Renovation Plans in writing. After Hyatt approves the Renovation Plans, Franchisee may not make any material changes to them without Hyatt’s prior written consent, which Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold or delay.

(b) If this Agreement anticipates Franchisee’s conversion of an existing franchised or managed facility to a Franchise System Hotel, then before any Proprietary Marks (including signage) are installed or displayed at the Site, and before Franchisee opens a Pre-Opening Sales Office or the Hotel is authorized to open as a Franchise System Hotel, Franchisee must submit evidence reasonably satisfactory to Hyatt of the termination of Franchisee’s previous franchise or management agreement in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

2.3. Pre-Opening Period and Technology System Installation .

(a) During the Pre-Opening Period, Hyatt or one or more members of the Hyatt Group will provide those certain Centralized Services to the Hotel as the Hyatt Group deems applicable. On or before the tenth (10 th ) day of each month during the Pre-Opening Period, Franchisee shall pay Hyatt the fees and other charges for the applicable Centralized Services, including those applicable Centralized Services Charges, for the previous month.

(b) Approximately three (3) months before the Hotel’s planned Opening Date, depending on the Hotel’s development schedule, Hyatt or its Affiliate will arrange for the sale, license and installation of the Technology System. Franchisee shall reimburse Hyatt and its Affiliates all costs and expenses that they incur in connection with the acquisition and installation of the Technology System, including Hyatt’s then current training fees, upon receiving Hyatt’s (or its Affiliate’s) invoice.

(c) Promptly after the Technology System is installed at the Hotel, Franchisee shall, subject to Hyatt’s approval and the other terms and conditions of this Agreement (including Franchisee’s compliance with the Hotel System, System Standards and applicable law), open and begin operating a Pre-Opening Sales Office at the Site. The Pre-Opening Sales Office shall be staffed by Franchisee’s Director of Sales. Hyatt shall include the Hotel in the next National Directory published after the date upon which Franchisee begins operating the Pre-Opening Sales Office.

 

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2.4. Opening the Hotel .

2.4.1 Opening Deadline and Extension . The Hotel must be ready to open for business (a) within twenty-four (24) months after the Effective Date if Franchisee is constructing a new Hotel at the Site pursuant to Section 2.1, or (b) within six (6) months after the Effective Date (unless otherwise provided in the PIP) if Franchisee is converting an existing hotel at the Site to a Franchise System Hotel pursuant to Section 2.2 (as applicable, the “ Opening Deadline ”). If Franchisee wants to request an extension of the Opening Deadline, Franchisee must submit a written request and a Ten Thousand Dollar ($10,000) extension fee to Hyatt before the Opening Deadline. If Hyatt approves the extension, Hyatt will set a new Opening Deadline in consultation with Franchisee, and the extension fee will be non-refundable. If Hyatt denies the extension, Hyatt will refund the extension fee.

2.4.2 Conditions for Opening . Franchisee must not open the Hotel for business and begin operating the Hotel under the Proprietary Marks until: (a) Franchisee has properly developed and equipped the Hotel according to the Detailed Plans, Renovation Plans or PIP (as applicable), Design Standards, Hotel System and System Standards and in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations; (b) all pre-opening training for the Hotel’s personnel has been completed to Hyatt’s satisfaction; (c) all amounts then due to Hyatt and its Affiliates have been paid; (d) Franchisee has obtained all required certificates of occupancy, licenses and permits to operate the Hotel; (e) Franchisee has given Hyatt copies of all insurance policies required under this Agreement, or such other evidence of insurance coverage and payment of premiums as Hyatt requests; (f) Franchisee has submitted to Hyatt a written certification that the Hotel is in compliance with the approved Detailed Plans or Renovation Plans (as applicable), was constructed in compliance with the PIP (if applicable), Design Standards, Hotel System and System Standards, and is in compliance with all applicable laws, together with other certifications from Franchisee’s architect and/or other professionals pursuant to Section 2.5; and (g) Hyatt has conducted a final pre-opening inspection and given Franchisee its written authorization to open the Hotel. Within ten (10) days after the Hotel is ready to open for business, Franchisee must ask Hyatt to conduct a final inspection, which Hyatt shall promptly conduct. Franchisee agrees to open the Hotel under the Proprietary Marks within ten (10) days after Hyatt’s authorization, which Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold. Hyatt’s determination that Franchisee has met all of Hyatt’s pre-opening requirements will not constitute a representation or warranty, express or implied, that the Hotel complies with any laws or a waiver of Franchisee’s non-compliance, or of Hyatt’s right to demand full compliance, with such pre-opening requirements. Franchisee shall indemnify Hyatt and its Affiliates for all costs and expenses that they incur directly or indirectly as a result of Franchisee’s failure to open the Hotel on or before the anticipated Opening Date specified by Franchisee or the Opening Deadline, whichever is earlier, including any amounts that Hyatt or its Affiliates pay with respect to customers whose reservations at the Hotel were cancelled due to Franchisee’s failure to open the Hotel by that date.

2.5. Hyatt’s Role as an Advisor . Hyatt’s review and approval of the Preliminary Plans and Detailed Plans or the Renovation Plans (as applicable), providing construction, design, architectural, planning and/or other services in connection with the Hotel (whether before or after signing this Agreement), and/or approval to open the Hotel are intended only to determine compliance with the PIP (if applicable), Design Standards, Hotel System and System Standards.

 

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Hyatt will have no liability to Franchisee for the Hotel’s construction or renovation. It is Franchisee’s responsibility to make sure that the Hotel complies with Hyatt’s requirements, the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar rules, other applicable ordinances, building codes, and permit requirements. Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt acts only in an advisory capacity and is not responsible for the adequacy or coordination of any plans or specifications, the integrity of any structures, compliance with applicable laws (including the Americans with Disabilities Act), any building code of any governmental authority, or any insurance requirement or for obtaining necessary permits, all of which shall be Franchisee’s sole responsibility and risk. Franchisee shall give Hyatt a written certificate or opinion from Franchisee’s architect, licensed professional engineer, or recognized expert consultant on the Americans with Disabilities Act stating that the Hotel conforms to the Design Standards and requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, related federal regulations, and all other applicable state and local laws, regulations, and other requirements governing public accommodations for persons with disabilities. At Hyatt’s request, Franchisee must give Hyatt copies of all other certificates of architects, contractors, engineers, and designers and such other similar verifications and information Hyatt reasonably requests.

2.6. Occupying the Site . Franchisee must provide Hyatt copies of any lease for the Hotel’s premises (and any amendments thereto) upon Hyatt’s request. Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt’s approval of the Site is not a guarantee or warranty, express or implied, of the success or profitability of a Franchise System Hotel operated at that location. Hyatt’s approval indicates only that Hyatt believes that the Site meets its then acceptable criteria.

Franchisee must promptly send Hyatt a copy of any notice of default that Franchisee receives from any mortgagee, trustee under any deed of trust, or ground lessor for the Hotel and, at Hyatt’s request, any additional information Hyatt reasonably requests concerning any alleged default or any subsequent action or proceeding in connection with any alleged default. At Hyatt’s request, Franchisee must obtain from any ground lessor a comfort letter or other agreement that Hyatt specifies under which the ground lessor agrees to assume Franchisee’s obligations under this Agreement (subject to Hyatt’s rights under Article XII) if the ground lease terminates.

ARTICLE III

TRAINING, GUIDANCE AND ASSISTANCE

3.1. Orientation and Training .

3.1.1 Orientation . Within three (3) months after the Effective Date, the Hotel’s proposed general manager must attend a two (2)-day orientation program at Hyatt’s principal business address. If Franchisee replaces the Hotel’s general manager during the Term, Franchisee must have his or her replacement attend the orientation program within thirty (30) days (or such longer period that Hyatt periodically designates) after he or she assumes that position. Hyatt does not charge for the first session of this orientation program, but Franchisee must pay Hyatt’s then current fee for any additional programs that the Hotel’s personnel attend.

 

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3.1.2 Initial Training Programs . Before opening the Hotel for business under the Proprietary Marks, each member of Franchisee’s Core Management team and other Hotel personnel whom Hyatt specifies must attend and successfully complete Hyatt’s training programs and curriculum for his or her respective position. During the Term, if Franchisee replaces any member of its Core Management team or any other individual whom Hyatt required to attend training, Franchisee must have his or her replacement attend and successfully complete the applicable training programs that Hyatt reasonably specifies within thirty (30) days (or such longer period that Hyatt periodically designates) after they assume their positions. Hyatt will designate the dates, locations, and duration of all training. Franchisee must pay Hyatt’s then current fee for any programs that the Hotel’s personnel attend.

3.1.3 Supplemental and Optional Training and Meetings . Hyatt may, at such times and places as it deems best, require the Hotel’s general manager, director of sales, director of food and beverage and/or rooms director to participate in regional and national meetings and other training programs that Hyatt periodically specifies for Franchise System Hotel personnel. Hyatt also may, at its option, offer various optional training programs from time to time during the Term. Supplemental and optional training may be conducted by, and tuition and other fees may be payable to, Hyatt, its Affiliates, or third parties that Hyatt designates.

3.1.4 Training Expenses . Franchisee is responsible for all costs of transportation, meals, lodging, salaries, and other compensation for Hotel personnel incurred in connection with training. If Hyatt holds any training for Franchisee at the Hotel, Franchisee must provide free lodging for Hyatt’s representatives.

3.2. Pre-Opening Team . Hyatt will send a pre-opening team consisting of appropriate size (in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion) to the Hotel to assist with the Hotel’s opening and training Franchisee’s staff with aspects of day-to-day operations, including laundry, customer service, food and beverage, and front desk operations. Franchisee must pay all travel and living expenses associated with this pre-opening team. The pre-opening team will arrive at or before the Hotel’s grand opening and stay for the period that Hyatt and Franchisee mutually agreed upon in good faith.

3.3. Manual . Hyatt shall provide Franchisee access to the Manual during the Term. Franchisee must comply with the terms of the Manual, as Hyatt periodically modifies it (other than any personnel and security-related policies and procedures, which are for Franchisee’s optional use). The Manual may include audiotapes, videotapes, compact disks, computer software, other electronic media, and/or written materials. It contains System Standards and information on Franchisee’s other obligations under this Agreement. Hyatt may modify the Manual periodically to reflect changes in System Standards. Franchisee agrees to keep its copy of the Manual current and in a secure location at the Hotel. If there is a dispute over its contents, Hyatt’s master copy of the Manual controls. Franchisee agrees that the Manual’s contents are part of the Confidential Information.

At Hyatt’s option, Hyatt may post some or all of the Manual on a restricted website or extranet to which Franchisee will have access. If Hyatt does so, Franchisee agrees to monitor and access the website or extranet for any updates to the Manual, System Standards, or other aspects of the Hotel System. Any passwords or other digital identifications necessary to access

 

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the Manual on a website or extranet will be deemed to be part of Confidential Information. Hyatt may require Franchisee to return a portion or the entire copy of the Manual given to Franchisee in paper or other tangible form after Hyatt posts the Manual on a restricted website or extranet.

3.4. Centralized Services . Except as provided elsewhere in this Agreement, Hyatt or one or more members of the Hyatt Group will provide to Franchisee those Centralized Services specified on Exhibit C , as amended by Hyatt for the Hotel System from time to time. In addition, except as otherwise provided for herein, Franchisee’s Hotel shall be listed in the National Directory.

3.5. General Guidance and Assistance . During the Term, Hyatt may advise Franchisee from time to time regarding the Hotel’s operation based on Franchisee’s reports or Hyatt’s evaluations and inspections and may guide Franchisee with respect to (a) System Standards that Franchise System Hotels use, (b) purchasing required and authorized FF&E and other items and arranging for their distribution to Franchisee, (c) advertising and marketing materials and programs, (d) employee training, and (e) administrative, recordkeeping, and accounting procedures. Hyatt may guide Franchisee in the Manual; in bulletins or other written materials; by electronic media; by telephone consultation; and/or at Hyatt’s headquarters or the Hotel. If Franchisee requests, and Hyatt agrees to provide, additional or special guidance, assistance, or training, Franchisee agrees to pay Hyatt’s then applicable charges, including Hyatt’s personnel’s per diem charges and travel and living expenses.

3.6. Other Arrangements and Delegation . Hyatt may arrange for development, marketing, operations, administration, technical, and support functions, facilities, services, and/or personnel with any other entity. Hyatt and its Affiliates may use any facilities, programs, services, and/or personnel used in connection with the Hotel System in Hyatt’s and its Affiliates’ other business activities, even if these other business activities compete with the Hotel or the Hotel System. Franchisee agrees that Hyatt has the right to delegate the performance of any portion or all of its obligations under this Agreement to third-party designees, whether these designees are its Affiliates, agents, or independent contractors with whom Hyatt contracts to perform these obligations. If Hyatt does so, the third-party designees will be obligated to perform the delegated functions for Franchisee in compliance with this Agreement.

3.7. Annual Conventions . Hyatt may, at its option, hold an annual convention for Franchise System Hotels (the “ Annual Convention ”) at a location Hyatt designates. At Hyatt’s option, the Annual Convention may be combined with an annual convention for some or all other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. Hyatt may require Franchisee’s general manager and other key Hotel personnel to attend the Annual Convention. Franchisee must pay Hyatt’s then current attendance fee for each person from the Hotel who attends the Annual Convention. Franchisee also must pay all expenses that its attendees incur to attend the Annual Convention.

 

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ARTICLE IV

OPERATION OF THE HOTEL

4.1. Centralized Services . Franchisee will participate in all Mandatory Services and related programs, and may (at Franchisee’s option) participate in any or all Non-Mandatory Services and related programs, in the manner that Hyatt periodically specifies. Hyatt may, where it deems appropriate in its judgment, limit the scope of those Centralized Services provided to franchised Franchise System Hotels, including, by way of example and without limitation, by limiting the access that franchised Franchise System Hotels have to certain customer and other proprietary information for Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels other than the Hotel. The Hyatt Group also may provide additional services to other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels and to Franchise System Hotels that Hyatt and its Affiliates own and/or operate which are not provided to franchised Franchise System Hotels.

4.2. Management of the Hotel . Unless Hyatt approves in writing, Franchisee must at all times retain and exercise direct management control over all aspects of the Hotel’s business. Upon request by Franchisee, Hyatt will provide a list of pre-approved management companies. Franchisee must have its employees and approved independent contractors satisfactorily complete all required orientation and training programs. Franchisee must hire and properly train all Core Management and have a Core Management team in place at the Hotel at all times, as Franchisee is responsible for management of the Hotel’s business. Franchisee is solely responsible for hiring the Core Management personnel and determining the terms and conditions of their employment, provided that Franchisee must:

(a) before engaging any general manager, submit to Hyatt the identity and qualifications of the proposed general manager, including resume, work history, experience, references, background verifications and other information that Hyatt reasonably requests. Hyatt shall have the right to conduct an in-person interview of the proposed general manager, and Franchisee shall reimburse Hyatt for all travel and other expenses relating thereto. Franchisee shall not engage any general manager unless he or she has been approved by Hyatt, which approval Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold, condition or delay; and

(b) ensure that each other member of the Core Management team has appropriate industry experience and is otherwise qualified to hold his or her position at the Hotel. The Core Management team must devote full time to their duties at the Hotel.

In addition, Franchisee may not enter into a Management Arrangement without Hyatt’s prior written consent, which Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold, condition or delay. Any management company hired by Franchisee to operate the Hotel will be required to attend and satisfactorily complete required training programs, sign the documents Hyatt requires to protect the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information, and agree to perform its management responsibilities in compliance with this Agreement. Nevertheless, Hyatt may refuse to approve a management company which is a Brand Owner or that has an Affiliate which is a Brand Owner. Hyatt hereby approves Franchisee’s initial Management Arrangement with                      for the Hotel’s management. Even after Hyatt approves a

 

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Management Arrangement, Hyatt may at its option revoke that approval, and upon delivery of written notice to Franchisee require Franchisee to terminate the Management Arrangement, if the management company or any of its Affiliates at any time becomes a Brand Owner or to comply with this Agreement; provided that, if Hyatt revokes its approval, Franchisee will have thirty (30) days to retain a replacement Management Arrangement meeting the requirements of this Agreement

4.3. System Standards . Subject to Article X, Franchisee must operate the Hotel twenty-four (24) hours a day, every day, and use the Hotel premises solely for the business franchised under this Agreement. Franchisee must at all times ensure that the Hotel is operated in compliance with the Hotel System, the Manual (other than any personnel and security-related policies and procedures contained in the Manual, which are for Franchisee’s optional use), and all other mandatory System Standards and other policies and procedures Hyatt periodically communicates to Franchisee, as Hyatt may periodically modify them. System Standards may regulate, among other things:

(a) Franchisee’s obligation to maintain the Hotel in first class condition and in a clean, safe, and orderly manner, including periodic cleaning, repainting and redecorating of the Hotel and repair and replacement of FF&E;

(b) the provision of efficient, courteous, competent, prompt, and high-quality service to the public;

(c) quality standards and the types of services, concessions, operating supplies, amenities and other items that Franchisee may use, promote, or offer at the Hotel;

(d) Franchisee’s use of the Proprietary Marks and display, style, location, and type of signage, as outlined in this Agreement, the Manual, and other written directives Hyatt periodically issues;

(e) directory and reservation service listings of the Hotel and methods for using required and authorized ADS and GDS;

(f) creating a favorable response to the name “Hyatt ® ” and the names of any brand extensions, other Proprietary Marks and brand-specific programs bearing the “Hyatt” name;

(g) honoring all nationally recognized credit cards and other payment mechanisms that Hyatt periodically designates and entering into all necessary credit card and other agreements with the issuers of those cards and other applicable parties (which may, at Hyatt’s option, be a member of the Hyatt Group);

(h) complimentary and reduced-rate room policies applicable to all similarly situated Franchised System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations);

(i) mystery shopper programs, guest relations programs, and guest complaints and resolution programs, including reimbursing dissatisfied guests for their costs of staying at the Hotel and participating in other guest satisfaction programs in the manner Hyatt periodically specifies;

 

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(j) delivering to Hyatt or otherwise providing Hyatt access to the names of Hotel customers and guests and Franchisee’s sales and customer database;

(k) record retention policies and programs; and

(l) participation in and compliance with the terms of all of Hyatt’s marketing, reservation service, rate and room inventory management, advertising, cooperative advertising, guest frequency, discount or promotional, customer award, Internet, computer, training, and operating programs, including a property management system that interfaces with the CRS or any other central reservation system Hyatt periodically adopts. Hyatt may periodically establish and/or coordinate these programs with third parties Hyatt designates. These third parties might (but need not) be Hyatt’s Affiliates. Franchisee must sign and comply with any license, participation and other agreements Hyatt periodically specifies relating to these programs.

Because complete and detailed uniformity under many varying conditions might not be possible or practical, Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt specifically reserves the right and privilege, as Hyatt deems best, to vary System Standards for any Franchise System Hotel based upon the peculiarities of any condition or factors that Hyatt considers important to that hotel’s successful operation. Franchisee has no right to require Hyatt to grant Franchisee a similar variation or accommodation.

Hyatt’s mandatory System Standards do not include any personnel or security-related policies or procedures that Hyatt (at its option) makes available to Franchisee in the Manual or otherwise for Franchisee’s optional use. Franchisee will determine to what extent, if any, these optional policies and procedures should apply to the Hotel’s operations. Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt does not dictate or control labor or employment matters for franchisees and their employees and will not be responsible for the safety and security of Hotel employees or patrons.

4.4. Use and Sources of FF&E and Other Products and Services . Franchisee must purchase or lease, install, and maintain at the Hotel all FF&E that Hyatt periodically specifies for the Hotel System. Franchisee may not install at the Hotel, without Hyatt’s prior written consent, any FF&E or other items Hyatt has not previously approved.

Franchisee may use at the Hotel only FF&E, supplies, and other goods and services that conform to the System Standards. Hyatt may specify for the Franchise System Hotel network a particular model or brand of FF&E, supplies, and other goods and services that are available from only one manufacturer or supplier. Hyatt may specify that certain FF&E, supplies, and other goods and services be purchased only from Hyatt or its Affiliates or sources that Hyatt designates or approves. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Franchisee wishes to obtain any FF&E, supplies, or other goods and services for which Hyatt has established standards or specifications from a source that Hyatt has not previously approved as meeting the System Standards, Franchisee must send Hyatt a written request with any information and samples Hyatt

 

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reasonably considers necessary to determine whether the item meets System Standards. Upon Hyatt’s request, Franchisee must reimburse Hyatt’s reasonable costs in reviewing Franchisee’s request and evaluating the item and/or source. If Franchisee complies with Hyatt’s processes and procedures regarding approval of alternate or additional manufacturers or suppliers, Hyatt shall respond to Franchisee’s request within a reasonable time period. Franchisee may not purchase any FF&E, supplies or other goods or services for the Hotel unless the purchase is from a source Hyatt designates or approves or Hyatt has approved in writing that the item Franchisee proposed meets System Standards. Hyatt may modify the System Standards in this area as Hyatt deems best for the Hotel System. Hyatt reserves the right, at its option, to revoke its approval of certain sources or items if they fail to continue to meet the System Standards. Hyatt may refuse any of Franchisee’s requests if Hyatt already has designated a particular source for, or model or brand of, FF&E, supplies or other goods or services that Hyatt (in its sole judgment) determines to be critical to the Hotel System. Hyatt may make this decision as it deems best. Hyatt and its Affiliates have the right to receive payments from suppliers on account of their actual or prospective dealings with Franchise System Hotels and to use all amounts that Hyatt and its Affiliates receive without restriction for any purposes they deem appropriate (unless they agree otherwise with the supplier).

4.5. CRS, GDS, ADS and Guest Room Rates . Franchisee must participate in, connect with, and use the CRS, GDS and ADS in the manner Hyatt periodically designates for offering, booking, modifying, and communicating guest room reservations for the Hotel. Franchisee may only utilize the GDS and ADS that Hyatt periodically authorizes. Franchisee must honor and give first priority on available rooms to all confirmed reservations that the CRS, GDS or ADS refers to the Hotel. The CRS and approved GDS and ADS are the only reservation systems or services that the Hotel may use for reservations.

Franchisee will establish the Hotel’s room rates and submit them to Hyatt promptly upon Hyatt’s request. Franchisee is solely responsible for notifying the reservation center of any changes in the Hotel’s room rates. Franchisee may not charge any guest a rate for any reservation higher than the rate that the reservations center specifies to the guest at the time he or she makes the reservation. Except for special event periods, Franchisee may not charge any rate exceeding the rate Franchisee submits in writing for sale by the CRS. Franchisee must comply with Hyatt’s “best price guarantee” and related policies, as Hyatt periodically modifies them.

4.6. Food and Beverage Operations and Spa Operations . Franchisee must operate all Food and Beverage Operations and Spa Operations (if the Hotel has Spa Operations) in full compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations and all applicable System Standards. Franchisee may not subcontract the management of the Food and Beverage Operations to a third party, except in connection with a Management Arrangement applicable to all Hotel operations. However, Franchisee may lease space at the Hotel to one or more restaurant operators, and may subcontract the management of the Spa Operations (if the Hotel has Spa Operations), provided that (a) Hyatt (in its sole judgment) approves of the operator, the restaurant or spa concept and the terms of the lease or other arrangement between Franchisee and the operator; (b) the operator complies with all applicable System Standards; and (c) the restaurant or spa does not use the Proprietary Marks in any manner (unless Hyatt authorizes such use in writing). Franchisee acknowledges that the Royalty Fee is based on Gross F&B Revenue, not on the lease payments or other revenues that Franchisee would receive from any restaurant operator.

 

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4.7. Upgrading the Hotel and CapEx Fund . Franchisee may not make any material changes to the Hotel’s existing or planned construction, including any change in the number of guest rooms at the Hotel, without Hyatt’s prior written consent and complying with such conditions and procedures that Hyatt periodically establishes for such changes. Franchisee must prepare and deliver to Hyatt each year, at least thirty (30) days before Franchisee’s fiscal year end, an annual capital expenditure plan and budget for the next fiscal year containing such information as reasonably required by Hyatt.

Without limiting Hyatt’s rights and Franchisee’s obligations under Section 4.3, Hyatt may require Franchisee at any time and from time to time during the Term to upgrade or renovate the Hotel, including by altering the Hotel’s appearance and/or replacing a material portion of improvements and/or FF&E, to comply with then current building décor, appearance, and trade dress standards and other aspects of the Hotel System that Hyatt has established and requires for new similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations). This upgrading or renovation may obligate Franchisee to invest additional capital in the Hotel and/or incur higher operating costs. Franchisee agrees to implement such upgrading and renovation, within the time period Hyatt requests, regardless of their cost or the point during the Term when Hyatt requires Franchisee to do so, as if they were part of this Agreement as of the Effective Date, provided that all such upgrades and renovations apply uniformly to all similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations).

In order to assist Franchisee in having funds available to make any necessary capital expenditures at the Hotel and comply with its obligations under this Section 4.7 (but without limiting those obligations), Franchisee shall deposit into a separate account that Franchisee controls an amount equal to      percent (    %) of the Hotel’s Gross Rooms Revenue each month. Upon Hyatt’s reasonable request, Franchisee will provide Hyatt information concerning the funds in that account. Franchisee shall use such funds only for the purpose of making approved capital expenditures and complying with its upgrade and other obligations under this Section 4.7 (although such obligations may require Franchisee to spend more than the amount then in that account).

4.8. Inspections/Compliance Assistance and Quality Assurance Program . Although Hyatt retains the right to establish and periodically to modify System Standards for the Hotel System that Franchisee agrees to implement and maintain, and to modify the Hotel System as Hyatt deems best for Franchise System Hotels, Franchisee retains the right to control, and responsibility for, the Hotel’s day-to-day management and operation and implementing and maintaining System Standards at the Hotel. Hyatt may inspect the Hotel at any reasonable time, with or without notice to Franchisee, to determine whether Franchisee and the Hotel are complying with the Hotel System, System Standards, and other terms and conditions of this Agreement. Franchisee must permit Hyatt’s representatives to inspect or audit the Hotel at any reasonable time and give them reasonable amounts of free lodging (subject to availability) during the inspection period.

The Hotel must participate in the quality assurance and guest satisfaction programs that Hyatt develops and periodically modifies (the “ Quality Assurance Program ”). Franchisee must pay its allocable share of all fees and other costs associated with the Quality Assurance Programs. As part of the Quality Assurance Program, Hyatt and/or its representatives and

 

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designees may evaluate whether the Hotel is complying with the Hotel System and System Standards. The primary means of operating the Quality Assurance Program will be evaluations conducted through stays at Franchise System Hotels. If Hyatt determines that the Hotel is not complying with the Hotel System, System Standards, or any other terms and conditions of this Agreement and then instructs Franchisee to correct those deficiencies, Hyatt may, without limiting its other rights or remedies under this Agreement, any other agreement or applicable law, charge Franchisee Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500) plus Hyatt’s out-of-pocket expenses for each follow-up or re-evaluation visit until the deficiencies have been fully corrected.

4.9. Compliance With Laws . Franchisee must strictly comply with all governmental requirements concerning the Hotel’s operation, including by (a) ensuring that the Hotel is at all times in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar rules; (b) paying all taxes when due; (c) obtaining and maintaining trade or fictitious name registrations; (d) obtaining and maintaining all licenses and permits necessary to operate the Hotel, including the Food and Beverage Operations and Spa Operations (if the Hotel has Spa Operations); and (e) obtaining and maintaining all licenses required to sell alcoholic beverages at the Hotel. Franchisee and its Owners agree to comply, and to assist Hyatt to the fullest extent possible in its efforts to comply, with the Anti-Terrorism Laws. In connection with that compliance, Franchisee and its Owners certify, represent, and warrant as of the Effective Date that none of Franchisee’s property or interests is subject to being blocked under, and that Franchisee and its Owners otherwise are not in violation of, any of the Anti-Terrorism Laws. Any violation of the Anti-Terrorism Laws by Franchisee or its Owners, or any blocking of Franchisee’s or its Owners’ assets under the Anti-Terrorism Laws, shall constitute grounds for immediate termination of this Agreement, as provided in Section 15.2.

4.10. No Diverting Business . Franchisee must refer guests and customers, wherever reasonably possible, to Franchise System Hotels or other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels, not use the Hotel or the Hotel System to promote a competing business or other lodging facility, and not divert business from the Hotel to a competing business.

4.11. Data Privacy . Franchisee agrees to fully comply with all policies and procedures regarding the collection, storage, use, processing and transfer of personal data ( i.e. , any data regarding an identifiable individual) that Hyatt or its Affiliate may promulgate from time to time. Additionally, Franchisee agrees to execute any agreements or other documents, and to take any actions, that Hyatt or its Affiliate may require Franchisee and all similarly situated franchisees (subject to Reasonable Deviations) to execute or take from time to time in furtherance of the implementation of any data privacy compliance program adopted by Hyatt.

4.12. No Brand Owners . Franchisee agrees that neither Franchisee nor any of its Affiliates or Owners at any time during the Term shall be or become a Brand Owner.

 

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ARTICLE V

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING

5.1. Grand Opening Marketing . Franchisee must conduct a pre-opening marketing program for the Hotel according to Hyatt’s reasonable requirements. At least one hundred twenty (120) days before the Hotel’s grand opening, Franchisee must prepare and submit to Hyatt for its reasonable approval a written pre-opening marketing program that satisfies Hyatt’s requirements and contemplates spending at least an amount equal to                  ($    ) multiplied by the number of guest rooms at the Hotel. Franchisee must change the program as Hyatt specifies, in Hyatt’s reasonable judgment, and implement the approved program.

5.2. Participation in Advertising and Marketing . Franchisee acknowledges that promoting Franchise System Hotels as a single, international chain is an important part of the Hotel System. Franchisee must participate in and use, in the manner that Hyatt specifies, all advertising, marketing and promotional activities, materials and programs that Hyatt periodically requires for the Hotel and any similarly situated Hotels in the Hotel System.

5.3. Approval of Marketing Programs . Subject to Hyatt’s requirements and at Franchisee’s own expense, Franchisee may conduct local and regional marketing and advertising programs. Franchisee shall pay Hyatt the reasonable fees that Hyatt periodically establishes for optional advertising materials Franchisee orders from Hyatt for these programs. Franchisee must conduct its advertising in a dignified manner.

Before using them, Franchisee must submit to Hyatt for its prior approval all advertising, promotional, and public relations plans, programs, and materials that Franchisee desires to use or in which Franchisee desires to participate, including any materials and uses of the Proprietary Marks in digital, electronic, computerized, or other form (whether on a Travel Services Website or Franchisee Organization Website (each as defined in Section 5.4) or otherwise). If Franchisee does not receive written disapproval within fifteen (15) business days after Hyatt receives the materials, they are deemed to be approved. Franchisee may not use any advertising, promotional, or public relations materials or engage in any programs that Hyatt has not approved or has disapproved and must discontinue using any previously-approved materials and engaging in any previously-approved programs within the timeframe Hyatt specifies after Franchisee receives written notice from Hyatt.

5.4. Websites . Franchisee may not develop, maintain or authorize any Website (other than a Hotel System Website) that either has the word “hyatt” or any similar word as part of its domain name or URL or that accepts reservations for the Hotel (other than through an approved link to a Hotel System Website). Franchisee may, with Hyatt’s approval and subject to the conditions in Section 5.3 and this Section 5.4, authorize any Travel Services Website or Franchisee Organization Website to list and promote the Hotel together with other hotels. A “ Travel Services Website ” is a Website operated by a third party (which is not an Affiliate of Franchisee) that promotes and sells travel-related products and services for a number of hotel brands, including other Hyatt-Affiliated hotels. A “ Franchisee Organization Website ” is a Website that mentions the Hotel and other hotels in which Franchisee and its Affiliates have an interest as part of Franchisee’s and its Affiliates’ portfolio of properties and that has a primary

 

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purpose of promoting the entire portfolio (rather than only promoting the Hotel). Franchisee shall submit to Hyatt for its approval all proposed uses of the Proprietary Marks, references to the Hotel, links to a Hotel System Website, and other information concerning a Travel Services Website or Franchisee Organization Website as Hyatt periodically requests. Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold its approval of Franchisee’s use of a Travel Services Website or Franchisee Organization Website. Hyatt may implement and periodically modify, and Franchisee must comply with, System Standards relating to any Travel Services Websites, Franchisee Organization Websites and other electronic uses of the Proprietary Marks and may withdraw its approval of any Website that no longer meets Hyatt’s minimum standards.

ARTICLE VI

FEES AND PAYMENTS

6.1. Application Fee . Hyatt and Franchisee acknowledge that, before Hyatt and Franchisee signed this Agreement, Franchisee paid Hyatt an application fee of $                    , representing the greater of (a) One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) or (b) Three Hundred Dollars ($300) multiplied by the number of guest rooms at the Hotel (the “ Application Fee ”). The Application Fee was fully earned by Hyatt and non-refundable upon Hyatt’s approval of Franchisee’s franchise application before Hyatt and Franchisee signed this Agreement.

In addition, if Hyatt and Franchisee agree to add additional guest rooms to the Hotel during the Term, then Franchisee must pay Hyatt an additional Application Fee in an amount equal to Three Hundred Dollars ($300) multiplied by the number of additional guest rooms. When Franchisee requests Hyatt’s approval of Franchisee’s plans to develop the additional guest rooms, Franchisee must pay Hyatt a non-refundable PIP fee of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000). Hyatt will apply this PIP fee toward the additional Application Fee if Hyatt approves Franchisee’s plans. If the PIP fee exceeds the additional Application Fee, Hyatt may keep the excess. The remaining portion of the additional Application Fee is due, fully earned by Hyatt, and non-refundable on the date Hyatt approves Franchisee’s plans to develop the additional guest rooms.

6.2. Monthly Fees to Hyatt . On or before the tenth (10 th ) day of each month beginning with the month following the Opening Date, Franchisee shall pay Hyatt:

(a) a “ Royalty Fee ” equal to six percent (6%) of the Hotel’s Gross Rooms Revenue accrued during the preceding month and three percent (3%) of the Hotel’s Gross F&B Revenue accrued during the preceding month; and

(b) the Centralized Services Charges for the previous month, calculated in the manner set forth on Exhibit C , as amended by Hyatt from time to time.

In addition, on or before the tenth (10 th ) day of each month, Franchisee shall pay Hyatt all fees and other amounts that Hyatt (or its Affiliates) then has paid or has agreed to pay on Franchisee’s behalf to any Providers. If any Provider assesses a single or group fee or other charge that covers all or a group of Franchise System Hotels or other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels to which that

 

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Provider provides products or services, Hyatt shall allocate that fee or other charge among the Hotel and other similarly situated participating hotels on a fair and equitable basis in Hyatt’s reasonable judgment. The Providers may periodically increase the fees and other charges they impose. At Hyatt’s option, Franchisee must begin paying these fees and other charges directly to the applicable Provider(s).

6.3. Travel Agent Program and Reservation Fees . Franchisee agrees to pay on a timely basis, as and when due: (a) applicable commissions to travel agents and third party reservation service charges and otherwise participate in any Hotel System travel agent commission payment program, as Hyatt periodically modifies it; provided, that Hyatt will notify Franchisee of any such modifications; and (b) all commissions and fees for reservations Franchisee accepts through any sources (including the Internet), whether processed through Hyatt, the CRS, or a third-party reservation system or billed directly to Franchisee. Failure to pay any of these fees is a default under this Agreement.

6.4. Late Fee and Late Payment Interest . Franchisee agrees to pay Hyatt a late fee of Two Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars ($225) for each required payment not made on or before its original due date and for each payment not honored by Franchisee’s financial institution. The late fee is not interest or a penalty but compensates Hyatt for increased administrative and management costs due to Franchisee’s late payment. In addition, all amounts that Franchisee owes Hyatt that are more than seven (7) days late will bear interest accruing as of their original due date at one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest commercial contract interest rate the law allows, whichever is less. Franchisee acknowledges that this Section is not Hyatt’s agreement to accept any payments after they are due or Hyatt’s commitment to extend credit to, or otherwise finance Franchisee’s operation of, the Hotel.

6.5. Method of Payments . Franchisee must make all payments for Royalty Fees and other amounts due to Hyatt or any member of the Hyatt Group under this Agreement by wire transfer of immediately available funds. Hyatt may periodically change the procedures for monthly payments by reasonable advance notice, including by instituting an automatic debit process. Franchisee must sign any authorizations or other documents that Hyatt reasonably requires to implement such payment methods.

6.6. Application of Payments . Despite any designation Franchisee makes, Hyatt may apply any of Franchisee’s payments to any of Franchisee’s past due indebtedness to Hyatt or its Affiliates.

6.7. Non-Refundability . Unless otherwise specified, all fees that Franchisee paid to Hyatt or its Affiliates before or simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement, or will pay to Hyatt or its Affiliates during the Term, are non-refundable.

ARTICLE VII

BOOKS AND RECORDS, AUDITS AND REPORTING

7.1. Financial Reports . At Hyatt’s request, Franchisee must prepare and deliver to Hyatt daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual operating statements, profit and loss statements,

 

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balance sheets, and other reports relating to the Hotel that Hyatt periodically requires, prepared in the form, by the methods, and within the timeframes that Hyatt specifies in the Manual. The reports must contain all information Hyatt requires and be certified as accurate in the manner Hyatt requires. By the tenth (10 th ) day of each month, Franchisee agrees to prepare and send Hyatt a statement for the previous month, certified by Franchisee’s chief financial or principal accounting officer, listing Gross Rooms Revenue, Gross F&B Revenue, other Hotel revenues, room occupancy rates, reservation data, the amounts currently due under Article VI, and other information that Hyatt deems useful in connection with the Hotel System. The statement will be in the form and contain the detail Hyatt reasonably requests from time to time and may be used by Hyatt for all reasonable purposes. [additional reporting requirements to be determined]

7.2. Notification . Franchisee must, upon Hyatt’s request or any change in the Lender’s information, send Hyatt current information regarding the name, address, and telephone number of the Lender and the name and telephone number of Franchisee’s contact at the Lender. Franchisee also must notify Hyatt in writing within ten (10) days after Franchisee receives information or documentation about any lawsuit, action, or proceeding, or the issuance of any injunction, award, or decree of any court, quasi-judicial body, or governmental agency, that might adversely affect the Hotel, Franchisee’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement, or its financial condition.

7.3. Preparation and Maintenance of Books and Records . Franchisee agrees to: (a) prepare on a current basis in a form reasonably satisfactory to Hyatt, and preserve for at least three (3) years, complete and accurate records concerning Gross Rooms Revenue, Gross F&B Revenue and all financial, operating, marketing, and other aspects of the Hotel; and (b) maintain an accounting system that fully and accurately reflects all financial aspects of the Hotel, including books of account, tax returns, governmental reports, daily reports, profit and loss and cash flow statements, balance sheets, and complete quarterly and annual financial statements relating to the Hotel. Hyatt reserves the right to access Franchisee’s computer system independently to obtain sales information, occupancy information, and other data and information relating to the Hotel. Franchisee must send Hyatt upon its reasonable request, in the form and format that Hyatt reasonably requires, any financial information relating to the Hotel.

7.4. Audit . Hyatt may at any time during Franchisee’s regular business hours, and without prior notice to Franchisee, examine Franchisee’s and the Hotel’s business, bookkeeping, and accounting records, sales and income tax records and returns, and other records’ provided, however, that Hyatt’s shall limit such examinations to once per year absence absent an event of default by Franchisee. Franchisee agrees to cooperate fully with Hyatt’s representatives and independent accountants in any examination. If any examination discloses an understatement of the Hotel’s Gross Rooms Revenue or Gross F&B Revenue, Franchisee agrees to pay Hyatt, within fifteen (15) days after receiving the examination report, the Royalty Fees and other fees due on the amount of the understatement, the late fee, and interest on the understated amounts from the date originally due until the date of payment. Furthermore, if an examination is necessary due to Franchisee’s failure to furnish reports, supporting records, or other information as required, or to furnish these items on a timely basis, or if Hyatt’s examination reveals a Royalty Fee underpayment to Hyatt of three percent (3%) or more of the total amount owed during any six (6)-month period, or that Franchisee willfully understated the Hotel’s Gross Rooms Revenue or Gross F&B Revenue, Franchisee agrees to reimburse Hyatt for the costs of

 

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the examination, including the charges of attorneys and independent accountants and the travel expenses, room and board, and compensation of Hyatt’s employees. These remedies are in addition to Hyatt’s other remedies and rights under this Agreement and applicable law.

7.5. Annual Financial Information . Within ninety (90) days after the end of Franchisee’s fiscal year, Franchisee must send Hyatt one or more of the following as Hyatt may request, certified by Franchisee’s chief financial or principal accounting officer to be true and correct: (a) complete financial statements relating to the Hotel for that fiscal year (including a balance sheet, statement of operations and statement of cash flow) prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied; (b) Franchisee’s income tax returns for the Hotel for that year; and (c) statements reflecting all Gross Rooms Revenue and Gross F&B Revenue and all sources and amounts of other Hotel revenue generated during the year. At Hyatt’s reasonable request from time to time, Franchisee also agrees to provide Hyatt with those operating statistics for the Hotel that Hyatt specifies. Hyatt may require Franchisee to have audited financial statements prepared annually during the Term.

ARTICLE VIII

RELATIONSHIP OF THE PARTIES AND INDEMNIFICATION

8.1. Relationship of the Parties . Franchisee is an independent contractor. Neither Hyatt nor Franchisee is the legal representative or agent of, or has the power to obligate, the other for any purpose. The parties have a business relationship defined entirely by this Agreement’s express provisions. No partnership, joint venture, affiliate, agency, fiduciary, or employment relationship is intended or created by this Agreement. Hyatt and Franchisee may not make any express or implied agreements, warranties, guarantees, or representations, or incur any debt, in the name or on behalf of the other or represent that Hyatt’s and Franchisee’s relationship is other than franchisor and franchisee. Hyatt will not be obligated for any damages to any person or property directly or indirectly arising out of the Hotel’s operation or the business Franchisee conducts under this Agreement.

8.2. Franchisee’s Notices to Public Concerning Independent Status . At Hyatt’s reasonable request from time to time, Franchisee must give notice in private and public rooms and on advertisements, business forms, and stationery and other places, making clear to the public that Hyatt is not the Hotel’s owner or operator and is not accountable for events occurring at the Hotel.

8.3. Franchisee’s Indemnification of Hyatt .

8.3.1 Indemnification and Defense . In addition to Franchisee’s obligation under this Agreement to procure and maintain insurance, Franchisee agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Hyatt, its Affiliates, and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, employees, representatives, successors, and assigns (the “ Hyatt Indemnified Parties ”) against, and to reimburse any one or more of the Hyatt Indemnified Parties for, any and all claims, obligations, and damages directly or indirectly arising out of, resulting from, or in connection with (a) the application Franchisee submitted to Hyatt for the rights granted under this Agreement; (b) the construction, development, use, occupancy, or operation of the Hotel,

 

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including any claim or allegation relating to the Americans with Disabilities Act or any similar law concerning public accommodations for persons with disabilities; (c) any bodily injury, personal injury, death, or property damage suffered by any Hotel guest, customer, visitor, or employee, including in connection with any Food and Beverage Operations or Spa Operations (if applicable); (d) claims alleging either intentional or negligent conduct, acts, or omissions by Franchisee, any manager (or any of Franchisee’s or its contractors, agents, employees or representatives), or Hyatt or its Affiliates relating to the operation of the Hotel or the Hotel System, subject to Sections 8.3.5 and 8.4.1; and (e) Franchisee’s breach of the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Each Hyatt Indemnified Party may defend any claim against it at Franchisee’s expense and agree to settlements or take any other remedial, corrective, or other actions, provided that the Hyatt Indemnified Party will seek Franchisee’s advice and counsel, and keep Franchisee informed, with regard to any proposed or contemplated settlement.

8.3.2 Definition of Claims . For purposes of this Section 8.3 and Section 8.4, “ claims ” include all obligations, damages (actual, consequential, or otherwise), and costs that any Indemnified Party reasonably incurs in defending any claim against it, including reasonable accountants’, arbitrators’, attorneys’, and expert witness fees, costs of investigation and proof of facts, court costs, travel and living expenses, and other expenses of litigation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution, regardless of whether litigation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution is commenced.

8.3.3 Survival and Mitigation . The obligations under this Section 8.3 will continue in full force and effect subsequent to and notwithstanding this Agreement’s expiration or termination. A Hyatt Indemnified Party need not seek recovery from any insurer or other third party, or otherwise mitigate its losses and expenses, in order to maintain and recover fully a claim against Franchisee under this Section. Franchisee agrees that a failure to pursue a recovery or mitigate a loss will not reduce or alter the amounts that a Hyatt Indemnified Party may recover from Franchisee under this Section.

8.3.4 Separate Counsel and Settlement . If separate counsel is appropriate in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion because of actual or potential conflicts of interest, Hyatt may retain attorneys and/or independently defend any claim, action, or alleged claim or action subject to indemnification under this Section at Franchisee’s sole expense. No party may settle any claim or action that could have an adverse effect on Hyatt, its Affiliates, the Hotel System, or other franchisees without Hyatt’s prior approval.

8.3.5 Limitation on Indemnification . Franchisee has no obligation to indemnify under this Section 8.3 if a court of competent jurisdiction makes a final decision not subject to further appeal that Hyatt, its Affiliate, or any of their respective employees directly engaged in willful misconduct or gross negligence or intentionally caused the property damage or bodily injury that is the subject of the claim, so long as the claim is not asserted on the basis of theories of vicarious liability (including agency, apparent agency, or employment) or Hyatt’s failure to compel Franchisee to comply with this Agreement, which are claims for which the Hyatt Indemnified Parties are entitled to indemnification under this Section 8.3.

8.3.6 Notice of Action . Franchisee shall notify Hyatt promptly (but not later than five (5) days following Franchisee’s receipt of notice) of any claim, action, or potential

 

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claim or action naming any Hyatt Indemnified Party as a defendant or potential defendant and shall include with such notification copies of all correspondence or court papers relating to the claim or action in Franchisee’s possession. Franchisee’s obligation to indemnify the Hyatt Indemnified Parties shall not be limited in any way by reason of any insurance that any Hyatt Indemnified Party maintains; provided that any insurance recovery actually paid to any Hyatt Indemnified Party shall reduce Franchisee’s indemnification obligation.

8.3.7 Right to Control Defense of Certain Actions . Without limiting Franchisee’s obligations under this Section 8.3, Hyatt (or its designee) has the right to defend and control the defense of any class action or other legal action involving both the Hotel and any other Franchise System Hotel or Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel, regardless of whether Hyatt or any of the other Hyatt Indemnified Parties are named defendants in that action. Franchisee shall promptly reimburse Hyatt for the Hotel’s proportionate share of all reasonable expenses that Hyatt incurs in connection with any action covered by this Section 8.3.7. Hyatt shall allocate those expenses equitably among the Hotel and all other Franchise System Hotels and Hyatt-Affiliated hotels involved in the action in any manner that Hyatt reasonably determines.

8.4. Hyatt’s Indemnification of Franchisee .

8.4.1 Indemnification and Defense . Hyatt agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Franchisee, its Affiliates, and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, employees, representatives, successors, and assigns (the “ Franchisee Indemnified Parties ”) against, and to reimburse any one or more of the Franchisee Indemnified Parties for, any and all claims, obligations, and damages directly or indirectly arising out of, resulting from, or in connection with (a) a final decision by a court of competent jurisdiction not subject to further appeal that Hyatt, its Affiliate, or any of their respective employees directly engaged in willful misconduct or gross negligence or intentionally caused the property damage or bodily injury that is the subject of the claim, so long as the claim is not asserted on the basis of theories of vicarious liability (including agency, apparent agency, or employment) or Hyatt’s failure to compel Franchisee to comply with this Agreement, which are claims for which the Franchisee Indemnified Parties are not entitled to indemnification under this Section 8.4; and (b) any trademark infringement proceeding disputing Franchisee’s authorized use of any Proprietary Mark under this Agreement, provided that Franchisee has timely notified Hyatt of, and complies with Hyatt’s directions in responding to, the proceeding. Hyatt shall defend the Franchisee Indemnified Parties in any claims covered by Subsection (b) at Hyatt’s cost and expense. At Hyatt’s option, Hyatt and/or its Affiliate(s) may defend and control the defense of any other proceeding arising from or relating to the Proprietary Marks or Franchisee’s use of any Proprietary Mark under this Agreement.

8.4.2 Survival and Mitigation . The obligations under this Section 8.4 will continue in full force and effect subsequent to and notwithstanding this Agreement’s expiration or termination. A Franchisee Indemnified Party need not seek recovery from any insurer or other third party, or otherwise mitigate its losses and expenses, in order to maintain and recover fully a claim against Hyatt under this Section. Hyatt agrees that a failure to pursue a recovery or mitigate a loss will not reduce or alter the amounts that a Franchisee Indemnified Party may recover from Hyatt under this Section. Hyatt’s obligation to indemnify the Franchisee Indemnified Parties shall not be limited in any way by reason of any insurance that any

 

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Franchisee Indemnified Party maintains, provided that any insurance recovery actually paid to any Franchisee Indemnified Party shall reduce Hyatt’s indemnification obligation

ARTICLE IX

INSURANCE

At Franchisee’s expense, Franchisee must procure and at all times during the Term maintain such insurance as may be required by the terms of any lease or mortgage on the premises where the Hotel is located, and in any event no less than the following:

(1) the following property insurance:

(a) Property insurance (or builder’s risk insurance during any period of construction) on the Hotel building(s) and contents against loss or damage by fire, lightning, windstorm, and all other risks covered by the usual all-risk policy form, all in an amount not less than ninety percent (90%) of the full replacement cost thereof and a waiver of co-insurance. Such policy shall also include coverage for landscape improvements and law and ordinance coverage in reasonable amounts.

(b) Boiler and machinery insurance against loss or damage caused by machinery breakdown or explosion of boilers or pressure vessels to the extent applicable to the Hotel.

(c) Business interruption insurance covering loss of profits and necessary continuing expenses, including Royalty Fees and other amounts due to Hyatt and its Affiliates under or in connection with this Agreement, for interruptions caused by any occurrence covered by the insurance referred to in subsections (a) and (b) above and providing coverage for the actual loss sustained.

(d) If the Hotel is located in whole or in part within an area identified by the Federal Flood Management Agency, flood insurance in a reasonable amount for a hotel of this type in the geographic area, to include business interruption for lost profits, continuing expenses, and Royalty Fees and other amounts due to Hyatt and its Affiliates under or in connection with this Agreement.

(e) If the Hotel is located in an “earthquake zone” as determined by the U.S. Geological Survey, earthquake insurance in a reasonable amount for a hotel of this type in the geographic area, to include business interruption for lost profits, continuing expenses, and Royalty Fees and other amounts due to Hyatt and its Affiliates under or in connection with this Agreement.

(f) If the Hotel is located in a “Tier 1 or Tier 2 named windstorm zone” as determined by Franchisee’s insurance underwriters, named windstorm insurance in a reasonable amount for a hotel of this type in the geographic area, to include business interruption for loss of profits and continuing expenses, including Royalty Fees and other amounts due to Hyatt and its Affiliates under or in connection with this Agreement.

 

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(g) If the Hotel is located in a “Tier 1 or Tier 2 terrorism zone” as determined by Franchisee’s insurance underwriters, certified and non-certified terrorism insurance for the property, as long as it is not more than two (2) times Franchisee’s “all-risk” property premium.

(2) Workers’ Compensation insurance in statutory amounts on all Hotel employees and Employer’s Liability Insurance in amounts not less than $1 million per accident/disease.

(3) Commercial General Liability Insurance for any claims or losses arising or resulting from or pertaining to the Hotel or its operation, protecting Franchisee and Hyatt (and its Affiliates), with combined single limits of $2 million per each occurrence for bodily injury and property damage. If the general liability coverages contain a general aggregate limit, such limit shall be not less than $2 million, and it shall apply in total to the Hotel only by specific endorsement. Such insurance shall be on an occurrence policy form and include premises and operations, independent contractors, blanket contractual, products and completed operations, advertising injury, employees as additional insureds, broad form property damage, personal injury to include false arrest and molestation, incidental medical malpractice, severability of interests, innkeeper’s and safe deposit box liability, and explosion, collapse and underground coverage during any construction.

(4) Liquor Liability for combined single limits of bodily injury and property damage of not less than $2 million each occurrence.

(5) Business Auto Liability, including owned, non-owned and hired vehicles for combined single limits of bodily injury and property damage of not less than $2 million each occurrence.

(6) Umbrella Excess Liability on a following form basis in amounts not less than $75 million if the Hotel has less than five hundred (500) rooms or $100 million if the Hotel has five hundred (500) rooms or more. Hyatt may require Franchisee to increase the amount of coverage if, in Hyatt’s reasonable judgment, such an increase is warranted.

(7) Comprehensive crime insurance to include employee dishonesty coverage, loss inside the premises, loss outside the premises, money orders and counterfeit paper currency, depositor’s forgery coverage and computer fraud.

(8) Such other insurance as may be customarily carried by other hotel operators on hotels similar to the Hotel.

The liability policies referenced in Sections (3) through (6) above in this Article shall be endorsed to include certified and non-certified terrorism insurance in an amount not less than the limit(s) of each applicable policy.

Hyatt may periodically reasonably increase the amounts of coverage required under these insurance policies and/or require different or additional insurance coverage at any time to reflect inflation, identification of new risks, changes in law or standards of liability, higher damage awards or other relevant changes in circumstances. All insurance must by endorsement specifically name Hyatt and any Affiliates that Hyatt periodically designates (and Hyatt’s and

 

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those Hyatt-designated Affiliates’ employees and agents) as additional insureds. Any deductibles or self-insured retentions that Franchisee maintains (excluding deductibles for high hazard risks in high hazard geological zones, such as earthquake, flood and named windstorm, which shall be as required by the insurance carrier) shall not exceed $25,000, or such higher amount as Hyatt (at its option) may approve in writing in advance. Franchisee must purchase each policy from an insurance company licensed, authorized or registered to do business in the state where the Hotel is located. However, this licensing requirement shall not apply to those insurers providing Umbrella Excess Liability above $2 million under Subsection (6) above.

All required insurance must be specifically endorsed to provide that the coverages will be primary to any valid and collectible insurance available to any additional insureds and shall have a waiver of subrogation in favor of Hyatt. All policies must provide that they may not be canceled, non-renewed, or materially changed without at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to Hyatt. Franchisee may satisfy its insurance obligations under blanket insurance policies that cover Franchisee’s and its Affiliates’ other properties so long as such blanket insurance fulfills the requirements in this Agreement.

Franchisee must deliver to Hyatt a certificate of insurance (or certified copy of such insurance policy if Hyatt requests) evidencing the coverages required above and setting forth the amount of any deductibles. Franchisee must deliver to Hyatt renewal certificates of insurance (or certified copies of such insurance policy if Hyatt requests) not less than ten (10) days prior to their respective inception dates. Franchisee’s obligation to maintain insurance shall not relieve Franchisee of its obligations under Section 8.3.

If Franchisee fails for any reason to procure or maintain the insurance required by this Agreement, Hyatt shall have the right and authority (although without any obligation to do so) to immediately procure such insurance and to charge Franchisee the cost together with a reasonable fee for Hyatt’s expenses.

ARTICLE X

CONDEMNATION AND DAMAGE

10.1. Condemnation .

10.1.1 Relocating the Hotel . Franchisee must promptly notify Hyatt of any proposed taking of any portion of the Hotel by eminent domain or condemnation. If Hyatt agrees that all or a substantial portion of the Hotel is to be taken or condemned, then, upon Franchisee’s request, Hyatt may (but has no obligation to) allow Franchisee to relocate the Hotel to a new location within the Area of Protection that Franchisee selects (subject to Hyatt’s approval) within twelve (12) months after the taking or condemnation. If Franchisee develops a new Franchise System Hotel at a new location within the Area of Protection that Hyatt approves (a “ Relocated Hotel ”), and if Franchisee opens that Relocated Hotel according to Hyatt’s specifications and this Agreement’s other terms and conditions (including the applicable provisions of Article II) within twenty-four (24) months after closing the Hotel, then the Relocated Hotel shall thereafter be deemed to be the Hotel franchised under this Agreement.

 

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10.1.2 Termination Upon Condemnation . If a taking or condemnation involving all or a substantial portion of the Hotel occurs, and if following such taking or condemnation:

(a) Hyatt elects not to allow Franchisee to develop a Relocated Hotel;

(b) Franchisee promptly notifies Hyatt that Franchisee will not develop a Relocated Hotel; or

(c) Franchisee and Hyatt do not agree to a new location for a Relocated Hotel within the twelve (12)-month period specified above,

then either party may terminate this Agreement immediately upon written notice to the other. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 10.1.2, and if Franchisee and its Owners sign Hyatt’s then current form of termination agreement and a general release, in a form reasonably satisfactory to Hyatt, of any and all claims against Hyatt and its owners, Affiliates, officers, directors, employees and agents, then Franchisee shall not be required to pay liquidated damages pursuant to Section 16.5 at the time of termination. However, such termination agreement shall provide that if Franchisee or any of its Affiliates begins construction on a new full service hotel at any location within the Area of Protection at any time during the twenty-four (24) month period following the effective date of termination of this Agreement, then Franchisee or its Owners must pay Hyatt liquidated damages equal to One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) multiplied by the number of guest rooms in that new full service hotel. If Franchisee and its Owners fail to sign such termination agreement and general release within a reasonable time after Hyatt delivers them to Franchisee, then Franchisee must pay Hyatt liquidated damages pursuant to Section 16.5 at the time of termination, in addition to complying with its other post-termination obligations under this Agreement.

10.1.3 Termination for Failure to Develop Relocated Hotel . If Hyatt and Franchisee agree to a new location for a Relocated Hotel pursuant to Section 10.1.1 but Franchisee fails to develop and open the Relocated Hotel according to this Agreement’s terms and conditions within twenty-four (24) months after the Hotel’s closing, then Hyatt may terminate this Agreement immediately upon written notice to Franchisee and Franchisee must pay Hyatt liquidated damages equal to One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) multiplied by the number of guest rooms at the Hotel, in addition to complying with its other post-termination obligations under this Agreement.

10.2. Damage . If the Hotel is damaged by fire or other casualty, Franchisee must notify Hyatt promptly. If the cost to repair the damage is less than or equal to the Damage Threshold (defined below), or if the cost to repair the damage exceeds the Damage Threshold but Franchisee notifies Hyatt within a reasonable time after the casualty that it intends to repair the damage and operate the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel, then Franchisee must repair the damage promptly according to the System Standards and this Agreement’s other terms and conditions. The “Damage Threshold” means the greater of (i) thirty percent (30%) of the market value of the Hotel immediately prior to the time of fire or other casualty, or (ii) the amount of insurance proceeds made available to Franchisee in connection with the fire or casualty. If the damage or repair requires Franchisee to close all or any portion of the Hotel, then Franchisee must commence reconstruction as soon as practicable (but in any event within twelve

 

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(12) months) after closing the Hotel and reopen for continuous business operations as a Franchise System Hotel as soon as practicable (but in any event within twenty-four (24) months) after closing the Hotel, but not without complying with this Agreement’s other terms and conditions (including the applicable provisions of Article II).

If the cost to repair the damage from a fire or other casualty exceeds the Damage Threshold and Franchisee either fails to notify Hyatt within a reasonable time after the casualty that it intends to repair the damage and operate the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel, or notifies Hyatt that Franchisee elects not to repair the damage and operate the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel (including if Franchisee elects to repair the damage and re-open a hotel at the Site under a name other than “Hyatt”), then Hyatt or Franchisee may terminate this Agreement and Franchisee must pay Hyatt liquidated damages pursuant to Section 16.5. However, if a hotel is not reopened at the Site (either as a Franchise System Hotel or under any other brand) during the twenty-four (24)-month period after closing the Hotel, then the amount of liquidated damages payable pursuant to Section 16.5 shall not exceed the amount of any business interruption insurance proceeds that Franchisee receives. Franchisee must provide Hyatt such documentation as Hyatt may reasonably request to calculate the Damage Threshold and the insurance proceeds Franchisee receives in connection with any fire or other casualty.

10.3. Extension of Term . The Term will be extended for the period of time during which the Hotel is closed due to fire or other casualty. Franchisee need not make any payments of Royalty Fees or Centralized Services Charges while the Hotel is closed by reason of condemnation or casualty unless Franchisee receives insurance proceeds compensating Franchisee for lost Gross F&B Revenue and Gross Rooms Revenue.

ARTICLE XI

PROPRIETARY RIGHTS

11.1. Ownership and Goodwill of Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information . Hyatt’s Affiliate has licensed the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information to Hyatt to use and sublicense in franchising, developing, and operating Franchise System Hotels. Franchisee’s right to use the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information is derived only from this Agreement and is limited to Franchisee’s operating the Hotel according to this Agreement and all System Standards that Hyatt prescribes during the Term. Franchisee’s unauthorized use of the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, or Confidential Information is a breach of this Agreement and infringes Hyatt’s and its Affiliate’s rights in them. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that its use of the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information and any goodwill established by that use are exclusively for Hyatt’s and its Affiliate’s benefit and that this Agreement does not confer any goodwill or other interests in the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information upon Franchisee (other than the right to operate the Hotel under this Agreement). Franchisee may not at any time during or after the Term contest or assist any other person in contesting the validity, or Hyatt’s and its Affiliate’s ownership, of the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, or Confidential Information.

 

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11.2. Limitations on Franchisee’s Use of Proprietary Marks . Franchisee agrees to use the Proprietary Marks as the Hotel’s sole identification, except that Franchisee must identify itself as the Hotel’s independent owner in the manner that Hyatt periodically specifies. Franchisee may not use any Proprietary Mark (a) as part of any corporate or legal business name; (b) with any prefix, suffix, or other modifying words, terms, designs, or symbols (other than logos Hyatt licenses to Franchisee); (c) in providing or selling any unauthorized services or products; (d) as part of any domain name, homepage, meta tags, keyword, electronic address, or otherwise in connection with a Website (unless Hyatt has approved such use in advance); or (e) in any other manner Hyatt has not expressly authorized in writing. Franchisee (and, if applicable, any restaurant operators at the Hotel) may not use the Proprietary Marks in connection with any Hotel restaurant operations without Hyatt’s prior written consent, which it will not unreasonably withhold, and complying with all System Standards relating thereto. If Hyatt discovers Franchisee’s unauthorized use of the Proprietary Marks, in addition to Hyatt’s other rights and remedies under this Agreement and applicable law, Hyatt may require Franchisee to destroy (with no reimbursement from Hyatt) all offending items reflecting such unauthorized use.

Franchisee may not use any Proprietary Mark in advertising the transfer, sale, or other disposition of the Hotel or an ownership interest in Franchisee or any of its Owners without Hyatt’s prior written consent, which Hyatt will not unreasonably withhold. Franchisee agrees to display the Proprietary Marks prominently as Hyatt prescribes at the Hotel and on forms, advertising, supplies, and other materials Hyatt periodically designates. Franchisee agrees to give the notices of trade and service mark registrations that Hyatt specifies and to obtain any fictitious or assumed name registrations required under applicable law.

11.3. Notification of Infringements and Claims . Franchisee agrees to notify Hyatt promptly of any apparent infringement or challenge to Franchisee’s use of any Proprietary Mark, Copyrighted Materials, or Confidential Information, and not to communicate with any person other than Hyatt, its Affiliates, and its and their attorneys, and Franchisee’s attorneys, regarding any infringement, challenge, or claim. Hyatt and its Affiliates may take the action it and they deem appropriate (including no action) and control exclusively any litigation, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office proceeding, or other administrative proceeding arising from any infringement, challenge, or claim or otherwise concerning any Proprietary Mark, Copyrighted Materials, or Confidential Information. Franchisee agrees to sign any documents and take any other reasonable actions that, in the opinion of Hyatt’s and its Affiliates’ attorneys, are necessary or advisable to protect and maintain Hyatt’s and its Affiliates’ interests in any litigation or Patent and Trademark Office or other proceeding or otherwise to protect and maintain Hyatt’s and its Affiliates’ interests in the Proprietary Marks, Copyrighted Materials, and Confidential Information. Hyatt or its Affiliate will reimburse Franchisee’s reasonable out-of-pocket costs for taking any requested action.

11.4. Discontinuing Use of Proprietary Marks . If it becomes advisable at any time for Hyatt and/or Franchisee to modify, discontinue using, and/or replace any Proprietary Mark and/or to use one or more additional, substitute, or replacement trade or service marks together with or in lieu of any previously-designated Proprietary Mark, Franchisee agrees to comply with Hyatt’s directions within a reasonable time after receiving notice. Neither Hyatt nor its Affiliates will reimburse Franchisee for its expenses of changing the Hotel’s signs, for any loss of revenue

 

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due to any modified or discontinued Proprietary Mark, or for Franchisee’s expenses of promoting a modified or substitute trademark or service mark.

Hyatt’s rights in this Section 11.4 apply to any and all of the Proprietary Marks (and any portion of any Proprietary Mark) that this Agreement authorizes Franchisee to use. Hyatt may exercise these rights at any time and for any reason, business or otherwise, Hyatt thinks best. Franchisee acknowledges both Hyatt’s right to take this action and Franchisee’s obligation to comply with Hyatt’s directions.

11.5. Confidential Information . Hyatt and its Affiliates possess (and will continue to develop and acquire) Confidential Information, some of which constitutes trade secrets under applicable law, relating to developing and operating Franchise System Hotels. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Franchisee will not acquire any interest in Confidential Information, other than the right to use certain Confidential Information as Hyatt specifies while operating the Hotel during the Term, and that Confidential Information is proprietary, includes Hyatt’s and its Affiliate’s trade secrets, and is disclosed to Franchisee only on the condition that Franchisee agrees, and Franchisee hereby does agree, that Franchisee: (a) will not use Confidential Information in any other business or capacity; (b) will keep confidential each item deemed to be a part of Confidential Information, both during and after the Term (afterward for as long as the item is not generally known in the hotel industry); (c) will not make unauthorized copies of any Confidential Information disclosed via electronic medium or in written or other tangible form; and (d) will adopt and implement reasonable procedures that Hyatt periodically specifies to prevent unauthorized use or disclosure of Confidential Information.

All information that Hyatt or its Affiliates obtain from Franchisee or any other source about the Hotel or its guests under this Agreement or any related agreement (including agreements relating to the CRS and other software systems that Hyatt or its Affiliates provide or require), or otherwise related to the Hotel, is part of Confidential Information and Hyatt’s property. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Hyatt has the right, without prior notice to Franchisee, to access guest information in the Hotel’s computer systems and to use and allow others to use such guest data and information in any manner that Hyatt deems appropriate (subject to applicable law). However, Franchisee may at any time during and after the Term use, to the extent lawful and at Franchisee’s own risk, any information and data stored in the Hotel’s property management system database (subject to Section 4.11).

Confidential Information does not include information, knowledge, or know-how that Franchisee can demonstrate lawfully came to its attention before Hyatt or its Affiliate provided it to Franchisee directly or indirectly; that, at the time Hyatt or its Affiliate disclosed it to Franchisee, already had lawfully become generally known in the hotel industry through publication or communication by others (without violating an obligation to Hyatt or its Affiliate); or that, after Hyatt or its Affiliate disclose it to Franchisee, lawfully becomes generally known in the hotel industry through publication or communication by others (without violating an obligation to Hyatt or its Affiliate). However, if Hyatt includes any matter in Confidential Information, anyone who claims that it is not Confidential Information must prove that one of the exclusions provided in this paragraph is satisfied.

 

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11.6. Innovations . All inventions, innovations and discoveries relating to Franchise System Hotels if based or relying upon any element of the Hotel System (collectively, “ Innovations ”), whether or not protectable intellectual property and whether created by or for Franchisee, its Affiliates or contractors, or its or their employees, must be promptly disclosed to Hyatt and will be deemed to be Hyatt’s and its Affiliate’s sole and exclusive property, part of the Hotel System, and works made-for-hire for Hyatt and its Affiliate. However, Franchisee may not use any Innovation in operating the Hotel or otherwise without Hyatt’s prior written consent. If any Innovation does not qualify as a “work made-for-hire” for Hyatt and its Affiliate, by this paragraph Franchisee assigns ownership of that Innovation, and all related rights to that Innovation, to Hyatt and agrees to take whatever action (including signing assignment or other documents) that Hyatt requests to evidence its ownership or to help Hyatt obtain intellectual property rights in the Innovation.

ARTICLE XII

TRANSFER

12.1. Transfer by Hyatt . Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt maintains a staff to manage and operate the Hotel System and that staff members can change as employees come and go. Franchisee represents that Franchisee has not signed this Agreement in reliance on any particular owner, director, officer, or employee remaining with Hyatt in that capacity. Hyatt may change its ownership or form and/or assign this Agreement and any other agreement to a third party without restriction. After Hyatt’s assignment of this Agreement to a third party who expressly assumes the obligations under this Agreement, Hyatt no longer will have any performance or other obligations under this Agreement.

12.2. Transfer by Franchisee – Defined . Franchisee understands and acknowledges that the rights and duties this Agreement creates are personal to Franchisee and its Controlling Owners and that Hyatt has granted Franchisee the rights under this Agreement in reliance upon Hyatt’s perceptions of Franchisee’s and its Controlling Owners’ collective character, skill, aptitude, attitude, business ability, and financial capacity. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified in this Article XII, neither this Agreement (or any interest in this Agreement), the Hotel or substantially all of its assets, nor any ownership interest in Franchisee or any Owner (if such Owner is a legal entity) may be transferred without complying with the terms and conditions applicable to such transfer in this Article XII. A transfer of the Hotel’s ownership, possession, or control, or substantially all of its assets, may be made only with a transfer of this Agreement. Any transfer without complying with the terms and conditions applicable to such transfer in this Article XII, including Hyatt’s approval (where such approval is required under this Agreement) is a breach of this Agreement.

In this Agreement, the term “ transfer ” includes a voluntary, involuntary, direct, or indirect assignment, sale, gift, or other disposition of any interest in this Agreement; Franchisee; the Hotel or substantially all of its assets; any of Franchisee’s Owners (if such Owner is a legal entity); or any right to receive all or a portion of the Hotel’s, Franchisee’s, or any Owner’s profits or losses. An assignment, sale, gift, or other disposition includes the following events: (a) transfer of ownership of capital stock, a partnership or membership interest, or another form of ownership interest; (b) merger or consolidation or issuance of additional securities or other

 

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forms of ownership interest; (c) any sale of a security convertible to an ownership interest; (d) transfer in a divorce, insolvency, or entity dissolution proceeding or otherwise by operation of law; (e) transfer by will, declaration of or transfer in trust, or under the laws of intestate succession; or (f) pledge of this Agreement (to someone other than Hyatt) or of an ownership interest in Franchisee or one of its Owners as security, foreclosure upon the Hotel, or Franchisee’s transfer, surrender, or loss of the Hotel’s possession, control, or management.

12.3. Non-Control Transfers . If Franchisee is substantially complying with this Agreement, then, subject to the other provisions of this Article XII, Franchisee and/or any of its Owners may consummate any Non-Control Transfers, without seeking or receiving Hyatt’s consent, if:

(a) neither the proposed transferee nor any of its direct and indirect owners (if the transferee is a legal entity) is a Brand Owner;

(b) Franchisee notifies Hyatt at least ten (10) days before the transfer’s effective date; and

(c) such transfer does not, whether in one transaction or a series of related transactions (regardless of the time period over which these transfers take place), result in the transfer or creation of a direct or indirect Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee.

12.4. Control Transfers . Franchisee must notify Hyatt in writing reasonably in advance of Franchisee’s listing the Hotel for sale and promptly send Hyatt all information that Hyatt reasonably requests regarding any proposed sale. If Franchisee is substantially complying with this Agreement, then, subject to the other provisions of this Article XII, Hyatt will approve a Control Transfer if all of the following conditions are met before or concurrently with the effective date of the Control Transfer:

(a) the transferee and each of its direct and indirect Controlling Owners (if the transferee is a legal entity) has, in Hyatt’s judgment, the necessary business experience, aptitude, and financial resources to operate the Hotel and meets Hyatt’s then applicable standards for Franchise System Hotel franchisees. The proposed transferee must submit to Hyatt a complete application for a new franchise agreement (the “ Change of Ownership Application ”), accompanied by payment of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000) (although no such fee is due if the transfer is to the spouse, child, parent, or sibling of the Owner(s) or from one Owner to another). If Hyatt does not approve the Change of Ownership Application, Hyatt will refund any application fee paid, less Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500) for processing costs.

Hyatt will process the Change of Ownership Application according to its then current procedures, including review of criteria and requirements regarding upgrading the Hotel, credit, background investigations, operations ability and capacity, prior business dealings, market feasibility, guarantees, and other factors concerning the proposed transferee(s) (and, if applicable, its direct and indirect owner(s)) that Hyatt deems

 

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relevant. Hyatt has sixty (60) days from its receipt of the completed and signed Change of Ownership Application to consent or withhold its consent to the proposed transfer;

(b) Franchisee has paid all Royalty Fees, fees for Centralized Services, and other amounts owed to Hyatt, its Affiliates, and third party vendors; has submitted all required reports and statements; and has not violated any material provision of this Agreement or any other agreement with Hyatt or its Affiliate during both the sixty (60)-day period before Franchisee requested Hyatt’s consent to the transfer and the period between Franchisee’s request and the effective date of the transfer;

(c) the transferee’s general manager and other Core Management personnel that Hyatt specifies, if different from Franchisee’s general manager and Core Management personnel, satisfactorily complete Hyatt’s required training programs;

(d) the transferee shall (if the transfer is of this Agreement), or Franchisee and its Owners shall (if the transfer is of a Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee or one of its Controlling Owners), sign Hyatt’s then current form of franchise agreement and related documents (including guarantees and assumptions of obligations), any and all of the provisions of which may differ materially from any and all of those contained in this Agreement, including the Royalty Fee and fees for Mandatory Services and Non-Mandatory Services, and the term of which franchise agreement will be equal to the remaining unexpired portion of the Term;

(e) Franchisee (and its transferring Owners) sign Hyatt’s then current form of termination agreement and a general release, in a form reasonably satisfactory to Hyatt, of any and all claims against Hyatt and its owners, Affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents;

(f) Franchisee signs all documents Hyatt requests evidencing Franchisee’s agreement to remain liable for all obligations to Hyatt and its Affiliates existing before the effective date of the transfer except to the extent such obligations (including guaranties and assumptions of liabilities) are expressly assumed by the transferee; and

(g) Franchisee (if Franchisee will no longer operate the Hotel) and its transferring Owners will not directly or indirectly at any time or in any manner identify itself or themselves in any business as a current or former Franchise System Hotel or as one of Hyatt’s franchisees; use any Proprietary Mark, any colorable imitation of a Proprietary Mark, or other indicia of a Franchise System Hotel in any manner or for any purpose; or utilize for any purpose any trade name, trade or service mark, or other commercial symbol that suggests or indicates a connection or association with Hyatt or its Affiliates.

Hyatt may review all information regarding the Hotel that Franchisee gives the proposed transferee, correct any information that Hyatt believes is inaccurate, and give the transferee copies of any reports that Franchisee has given Hyatt or Hyatt has made regarding the Hotel.

 

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12.5. Permitted Transfers . Notwithstanding Section 12.4:

(a) Franchisee may mortgage the Hotel (but not this Agreement) to a lender that finances Franchisee’s acquisition, development, and/or operation of the Hotel without having to obtain Hyatt’s prior written approval and without complying with the other terms and conditions of Section 12.4. However, unless otherwise provided in any comfort letter or other agreement with the lender, any such mortgage or security interest shall be subject to all the terms and conditions of Section 12.4. Franchisee shall pay Hyatt its then current comfort letter fee for each comfort letter that Hyatt negotiates relating to the Hotel.

(b) Any Owner who is an individual may, without Hyatt’s prior written consent and without complying with the other terms and conditions of Section 12.4, transfer his or her interest in Franchisee (or Franchisee’s Owner) to a trust or other entity that he or she establishes for estate planning purposes, as long as he or she is a trustee of, or otherwise controls the exercise of the rights in Franchisee (or Franchisee’s Owner) held by, the trust or other entity, continues to comply with and ensures the trust’s or other entity’s compliance with the applicable provisions of this Agreement (if such Owner is a Guarantor), and notifies Hyatt in writing of the transfer at least ten (10) days prior to its anticipated effective date. Dissolution of or transfers from any trust or other entity described in this Section 12.5(b) are subject to all applicable terms and conditions of Section 12.3 or 12.4.

12.6. Transfers of Equity Interest Upon Death . Upon the death or mental incompetency of a person with a Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee or one of its Controlling Owners, that person’s executor, administrator, or personal representative (“ Representative ”) must, within three (3) months after the date of death or mental incompetency, transfer the Owner’s interest in Franchisee or the Controlling Owner to a third party, subject to Hyatt’s approval and the conditions set forth in Section 12.4. In the case of a transfer by devise or inheritance, if the heirs or beneficiaries cannot meet the conditions of Section 12.4 within this three (3)-month period, the Representative will have six (6) months from the date of death or mental incompetency to dispose of the interest, subject to Hyatt’s approval and the conditions set forth in Section 12.4. Hyatt may terminate this Agreement if this required transfer fails to occur within the required timeframe.

12.7. Registration of a Proposed Transfer of Equity Interests . All materials required by federal or state law for the sale of any interest in Franchisee or its Affiliates, including any materials to be used in an offering exempt from registration under federal or state securities laws, must be submitted to Hyatt for review before their distribution to prospective investors or filing with any government agency. No such offering may imply or state (by use of the Proprietary Marks or otherwise) that Hyatt is participating as an underwriter, issuer, or Franchisee’s representative, suggest that Hyatt endorses Franchisee’s offering or agrees with any financial projections, or otherwise contain any information about Hyatt, this Agreement, Hyatt’s relationship with Franchisee or the Hotel System that Hyatt disapproves. Hyatt’s review and approval of the materials will not in any way be Hyatt’s endorsement of the offering or representation that Franchisee has complied or is complying with applicable laws. Hyatt’s approval will mean only that Hyatt believes the references in the offering materials to Hyatt, this

 

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Agreement, Hyatt’s relationship with Franchisee and the Hotel System, and the use in the offering materials of the Proprietary Marks, are acceptable to Hyatt. Franchisee must pay Hyatt a non-refundable fee equal to Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) to review each proposed offering. Hyatt may require changes to Franchisee’s offering materials for the purposes specified above and has the right to request and receive a full indemnification from all participants in the offering before issuing Hyatt’s consent.

12.8. Non-Waiver of Claims . Hyatt’s consent to a transfer is not a representation of the fairness of the terms of any contract between Franchisee (or its Owners) and the transferee, a guarantee of the Hotel’s or transferee’s prospects of success, or a waiver of any claims Hyatt has against Franchisee (or its Owners) or of Hyatt’s right to demand the transferee’s full compliance with this Agreement.

ARTICLE XIII

SUCCESSOR FRANCHISE

13.1. Right to a Successor Franchise Agreement . When this Agreement expires:

(a) if Franchisee (and each Guarantor) has substantially complied with this Agreement during its Term;

(b) if Franchisee and its Owners then meet Hyatt’s then applicable standards for franchisees and owners of franchisees of Franchise System Hotels;

(c) if Franchisee received passing Quality Assurance Scores (as defined in the Manual) on all evaluations conducted during the preceding three (3)-year period;

(d) if Franchisee (and each Guarantor) is, both on the date Franchisee gives Hyatt written notice of Franchisee’s election to acquire a successor franchise (as provided below) and on the date on which the term of the successor franchise commences, in full compliance with this Agreement and all System Standards; and

(e) provided that (i) Franchisee maintains possession of and agrees (regardless of cost) to renovate, remodel, and/or expand the Hotel (which may include structural alterations), add or replace improvements and FF&E, and otherwise modify the Hotel as Hyatt requires to comply with the Hotel System and System Standards then applicable for similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations), or (ii) at Franchisee’s option, Franchisee secures a substitute site that Hyatt approves and constructs and develops that site according to the Hotel System and System Standards then applicable for similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations),

Hyatt will offer Franchisee the right to enter into a successor franchise agreement to operate the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel for a term commencing immediately upon the expiration of this Agreement and expiring ten (10) years from that date (the “ Successor Franchise Right ”). Franchisee agrees to sign the franchise agreement Hyatt then uses to grant franchises for Franchise System Hotels (modified as necessary to reflect the fact that it is for a successor

 

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franchise and that there will be no further renewal or successor franchise rights), which may contain provisions that differ materially from any and all of those contained in this Agreement, except that Hyatt will not charge a successor franchise fee.

If Franchisee (and each Guarantor) is not, both on the date Franchisee gives Hyatt written notice of Franchisee’s election to exercise the Successor Franchise Right and on the date on which the term of the successor franchise agreement is scheduled to commence, in full compliance with this Agreement and all System Standards, Franchisee acknowledges that Hyatt need not enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee, whether or not Hyatt had, or chose to exercise, the right to terminate this Agreement during its Term.

13.2. Grant of a Successor Franchise . Franchisee agrees to give Hyatt written notice of Franchisee’s election to exercise the Successor Franchise Right no more than twenty-one (21) months, and no less than eighteen (18) months, before this Agreement expires. Simultaneously with submitting its notice to exercise the Successor Franchise Right, Franchisee shall pay Hyatt its then current PIP fee, which is non-refundable. Hyatt agrees to give Franchisee written notice (“ Hyatt’s Notice ”), not more than ninety (90) days after Hyatt receives Franchisee’s notice, of Hyatt’s decision:

(a) to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee (subject to the other terms and conditions of this Article XIII);

(b) to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee on the condition that Franchisee corrects existing deficiencies of the Hotel or in Franchisee’s operation of the Hotel (subject to the other terms and conditions of this Article XIII); or

(c) not to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee based on Hyatt’s determination that Franchisee and its Guarantors have not satisfied any one or more of the conditions in Section 13.1.

If applicable, Hyatt’s Notice will:

(i) describe the renovation, remodeling, expansion, improvements, and/or modifications required to bring the Hotel into compliance with the Hotel System and System Standards then applicable for similarly situated new Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations), which must be completed to Hyatt’s satisfaction at least three (3) months before the Term expires; and

(ii) state the actions Franchisee must take to correct operating deficiencies and the time period in which Franchisee must correct these deficiencies.

If Hyatt elects not to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee, Hyatt’s Notice will describe the reasons for its decision. If Hyatt elects to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee, Franchisee’s effective exercise of the Successor Franchise Right is subject to Franchisee’s full compliance with all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement through the date of its expiration, in addition to Franchisee’s compliance with the obligations described in Hyatt’s Notice.

 

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If Hyatt’s Notice states that Franchisee must cure certain deficiencies of the Hotel or its operation as a condition to Hyatt’s entering into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee, Hyatt will give Franchisee written notice of Hyatt’s decision not to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee, based upon Franchisee’s failure to cure those deficiencies, at least ninety (90) days before this Agreement expires. However, Hyatt need not give Franchisee this ninety (90) days’ notice if Hyatt decides not to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee due to Franchisee’s breach of this Agreement during the ninety (90)-day period before it expires. If Hyatt fails to give Franchisee:

(1) notice of deficiencies in the Hotel, or in Franchisee’s operation of the Hotel, within ninety (90) days after Hyatt receives Franchisee’s timely election to exercise the Successor Franchise Right (if Hyatt elects to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee under subparagraphs (b) and (ii) above); or

(2) notice of Hyatt’s decision not to enter into a successor franchise agreement with Franchisee at least ninety (90) days before this Agreement expires, if this notice is required,

Hyatt may unilaterally extend the Term for the time period necessary to give Franchisee either reasonable time to correct deficiencies or the ninety (90) days’ notice of Hyatt’s refusal to grant a successor franchise. If Franchisee fails to notify Hyatt of Franchisee’s election to enter into a successor franchise agreement within the prescribed time period, Hyatt will deem this to be Franchisee’s decision not to exercise the Successor Franchise Right or enter into a successor franchise agreement with Hyatt.

13.3. Agreements/Releases . If Franchisee satisfies all of the other conditions for a successor franchise agreement, Franchisee and its Owners (as applicable) agree to sign the form of franchise agreement and any ancillary agreements Hyatt then customarily uses in granting franchises for Franchise System Hotels (modified as necessary to reflect the fact that it is for a successor franchise and that there will be no further renewal or successor franchise rights), which may contain provisions that differ materially from any and all of those contained in this Agreement, except that Hyatt will not charge a successor franchise fee. Franchisee and its Owners further agree to sign general releases, in a form satisfactory to Hyatt, of any and all claims against Hyatt and its owners, Affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, successors, and assigns. Hyatt will consider Franchisee’s or its Owners’ failure to sign these agreements and releases and to deliver them to Hyatt for acceptance and execution within thirty (30) days after their delivery to Franchisee to be an election not to enter into a successor franchise agreement.

ARTICLE XIV

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

14.1. Arbitration . All controversies, disputes, or claims between Hyatt (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, and/or employees), and Franchisee (and/or its Affiliates and Guarantors and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents and/or employees) arising out of or related to:

(a) this Agreement or any other agreement between Franchisee and Hyatt or any of its Affiliates;

 

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(b) Hyatt’s (or any of its Affiliates’) relationship with Franchisee;

(c) the scope or validity of this Agreement or any other agreement between Franchisee and Hyatt or any of its Affiliates, or any provision of any of those agreements (including the validity and scope of the arbitration obligation under this Section 14.1, which Hyatt and Franchisee acknowledge is to be determined by an arbitrator, not a court); or

(d) any aspect of the Hotel System or any System Standard

must be submitted for binding arbitration to the American Arbitration Association (the “ AAA ”). The arbitration proceedings will be conducted by one (1) arbitrator and, except as this Section otherwise provides, according to the AAA’s then current commercial arbitration rules. The arbitrator must be a licensed attorney, have hotel industry experience, and be listed on the AAA’s National Roster of Neutrals (or such other equivalent replacement roster of experienced arbitrators that the AAA designates). All proceedings will be conducted at a suitable location chosen by the arbitrator that is within ten (10) miles of Hyatt’s then current principal business address. All matters relating to arbitration will be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. Sections 1 et seq. ) and not by any state arbitration law.

The arbitrator has the right to award any relief that he or she deems proper, including money damages (with interest on unpaid amounts from the date due), specific performance, injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees and costs, provided that the arbitrator may not declare any Proprietary Mark generic or otherwise invalid or, except as expressly provided in Section 14.5 below, award any punitive, exemplary, or treble or other forms of multiple damages against either party (Hyatt and Franchisee hereby waiving to the fullest extent permitted by law, except as expressly provided in Section 14.5 below, any right to or claim for any punitive, exemplary, and treble and other forms of multiple damages against the other). The award of the arbitrator shall be conclusive and binding upon all parties hereto and judgment upon the award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

Hyatt and Franchisee agree to be bound by the provisions of any limitation on the period of time in which claims must be brought under applicable law or this Agreement, whichever expires earlier. Hyatt and Franchisee further agree that, in any arbitration proceeding, each must submit or file any claim that would constitute a compulsory counterclaim (as defined by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure) within the same proceeding as the claim to which it relates. Any claim that is not submitted or filed as required is forever barred. The arbitrator may not consider any settlement discussions or offers that might have been made by either Franchisee or Hyatt.

Hyatt and Franchisee agree that arbitration will be conducted on an individual, not a class-wide, basis; that only Hyatt (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, and/or employees, as applicable) and Franchisee (and/or its Guarantors and Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents and/or

 

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employees, as applicable) may be the parties to any arbitration proceedings described in this Section; and that an arbitration proceeding between Hyatt (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, and/or employees) and Franchisee (and/or its Guarantors and Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents and/or employees) may not be consolidated with any other arbitration proceeding between Hyatt and any other person. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary in this Section or Section 18.2, if any court or arbitrator determines that all or any part of the preceding sentence is unenforceable with respect to a dispute that otherwise would be subject to arbitration under this Section 14.1, then all parties agree that this arbitration clause shall not apply to that dispute and that such dispute shall be resolved in a judicial proceeding in accordance with this Article XIV (excluding this Section 14.1).

Despite Hyatt’s and Franchisee’s agreement to arbitrate, Hyatt and Franchisee each have the right in a proper case to seek temporary restraining orders and temporary or preliminary injunctive relief from a court of competent jurisdiction; provided, however, that Hyatt and Franchisee must contemporaneously submit the dispute for arbitration on the merits as provided in this Article XIV. The provisions of this Article are intended to benefit and bind certain third party non-signatories and will continue in full force and effect subsequent to and notwithstanding this Agreement’s expiration or termination.

14.2. Governing Law . All matters relating to arbitration will be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. Sections 1 et seq. ). Except to the extent governed by the Federal Arbitration Act , the United States Trademark Act of 1946 (Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. Sections 1051 et seq. ) or other federal law, this Agreement, the franchise, and all claims arising from the relationship between Hyatt (and/or any of its Affiliates) and Franchisee will be governed by the laws of the State of             , without regard to its conflict of laws rules, except that any              law regulating the offer or sale of franchises, business opportunities, or similar interests, or governing the relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee or any similar relationship, will not apply unless its jurisdictional requirements are met independently without reference to this Section.

14.3. Consent to Jurisdiction . Subject to the parties’ arbitration obligations and the provisions below, Franchisee and its Owners agree that all actions arising under this Agreement or otherwise as a result of the relationship between Franchisee and Hyatt (and/or any of its Affiliates) must be commenced in the state or federal court of             , and Franchisee (and each Owner) irrevocably submits to the jurisdiction of those courts and waives any objection Franchisee (or the Owner) might have to either the jurisdiction of or venue in those courts. Nonetheless, Franchisee and its Owners agree that Hyatt may enforce this Agreement and any arbitration orders and awards in the courts of the state or states in which Franchisee (or any of its Owners) is domiciled or the Hotel is located.

14.4. Attorneys’ Fees . If either party initiates a formal legal proceeding under or relating to this Agreement, the non-prevailing party in that proceeding (as determined by the judge or arbitrator, as applicable) must reimburse the prevailing party for all of the prevailing party’s costs and expenses that it incurs, including reasonable accounting, attorneys’, arbitrators’, and related fees.

 

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14.5. Waiver Of Punitive Damages And Jury Trial . EXCEPT FOR THE INDEMNIFICATION OBLIGATIONS FOR THIRD PARTY CLAIMS UNDER SECTIONS 8.3 AND 8.4, AND EXCEPT FOR PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, AND TREBLE AND OTHER FORMS OF MULTIPLE DAMAGES AVAILABLE TO EITHER PARTY UNDER FEDERAL LAW, HYATT AND FRANCHISEE (AND FRANCHISEE’S OWNERS) WAIVE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ANY RIGHT TO OR CLAIM FOR ANY PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, AND TREBLE AND OTHER FORMS OF MULTIPLE DAMAGES AGAINST THE OTHER AND AGREE THAT, IN THE EVENT OF A DISPUTE BETWEEN HYATT AND FRANCHISEE (AND/OR FRANCHISEE’S OWNERS), THE PARTY MAKING A CLAIM WILL BE LIMITED TO EQUITABLE RELIEF AND TO RECOVERY OF ANY ACTUAL DAMAGES IT SUSTAINS.

SUBJECT TO THE PARTIES’ ARBITRATION OBLIGATIONS, HYATT AND FRANCHISEE (AND FRANCHISEE’S OWNERS) IRREVOCABLY WAIVE TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING, OR COUNTERCLAIM, WHETHER AT LAW OR IN EQUITY, BROUGHT BY EITHER HYATT OR FRANCHISEE.

14.6. Limitations of Claims . EXCEPT FOR CLAIMS ARISING FROM FRANCHISEE’S NON-PAYMENT OR UNDERPAYMENT OF AMOUNTS FRANCHISEE OWES HYATT OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES, ANY AND ALL CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR HYATT’S (OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES’) RELATIONSHIP WITH FRANCHISEE WILL BE BARRED UNLESS A LEGAL PROCEEDING (IN THE REQUIRED OR PERMITTED FORUM) IS COMMENCED WITHIN EIGHTEEN (18) MONTHS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH THE PARTY ASSERTING THE CLAIM KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN OF THE FACTS GIVING RISE TO THE CLAIMS.

ARTICLE XV

DEFAULT AND TERMINATION

15.1. Termination by Hyatt After Opportunity to Cure . Hyatt has the right to terminate this Agreement, effective on the date stated in Hyatt’s written notice (or the earliest date permitted by applicable law), if:

(a) Franchisee fails to pay Hyatt or any of its Affiliates any fees or other amounts due under this Agreement or any other agreement between Franchisee and Hyatt or any of its Affiliates and does not cure that default within ten (10) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee;

(b) Franchisee fails to pay when due any financial obligation to a Provider and does not cure that default within thirty (30) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee;

(c) Franchisee fails to begin or continue the construction or renovation of the Hotel in accordance with the timeline set forth in Article II, or fails to open the Hotel on or before the Opening Deadline (as extended pursuant to Section 2.4.1, if applicable), and

 

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does not cure that default within thirty (30) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee; provided, however, such default shall not constitute grounds for termination of this Agreement if Franchisee shall have commenced the cure of such default within such thirty (30)-day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion, provided the same is cured within ninety (90) days after delivery of Hyatt’s original written notice of default to Franchisee;

(d) Franchisee fails to comply with any other provision of this Agreement, the Manual, any aspect of the Hotel System or any System Standard and does not cure that default within thirty (30) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee; provided, however, such default shall not constitute grounds for termination of this Agreement if Franchisee shall have commenced the cure of such default within such thirty (30)-day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion, provided the same is cured within ninety (90) days after delivery of Hyatt’s original written notice of default to Franchisee;

(e) Franchisee fails to comply with any other agreement with Hyatt or its Affiliates relating to the Hotel and does not cure that default within thirty (30) days (or such shorter time period that the other agreement specifies for curing that default) after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee; provided, however, such default shall not constitute grounds for termination of this Agreement if Franchisee shall have commenced the cure of such default within such thirty (30)-day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion, provided the same is cured within ninety (90) days after delivery of Hyatt’s original written notice of default to Franchisee;

(f) Franchisee does not buy, maintain, or send Hyatt evidence of required insurance coverage and does not cure that default within ten (10) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee.

15.2. Termination by Hyatt Without Opportunity to Cure . Hyatt may terminate this Agreement immediately, without giving Franchisee an opportunity to cure the default, effective upon delivery of written notice to Franchisee (or such later date as required by law), if:

(a) Franchisee or any Guarantor admits its inability to pay its debts as they become due or makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; suffers an action to dissolve or liquidate Franchisee or any Guarantor; commences or consents to any case, proceeding, or action seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or composition of debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, or relief of debtors; suffers an appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, or other official for any portion of its property; takes any corporate or other action to authorize any of the actions set forth above in this Section 15.2(a); has any case, proceeding, or other action commenced against it as debtor seeking an order for relief, or seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, or relief of debtors, or seeking appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, or other official for it or any portion of its property, and such case, proceeding, or other action results in

 

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an order for relief against it that is not fully stayed within seven (7) business days after being entered or remains un-dismissed for forty-five (45) days; has an attachment of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000) or more on all or any part of the Hotel or any of its assets that remains for at least ninety (90) days; or fails, within sixty (60) days after the entry of a final judgment against it in any amount exceeding One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000), to discharge, vacate, or reverse the judgment, to stay its execution, or, if appealed, to discharge the judgment within thirty (30) days after a final adverse decision in the appeal;

(b) Franchisee for any reason except as otherwise provided in this Agreement ceases constructing and/or operating the Hotel at the Site under the Proprietary Marks, or loses possession or the right to possess all or a significant part of the Hotel, or fails to identify the Hotel to the public as a Franchise System Hotel;

(c) Franchisee or any of its Affiliates contests in any court or proceeding all or any portion of Hyatt’s or its Affiliate’s ownership of the Hotel System or the validity of any Proprietary Mark, Copyrighted Materials, or Confidential Information or registers or attempts to register any Proprietary Mark or a derivative thereof;

(d) Franchisee (or any of its Owners) makes a transfer in violation of Article XII;

(e) Franchisee fails to identify the Hotel to the public as a Franchise System Hotel or discontinues operating the Hotel as a Franchise System Hotel, and it is not unreasonable for Hyatt under the facts and circumstances to conclude that Franchisee does not intend to continue to operate the Hotel under the Proprietary Marks;

(f) Franchisee or any of its Controlling Owners or Guarantors is, or is discovered to have been, convicted of a felony or enters or is discovered to have entered a plea of no contest to a felony that is likely, in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion, to reflect adversely upon Hyatt, the Hotel System, or the Proprietary Marks, including any violation of laws or regulations relating to discrimination, equal employment, or equal opportunity;

(g) Franchisee knowingly maintains false books and records of account or knowingly submits false or misleading reports or information to Hyatt or its Affiliate, including any information Franchisee provides or fails to provide on its franchise application;

(h) Franchisee (or any of its Owners) knowingly makes any unauthorized use or disclosure of any part of the Manual or any other Confidential Information;

(i) Hyatt determines that a serious threat or danger to public health or safety results from the construction, maintenance, or operation of the Hotel, such that an immediate shutdown of the Hotel or construction site is necessary to avoid a substantial liability or loss of goodwill to the Hotel System and Franchisee fails or refuses to close the Hotel and use commercially reasonable best efforts to immediately take such steps as are necessary to remove or remediate the threat or danger;

 

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(j) Hyatt exercises its right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 10.1 or 10.2;

(k) Franchisee violates any law, ordinance, or regulation that is likely, in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion, to reflect adversely upon Hyatt, the Hotel System, or the Proprietary Marks, and does not begin to cure the violation immediately after receiving notice from Hyatt or any other party and to complete the cure as soon as is reasonably practicable or within the timeframe allowed by law, whichever is shorter;

(l) Franchisee (1) fails on three (3) or more separate occasions within any twelve (12) consecutive month period to comply with this Agreement, whether the failures relate to the same or different obligations under this Agreement and whether or not Franchisee corrects the failures after Hyatt’s delivery of notice to Franchisee; or (2) fails on two (2) or more separate occasions within any six (6) consecutive month period to comply with the same obligation under this Agreement, whether or not Franchisee corrects the failures after Hyatt’s delivery of notice to Franchisee;

(m) Franchisee fails to pay when due any federal or state income, service, sales, or other taxes due on the Hotel’s operation and does not cure that default within thirty (30) days after delivery of Hyatt’s written notice of default to Franchisee and such failure is likely, in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion, to reflect adversely upon Hyatt, the Hotel System, or the Proprietary Marks,, unless Franchisee is in good faith contesting its liability for those taxes or has received an extension from the applicable government agency of the time within which to make such payments; or

(n) Franchisee’s or any of its Owners’ assets, property, or interests are blocked under any Anti-Terrorism Law or Franchisee or any of its Owners otherwise violate any Anti-Terrorism Law.

15.3. Suspension of Rights and Services . Franchisee acknowledges that, upon Franchisee’s failure to remedy any default specified in any written notice issued to Franchisee under Section 15.1 (following any cure period specified for such default in Section 15.1) or Section 15.2, Hyatt has the right, until Franchisee remedies such default to Hyatt’s satisfaction, to (a) suspend Franchisee’s right to use, and Franchisee’s access to, the CRS and/or other Centralized Services; (b) remove the Hotel from Hyatt’s advertising publications and programs and/or the National Directory; (c) suspend or terminate any temporary or other fee reductions to which Hyatt might have agreed in this Agreement or any amendment(s) to this Agreement; and/or (d) refuse to provide any operational support that this Agreement otherwise requires. If Hyatt suspends Franchisee from the CRS, Hyatt has the right to divert reservations previously made for the Hotel to other Franchise System Hotels or Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. Hyatt will exercise its right to suspend Franchisee’s rights only after Franchisee’s cure period (if any) under the written notice of default has expired. If Hyatt exercises its right to suspend Franchisee’s access to the CRS or other Centralized Services, such suspension will last no more than six (6) months, after which time Hyatt shall either reinstate Franchisee’s access or terminate this Agreement. Hyatt’s exercise of this right will not constitute an actual or constructive termination of this Agreement nor be Hyatt’s sole and exclusive remedy for Franchisee’s default. If Hyatt exercises its right not to terminate this Agreement but to implement any remedies in this

 

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Section 15.3, Hyatt may at any time after the appropriate cure period under the written notice has lapsed (if any) terminate this Agreement without giving Franchisee any additional corrective or cure period. During any suspension period, Franchisee must continue to pay all fees and other amounts due under, and otherwise comply with, this Agreement and all related agreements. Hyatt’s election to suspend Franchisee’s rights as provided above will not be a waiver by Hyatt of any breach of this Agreement. If Hyatt rescinds any suspension of Franchisee’s rights, Franchisee will not be entitled to any compensation, including repayment, reimbursement, refunds, or offsets, for any fees, charges, expenses, or losses Franchisee might have incurred due to Hyatt’s exercise of any suspension right provided above.

15.4. General Provisions Concerning Default and Termination . In any arbitration or other proceeding in which the validity of Hyatt’s or Franchisee’s termination of this Agreement or Hyatt’s refusal to enter into a successor franchise agreement is contested, Hyatt and Franchisee may cite and rely upon all of the other’s (and any Guarantor’s) defaults or violations of this Agreement, not only the defaults or violations referenced in any written notice. No notice of termination or refusal to enter into a successor franchise agreement will relieve either Hyatt or Franchisee of its obligations that survive termination of this Agreement, including its de-identification, indemnification, and liquidated damages payment obligations. Franchisee agrees that Hyatt has the right and authority (but not the obligation) to notify Franchisee’s Lender and any or all of Franchisee’s Owners, creditors and/or suppliers if Franchisee is in default under, or Hyatt has terminated, this Agreement.

ARTICLE XVI

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS UPON EXPIRATION OR TERMINATION

16.1. De-Identification . Beginning on the date upon which this Agreement terminates or expires, Franchisee must immediately cease using the Hotel System and begin to de-identify the Hotel by taking whatever action Hyatt deems necessary to ensure that the Hotel no longer is identified as a hotel within the Hotel System. Franchisee agrees to take the following steps, among other actions, to de-identify the Hotel:

(a) return to Hyatt the Manual, all other Copyrighted Materials, and all materials containing Confidential Information or bearing any of the Proprietary Marks and cease using all such items;

(b) remove all items identifying the Hotel System, including all elements of the trade dress and other distinctive features, devices, and/or items associated with the Hotel System, such as (for example) FF&E that is uniquely identified with a Franchise System Hotel or a Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel, interior signage, lobby signage, door identifier signage, directional signage, phone face plates, memo pads, pens, cups, glasses, signage on the back of guest room doors, and all other signage bearing one or more of the Proprietary Marks. With respect to the Hotel’s exterior signage, Franchisee must (i) immediately schedule the permanent removal of all exterior signage bearing any of the Proprietary Marks and give Hyatt written evidence of that schedule, (ii) immediately cover all exterior signage in a professional manner, and (iii) permanently remove all exterior signage within thirty (30) days after this Agreement expires or terminates. In

 

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addition, Franchisee must make at its expense such specific additional changes that Hyatt reasonably requests to de-identify the Hotel;

(c) change the Hotel’s telephone listing and immediately stop answering the telephone in any way that would lead a current or prospective customer, vendor, or other person to believe that the Hotel still is associated with the Hotel System or Hyatt;

(d) stop all uses of the Proprietary Marks on any Franchisee Organization Website and require all third-party Websites to remove any references that directly or indirectly associate the Hotel with the Proprietary Marks;

(e) cancel all fictitious, assumed, or other business name registrations relating to Franchisee’s use of the Proprietary Marks; and

(f) permit Hyatt’s representatives to enter the Hotel on no less than twenty four (24) hours’ prior notice to conduct inspections on a periodic basis until de-identification is completed to Hyatt’s satisfaction.

Beginning on the date upon which this Agreement terminates or expires and continuing until de-identification is completed to Hyatt’s satisfaction, Franchisee must maintain a conspicuous sign at the registration desk in a form that Hyatt specifies stating that the Hotel no longer is associated with the Hotel System. Franchisee and its Affiliates may not, without Hyatt’s permission, represent to former Hotel customers, prospective customers or the public, or otherwise hold itself out to the public as a former franchisee of Hyatt’s or as the former operator of a Franchise System Hotel, except in the limited case of informing investors, prospective investors, or lenders that Franchisee has general experience in operating a Franchise System Hotel. Franchisee acknowledges that the de-identification process is intended to alert the public immediately that the Hotel is not affiliated with the Hotel System. Subject to the terms of Subsection (b) above with respect to exterior signage, Franchisee shall complete all de-identification obligations under this Section 16.1 to Hyatt’s satisfaction, and provide a written certification to Hyatt indicating such completion, on or before the date which is fifteen (15) days after this Agreement terminates or expires.

If Franchisee fails to comply strictly with all of the de-identification provisions in this Section 16.1, Franchisee agrees to: (i) pay Hyatt a royalty fee of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) per day until de-identification is completed to Hyatt’s satisfaction; and (ii) permit Hyatt’s representatives to enter the Hotel to complete the de-identification process at Franchisee’s expense. Franchisee agrees to pay all of Hyatt’s costs and expenses of enforcing these de-identification provisions, including all attorneys’ fees and costs. Nothing in this Section or this Agreement limits Hyatt’s rights or remedies at law or in equity if Franchisee does not complete the de-identification procedures as provided above, including Hyatt’s right to seek and obtain an injunction to remove or cause to be removed, at Franchisee’s sole cost and expense, all signage from the Hotel.

16.2. Pay Amounts Owed . Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, within five (5) days after the termination or expiration of this Agreement, Franchisee must pay all amounts owed to Hyatt and its Affiliates under this Agreement or any other agreement.

 

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16.3. Contacting Customers . Upon this Agreement’s termination or expiration for any reason, Hyatt has the right to contact those individuals or entities who have reserved rooms with Franchisee through the CRS, and any other Hotel customers, and inform them that Franchisee’s lodging facility no longer is part of the Hotel System. Hyatt also has the right to inform those individuals, entities and customers of other Franchise System Hotels and other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels that are proximately located to Franchisee’s lodging facility in case they prefer to change their reservations so that they can stay at a Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel. Hyatt’s exercise of these rights will not constitute an interference with Franchisee’s contractual or business relationship. Franchisee acknowledges that the individuals and entities that made reservations with Franchisee’s lodging facility when it was a Hotel under this Agreement constitute Hyatt’s customers.

16.4. Centralized Services . Beginning on the date that this Agreement terminates or expires, Hyatt and its Affiliates shall stop providing Centralized Services to the Hotel.

16.5. Liquidated Damages . Franchisee acknowledges and confirms that Hyatt will suffer substantial damages as a result of the termination of this Agreement. Some of those damages include lost Royalty Fees, lost market penetration and goodwill, loss of Hotel System representation in the Hotel’s market area, confusion of national accounts and individual customers, disadvantage in competing for national accounts and other types of bookings for Franchise System Hotels, lost opportunity costs, and expenses that Hyatt will incur in developing another franchise in the Hotel’s market area (collectively, “ Brand Damages ”). Hyatt and Franchisee acknowledge that Brand Damages are difficult to estimate accurately and proof of Brand Damages would be burdensome and costly, although such damages are real and meaningful to Hyatt. Therefore, upon termination of this Agreement before the Term expires for any reason (subject to Article X), Franchisee agrees to pay Hyatt, within fifteen (15) days after the date of such termination, liquidated damages in a lump sum as calculated below.

(a) If this Agreement contemplates Franchisee’s constructing a new Hotel at the Site pursuant to Section 2.1 and construction of the Hotel had not yet begun (as described in Subsection 2.1(d)) as of the effective date of termination, then the liquidated damages are One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) multiplied by the number of approved guest rooms at the Hotel. However, if construction begins on a hotel or other lodging facility at the Site (whether or not Franchisee then owns or controls the Site), within one (1) year after the effective date of termination, then Franchisee must pay Hyatt, within thirty (30) days after Hyatt’s notice to Franchisee, the difference between the liquidated damages calculated under Subsection 16.5(b) below and the liquidated damages that Franchisee already paid to Hyatt.

(b) Subject to Subsection 16.5(a), if this Agreement terminates before the third anniversary of the Opening Date, the liquidated damages are the product of (i)(A) six percent (6%) times the average daily revenue per available guest room for all Franchise System Hotels in the United States (including those that Hyatt and its Affiliates own, manage, and franchise) for the previous twelve (12) full calendar months, plus (B) three percent (3%) times the average daily food and beverage revenue per available guest room for all Franchise System Hotels in the United States (including those that Hyatt and its Affiliates own, manage, and franchise) for the previous twelve (12) full

 

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calendar months; times (ii) one thousand eight hundred twenty-five (1,825) days; times (iii) the number of guest rooms at the Hotel.

(c) If this Agreement terminates on or after the third anniversary of the Opening Date, the liquidated damages are the product of (i) the average monthly Royalty Fees that Franchisee owed Hyatt during the twelve (12) full calendar month period before the month of termination, without regard for any provision in this Agreement or any amendment(s) to this Agreement deferring or reducing any portion of those fees, times (ii) sixty (60) or the number of months remaining in this Agreement’s term, whichever is less.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, if this Agreement is terminated because of a Consequential Termination, then the liquidated damages are one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the amount calculated in (a), (b) or (c) above (as applicable).

Franchisee agrees that the liquidated damages calculated under this Section 16.5 represent the best estimate of Hyatt’s Brand Damages arising from any termination of this Agreement before the Term expires. Franchisee’s payment of the liquidated damages to Hyatt will not be considered a penalty but, rather, a reasonable estimate of fair compensation to Hyatt for the Brand Damages Hyatt will incur because this Agreement did not continue for the Term’s full length. Franchisee acknowledges that Franchisee’s payment of liquidated damages is full compensation to Hyatt only for the Brand Damages resulting from the early termination of this Agreement and is in addition to, and not in lieu of, Franchisee’s obligations to pay other amounts due to Hyatt under this Agreement as of the date of termination and to comply strictly with the de-identification procedures of Section 16.1 and Franchisee’s other post-termination obligations. If any valid law or regulation governing this Agreement limits Franchisee’s obligation to pay, and Hyatt’s right to receive, the liquidated damages for which Franchisee is obligated under this Section 16.5, Franchisee shall be liable to Hyatt for any and all Brand Damages Hyatt incurs, now or in the future, as a result of Franchisee’s breach of this Agreement.

16.6. Survival . The following provisions of this Agreement shall survive termination or expiration of this Agreement regardless of the circumstances: Sections 6.4, 7.4, 8.1, 8.3, 8.4, 10.1.2 (last three (3) sentence), 10.1.3, 10.2 (last paragraph), 11.1, 11.5, 11.6, and 15.4 and Articles IX, XIV, XVI, XVII and XVIII. Additionally, all of Franchisee’s covenants, obligations, and agreements that by their terms or by implication are to be performed after the termination or expiration of the Term shall survive such termination or expiration.

ARTICLE XVII

NOTICES

All written notices, reports, and payments permitted or required to be delivered by this Agreement or the Manual will be deemed to be delivered: (a) at the time delivered by hand; (b) at the time delivered via computer transmission if the sender has confirmation of a successful transmission, and, in the case of the Royalty Fees and other amounts due, at the time Hyatt actually receives payment via electronic funds transfer; (c) one (1) business day after transmission by facsimile or other electronic system if the sender has confirmation of successful

 

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transmission; (d) one (1) business day after being placed in the hands of a nationally recognized commercial courier service for next business day delivery; or (e) three (3) business days after placement in the United States Mail by Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested, postage prepaid. Any notice to Hyatt must be sent to the address specified below, although Hyatt may change this address for notice by giving Franchisee thirty (30) days’ prior notice by any of the means specified in subparagraphs (a) through (e) above. Any notice that Hyatt sends Franchisee may be sent to the one (1) person identified below, even if Franchisee has multiple Owners, at the address specified below. Franchisee may change the person and/or address for notice only by giving Hyatt thirty (30) days’ prior notice by any of the means specified in subparagraphs (a) through (e) above.

 

Hyatt:   

Hyatt Franchising, L.L.C.

71 South Wacker Drive

Chicago, Illinois 60606

Attention: Senior Vice President

   Franchisee :    ENTITYNAMECAPS

PCADDRESS1

PCADDRESS2

Attention: PCNAME

  

Any required payment or report that Hyatt does not actually receive during regular business hours on the date due (or postmarked by postal authorities at least two (2) business days before then) will be deemed delinquent. Notices delivered via the means specified above will be deemed delivered as of the times specified above whether or not Franchisee accepts delivery.

ARTICLE XVIII

GENERAL

18.1. The Exercise of Hyatt’s Judgment . Hyatt has the right to develop, operate, and change the Hotel System and System Standards in any manner not specifically prohibited by this Agreement in the best interests of the Hotel System, in Hyatt’s judgment. Whenever Hyatt has reserved in this Agreement a right to take or to withhold an action, or to grant or decline to grant Franchisee the right to take or omit an action, Hyatt may, except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, make its decision or exercise its rights based on information readily available to it and its judgment of what is in the best interests of Hyatt and its Affiliates, Franchise System Hotel franchisees generally, or the Hotel System at the time its decision is made, without regard to whether Hyatt could have made other reasonable or even arguably preferable alternative decisions or whether its decision promotes Hyatt’s (or its Affiliates’) financial or other individual interest.

18.2. Severability and Interpretation . Except as expressly provided to the contrary in this Agreement (including in Section 14.1), each section, subsection, paragraph, term, and provision of this Agreement is severable, and if, for any reason, any part is held to be invalid or contrary to or in conflict with any applicable present or future law or regulation in a final, unappealable ruling issued by any court, agency, or tribunal with competent jurisdiction, that ruling will not impair the operation of, or otherwise affect, any other portions of this Agreement, which will continue to have full force and effect and bind the parties. If any applicable and binding law or rule of any jurisdiction requires more notice than this Agreement requires of this Agreement’s termination or of Hyatt’s refusal to offer Franchisee the Successor Franchise Right, or some other action that this Agreement does not require, or if, under any applicable and

 

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binding law or rule of any jurisdiction, any provision of this Agreement or any System Standard is invalid, unenforceable, or unlawful, the notice and/or other action required by the law or rule will be substituted for the comparable provisions of this Agreement, and Hyatt may modify the invalid or unenforceable provision or System Standard to the extent required to be valid and enforceable or delete the unlawful provision in its entirety. Franchisee agrees to be bound by any promise or covenant imposing the maximum duty the law permits that is subsumed within any provision of this Agreement, as though it were separately articulated in and made a part of this Agreement.

18.3. Waiver of Obligations and Force Majeure . Hyatt and Franchisee may by written instrument unilaterally waive or reduce any obligation of or restriction upon the other under this Agreement, effective upon delivery of written notice to the other or another effective date stated in the notice of waiver. Any waiver granted will be without prejudice to any other rights Hyatt or Franchisee have, will be subject to continuing review, and may be revoked at any time and for any reason effective upon delivery of ten (10) days’ prior written notice.

Hyatt and Franchisee will not waive or impair any right, power, or option this Agreement reserves (including Hyatt’s right to demand compliance with every term, condition, and covenant or to declare any breach to be a default and to terminate this Agreement before the Term expires) because of any custom or practice that varies from this Agreement’s terms; Hyatt’s or Franchisee’s failure, refusal, or neglect to exercise any right under this Agreement or to insist upon the other’s compliance with this Agreement, including any System Standard; Hyatt’s waiver of or failure to exercise any right, power, or option, whether of the same, similar, or different nature, with other Franchise System Hotels; the existence of franchise agreements for other Franchise System Hotels that contain provisions differing from those contained in this Agreement; or Hyatt’s acceptance of any payments due from Franchisee after any breach of this Agreement. No special or restrictive legend or endorsement on any check or similar item given to either party will be a waiver, compromise, settlement, or accord and satisfaction. The receiving party is authorized to remove any legend or endorsement, and they will have no effect.

Neither Hyatt nor Franchisee will be liable for loss or damage or be in breach of this Agreement, including Franchisee’s obligations to develop and open the Hotel under Article II, if Hyatt’s or Franchisee’s failure to perform their respective obligations results from Force Majeure. Any delay resulting from Force Majeure will extend performance accordingly or excuse performance, in whole or in part, as may be reasonable, except that Force Majeure will not excuse payments of amounts owed at the time of the occurrence or payment of Royalty Fees or other payments due afterward.

18.4. Binding Effect . This Agreement is valid when signed by Franchisee and signed and accepted by Hyatt at its office in Chicago, Illinois.

18.5. Entire Agreement and Construction . This Agreement is binding upon Hyatt and Franchisee and their respective executors, administrators, heirs, beneficiaries, permitted assigns, and successors in interest. Subject to Hyatt’s right to modify the Manual, the Hotel System, System Standards, and those Centralized Services, and allocation of costs for those services, on Exhibit C , from time to time, this Agreement may not be modified except by a written agreement signed by both Hyatt’s and Franchisee’s duly-authorized officers. The Preliminary Statement

 

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and Exhibits, and the attached PIP (if applicable), are a part of this Agreement which, together with System Standards contained in the Manual (which may be periodically modified, as provided in this Agreement), constitutes Hyatt’s and Franchisee’s entire agreement, and there are no other oral or written understandings or agreements between Hyatt and Franchisee, and no oral or written representations by Hyatt, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, the franchise relationship, or the Hotel (any understandings or agreements reached, or any representations made, before this Agreement are superseded by this Agreement). Franchisee may not rely on any alleged oral or written understandings, agreements, or representations not contained in this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall disclaim or require Franchisee to waive reliance on any representation that Hyatt made in the most recent franchise disclosure document (including its exhibits and amendments) that Hyatt delivered to Franchisee or its representative.

Any policies that Hyatt adopts and implements from time to time to guide Hyatt in its decision-making are subject to change, are not a part of this Agreement, and are not binding on Hyatt. Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, nothing in this Agreement is intended or deemed to confer any rights or remedies upon any person or legal entity not a party to this Agreement.

References in this Agreement to “Hyatt” with respect to all of Hyatt’s rights and all of Franchisee’s obligations to Hyatt under this Agreement include any of Hyatt’s Affiliates, and its and their successors and assigns, with whom Franchisee deals. The headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and will not control or affect the meaning or construction of any provision. Time is of the essence in this Agreement, and all provisions of this Agreement shall be so interpreted.

18.6. Hyatt’s Withholding of Consent . Except where this Agreement expressly obligates Hyatt reasonably to approve or not unreasonably to withhold its approval of any of Franchisee’s actions or requests, Hyatt has the absolute right to refuse any request Franchisee makes or to withhold its approval of any of Franchisee’s proposed, initiated, or completed actions that require its approval. However, Hyatt may withhold its consent, whenever and wherever otherwise required, if Franchisee is in default under this Agreement.

18.7. Cumulative Remedies . Hyatt’s and Franchisee’s rights under this Agreement are cumulative, and their exercise or enforcement of any right or remedy under this Agreement will not preclude their exercise or enforcement of any other right or remedy that they are entitled by law to enforce.

ARTICLE XIX

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

To induce Hyatt to sign this Agreement and grant Franchisee the rights under this Agreement, Franchisee represents, warrants and acknowledges:

(a) That Franchisee has independently investigated the Franchise System Hotel franchise opportunity, including the current and potential market conditions and

 

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competitive factors and risks, and recognizes that, like any other business, the nature of a Franchise System Hotel’s business will evolve and change over time.

(b) That an investment in a Franchise System Hotel involves business risks that could result in the loss of a significant portion or all of Franchisee’s investment.

(c) That Franchisee’s business abilities and efforts are vital to its success.

(d) That retaining customers for the Hotel will require a high level of customer service and strict adherence to the Hotel System and System Standards, and that Franchisee is committed to maintaining the System Standards.

(e) That Franchisee has not received from Hyatt, and is not relying upon, and that Hyatt expressly disclaims making, any representation, warranty or guaranty, express or implied, as to the actual or potential volume, sales, income or profits of the Hotel or any other Franchise System Hotel.

(f) That any information Franchisee has acquired from other Franchise System Hotel owners, including information regarding their sales, profits or cash flows, is not information obtained from Hyatt, and Hyatt makes no representation about that information’s accuracy.

(g) That Franchisee has no knowledge of any representations made about the Franchise System Hotel franchise opportunity by Hyatt, its Affiliates or any of their respective officers, directors, owners or agents that are contrary to the statements made in Hyatt’s Franchise Disclosure Document or to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

(h) That in all of their dealings with Franchisee, Hyatt’s officers, directors, employees and agents act only in a representative, and not in an individual, capacity and that business dealings between Franchisee and them as a result of this Agreement are only between Franchisee and Hyatt.

(i) That it is relying solely on Hyatt, and not on any Affiliate of Hyatt, with regard to Hyatt’s financial obligations under this Agreement, and no employee or other person speaking on behalf of, or otherwise representing, Hyatt has made any statement or promise to the effect that Hyatt’s Affiliates guarantee Hyatt’s performance or financially back Hyatt.

(j) That Franchisee has represented to Hyatt, to induce Hyatt’s entering into this Agreement, that all statements Franchisee has made and all materials (including ownership information and descriptions of Franchisee’s and/or its Affiliates’ ownership structure(s)) it has given Hyatt in acquiring the rights under this Agreement are accurate and complete and that Franchisee has made no misrepresentations or material omissions in obtaining those rights.

(k) That none of Franchisee’s Affiliates or Owners is a Brand Owner.

 

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(l) That Franchisee has read this Agreement and Hyatt’s Franchise Disclosure Document and understands and accepts that the terms and covenants in this Agreement are reasonable and necessary for Hyatt to maintain its high standards of quality and service, and to protect and preserve the goodwill of the Proprietary Marks.

(m) That Franchisee has independently evaluated this opportunity, including by using its own business professionals and advisors, and has relied solely upon those evaluations in deciding to enter into this Agreement.

(n) That Franchisee has been afforded an opportunity to ask any questions it has and to review any appropriate materials of interest to Franchisee concerning the Franchise System Hotel franchise opportunity.

(o) That Franchisee has been afforded an opportunity, and Hyatt has encouraged Franchisee, to have this Agreement and all other agreements and materials that Hyatt has given or made available to Franchisee reviewed by an attorney and has either done so or intentionally chosen not to do so.

(p) That Franchisee has a net worth that is sufficient to make the investment in the Franchise System Hotel franchise opportunity represented by this Agreement, and Franchisee will have sufficient funds to meet all of Franchisee’s obligations under this Agreement.

(q) That any statements, oral or written, by Hyatt or its agents before the execution of this Agreement were for informational purposes only and do not constitute any representation or warranty by Hyatt, and Hyatt’s only representations, warranties, and obligations are those specifically set forth in this Agreement or in the most recent franchise disclosure document (including its exhibits and amendments) that Hyatt delivered to Franchisee or its representative. Franchisee must not rely on, and the parties do not intend to be bound by, any statement or representation not contained in this Agreement or such disclosure document.

[ Signature page follows ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have signed this Agreement as of the dates set forth by their signatures, to be effective as of the Effective Date (regardless of the dates of the parties’ signatures).

 

FRANCHISEE:
ENTITYNAMECAPS
By:  

 

  SIGNEENAME
  SIGNEETITLE
Date:  

 

Attest:  

 

FRANCHISOR:
HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C.
By:  

 

  Senior Vice President
Date:  

 

Attest:  

 

 

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EXHIBIT A

to the

HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C. FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

DEFINED TERMS

In addition to any other terms defined in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the respective meanings as indicated below.

ADS ” means the alternative distribution systems that Hyatt may periodically authorize or require for Franchisee’s Hotel and other similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations).

Affiliate ” means, with respect to a party, any person or entity directly or indirectly owned or controlled by, under common control with, or owning or controlling, such party. For purposes of this definition, “ control ” means the power to direct or cause the direction of management and policies.

Anti-Terrorism Laws ” mean Executive Order 13224 issued by the President of the United States, the USA PATRIOT Act, and all other present and future federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, regulations, policies, lists, and other requirements of any governmental authority addressing or in any way relating to terrorist acts and acts of war.

Area of Protection ” means the geographic area described in Exhibit B .

Brand Owner ” means any entity that is a franchisor or owner, or is affiliated with or manages hotels exclusively for the franchisor or owner, of a hotel concept that has at least five (5) hotels operating under that concept’s trade name and that, in Hyatt’s reasonable opinion, competes with Franchise System Hotels.

Chain Services ” is defined in Exhibit C .

Centralized Services ” is defined in Exhibit C .

Centralized Services Costs ” is defined in Exhibit C .

Centralized Services Charges ” is defined in Exhibit C .

Confidential Information ” means (a) site selection criteria; (b) the substance, design, and construction of Franchise System Hotels and the Design Standards; (c) training and operations materials and manuals, including the Manual; (d) methods, formats, specifications, standards, systems, procedures, sales and marketing techniques, knowledge, and experience used in developing and operating Franchise System Hotels; (e) marketing and advertising programs for Franchise System Hotels; (f) information regarding the Hotel’s guests; (g) knowledge of specifications for and suppliers of FF&E and other products and supplies that are uniquely identified with Franchise System Hotels or other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels; (h) any part of the Technology System and other computer software or other technology that is proprietary to Hyatt,

 

A-1


its Affiliates or the Hotel System, including digital passwords and identifications and any source code of, and data, reports, and other printed materials generated by, the software or other technology; (i) knowledge of the operating results and financial performance of Franchise System Hotels other than the Hotel; and (j) graphic designs and related intellectual property.

Consequential Termination ” means a termination of this Agreement if (a) such termination involves a transfer of the Hotel or its assets, or a Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee or its Controlling Owner, to a Competitor; (b) there are three (3) or more franchise agreements for Franchise System Hotels (including this Agreement) with Franchisee or its Affiliates that Hyatt terminates because of Franchisee’s (or its Affiliate’s) default or Franchisee (or its Affiliate) terminates in breach of the agreement; For purposes of this definition, a “ Competitor ” is any entity that owns, franchises and/or manages, or is an affiliate of any entity that owns, franchises and/or manages, a full-service ( i.e. , typically offers to hotel guests three (3) meals per day) hotel brand, trade name or service mark for a system of at least four (4) hotels with an average daily room rate for all or substantially all of the hotels in the U.S. during the then most recent full calendar year that is at least sixty percent (60%) of the average daily room rate for Franchise System Hotels.

Control Transfer ” means any transfer (as defined in Section 12.2) of (a) this Agreement (or any interest in this Agreement), (b) the Hotel or all or substantially all of its assets, (c) a Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee, whether in one transaction or a series of related transactions (regardless of the time period over which these transfers take place), or (d) a Controlling Ownership Interest in any Controlling Owner (if such Owner is a legal entity), whether in one transaction or a series of related transactions (regardless of the time period over which these transfers take place).

Controlling Owner ” means an individual or legal entity holding a direct or indirect Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee.

Controlling Ownership Interest ” in a legal entity means, whether directly or indirectly, either (a) the record or beneficial ownership of, or right to control, fifty percent (50%) or more of equity ownership of the entity, or (b) the effective control of the power to direct or cause the direction of that entity’s management and policies, including a general partnership interest (with respect to an entity that is a partnership) and a manager or managing member interest (with respect to an entity that is a limited liability company), or the power to appoint or remove any such party. In the case of (a) or (b), the determination of whether a “Controlling Ownership Interest” exists is made both immediately before and immediately after a proposed transfer.

Copyrighted Materials ” means all copyrightable materials that Hyatt or its Affiliates periodically develop and Hyatt periodically designates for use in connection with the Hotel System, including the Manual, videotapes, CDs/DVDs, marketing materials (including advertising, promotional, and public relations materials), architectural drawings (including the Design Standards and all architectural plans, designs, and layouts such as, without limitation, site, floor, plumbing, lobby, electrical, and landscape plans), building designs, and business and marketing plans, whether or not registered with the U.S. Copyright Office.

 

A-2


Core Management ” means the general manager, rooms director, director of sales, engineering director, director of food and beverage, director of catering, and controller for the Hotel.

CRS ” means the central reservations system and related services for Franchise System Hotels, as Hyatt may periodically modify it.

Design Standards ” means the standards that Hyatt prescribes for the Hotel System, as in effect on the Effective Date, detailing certain design criteria to be incorporated into the design and layout of the Hotel, as Hyatt determines them in its sole discretion.

Effective Date ” means the date listed on page one of this Agreement, regardless of the date upon which Hyatt and Franchisee sign this Agreement.

Excluded Costs ” is defined in Exhibit C .

FF&E ” means all fixtures; equipment; furnishings; furniture; telephone systems; communications systems; facsimile machines; copiers; signs; the Technology System and other property management, revenue management, in-room entertainment, and other computer and technology systems; and other similar items that Hyatt periodically specifies for the Hotel System.

Food and Beverage Operations ” means all food and beverage operations for Hotel guests and patrons consisting of: (a) restaurant, dining, bar, lounge, and retail food and beverage services; (b) banquet, meeting, event, catering (including outside catering), and room services; and (c) all other food, beverage and related services at the Hotel.

Force Majeure” means (a) compliance with the orders, requests or recommendations of any federal, state, or municipal government, unless such order, request or recommendation arises because of Hyatt’s or Franchisee’s failure to comply with any applicable law, regulation or ordinance; (b) fire, flood, accident, hurricane, or other calamity or act of God; (c) strikes, embargoes, war, civil disturbance, acts of terrorism or similar events; or (d) any other similar event or cause.

Franchise System Hotels ” means a hotel or resort using the Hotel System and principally identified by either the “HYATT REGENCY®” name or the name “HYATT®” without a Sub-brand Name, whether operated by Hyatt, its Affiliate, or a franchisee or licensee. An example of a hotel that is principally identified by the name “HYATT®” without a Sub-brand Name would be “Hyatt Arlington” or another hotel principally identified by the name “Hyatt” together with a geographic identifier specific to that hotel. However, a timeshare or vacation club resort or lodging facility that operates under the name “Hyatt” is not a Franchise System Hotel.

GDS ” means the global distribution systems that Hyatt periodically authorizes or requires for Franchisee’s Hotel and other similarly situated Franchise System Hotels (subject to Reasonable Deviations). Some current GDS are Sabre, Apollo and Worldspan.

 

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Gross F&B Revenue ” means all gross revenues (including gratuities and service charges) attributable to or payable for Food and Beverage Operations, whether payable to Franchisee or any other party (including any restaurant operator leasing space at the Hotel) operating any Food and Beverage Operations, including all cash, check, barter, credit, debit, and other transactions, whether or not collected, and excluding any taxes that Franchisee or any other party collects and transmits to the appropriate taxing authority. If Franchisee receives any proceeds from any business interruption insurance applicable to the Food and Beverage Operations, then there shall be added to Gross F&B Revenue an amount equal to the imputed gross revenues that the insurer used to calculate those proceeds. Gross F&B Revenue shall be accounted for in accordance with the Uniform System of Accounts. If any other party (including any restaurant operator leasing space at the Hotel) operates any Food and Beverage Operations, then Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that the Gross F&B Revenue reflects amounts payable to such party, not the amounts that such party pays to Franchisee.

Gross Rooms Revenue ” means all gross revenues attributable to or payable for the rental of Hotel guest rooms, including guaranteed no-show revenue and cancellation fees and all cash, check, barter, credit, debit, and other transactions, whether or not collected, at the actual rates charged, reduced by guest room rebates and overcharges (but only if originally included in Gross Rooms Revenue) and excluding any sales or room taxes Franchisee collects and transmits to the appropriate taxing authority. If Franchisee receives any proceeds from any business interruption insurance applicable to loss of revenue due to the non-availability of guest rooms, there shall be added to Gross Rooms Revenue an amount equal to the imputed gross revenue that the insurer used to calculate those proceeds. Gross Rooms Revenue shall be accounted for in accordance with the Uniform System of Accounts.

Guarantor ” means each individual or entity who from time to time guarantees Franchisee’s obligations under this Agreement.

Hotel ” means the Franchise System Hotel located at the Site that Franchisee will operate pursuant to this Agreement. The Hotel includes all structures, facilities, appurtenances, FF&E, entrances, exits, and parking areas located on the Site or any other real property that Hyatt approves for Hotel expansion, signage, or other facilities.

Hotel System ” means the concept and system associated with the establishment and operation of Franchise System Hotels, as Hyatt periodically modifies it. The Hotel System now includes: (a) the Proprietary Marks; (b) all Copyrighted Materials; (c) all Confidential Information; (d) the Design Standards; (e) the CRS; (f) the required or authorized GDS and ADS; (g) the National Directory; (h) management, personnel, and operational training programs, materials, and procedures; (i) System Standards described in the Manual or in other written or electronic communications; (j) marketing, advertising, and promotional programs; and (k) Mandatory Services and Non-Mandatory Services.

Hotel System Website ” means a Website that Hyatt or one or more members of the Hyatt Group develops, maintains and/or authorizes for all or substantially all of the Franchise System Hotel network (and, at Hyatt’s option, other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels). The National Directory may be part of the Hotel System Website.

 

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Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels ” means the Franchise System Hotels and other hotels that from time to time are owned and/or operated by Hyatt, its Affiliates, or its or their franchisees or licensees under the name “Hyatt” or another brand owned by the Hyatt Group, whether with or without another Sub-brand Name, including Andaz hotels, Grand Hyatt hotels, Park Hyatt hotels, Hyatt Place hotels and Hyatt Summerfield Suites hotels.

Hyatt Group ” means Hyatt and any of its Affiliates who from time to time provide goods or services to Franchisee and/or other Participating Hotels.

Include ” and “ including ,” whenever used in this Agreement, whether capitalized or not, will mean “including, by way of example, but without limitation.”

Lender ” means the financial institution, if any, that provided or is providing the financing for Franchisee’s acquisition, development, and/or operation of the Hotel.

Management Arrangement ” means any lease, management agreement, or other similar arrangement with any independent entity for all or a part of the Hotel’s operation.

Mandatory Services ” is defined on Exhibit C .

Manual ” means Hyatt’s confidential manuals, as amended from time to time.

National Directory ” means the national directory of Franchise System Hotels, which, at Hyatt’s option, also may be associated with any other hotel brand or other business that Hyatt or its Affiliates own, operate, franchise, license or manage, and may (at Hyatt’s option) be in written, electronic and/or another form that Hyatt periodically specifies.

Non-Controlling Owner ” means any Owner which is not a Controlling Owner.

Non-Control Transfer ” means any transfer (as defined in Section 12.2) of (a) a non-Controlling Ownership Interest in Franchisee, (b) a non-Controlling Ownership Interest in any Controlling Owner (if such Owner is a legal entity), or (c) a Controlling Ownership Interest or non-Controlling Ownership Interest in any Non-Controlling Owner (if such Owner is a legal entity).

Opening Date ” means the date upon which Franchisee first opens the Hotel for business under the “Hyatt®” or “Hyatt® Regency” name (as applicable).

Non-Mandatory Services ” is defined on Exhibit C .

Owner ” means any person holding a direct or indirect ownership interest (whether of record, beneficially, or otherwise) or voting rights in Franchisee, including any person who has a direct or indirect interest in Franchisee, this Agreement, the franchise, or the Hotel and any person who has any other legal or equitable interest, or the power to vest in himself or herself any legal or equitable interest, in their revenue, profits, rights, or assets.

Participating Hotel ” is defined on Exhibit C .

 

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PIP ” means Property Improvement Plan.

Pre-Opening Period ” means the period beginning on the date upon which Hyatt or its Affiliate begins offering the Hotel’s rooms to guests and ending on the Opening Date.

Pre-Opening Sales Office ” means a temporary or permanent sales office at the Site to solicit and accept reservations during the Pre-Opening Period for stays after the Opening Date.

Proprietary Marks ” means the trade names, trademarks, and service marks “Hyatt®” or “Hyatt Regency®” (as applicable) and such other trade names, trademarks, service marks, logos, slogans, trade dress, domain names, and other designations of source and origin (including all derivatives of the foregoing) that Hyatt or its Affiliate periodically develops and Hyatt periodically designates for use in connection with the Hotel System.

Providers ” means providers of products or services for the Hotel.

Reasonable Business Judgment ” means that Hyatt’s action or inaction has a business basis that is intended to benefit the Franchise System Hotel franchise network or the profitability of the network, including Hyatt and its Affiliates, regardless of whether some individual hotels may be unfavorably affected; or to increase the value of the Proprietary Marks; or to increase or enhance overall hotel guest or franchisee or owner satisfaction; or to minimize possible brand inconsistencies or customer confusion.

Reasonable Deviations ” means that, if the market area or unique circumstances of a Franchise System Hotel warrant, then, in Hyatt’s Reasonable Business Judgment, Hyatt may apply an aspect of the Hotel System, System Standard, requirement, fee or other term or condition to the Hotel in a manner which differs from the manner in which that aspect of the Hotel System, requirement, fee or other term or condition applies to one or more other similarly situated Franchise System Hotels.

Spa Operations ” means all spa and related operations and services for Hotel guests and patrons, consisting of all therapy, massage and other treatments, salon services and other spa-related services, if applicable for the Hotel.

Sub-brand Name ” means a sub-brand that is used, together with the name “Hyatt®,” as the name by which four (4) or more hotels that are owned, operated, managed, franchised or licensed by Hyatt or its Affiliates are principally identified. As an example and without limitation, “Park Hyatt,” “Grand Hyatt,” “Hyatt Place” and “Hyatt Summerfield Suites” are Sub-brand names.

System Standards ” means standards, specifications, procedures, and rules for operations, marketing, construction, equipment, furnishings, and quality assurance that Hyatt implements and may periodically modify for Franchise System Hotels.

Technology System ” means certain computer systems, sales and marketing systems, communications equipment and related equipment and supplies that Hyatt or its Affiliate requires for use in similarly situated Franchise System Hotels.

 

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Uniform System of Accounts ” means the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry, Tenth Edition, as published by the Educational Institute of the American Hotel and Motel Association, 2006, or a later edition that Hyatt approves.

Website ” means any web page, website, other online or Internet presence or other electronic medium.

 

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EXHIBIT B

to the

HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C. FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

THE HOTEL AND AREA OF PROTECTION

 

Site of the Hotel:    HOTELADDRESS1
   HOTELADDRESS2
Hotel name:   
Number of Approved Guest Rooms                         Rooms

The “ Area of Protection ” is defined as                                         . The Area of Protection is depicted on the map attached below. However, if there is an inconsistency between the language in this Exhibit B and the attached map, the language in this Exhibit B shall control.

[Insert map here]

 

FRANCHISEE:
ENTITYNAMECAPS
By:  

 

  SIGNEENAME
  SIGNEETITLE
Date:  

 

Attest:  

 

FRANCHISOR:
HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C.
By:  

 

  Senior Vice President
Date:  

 

Attest:  

 

 

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EXHIBIT C

to the

HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C. FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

CENTRALIZED SERVICES

One or more members of the Hyatt Group currently provide certain Centralized Services (defined below) to the Hotel, other Franchise System Hotels and other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. “Centralized Services” means those services generally made available by the Hyatt Group from time to time on a central, regional, or other shared or group basis (whether in whole or in part) to Franchise System Hotels and other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels that the Hyatt Group reasonably determines shall be provided such services. Centralized Services include all of the Mandatory Services and Non-Mandatory Services (each defined below), and also include some other services, programs and benefits that are provided to Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels but are not provided to Franchise System Hotels.

Hyatt may from time to time add to, delete from, and otherwise modify these Centralized Services, the scope of and manner of providing Centralized Services, and the method of allocating costs for Centralized Services among Participating Hotels, including by providing Franchisee a revised version of this Exhibit C . “Participating Hotels” means those Franchise System Hotels and other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels that participate in the applicable program or benefit provided as part of Centralized Services.

 

  A. Mandatory Services .

The following are the mandatory Centralized Services that one or members of the Hyatt Group currently provides to Franchise System Hotels and some or all other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels (the “ Mandatory Services ”). Franchisee currently must acquire all Mandatory Services only from members of the Hyatt Group or other parties whom Hyatt periodically specifies.

1. Chain Services . The Hyatt Group provides the following group benefits, services and facilities to Participating Hotels: (i) convention, business and sales promotion services (including the maintenance and staffing of the Hyatt Group’s corporate office world wide sales force, national sales forces and regional sales offices located in various parts of the United States and the world); (ii) chain-wide marketing, advertising and public relations services; (iii) the CRS and other related centralized reservations services; (iv) the frequent guest program of the Hyatt Group (including the Hyatt Gold Passport program); and (v) control services for, among others, food and beverage, rooms, accounting, engineering, risk and human resource departments, some or all of which may, from time to time, be provided from a shared services center (the services listed in this subsection (v) are collectively called “ Control Services ”).

2. Hyatt Gold Passport® . “ Gold Passport ” means the frequent guest incentive program known as Hyatt Gold Passport®, as the Hyatt Group maintains and periodically modifies the program. Each participating Franchise System Hotel, Grand Hyatt hotel, Park Hyatt hotel, Hyatt International hotel, Hyatt Place hotel, and Hyatt Summerfield Suites hotel currently

 

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is assessed four percent (4%) of the eligible published room rate and eligible incidental charges (excluding applicable taxes) if the Gold Passport member chooses points for the stay.

3. Mandatory Search Engine Marketing . “ Search Engine Marketing ” means the purchase, from search engine providers such as Google™ or Yahoo!®, of key words and related practices ( e.g. , paying for listing placement) for featured positions of brand, hotel or other marketing messages in response to relevant on-line searches. The Hyatt Group purchases key words that relate to: Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel brands, geographic sets of hotels and individual hotels, and other combinations of hotels ( e.g. resorts and spas) and other marketing purposes ( e.g. promotional programs).

Search Engine Marketing costs and methods of cost allocation are divided into three categories.

 

   

Search Engine Marketing for the “Hyatt” brand is funded as part of Centralized Services Costs (defined below).

 

   

Search Engine Marketing relating to the Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel business segments ( e.g. , Park Hyatts, Grand Hyatts, resorts, spas, geographic locations and other subsets of Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels) are funded through cost allocation to the Participating Hotels as provided below.

 

   

Search Engine Marketing relating to individual hotels are funded by the individual hotel, but may be acquired by Participating Hotels as a Non-Mandatory Service (defined below) as further described in Section B.8 below.

The cost of such Search Engine Marketing activities for Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel business segments will be allocated to the Participating Hotels in the year in which the reservation is made. The cost allocation to each Participating Hotel for business segment Search Engine Marketing is in proportion to the amount of gross room reservations revenue (without regard to cancellations) produced at each hotel by the particular Search Engine Marketing activity in relation to the volume thereof for all other Participating Hotels within the applicable business segment.

4. Mandatory Technology Services . The Hyatt Group provides mandatory technology services to Participating Hotels for automated management systems including property management, revenue management, point-of-sale, sales and marketing, catering and convention services, telecommunications, local and wide area networks, electronic mail, central databases and reporting, reservations, group business services, transient business automation systems, budgeting and financial reporting systems, human resources systems, and spa systems. Hyatt requires the installation of standard applications and technology for these systems in the Hotel.

The Hyatt Group has an internal technology staff (“ Hyatt IT ”) responsible for architecture, program management, business innovation, application development, and support services. In addition, Hyatt IT oversees technology services, including software and hardware support, maintenance, deployment, installation and related services provided to Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels through technology agreements with

 

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providers including Computer Sciences Corporation (“ CSC ”). CSC is a Fortune 500 publicly traded company formed in 1959 that is not part of the Hyatt Group. The Hyatt Group also utilizes other unaffiliated vendors to provide technology services to Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels such as, for example, I.B.M., AT&T, Logicalis, DB Technology, Hewlett Packard, Lanyon, NCR and Patni Systems.

Each Participating Hotel pays for the costs of the technology systems in use at that hotel. For each such system, the Hyatt Group allocates the annual costs of technology services on the same basis to all Participating Hotels using that particular technology system ( e.g. , the number of personal computers in the hotel in relation to the number of personal computers in all Participating Hotels, or the number of point-of-sale servers in the hotel in relation to the number of point-of-sale servers in all such Participating Hotels, or, with respect to group service automation, the number of rooms occupied by groups at the hotel in relation to the total number of rooms occupied by groups at all such Participating Hotels, or, with respect to the costs of transient business automation systems, the number of rooms occupied by transient guests at the hotel in relation to the total number of rooms occupied by transient guests in all such Participating Hotels, or, with respect to the costs of electronic mail, the number of electronic mail addresses at the hotel in relation to the number of electronic mail addresses in all such Participating Hotels, or on actual usage based on a combination of the foregoing), in each case without mark-up or profit to the Hyatt Group. Costs associated with certain technology personnel employed by the Hyatt Group are similarly allocated.

One of the specific applications supported by these technology services is the Wide Area Network (WAN), a private communication network among Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels, the central reservations center, the Hyatt Group’s corporate office, divisional offices and other important points of contact within the Hyatt chain. Among other things, the WAN permits the central reservations center to transmit reservations to the applicable hotel, provides hotel access to the Hyatt Group’s applications and databases, and allows the Hyatt Group to gather, process and use information from each hotel and the central reservations center for, among other things, sales purposes and various financial and other analyses. The WAN also is the delivery mechanism utilized for the Hyatt Group’s electronic mail system. To connect to the WAN, a hotel must deploy an MPLS circuit provided by AT&T, with AT&T providing the required router. In operating the WAN, the Hyatt Group incurs expenses including telephone support from customer service employees of CSC for hardware and communications, telephone line charges, circuit costs and certain other third party costs. From time to time, as new equipment is added to the WAN, the cost of leasing the equipment, or an amortization of the equipment cost (depending on whether the equipment is leased or purchased), is charged to each Participating Hotel connected to the WAN as part of the operating costs of the system. Each Participating Hotel connected to the WAN pays its share of these network operating charges, without profit or mark-up, based on the number of hotels connected to the WAN. Participating Hotels are invoiced directly from AT&T for their MPLS circuits.

5. Other Reservations Services . In addition to the central reservations center, the costs of which are allocated to each Participating Hotel as part of the Centralized Services Costs (defined below), global distribution systems (principally airline reservations systems such as Sabre, Apollo, and Worldspan) accept reservations for Participating Hotels and confirm the reservations with the Hyatt Group through the central reservations center. These supplemental

 

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reservations systems charge the Hyatt Group a reservations fee or similar charge, currently averaging approximately $5.25 per reservation, which the Hyatt Group passes on to the hotel receiving the reservation at cost without mark-up or profit to the Hyatt Group.

The Hyatt Group enters into agreements with third parties to process reservations centrally for individuals within group blocks, either electronically or via phone. Such reservations would ordinarily be directed to each individual Participating Hotel to process manually. The electronic costs are either paid by the hotel directly or passed through to the hotel without markup. When these reservations are confirmed over the phone through the central reservations office, a fee of approximately $5.25 per reservation is charged to the hotel.

6. Mandatory Contracts . The Hyatt Group from time to time negotiates contracts (“ Mandatory Contracts ”) with vendors or providers of services that necessitate mandatory participation by all Franchise System Hotels (such as credit card acceptance agreements, music license agreements and certain telecommunications agreements) or by certain Franchise System Hotels ( e.g. hotels in a certain business segment). While the Hyatt Group currently does not receive any fees, rebates or commissions under, or with respect to, these Mandatory Contracts, certain of the Mandatory Contracts may provide for promotional or other allowances that are then allocated among Participating Hotels as the Hyatt Group determines (or as required by the vendor or supplier in question) or utilized for promotional activities benefiting all or substantially all Participating Hotels.

7. Airline Miles . If a guest chooses to receive airline miles as a result of his or her stay, the Participating Hotel is charged the actual cost of those miles charged to the Hyatt Group by the respective airline partner, and the guest will then not be entitled to Gold Passport points.

8. Other Corporate Services . The Hyatt Group provides a number of other corporate services and programs for the benefit of Participating Hotels for which reimbursement is made on a cost recovery basis, including taxes, if applicable. These services and programs include group sales promotional programs and events sponsored by two (2) or more Participating Hotels, property evaluations, quality assurance manuals, security services, certain training programs and other various services. Costs are allocated among hotels that receive these services or participate in these programs pursuant to program-specific allocation formulas that the Hyatt Group develops. To illustrate, sales events are billed back to Participating Hotels according to three distinct formulae: (1) for events such as trade shows where customers are not readily identifiable, hotels are billed back based on the number of hotels attending (participation method); (2) for customer-only events where customers are readily identifiable, hotels are billed back based on revenue production by each hotel from customers attending the event (production method); or (3) for other events, and most frequently used, hotels are billed back using a hybrid allocation calculated using fifty percent (50%) of the participation method and fifty percent (50%) of the production method. Training and other corporate meetings are billed back to Participating Hotels based on attendance.

 

  B. Non-Mandatory Services .

The following are the Centralized Services that one or more members of the Hyatt Group currently provides to Franchise System Hotels and some or all other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels and

 

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which are not Mandatory Services (the “ Non-Mandatory Services ”). Hyatt currently does not require Franchise System Hotels to acquire Non-Mandatory Services from the Hyatt Group.

1. FF&E Purchasing Services . Rosemont Project Management, L.L.C. offers purchasing services to Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels for the purchase of furniture, fixtures and equipment which, together with renovation-related services, are typically subject to a separate contract and fee structure (which includes a profit component). Each Franchise System Hotel may determine whether and the extent to which to use the foregoing purchasing services.

2. Purchasing Services . The Hyatt Group makes various goods and services available to Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels through a centralized purchasing program currently administered by Avendra, LLC (“ Avendra ”), a procurement services company in which Hyatt’s Affiliate has a minority ownership interest. Other than sponsorship funds from Avendra vendors used to defray meeting costs otherwise allocable to Participating Hotels, the Hyatt Group receives no fees, commissions or other remuneration in connection with such purchasing services.

Under the terms of the Hyatt Group’s current Procurement Services Agreement with Avendra effective January 1, 2007 (currently set to expire December 31, 2011), Avendra is entitled to charge a specified fee on purchases made by Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels through its programs, typically based on a percentage of the actual cost of the goods or services being purchased. All unrestricted allowances, fees or commissions made available by vendors or distributors on purchases made by a hotel, after payment of Avendra’s fee on those purchases, are returned to that hotel.

Individual Franchise System Hotels determine whether, and the extent to which, to use Avendra’s services (other than as stated under Mandatory Contracts above), although it would be impracticable to purchase certain products, such as bathroom amenities, made specifically for Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels elsewhere. The Hyatt Group’s corporate personnel provide on-going oversight of the Hyatt Group’s customer relationship with Avendra. The cost of providing this oversight is allocated among Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels in a manner determined by the Hyatt Group without premium, profit or mark up to the Hyatt Group.

Any distributions by Avendra to a Hyatt’s Affiliate on account of that Affiliate’s minority equity interest, including distributions attributable to the sale of all or any portion of its investment in Avendra, net of taxes and related administrative expenses, will be used for the benefit of all Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels as determined by the Hyatt Group.

3. Remote Call Forwarding . The Hyatt Group currently offers Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels the option of forwarding reservations calls received at a hotel to the centralized reservations center when on-site personnel are unavailable to process potential reservations. The cost of remote call forwarding is charged on a per-call basis, which currently is approximately $2.00 per call, to all Participating Hotels. Each Franchise System Hotel may determine whether to elect to use such remote call forwarding services.

 

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4. Other Corporate Services . The Hyatt Group corporate office may provide temporary employees to fill vacancies or provide additional staffing to Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. The Participating Hotel is charged for the actual cost of these employees.

5. Other Related Party Transactions . Apart from the services described above, Franchise System Hotels and certain other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels routinely engage in a number of transactions with other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. For example, an individual hotel may engage in transactions with other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels whereby the hotel is billed by another Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel or, conversely, bills another Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel, for reasons such as staff utilization ( e.g. , during periods of high demand).

6. Technology Services . The Hyatt Group provides some technology systems and services as Non-Mandatory Services, including certain point of sale systems, report automation, call accounting, e-mail/blackberry systems, FIT sales, and some telecommunication services.

7. Coordinated Marketing Programs . The Hyatt Group conducts certain joint marketing programs on behalf of a hotel together with one or more, but less than all, other Franchise System Hotels or other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotels. These programs are designed to serve a common business need for a subset of hotels ( e.g ., resort hotels or commercial hotels). The Hyatt Group’s Corporate Marketing Department, in consultation with and subject to the approval of each hotel’s general manager, annually determines the hotel’s participation in specific marketing programs based on the hotel’s business needs. In all cases, a hotel is allocated its prorata share of each coordinated marketing program in which it participates, based on each hotel’s business mix and associated rooms revenues relative to the other hotels participating in such program.

8. Optional Search Engine Marketing . The Hyatt Group conducts Search Engine Marketing relating to individual Franchise System Hotels as Non-Mandatory Services. Individual hotels pay the costs for Search Engine Marketing that relates only to those individual hotels.

 

  C. Centralized Services Costs and Centralized Services Charges

The Hotel will be charged for its equitably allocable share of Centralized Services Costs attributable to the Centralized Services in which the Hotel participates (or is obligated to participate) in accordance with this Section C. The Hotel’s Centralized Services Charges will be determined on the same basis as such amounts are determined for similarly-situated Franchise System Hotels that are Participating Hotels for the applicable Centralized Service, subject to Reasonable Deviations. Hyatt may, from time to time in its reasonable discretion, change the method of allocating Centralized Services Costs among Participating Hotels, provided that the method of allocation shall at all times be determined on a reasonable, equitable and non-discriminatory basis.

1. Centralized Services Costs . “Centralized Service Costs” means, with respect to any of the Centralized Services in which the Hotel participates (or is required to participate), all costs actually incurred or properly accrued by any member of Hyatt Group during the period of

 

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determination in respect of the provision of such Centralized Services, including (v) any costs or expenses payable to third party vendors or employees of any member of the Hyatt Group (including support personnel) directly engaged in the rendition of such Centralized Services, (w) occupancy costs, (x) costs of equipment leases and capital improvements, (y) administrative expenses allocable to such services, and (z) allocation of related carrying costs. In any case in which employees of the Hyatt Group devote less than all of their time to the provision of the applicable Centralized Services, employee costs shall be allocated in a reasonable manner determined in good faith by the Hyatt Group to reflect the portion of time devoted by such employees to such Centralized Services. Other shared costs such as occupancy costs, utilities, and the like relating only partially to Centralized Services shall likewise be allocated by the Hyatt Group to Centralized Services Costs on a fair and reasonable basis as determined in good faith by the Hyatt Group so as to reflect, as nearly as reasonably possible, the portion of such costs fairly and reasonably attributable to the provision of Centralized Services. Any such allocation of shared personnel or other costs made by the Hyatt Group in good faith and with the intention of fairly allocating such costs shall be binding on the parties hereto. Centralized Services Costs shall include the actual costs incurred by the Hyatt Group and shall not be subject to any mark up, premium or profit on any Mandatory Services, but may include a profit or mark up component on Non-Mandatory Services as described above or as determined by the Hyatt Group. To the extent that any member of the Hyatt Group receives (i) a fee or cost reimbursement from any third party, hotel, or hotel chain (including any hotel that is not a Franchise System Hotel or other Hyatt-Affiliated Hotel) in consideration of the provision of one or more of the Centralized Services to such third party, hotel or hotel chain, or (ii) any rebates, commissions or discounts from vendors or service providers whose costs are included as part of Centralized Services Costs, such amounts so received (including any profit element) will be offset against Centralized Services Costs. There shall likewise be credited against Centralized Services Costs with respect to any period any amounts that any member of the Hyatt Group is entitled to be paid in respect of Centralized Services furnished during such period to hotels participating in Centralized Services that (because they are under construction or are otherwise being prepared for opening), are not included (or, if partially included, to the extent not so included) in the group of hotels among which Centralized Services Costs are then being allocated.

Centralized Services Costs for Control Services shall not include any amounts for the Hyatt Group’s overhead in providing headquarters support to the Hotel’s management team or supervision over the management of any regional or shared services offices.

2. Centralized Services Charges . “ Centralized Services Charges ” means the amounts that the Hyatt Group charges the Hotel for that Hotel’s equitably allocable share of the Centralized Services Costs attributable to the Centralized Services in which the Hotel participates (or is obligated to participate) as described above in this Exhibit C or periodically determined by the Hyatt Group.

 

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EXHIBIT D

to the

HYATT FRANCHISING, L.L.C. FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

INTENTIONALLY OMITTED

 

D-1


GUARANTY AND ASSUMPTION OF OBLIGATIONS

THIS GUARANTY AND ASSUMPTION OF OBLIGATIONS is given this          day of                      , 200      , by                   

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  .

In consideration of, and as an inducement to, the execution of that certain Franchise Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) on this date by Hyatt Franchising, L.L.C. (“ Hyatt ”), each of the undersigned personally and unconditionally (a) guarantees to Hyatt and its successors and assigns, for the term of the Agreement (including extensions) and afterward as provided in the Agreement, that                                          (“ Franchisee ”) will punctually pay and perform each and every undertaking, agreement, and covenant set forth in the Agreement (including any amendments or modifications of the Agreement) and (b) agrees to be personally bound by, and personally liable for the breach of, each and every provision in the Agreement (including, without limitation, any amendments or modifications of the Agreement), both monetary obligations and obligations to take or refrain from taking specific actions or to engage or refrain from engaging in specific activities, including the confidentiality, transfer, and arbitration requirements.

Each of the undersigned acknowledges that he, she or it is either an owner (whether direct or indirect) of Franchisee or otherwise has a direct or indirect relationship with Franchisee or its affiliates,, that he, she or it will benefit significantly from Hyatt’s entering into the Agreement with Franchisee, and that Hyatt will not enter into the Agreement unless the each of the undersigned agrees to sign and comply with the terms of this Guaranty.

Each of the undersigned consents and agrees that: (1) his, her or its direct and immediate liability under this Guaranty will be joint and several, both with Franchisee and among other guarantors; (2) he, she or it will render any payment or performance required under the Agreement upon demand if Franchisee fails or refuses punctually to do so; (3) this liability will not be contingent or conditioned upon Hyatt’s pursuit of any remedies against Franchisee or any other person; (4) this liability will not be diminished, relieved, or otherwise affected by any extension of time, credit, or other indulgence that Hyatt may from time to time grant to Franchisee or any other person, including, without limitation, the acceptance of any partial payment or performance or the compromise or release of any claims (including the release of other guarantors), none of which will in any way modify or amend this Guaranty, which will be continuing and irrevocable during and after the term of the Agreement (including extensions) for so long as any performance is or might be owed under the Agreement by Franchisee or any of its guarantors and for so long as Hyatt has any cause of action against Franchisee or any of its guarantors; and (5) this Guaranty will continue in full force and effect for (and as to) any extension or modification of the Agreement and despite the transfer of any direct or indirect interest in the Agreement or Franchisee, and each of the undersigned waives notice of any and all renewals, extensions, modifications, amendments, or transfers.

Each of the undersigned waives: (i) all rights to payments and claims for reimbursement or subrogation that any of the undersigned may have against Franchisee arising as a result of the


undersigned’s execution of and performance under this Guaranty; and (ii) acceptance and notice of acceptance by Hyatt of his, her or its undertakings under this Guaranty, notice of demand for payment of any indebtedness or non-performance of any obligations hereby guaranteed, protest and notice of default to any party with respect to the indebtedness or nonperformance of any obligations hereby guaranteed, and any other notices to which he, she or it may be entitled. The undersigned expressly acknowledge that the obligations hereunder survive the termination of the Agreement.

If Hyatt is required to enforce this Guaranty in a judicial or arbitration proceeding and prevails in such proceeding, Hyatt shall be entitled to reimbursement of Hyatt’s costs and expenses, including, but not limited to, reasonable accountants’, attorneys’, attorneys’ assistants’, arbitrators’, and expert witness fees, costs of investigation and proof of facts, court costs, other litigation expenses, and travel and living expenses, whether incurred prior to, in preparation for, or in contemplation of the filing of any such proceeding. If Hyatt is required to engage legal counsel in connection with any failure by the undersigned to comply with this Guaranty, the undersigned shall reimburse Hyatt for any of the above-listed costs and expenses Hyatt incurs even if Hyatt does not commence a judicial or arbitration proceeding.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of the undersigned has affixed his, her or its signature on the same day and year as the Agreement was executed.

 

GUARANTOR(S)     

PERCENTAGE OF OWNERSHIP

IN FRANCHISEE

 

    

 

  %

 

    

 

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  %

 

    

 

  %

 

    

 

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2

Exhibit 10.16

HOTEL MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

[NAME OF HOTEL]

between

[NAME OF OWNER]

and

HYATT CORPORATION,

a Delaware corporation

DATED:                     , 2009 (the “Effective Date”)


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

            Page
[to be updated]
ARTICLE I Definitions; Term; [Performance Test]    1

1.1

     Definitions    1

1.2

     Term of Agreement    1

1.3

     Performance Test    3
ARTICLE II Appointment of Operator    8

2.1

     Grant of Authority    8

2.2

     Standard of Operation    9

2.3

     Nature of Relationship; Limitation of Fiduciary Duty    9

2.4

     Scope of Authority    10

2.5

     Limitations on Operator’s Authority    14

2.6

     Limitations on Operator’s Duties    17

2.7

     Other Properties of Operator and its Affiliates    18

2.8

     Use of Affiliates    19

2.9

     Irrevocability of Contract    19

2.10

     Eligible Independent Contractor    20
ARTICLE III [Construction/Conversion] of Hotel    19

3.1

     Owner’s Obligation    21
ARTICLE IV Operation of Hotel    21

4.1

     Annual Plan    21

4.2

     Legal Requirements    27

4.3

     Maintenance, Repairs, Alterations and Reserves    28

4.4

     Hotel Employees    30

4.5

     Centralized Services    31

4.6

     Purchasing    32

4.7

     Operating Accounts    34

4.8

     Books and Records; Reporting    35
ARTICLE V Trade Names and Other Intellectual Property    39

5.1

     Name of Hotel    39

5.2

     Ownership of Intellectual Property    39

5.3

     Owner Marketing    40

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   -i-  


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

            Page
ARTICLE VI Payments to Operator    43

6.1

     Management Fees    43

6.2

     Centralized Services Charges    44

6.3

     Reimbursements    44

6.4

     Interest on Overdue Sums    46

6.5

     Tax on Reimbursements    46
ARTICLE VII Insurance    46

7.1

     Property Insurance    46

7.2

     Operational Insurance    47

7.3

     Payment of Fees and Expenses    48

7.4

     Application of Business Interruption Insurance Proceeds    48

7.5

     Payment of Other Operating Expenses    49

7.6

     Cost and Expense    49

7.7

     Policies and Endorsements    49

7.8

     Insurance Claims    50
ARTICLE VIII Damage and Condemnation    50

8.1

     Damage to or Destruction of the Hotel    50

8.2

     Condemnation    52
ARTICLE IX Assignment    53

9.1

     Assignment by Operator    53

9.2

     Sale by Owner    54
ARTICLE X Financing    56

10.1

     Owner Financing    56

10.2

     Advance Notice of Financing or Ground Lease    57
ARTICLE XI Default    58

11.1

     Defaults    58

11.2

     Curing Defaults    59

11.3

     Remedies    59
ARTICLE XII Termination and Transition    61

12.1

     Inability to Operate in Accordance with Hotel Standard    61

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   -ii-  


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

            Page

12.2

     Transition of Management    61
ARTICLE XIII Indemnification    67

13.1

     Indemnification of Operator    67

13.2

     Indemnification of Owner    68

13.3

     Survival    68
ARTICLE XIV Dispute Resolution    68

14.1

     Alternative Dispute Resolution    68

14.2

     Mediation    69

14.3

     Arbitration    69

14.4

     Litigation    73

14.5

     Prevailing Party’s Expenses    73

14.6

     Third-Party Litigation    74

14.7

     Expert Determination    74
ARTICLE XV Representations, Warranties and Covenants    75

15.1

     Representations of Owner    75

15.2

     Representations of Operator    76

15.3

     No Representation Regarding Forecasts    76

15.4

     Quiet Enjoyment    77

15.5

     Condo-Hotel; Fractional Ownership    77

15.6

     Financing and Sales    77

15.7

     Gaming Regulations    78
ARTICLE XVI General    79

16.1

     Interpretation    79

16.2

     Approvals    79

16.3

     Force Majeure    80

16.4

     Estoppel Certificates    81

16.5

     Notices    81

16.6

     Third Party Beneficiaries    82

16.7

     Counterparts    82

16.8

     Entire Agreement    83

16.9

     Severability    83

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   -iii-  


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

            Page

16.10

     Amendments    83

16.11

     Successors and Assigns    83

16.12

     Governing Law    83

16.13

     Survival and Continuation    83

16.14

     Confidentiality    84

16.15

     Further Assurances    85

16.16

     Intentionally Omitted    85

16.17

     Trade Area Restriction and Competing Facilities    85

EXHIBIT A Legal Description of Site

   1

EXHIBIT B Definitions

   1

EXHIBIT C Certificate of Authority

   1

EXHIBIT D Form of Non-Disturbance Agreement

   1

EXHIBIT E Area of Protection

   2

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   -iv-  


HOTEL MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

[NAME OF HOTEL]

THIS HOTEL MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the Effective Date indicated on the cover page of this Agreement, by and between [                                         , a                      ] ( “Owner” ), and HYATT CORPORATION , a Delaware corporation ( “Operator” ).

PRELIMINARY STATEMENT

Owner is the owner of certain real property located in [City, State] that is more particularly described on the attached Exhibit A (the “Site” ), on which [ is located/Owner proposes to construct and develop ] a hotel having the following facilities and amenities:                      (the “ Hotel ”). Owner now desires to retain Operator to manage and operate the Hotel under the “                    ” brand and to perform the related services herein described, upon the terms and conditions herein set forth. Operator desires to manage and operate the Hotel on behalf of Owner as herein provided. [ for use in new hotels or conversions only: Concurrently with the execution and delivery hereof, Owner and Operator are entering into the “Pre-Opening Agreement” (hereinafter defined) setting forth certain technical assistance and pre-opening services to be rendered by Operator during the “Pre-Opening Period” (hereinafter defined).]

NOW, THEREFORE , Owner and Operator hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

Definitions; Term; [Performance Test]

1.1 Definitions .

Unless the context otherwise specifies or requires, all capitalized terms used in this Agreement shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in Exhibit B attached hereto and by this reference incorporated herein.

1.2 Term of Agreement .

(a) Initial Term . This Agreement shall be effective on and as of the Effective Date; however, the initial operating term of this Agreement (the “ Initial Term ” and together with any Renewal Term, the “ Term ”) shall commence on the Opening Date and shall continue until 11:59 p.m. (local time at the Hotel) on December 31 of the year in which the twenty (20 th )

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation    


anniversary of the Opening Date shall occur, unless this Agreement shall be sooner terminated as herein provided. [revise as necessary for properties operating under Hyatt flag currently]

(b) Renewal Terms . Unless this Agreement has previously been terminated pursuant to its express terms, Operator shall have the right and option, in its discretion, to extend the Term for two (2) renewal terms of ten (10) years each (each such option as it applies to each such renewal term being herein referred to as a “Renewal Option” and each such term resulting from exercise of a Renewal Option being herein referred to as a “Renewal Term” ), which shall commence upon the expiration of the Initial Term, or expiration of the immediately preceding Renewal Term, as the case may be, provided that (i) Operator shall deliver notice to Owner of its election to exercise the Renewal Option not later than twelve (12) calendar months prior to the expiration of the then applicable Initial Term or Renewal Term, as the case may be, of its election not to exercise such Renewal Option, it being understood that Operator will be deemed to have elected to exercise the Renewal Option if it fails to deliver notice of its election not to do so; (ii) on the date of exercise of the Renewal Option, Operator shall not be a Defaulting Party hereunder with respect to any Default or Event of Default for which Owner has provided written notice to Operator and as to which Owner has a right of termination hereunder that has not previously been cured by Operator (or, if such Default is not capable of being cured within the time limits provided, that Operator has not commenced with reasonable diligence to cure, as provided in Section 11.2) or waived by Owner. No further confirmation of any Renewal Term shall be necessary; however, upon the request of either Party, the Parties shall execute and deliver to Operator a supplement to this Agreement for the purpose of evidencing the fact that the applicable Renewal Term has become effective.

If Operator shall have exercised its Renewal Option, and Owner reasonably believes any one or more of the preceding conditions shall not have been satisfied, any disagreement between Owner and Operator with respect thereto which Owner and Operator are unable to resolve between themselves shall be resolved by arbitration conducted in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and, during the pendency of any such arbitration, Operator shall continue to manage and operate the Hotel pursuant to the provisions hereof as though the Renewal Option shall have been properly exercised, and, if the arbitration award shall determine that Operator does not have the right to exercise the Renewal Option, this Agreement, and the Term and Operator’s management and operation of the Hotel hereunder shall terminate sixty (60) days after the entry of any such award. Each Renewal Term shall be on the same terms and conditions as the Initial Term.

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   2  


1.3 Performance Test .

(a) Definitions . For purposes of this Section 1.3 (or any other section of this Agreement which makes reference to the definitions contained in this Section 1.3) the following terms shall have the meanings indicated below:

Achieved RevPAR ” shall mean, for the Fiscal Year in question, the product of (i) the average daily occupancy rate for the Hotel or Comparable Hotels, as applicable, multiplied by (ii) the average daily room rate achieved by such Hotel or Comparable Hotels, as applicable, for such Fiscal Year. The Achieved RevPAR for the Hotel shall be calculated in the manner prescribed by the Information Source, regardless of how calculated by Operator for Hotel reporting purposes, provided that any the data submitted by the Hotel to the Information Source which is included by the Information Source shall be deducted in the calculation.

Comparable Hotels ” shall mean the following hotels: [insert comparable hotels ]. If any one or more of the preceding hotels (or any one or more of the substitutes therefor which may have been made in accordance with the provisions hereof) shall no longer be comparable to the Hotel, either Owner or Operator shall so notify the other party and a substitute for the hotel identified as no longer comparable shall be made by agreement of the parties. For purposes hereof, a hotel shall no longer be comparable to the Hotel if (i) the hotel in question is no longer in operation, or its operations have been substantially curtailed from its operations as of the date hereof (or as of the date a substitute is added as a Comparable Hotel) whether by virtue of the occurrence of a Force Majeure Cause or for any other reason; or (ii) the quality of the hotel, either physically or operationally, shall have substantially diminished as generally recognized by the traveling public whether as a result of a change of brand or otherwise. If any hotel is determined no longer to be generally comparable to the Hotel, it shall be deleted from the list of Comparable Hotels, and a substitute shall be added to the list of Comparable Hotels so long as the substitute hotel meets the following criteria: (a) the proposed substitute hotel shall have been opened for business for a period of not less than three (3) full years and has, during such period, reported its Achieved RevPAR to the Information Source; and (b) is a hotel in the same Business Segment and generally comparable in size, facilities and the level of quality, both physically and

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   3  


operationally, to the Hotel. All matters pertaining to whether any of the Comparable Hotels shall no longer be comparable, and the identification of any hotels to be substituted as herein provided, shall be determined by agreement of the parties. In the event the parties are unable to agree on one or more of the matters relevant for purposes hereof, either party shall have the right, by notice to the other party, to submit any of the matters to dispute resolution by an Expert in accordance with applicable provisions of Article XIV hereof, and pending the outcome of any such dispute resolution, no change shall be made to the then applicable list of Comparable Hotels.

GOP Deficiency ” shall mean, for the Fiscal Year in question, an amount equal to the amount, if any, by which the Hotel GOP is less than the amount of Hotel GOP required to meet the GOP Test.

GOP Test ” shall mean one of the following: (i) if the annual average occupancy rate for the Hotel for such Fiscal Year is [            ]percent (    %) or higher, the Hotel GOP is not less than [            ]percent (    %) of Gross Receipts for such Fiscal Year, (ii) if the annual average occupancy rate for the Hotel for such Fiscal Year is between [            ] percent (    %-    %) the Hotel GOP is not less than [            ]percent (    %) of Gross Receipts for such Fiscal Year, or (iii) if the annual average occupancy rate for the Hotel for such Fiscal Year is below [            ] percent (    %) the Hotel GOP is not less than [            ] percent (    %) of Gross Receipts for such Fiscal Year. If either of the RevPAR Test or the GOP Test is met for any applicable Fiscal Year, then the Performance Test shall have been deemed passed for such Fiscal Year, and the other provisions of this Section 1.3 shall not be applicable.

Hotel GOP ” shall mean the Gross Operating Profit for the Hotel for each Fiscal Year in question determined in accordance with the Uniform System.

Information Source ” shall be Smith Travel Research Inc. In the event Smith Travel Research Inc. shall no longer be in existence or is unable or unwilling to provide the required information, and thereafter Owner and Operator cannot agree upon an alternative Information Source within thirty (30) days from the date on which Owner shall request information regarding the Achieved RevPAR for the Comparable Hotels, then Owner shall select any two (2) of Price Waterhouse Coopers & Co., KPMG Peat Marwick & Co. or PFK Consulting, and deliver written notice to Operator of the two firms so selected within forty (40) days after the date on which Owner requested information on the Achieved RevPAR for the Comparable Hotels, and the

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   4  


Information Source shall then be either of the firms so selected by Owner as shall be designated by Operator in writing to Owner (or, if Operator shall fail to designate one of said firms within ten (10) days after receipt of the aforesaid written notice from Owner, the firm so selected by Owner). If Owner shall fail to deliver written notice to Operator of the two (2) firms so selected within said forty (40) day period, then Operator may select any one of the firms listed above as the Information Source and designate such firm by written notice to Owner.

Performance Test ” shall be deemed to have been met for any Fiscal Year if, for such Fiscal Year, either the GOP Test or Revpar Test is satisfied.

Revpar Test ” shall mean the Achieved RevPAR for the Hotel is equal to or greater than the Yield Index Performance Standard.

Termination Effective Date ” shall mean the date upon which any termination of this Agreement occurs pursuant to this Section 1.3.

Yield Index Performance Standard ” shall be [                    (    %)] of the numerical average (weighted by number of guest rooms) of the Achieved RevPAR for the Comparable Hotels.

(b) Owner shall have the right to terminate this Agreement if for any two (2) consecutive Fiscal Years (the first of which shall be no sooner than the fifth (5th) full Fiscal Year following the Opening Date) (such consecutive Fiscal Years being herein referred to as the “ Performance Period ”), the Performance Test has not been met, and is not cured by Operator pursuant to this Section 1.3. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any Fiscal Year in which the operation of the Hotel is materially and adversely affected by one or more of the following: (i) Force Majeure Causes or damage to or destruction of the Hotel, (ii) a taking of all or a part of the Hotel by eminent domain, condemnation or similar proceeding, (iii) failure by Owner to provide sufficient working capital funds as required hereunder and for which Operator has declared a Default, (iv) a Refurbishing Program or Major Project, or (v) if there are less than four (4) hotels in the Comparable Hotels pursuant to this Section 1.3, ((i) through (v) hereinafter referred to as an “ Intervening Event ” or collectively as the “ Intervening Events ”), shall be disregarded for all purposes hereof and shall not be included for consecutive year purposes. For avoidance of doubt, the exception contemplated by the preceding sentence is illustrated by the following example: assume that the Hotel failed the Performance Test in the sixth (6th) full Fiscal

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   5  


Year, a Refurbishing Program was undertaken in the seventh (7th) full Fiscal Year, and the Hotel failed the Performance Test in the eighth (8th) full Fiscal Year; since the seventh (7th) full Fiscal Year is disregarded for all purposes, the Performance Test has been failed for the Performance Period.

(c) Owner shall have sixty (60) days after the later to occur of (i) receipt of the Certified Financial Statements for the second of the consecutive Fiscal Years in which Owner believes there has been a failure of the Performance Test, and (ii) receipt from Operator of the report required under Section 1.3(d) below of the Information Source as to the Achieved RevPAR for the Comparable Hotels for such Fiscal Years, in which to give written notice (a “ Performance Termination Notice ”) to Operator of Owner’s irrevocable intention to terminate this Agreement. If such Performance Termination Notice is not received by Operator within the aforesaid sixty (60) days, Owner’s right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Section 1.3 shall lapse until such time as the conditions set forth in the first sentence of Section 1.3(b) shall again be satisfied (which, in such case, shall not include the second of the two consecutive years just ended as the first year of the next period).

(d) After the same is available following the end of each Fiscal Year, Operator shall furnish Owner a report from the Information Source setting forth the Achieved RevPAR for the Comparable Hotels and the Hotel for the preceding Fiscal Year.

(e) If Owner, having a right to do so, delivers a timely Performance Termination Notice in accordance with the foregoing, Operator shall thereafter have the right to “cure” the Performance Test failure and extinguish Owner’s right to terminate this Agreement by delivering written notice to Owner on or before the thirtieth (30 th ) day following receipt of the Performance Termination Notice of Operator’s irrevocable intention to “cure” and by paying to Owner (on or before the sixtieth (60 th ) day following receipt of the Performance Termination Notice) in cash an amount equal to the greater of the GOP Deficiency for the first or second of the two (2) Fiscal Years of the Performance Period. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to obligate Operator to “cure” any Performance Test failure and the failure to “cure” the same shall not be deemed an Event of Default by Operator under this Agreement. If Operator has “cured” such Performance Test failure, both of the consecutive Fiscal Years in which the Performance Test has not been met shall, for all purposes, be deemed Fiscal Years in which the Performance Test was met and neither of the two (2) years used in such Performance Test shall be used in any other Performance

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   6  


Period. The payment of GOP Deficiency shall be final and non-refundable, except in the event of an objection by either party to the Certified Financial Statements for the applicable Fiscal Years, in which case the provisions of subsection (g) below, regarding an objection to the Certified Financial Statements, shall apply. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall Operator be entitled to “cure” a Performance Test failure on more than two (2) separate occasions during the Initial Term or more than once during a Renewal Term.

(f) If Owner properly and timely exercises its right to terminate in accordance with the provisions of this Section 1.3, and Operator does not “cure” as above provided, then, subject to the provisions of Section 16.13, all of the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall terminate, without further act or notice of either of the parties, on the Termination Effective Date specified in a written notice from Owner to Operator, which date shall in no event be sooner than ninety (90) days following Owner’s delivery of the Performance Termination Notice, nor later than six (6) months thereafter.

On or prior to the Termination Effective Date as herein provided, Owner shall pay to Operator (i) all Basic Fees earned up to and including the date of termination; (ii) an estimate, as reasonably determined by Operator and Owner, of the amount of Incentive Fees accrued for the Fiscal Year in which such termination occurs up to and including the Termination Effective Date; and (iii) an estimate, as reasonably determined by Operator and Owner of all other amounts due to Operator up to and including the Termination Effective Date.

(g) Subsequent to any termination pursuant to this Section 1.3, but in no event later than ninety (90) days after the end of the Fiscal Year in which such Termination Effective Date shall occur, Owner shall deliver to Operator Certified Financial Statements for such Fiscal Year up to the Termination Effective Date together with the calculation of the amount of Incentive Fee, if any, earned for such Fiscal Year to the Termination Effective Date (calculated on the basis of a per diem proration of the Hurdle Amount to the Termination Effective Date). The Certified Financial Statements shall be final and binding on the parties unless either party, within one hundred and twenty (120) days after the delivery thereof, objects thereto by written notice to the other party as prescribed in Section 4.8. Once resolved, there shall be a settlement between the parties of any such amounts in relation to amounts previously paid to Operator.

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   7  


ARTICLE II

Appointment of Operator

2.1 Grant of Authority .

(a) Owner hereby appoints Operator as its sole and exclusive agent to supervise, direct, control, manage and operate the Hotel (including all of its facilities and amenities) for the Term, subject to, and in accordance with, the Hotel Standard and the terms of this Agreement. Operator hereby accepts said appointment and agrees that it shall supervise, direct, control, manage and operate the Hotel during the Term, subject to, and in accordance with the Hotel Standard and the terms of this Agreement.

(b) In furtherance of the foregoing grant of authority, Owner agrees that it will not unduly or unreasonably interfere with the exercise by Operator of its managerial rights and authority hereunder, and agrees specifically that it will not seek to direct or control any Hotel Employees, appoint others to solicit or accept Hotel reservations or itself accept Hotel reservations, conduct separate advertising or market programs for the Hotel, appoint other parties to conduct any portion of Hotel operations, or otherwise seek to exert direct supervision, control or management of Hotel operations, all subject, however, to Owner’s rights as expressly set forth in this Agreement.

(c) To enable Operator to respond efficiently to requests it may receive from third parties to provide evidence of its authority to operate the Hotel, without unnecessarily disclosing the terms and provisions of this Agreement, Owner shall, concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, execute and deliver a certificate of authority ( “Certificate of Authority” ), substantially in the form of the attached Exhibit C , confirming Operator’s authority to operate the Hotel. Notwithstanding the execution by Owner of the Certificate of Authority, Owner and Operator acknowledge and agree that (i) nothing in the Certificate of Authority shall be deemed to modify this Agreement or to expand or limit the rights or obligations of either party as set forth herein; (ii) the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail over any other contrary provisions of the Certificate of Authority; and (iii) upon the expiration or termination of this Agreement, the Certificate of Authority shall expire and be of no further force or effect, and Operator shall no longer make use of the Certificate of Authority for any purpose whatsoever.

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   8  


2.2 Standard of Operation .

In the performance of its duties and obligations hereunder, (i) Operator will use that degree of skill, care and diligence as is customary and usual of operators of first-class hotels in the United States, subject in all cases to the Hotel Standard and the express provisions of this Agreement and (ii) Operator agrees that it shall at all times manage and operate the Hotel for the account and benefit of Owner in a business-like and efficient manner, and in accordance with all terms of this Agreement, offering an appropriate level of quality of guest amenities and services consistent with the Hotel Standard and consistent with the purpose and intention of maximizing the long-term profitability of the Hotel subject in all respects to the terms of this Agreement. Owner will at all times permit the Hotel to be operated in accordance with the Hotel Standard, free from interference or disturbance from Owner or its agents, subject in all cases to the express provisions of this Agreement.

2.3 Nature of Relationship; Limitation of Fiduciary Duty .

The relationship between Owner and Operator shall be that of principal and agent. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed or construed to render Owner and Operator partners, joint venturers, landlord/tenant or any other relationship. The scope of Operator’s authority and duty as Owner’s agent with respect to the operation of the Hotel are as set forth in this Agreement, and Owner and Operator both acknowledge and agree that the terms of this Agreement and the duties and responsibilities of each party as set forth herein are intended to satisfy any fiduciary or other common law duties that may exist as a result of the relationship between the parties, including, without limitation, all duties of loyalty, good faith, fair dealing or full disclosure that may be deemed to exist under common law principles of agency or otherwise. Accordingly, to the extent there is any inconsistency between the common law duties and responsibilities of principals and agents and the provisions of this Agreement, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail, it being the intention of the parties that (a) this Agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with general principles of contract interpretation without regard to the common law principles of agency (except as expressly provided for in this Agreement), (b) any liability between the parties shall be based solely on principles of contract law and the express provisions of this Agreement, and (c) this Section 2.3 constitutes a knowing and intentional waiver by Owner of any duties or responsibilities (including common law fiduciary duties) owed by an agent to its principal, and a waiver by Operator of any obligations of a principal to its agent, to the extent the same are inconsistent with, or would have the effect of modifying, limiting or restricting, the express provisions of this

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   9  


Agreement. Neither Operator nor Owner shall have liability for punitive damages or for consequential damages to the other in respect of a breach of fiduciary duties or otherwise arising out of this Agreement.

2.4 Scope of Authority .

Owner’s grant of authority to Operator in Section 2.1 is intended to afford to Operator the sole and exclusive right and full authority, as Owner’s agent, to direct, manage and control all aspects of the promotion, marketing, management and operation of the Hotel (and its constituent facilities and amenities) in a manner consistent with the Hotel Standard, as Operator in its reasonable discretion deems advisable, subject only to the express provisions and limitations set forth in this Agreement (including Section 2.5 below). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Operator shall have the power and authority, on behalf of Owner, to:

(a) open the Hotel for business, and cause the Opening Date to occur, as soon as such opening is warranted in the reasonable opinion of Operator and can be effected without compromise to the Hotel Standard; provided, however, in no event shall the Opening Date occur prior to the date on which occupancy by guests is legally permissible, nor later than the date on which the construction, furnishing and equipping of the Hotel (including all guest rooms, public areas and amenities) has been completed in accordance with approved plans and specifications;

(b) establish rates for hotel usage including room rates for individuals and groups, charges for room service, food and beverage and for use of recreational, entertainment or other guest facilities or amenities at the Hotel; it being understood and agreed that the Hotel’s general manager shall have the right, in his/her discretion, to grant discounted or complimentary rooms, food, beverage or other hotel services when he/she reasonably deems the same to be in the best business interests of the Hotel, consistent with Operator’s standard policies and procedures in effect from time to time, and generally in accordance with industry standards regarding the same;

(c) subject to the provisions hereof, establish labor policies and terms of employment (including wage rates and fringe benefits and other items comprising Employee Costs) and arrange for and oversee the hiring, promotion, discharge, supervision and training of all Hotel Employees;

(d) as agent of Owner, subject to any limitations as provided in Section 2.5, negotiate, enter into and enforce the rights of Owner under, leases, licenses or concession

 

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agreements with respect to the Hotel, and provide for the benefit of all tenants, licensees or concessionaires those Hotel services required to be provided by Owner as landlord thereunder. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Operator shall use commercially reasonable efforts to collect all rents from tenants, licensees and concessionaires and shall deposit the same in the Operating Accounts;

(e) as agent of Owner, subject to any limitation as provided in Section 2.5 and Section 4.4, negotiate, enter into and enforce the rights of Owner under, such other reasonable contracts (including, without limitation, maintenance and service contracts, utility agreements, labor or employment contracts and collective bargaining agreements) as may be reasonably necessary or advisable in connection with the operation of the Hotel.

(f) establish and maintain a sound system of accounting and record keeping, in accordance with Section 4.8, and consistent with prudent business practices and generally accepted accounting principles, with adequate systems of internal accounting controls;

(g) develop and implement an appropriate records management and retention system, and retention policies, providing for the maintenance, storage and destruction of Hotel records as required by applicable provisions of law, and as are reasonably consistent with prudent business practices;

(h) use reasonable efforts to maintain the Hotel in good condition and repair throughout the Term including all portions of the Building, Building Systems, FFE and Operating Equipment, all in accordance with maintenance programs established by Operator from time to time. In connection with the foregoing, subject to any limitation as provided in Section 2.5, Operator shall arrange for, supervise and manage all maintenance and service contracts reasonably necessary for the maintenance and protection of the Hotel, and its various parts, including, without limitation, elevator maintenance, extermination services, trash removal, fuel supply and utility services, any of which may be provided through a Purchasing Company contract, or other contract with other third parties; and shall coordinate and provide general oversight (as opposed to project management, unless otherwise separately agreed upon between the Parties) for the installation of FFE and in connection with Building construction or replacement work;

 

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(i) pay all bills and invoices for the Hotel’s operations other than Debt Service and real estate and personal property taxes; provided, however, that Owner, or Operator, with Owner’s approval) shall have the right, but not the obligation, upon prior notice to the other, to contest any real estate taxes or other impositions relating to the Hotel by appropriate proceedings conducted in good faith and with due diligence, the cost of which shall be an Operating Expense and paid from the Operating Accounts but shall not be included in the calculation of GOP for the purpose of determining whether Hyatt has met the Performance Test and whether an Incentive Fee is due pursuant to the terms of this Agreement;

(j) adopt and implement appropriate credit policies and procedures, including, without limitation, policies regarding the acceptance of credit cards, but Operator shall in no event be deemed a guarantor of the credit of any guest, group, patron, travel agent or credit card company;

(k) collect (to the extent reasonably collectible), account for and remit promptly to proper governmental authorities all applicable excise, sales and use taxes or similar governmental charges collected by the Hotel directly from patrons or guests such as gross receipts, admission, cabaret, use or occupancy taxes, or similar or equivalent taxes (except that portion thereof, if any, which is required to be collected, or whose collection has been assumed, by a third party electronic distribution intermediary such as, for example, Expedia.com);

(l) procure on behalf of Owner all necessary inventories of food, beverages and other consumables, and Operating Equipment;

(m) plan, prepare and supervise all aspects of promotion and publicity relating to the Hotel (alone and as part of the Operator Hotel Group), including such marketing, advertising, sales, public relations and promotional programs or campaigns for the benefit of the Hotel as Operator reasonably determines to be necessary or appropriate, and including (to the extent Operator deems advisable) participation in airline frequent traveler programs;

(n) subject to Section 2.5, from time to time as deemed necessary by Operator, consult with legal counsel regarding matters pertaining to the operation of the Hotel;

(o) subject to Section 2.5, institute, prosecute, defend, or settle (in Operator’s name or in the name of the Hotel or Owner, as appropriate), legal actions and proceedings relating to

 

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the operation (as distinct from the ownership) of the Hotel in the ordinary course, including actions or proceedings required to collect charges, rent or other income for the Hotel, to dispossess guests, tenants or other persons in possession therefrom, or to cancel or terminate any lease, license or concession agreement, and Owner shall cooperate with Operator in connection therewith, it being acknowledged and agreed that (i) Operator shall promptly notify Owner of legal disputes for which a summons, complaint, or other correspondence from an attorney has been received, and shall promptly forward notice of any such claims to the appropriate insurer, (ii) Owner shall be notified promptly and have the right to participate in any proceedings involving union disputes or collective bargaining or lawsuits in which Owner is named as a defendant, and (iii) notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Operator shall have the right to appoint counsel, defend, and control any and all legal actions or proceedings which involve more than one hotel in the Operator Hotel Group, or which relate to policies, procedures or business practices of Operator or its Affiliates (it being further acknowledged and agreed that costs relating to actions or proceedings against Operator relating to the Hotel together with one or more other hotels in the Operator Hotel Group, shall be allocated on a fair and reasonable basis among the Hotel and such other hotels to which such proceedings may relate);

(p) take such actions as Operator shall reasonably determine to be necessary to comply with applicable Legal Requirements (to the extent within Operator’s reasonable control to do so); at the specific request of Owner from time to time, cooperate, in all reasonable respects, with Owner (at Owner’s costs and expense and not as an Operating Expense), and any actual or prospective purchaser, underwriter, Lender, Successor Manager or other Person in connection with any actual or proposed sale, investment, offering, debt placement or financing of or related to the Hotel. Operator agrees to prepare lists and schedules (such as inventories) and other information relating to the Hotel, to the extent regularly maintained or compiled in Operator’s normal business operations, or if the requested information is reasonably available to Operator, as may be requested by a prospective purchaser, underwriter, Lender, Successor Manager or other Person; provided, however, that in no case shall Operator be required to release to any third party any confidential information related to employees of the Hotel or Operator’s Proprietary Materials or by reason of such cooperation incur any underwriting liability;

(q) keep Owner informed and advised of all material, financial and other matters (including, without limitation, any casualty) concerning the Hotel and the operation thereof of

 

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which Operator has actual knowledge and cause Key Personnel to be available as often as Owner may reasonably request to consult with Owner concerning the business of the Hotel;

(r) notify Owner, in writing, promptly upon receipt by Operator of actual knowledge thereof, of the filing of any liens against the Hotel and cooperate with Owner, in all reasonable respects, at Owner’s expense, in contesting, compromising, or otherwise causing the discharge, of any such liens; and

(s) take such other actions as Operator reasonably determines to be appropriate to operate the Hotel to the Hotel Standard.

2.5 Limitations on Operator’s Authority .

Notwithstanding any contrary provision of this Agreement, Operator shall not have the authority to take any of the following actions without the prior consent of Owner not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed (which shall be deemed to have been given if the matter in question is specifically contemplated in an approved Annual Plan):

(a) enter into any equipment lease, contract or other arrangement (or series of related contracts or arrangements) if (A) the expenditures thereunder would, or are reasonably anticipated to, exceed Two Hundred Fifty Thousand and 00/100 US Dollars (US$250,000.00) (subject to CPI adjustment) in the aggregate, or (B) if the non-cancelable term of such equipment lease, contract or other arrangement is in excess of one (1) year without penalty). Owner’s consent shall not be required with respect to (i) individual employment or compensation arrangements so long as the same (other than fringe benefit programs) do not involve a non-cancelable term in excess of one (1) year; (ii) Centralized Services Charges; (iii) expenditures from the Capital Fund but not in excess of the amounts that may be made by Operator without Owner approval as expressly provided in Section 4.1(b); (iv) expenditures incident to the booking of rooms, food and beverage and other Hotel business entered into in the ordinary course of business and performing Hotel obligations under any such booking arrangements (provided that a contract or arrangement that shall account for more than an average of [seventy-five (75)] or more rooms per night for a period of [twelve (12)] months or more at a rate per night of less than [Two Hundred Dollars ($200)] (subject to CPI adjustment) shall require Owner’s prior approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed); or (v) contracts or expenditures reasonably required in order to protect life, health, safety or property in cases of emergency ;

 

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(b) settle (i) any property insurance claims that exceed Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($500,000), and (ii) any condemnation awards regardless of amount. Operator shall have the right to settle all other property insurance claims;

(c) institute (as opposed to the defend) any legal or equitable proceedings with respect to the Hotel, including the selection of counsel, excluding, however, (i) routine collection litigation; (ii) litigation involving matters covered (subject to applicable deductions) by insurance (including subrogation claims); and (iii) other matters involving ordinary day-to-day operations of the Hotel wherein the amount in controversy is less than Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) (subject to CPI adjustment), all such excluded matters (including the selection of counsel with respect thereto) to be within the operating authority of Operator; provided, however, that Owner shall have the right to approve the engagement of and selection of legal counsel if the cost of such engagement is likely (as determined at the time of the engagement) to exceed One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) (excluding, however, counsel retained by an insurance company with respect to an insurance claim). Operator shall not, without the prior consent of Owner, institute, defend or settle any legal or equitable proceeding with respect to the Hotel, including the selection of counsel, where such proceeding relates specifically to the Site, Building, or Building Systems, as opposed to the operation of the Hotel (such as, for example, but without limitation, claims under Title III of the Americans With Disabilities Act, environmental claims not arising from Hotel operations, and Building compliance with zoning and building laws), it being acknowledged and understood that any such legal or equitable proceeding shall be conducted by Owner, with counsel of its choice, and may be paid out of the Operating Accounts to the extent there is sufficient working capital and shall not be included in the calculation of GOP for the purpose of determining whether Hyatt has met the Performance Test and whether an Incentive Fee is due pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The costs relating to activities or proceedings against Operator directly relating to the Hotel together with one or more other Brand Hotels shall (subject to the limitations set forth in the preceding sentence) be allocated on a fair and reasonable basis among the Hotel and such other Brand Hotels to which such proceedings relate;

 

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(d) purchase goods, supplies or services from itself of any Affiliate, or enter into any other transaction with an Affiliate of Operator wherein any portion of the cost thereof will be paid or reimbursed by the Hotel, except as permitted under Sections 2.4, 2.5, 2.8, 4.5 or Section 4.6; provided, however, that Owner acknowledges that, (i) in light of the varied nature and scope of investments by or on behalf of the Pritzker Family, there may be situations where a company in which the Pritzker Family holds an interest does business, directly or indirectly, with Operator or the Hotel without the knowledge of such interest by Operator’s management, and (ii) any such transactions entered into in the ordinary course of business will not be deemed a violation of the provisions of this Section; provided, that, where such affiliations are actually known by the Hotel it will notify Owner in connection with the Annual Plan.

(e) acquire on behalf of Owner any land or interest therein;

(f) finance, refinance, mortgage, place any liens upon or otherwise encumber the Hotel or any portion thereof or interest therein;

(g) enter into any collective bargaining agreements except as provided for herein. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Operator will negotiate, on behalf of the Hotel with any labor union lawfully entitled to represent its employees at the Hotel, or any collective bargaining unit comprising Hotel employees. Operator shall keep Owner fully informed as to the progress of any negotiations and any agreements that are reached and shall consult with Owner during the course of any negotiations with such labor union as to terms (including but not limited to wages, benefits and job descriptions) reasonably acceptable to Owner. Any collective bargaining agreement or labor contract resulting therefrom shall first be approved by Owner, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. In that connection, Owner understands and agrees that its approval rights shall be disclosed to the bargaining representative, and, Owner further agrees (i) Owner will not withhold, condition or delay its approval to any collective bargaining agreement if the result thereof, in the reasonable opinion of counsel for Operator, is to create a substantial risk of violation of Legal Requirements or an existing contractual obligations on the part of Operator; and (ii) in addition to any other indemnification obligations of Owner herein contained, Owner shall indemnify, defend and hold Operator, its officers, directors, employees and agents, completely free and harmless of and from any and all manner of liability, claim, cost or expense which may be incurred by Operator by reason of any failure of the part of Owner to approve a

 

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collective bargaining agreement, submitted to Owner for approval and such approval shall have been withheld, conditioned or delayed by Owner. Operator shall use commercially reasonable efforts to settle and compromise all controversies and disputes arising under any labor union contract affecting the employees of the Hotel upon such terms and conditions as Operator reasonably deems to be in the Hotel’s best interests, provided no settlement or compromise for any dispute wherein the amount in controversy is in excess of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) shall be binding on Owner unless Owner shall have approved the same in writing;

(h) enter into any leases for space in the Hotel for space in excess of              square feet or having an annual rental obligation in excess of $            ;

(i) sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of all or any portion of the Hotel except for dispositions of food, beverages and merchandise, and dispositions of surplus or obsolete FFE, to the extent the same are in the ordinary course of Hotel business; or

(j) take any other action which, under the terms of this Agreement, is prohibited or requires the approval of Owner.

2.6 Limitations on Operator’s Duties .

(a) In no event shall Operator be deemed in breach of its duties under this Agreement, or otherwise at law or in equity, solely by reason of (i) the failure of the financial performance of the Hotel to meet Owner expectations or income projections or other matters included in the Annual Plan, (ii) the institution of litigation or the entry of judgments against Owner or the Hotel with respect to the Hotel operations, or (iii) any other acts or omissions not otherwise constituting a breach of this Agreement, it being the intention and agreement of the parties that Operator’s sole obligation hereunder shall be to act in conformity with the standard of skill, care and diligence referred to in Section 2.2, in conformity with the Hotel Standard, and otherwise in conformity with the express terms of this Agreement.

(b) Owner and Operator agree that in each instance in this Agreement where Operator is required or entitled to review or approve plans, specifications, budgets and/or financings, no such review or approval shall imply or be deemed to constitute an opinion by Operator, nor impose upon Operator any responsibility for the design or construction of Building elements including, but not limited to, structural integrity, life/safety requirements, adequacy of

 

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budgets and/or financing or the compliance with environmental laws, it being acknowledged that any such reviews and approvals by Operator are for the sole and exclusive benefit of Operator (and may be waived by Operator if it so chooses) and may not be relied upon by any other Person.

(c) Notwithstanding any contrary provision of this Agreement, Operator shall be excused from its obligations to operate the Hotel in conformity with the Hotel Standard and from its other obligations under this Agreement, to the extent and whenever Operator’s compliance with such obligations is prevented or restricted by (i) the occurrence of a Force Majeure Cause, (ii) any limitation or restriction in this Agreement on Operator’s authority or ability to expend funds, (iii) an insufficiency of funds available to Operator in the Operating Accounts or Capital Fund, or (iv) any breach by Owner of its obligations under this Agreement for which Operator has declared a Default.

2.7 Other Properties of Operator and its Affiliates .

Owner acknowledges that Operator and its Affiliates own, operate and license (and will continue to own, operate and license) other hotels, including other Brand Hotels, some of which may compete with the Hotel. Owner further acknowledges that: (a) it has selected Operator to operate the Hotel in substantial part because of Operator’s and its Affiliates’ operation of a chain of first-class hotels, resorts and other lodging facilities, and the benefits that derive from including the Hotel as part of the Brand Hotels, specifically, and the Operator Hotel Group, generally; (b) it has determined, on an overall basis, that the benefits of operation as part of the Operator Hotel Group are substantial notwithstanding that not all hotels within the Operator Hotel Group will benefit equally by inclusion therein; and (c) in certain respects all hotels compete with all other hotels and conflicts may, from time to time, arise between the Hotel and other hotels (including other Brand Hotels) within the Operator Hotel Group. Operator agrees that it shall use commercially reasonable efforts to minimize conflicts among the hotels within the Operator Hotel Group, and will in all events proceed, both in its ownership, operation and licensing of the Hotel and in the ownership, operation and licensing of other hotels within the Operator Hotel Group, in a good faith manner reasonably intended to serve the overall best interests, on a long term basis, of all hotels (including the Hotel) within the Operator Hotel Group.

 

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2.8 Use of Affiliates .

In fulfilling its obligations under this Agreement, Operator may from time to time use the services of one or more of its Affiliates. If an Affiliate of Operator performs services that Operator is required to provide under this Agreement, Operator shall be ultimately responsible to Owner for the Affiliate’s performance, and Owner shall not pay more for the Affiliate’s services and expenses than Operator would have been entitled to receive under this Agreement had Operator performed the said services.

2.9 Irrevocability of Contract .

Owner and Operator each acknowledge (a) that they are entering into this Agreement in reliance on the long term nature of this Agreement, and (b) that the rights, duties, powers and authority of each of the parties hereto, are intended to be non-terminable throughout the Term, except in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement or, where appropriate, as a remedy for the occurrence of any Event of Default. It is agreed that neither party will achieve the benefits intended to be achieved if either party has any continuing right or power to terminate this Agreement, or the agency hereby created, except in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement. Accordingly, both Owner and Operator, as a substantial inducement to the other to enter into this Agreement, as an inducement to Operator to invest the skill, time, expertise and customer relationships necessary to achieve the long term benefits herein contemplated, and as an inducement to Owner to ensure the full and unrestrained best efforts of Operator in the management and operation of the Hotel in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, hereby irrevocably waive and relinquish any right, power or authority existing at law or in equity, including, without limitation, any such right, power or authority referred to in Robert E. Woolley v. Embassy Suites, Inc. , 227 Cal. App. 3d 1520 (1990), Pacific Landmark Hotel, Ltd. v. Marriott Hotels, Inc. et al. , 19 Cal. App. 4th 615 (1993) and their progeny, to terminate this Agreement or Operator’s authority hereunder, except in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement. The parties further hereby acknowledge that any breach of the provisions of this Section 2.9, by either party will cause irreparable and permanent damage to the other party, not fully or substantially compensable by money damages and, therefore, that the continuation of the Term may be enforced by specific performance or other appropriate equitable remedies.

 

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2.10 Eligible Independent Contractor .

It is intended that Operator shall qualify as an “eligible independent contractor” as defined in Section 856(d)(9) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. To that end:

(a) During the Term, Operator shall not knowingly or intentionally permit wagering activities to be conducted at or in connection with the Hotel by any Person who is legally authorized to conduct the same. The provisions of the preceding sentence shall not apply to wagering activities conducted by guests or patrons of the Hotel as part of lawful charitable or other similar fund raising activities at the Hotel.

(b) During the Term, Operator shall not knowingly or intentionally own, directly or indirectly (within the meaning of Section 856(d)(5) of the Code), more than 35% of the shares of Chesapeake Lodging Trust (“Chesapeake”);

(c) During the Term, Operator will not knowingly or intentionally permit more than 35% of the total combined voting power of Operator’s outstanding stock to be owned, directly or indirectly, by one or more persons owning 35% or more of the outstanding stock of Chesapeake; and

(d) Operator represents and warrants that Operator (or a person who is a “related person” within the meaning of Section 856(d)(9)(F) of the Code (a “Related Person”) with respect to the Operator) is, as of the date hereof, actively engaged in the trade or business of operating “qualified lodging facilities” (as defined in Section 856(9)(D) of the Code) for one or more Persons who are not Related Persons with respect to Owner ( “Unrelated Persons” ).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no breach of the foregoing provisions shall be deemed a Default or an Event of Default by Operator, but Owner shall be entitled, as its sole and exclusive remedy, to terminate this Agreement for breach thereof by notice in writing delivered to Operator at any time within six (6) months of Owner’s receipt of actual knowledge of the breach thereof (without payment of fee or other consideration to Operator by reason thereof) which termination shall be effective on the date selected by Owner in its notice to Operator but no sooner than thirty (30) nor more than one hundred eighty (180) days after the date hereof. Furthermore, the provisions of this Section 2.10 are included in this Agreement solely for the benefit of Chesapeake, an Affiliate of Owner, which is a real estate investment trust subject to the provisions of Section 856 of the Code. This Section 2.10, therefore, shall be of no force or effect, and shall not apply, at any time during the Term as Owner, or any Affiliate of Owner (or

 

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their successors and assigns as permitted hereunder), are no longer subject to the provisions of said Section 856 of the Code (or any successor provision thereto of similar import).

ARTICLE III

[Construction/Conversion] of Hotel

3.1 Owner’s Obligation .

Owner shall provide or obtain all financial and other resources necessary to complete the [ conversion/development, PIP, construction and opening ] of the Hotel, in accordance with this Agreement and the Pre-Opening Agreement. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Owner shall ensure that, as of the Opening Date, there are adequate funds in the Operating Accounts and in house banks, as reasonably approved by Operator, and Operator shall ensure that, as of the Opening Date, all necessary inventories of food, beverages and operating supplies are on hand subject to Owner’s obligation to provide sufficient working capital for all such items. Operator shall not be required to provide any funds for the [ conversion/development, PIP, construction and opening ] of the Hotel ] . Upon Operator’s written acknowledgement of completion of the [conversion/development, PIP, construction and opening], as of the date thereof, the Hotel shall be deemed in compliance with the Hotel Standard, provided that if Operator’s acknowledgement of completion is requested by written notice from Owner and Operator fails to respond to such request within thirty (30) days of express or written receipt or acknowledgement thereof, then Operator shall be deemed to have acknowledged such completion.

ARTICLE IV

Operation of Hotel

4.1 Annual Plan .

(a) Preparation and Submission . No later than November 1 of each Fiscal Year during the Term, Operator will prepare and submit to Owner for the following calendar year (i) a forecasted budget of the Hotel’s operations, including forecasts of revenues and Operating Expenses and the assumptions underlying the same; (ii) a proposed marketing plan; and (iii) a proposed budget of Capital Expenditures (for this purpose, inclusive of additions to and replacements of FFE). Such information and forecasts shall be supplemented with such additional detail as Owner may reasonably request. Accompanying each proposed Annual Plan shall be an updated list of Mandatory Contracts. The materials described in clauses (i) and (ii) above are herein collectively referred to as the “Operating Budget” , the budget referred to in

 

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clause (iii) above is herein referred to as the “Capital Budget” and the Operating Budget and Capital Budget are collectively referred to as the “Annual Plan” . The Annual Plan shall be prepared in accordance with Operator’s standard internal planning and budgeting procedures on Operator’s standard formats.

Owner agrees that it shall promptly review all Operating Budgets and Capital Budgets submitted to it, and Operator agrees that it shall provide Owner with such additional and supplemental information with respect thereto as shall be reasonably requested by Owner and which may be prepared or compiled without unreasonable delay, expense or interruption of normal operations. In addition to the Operating Budget and Capital Budget for the ensuing year, Operator shall provide, for the information of Owner and not as part of the Annual Plan, a plan for Capital Expenditures (including any Refurbishing Program), for the next five (5) Fiscal Years subsequent to the Fiscal Year which is the subject of the proposed Annual Plan. Promptly after submission of the Annual Plan, representatives of Owner and Operator shall meet at such location as may be mutually agreed and at a mutually convenient time to discuss, and attempt in good faith to agree upon, the Annual Plan as provided below.

(b) Operating Budget . All items of expenditure contained in the Operating Budget shall be subject to approval of Owner, with the exception of the following: (i) costs associated with contracts or arrangements Operator has made on a Centralized Services basis and other chain-wide, regional or Business Segment basis in accordance with Operator’s authority under, and subject to the terms of, this Agreement, including, without limitation, Mandatory Contracts; (ii) Employee Costs, including the targets applicable to and the potential costs of bonuses; (iii) items (such as room rates, menu or banquet prices, and the like) affecting the estimate of Hotel revenues; or (iv) other expenditures required to be made under the express provisions of this Agreement, including, without limitation, expenditures for Management Fees, Centralized Services Charges and Centralized Services Costs (except to the extent Owner has opted out of non-mandatory Centralized Services), provided that Centralized Services Charges shall be included in Operating Expenses in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, and Centralized Service Charges are assessed to the Hotel on the basis set forth in this Agreement on the same basis (although not necessarily in the same overall dollar amount) as such charges are assessed to other similarly situated Brand Hotels. Owner shall not withhold its approval for any expenditures which are reasonably necessary, in nature or amount, to enable the Hotel to continue operating in accordance with the Hotel Standard.

 

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Subject to the foregoing, Operator shall take into consideration the views and suggestions of Owner regarding all aspects of the Operating Budget and both Owner and Operator shall attempt, in good faith, to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement, and thereupon to incorporate any such agreements into the Operating Budget. Within thirty (30) days’ of receipt of the Operating Budget, Owner shall have the right to suggest changes in the proposed Operating Budget which it considers reasonably necessary to achieve the objectives of near-term and long-term maximization of Hotel profits, subject in all respects to the Hotel Standard. Operator shall take into consideration the views and suggestions of Owner regarding all aspects of the Operating Budget and both Owner and Operator shall attempt, in good faith, to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement, and thereupon to incorporate any such agreements into the Operating Budget, giving regard to the Parties’ objectives described in Section 2.2. To the extent Operator disagrees with Owner’s suggestions and comments, Operator shall provide written explanations for its disagreements. Promptly following the foregoing discussions and explanations, Operator shall submit a revised Operating Budget for further comment and discussion in the manner set forth above.

Thereafter, the parties shall continue to discuss the Operating Budget until such time as both Operator and Owner shall have reached agreement on all items comprising the Operating Budget for which Owner has approval rights hereunder. If the parties cannot agree on an Operating Budget within ninety (90) days after the commencement of the Fiscal Year to which such Operating Budget is intended to relate, each of Owner and Operator shall thereafter have the right to submit the issue of the disputed items in the Operating Budget to Expert determination as provided in Article XIV. The Expert’s determination pursuant to Article XIV as to the disputed items of the Operating Budget shall be final and binding on both Owner and Operator.

Until such time as the parties have agreed on all line items of the proposed Operating Budget for which Owner has approval rights hereunder, Operator shall have the right to operate the Hotel in accordance with an Operating Budget comprised of those line items which do not require Owner approval hereunder, those line items that have theretofore been agreed upon by Owner and Operator and, only with respect to those line items not yet approved by Owner (and for which Owner has approval rights hereunder), the standards of operation and operating policies in effect during the preceding calendar year. Once the Operating Budget has been approved by Owner and Operator, Operator agrees that it shall use commercially reasonable efforts to operate

 

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the Hotel in a manner consistent with the approved Operating Budget both as relates to estimates of dollar amounts of expenditures, and the operating assumptions underlying the same.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 4.1, Owner and Operator both acknowledge that the forecasts of revenues and estimated expenses contained in the Operating Budget represent Operator’s best estimate of the same for the following calendar year and not in any way a guarantee of actual results. Actual revenues and expenses can vary from forecasts and estimates for reasons beyond the reasonable control of Operator including, without limitation, the following: (i) the volume of business and the levels of hotel occupancy; (ii) the mix of business (that is, the relationship of food and beverage revenues to other hotel related revenues and the relationship of group business to individual travel business); (iii) prevailing wage rates and the effects of collective bargaining agreements; (iv) inflation; (v) utility rates, insurance premiums and tax increases; (vi) unanticipated and extraordinary repair and maintenance expenses; (vii) the need to meet competitive market conditions; and (viii) other similar causes. Owner acknowledges that so long as Operator adheres to its covenant to use commercially reasonable and diligent efforts to operate the Hotel in a manner consistent with the approved Operating Budget and Annual Plan, Operator shall have no liability to Owner, and shall not otherwise be deemed in default hereunder, if actual operating results vary from the Operating Budget.

If at any time during the year Operator anticipates that revenues shall be materially less or expenditures shall be materially more than those forecasted in the Operating Budget, Operator shall, at the request of Owner at any time, provide its opinion regarding the reason for such deviation in writing, and upon Owner’s request shall meet in person with Owner and its designees to confer on the subject. Operator shall further submit, on a monthly basis, updated cash flow forecasts during the Fiscal Year for the remainder of the then current Fiscal Year; provided, however, in no event shall the need for any such re-forecasting of the Annual Plan, or any portion of it, be deemed a default by Operator hereunder. In addition to the foregoing, Operator and Owner shall confer on ways and means of addressing revenue shortfalls, or reducing expenditures, in response to reduced levels of business, and on other appropriate business or marketing measures. Operator shall consider in good faith any suggestions made by Owner and shall implement the same if, in the judgment of Operator, such suggestions are responsive to business conditions and reasonably likely to have a favorable affect on business performance, can be implemented without adversely affecting contractual arrangements or business relationships, and are consistent with the Hotel Standard.

 

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(c) Capital Budget Approval .

(1) In connection with any Capital Budget, if Operator anticipates that a Major Project shall be required, it shall specifically highlight such Major Project, and shall state whether, in Operator’s reasonable opinion, such Major Project will adversely affect the results of operations of the Hotel for the Fiscal Year in question. Furthermore, if Operator reasonably believes that any portion of the Capital Budget shall be used to pay for purchases of FFE to be made through Rosemont, Operator shall include a specific estimate of the amount of fees or other costs to be paid to Rosemont.

(2) Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 4.1(c)(4), all items of expenditure contained in the Capital Budget shall be subject to Owner’s approval; provided, however, Owner agrees that, Owner shall approve all Capital Budgets or relevant portions thereof that are reasonably necessary in order to enable the Hotel to meet the Hotel Standard. If Owner does not approve a proposed Capital Budget, or any line items or specific Capital Expenditure projects within a proposed Capital Budget, within thirty (30) days after delivery of the same to Owner, then such Capital Budget, or such line item(s) or Capital Expenditure projects not specifically approved by Owner, as the case may be, shall be deemed disapproved. In such event, Owner and Operator shall meet and confer in good faith in an effort to reconcile differences and reach consensus during the thirty (30) day period thereafter.

(3) If, by the end of the sixty (60) day period following Operator’s submission of the Capital Budget to Owner, Owner has yet to approve a Capital Budget or a specific Capital Expenditure project, or any portion thereof, Operator shall notify Owner in writing of any such unapproved Capital Expenditure(s) Operator reasonably deems necessary for the Hotel to meet the Hotel Standard (collectively, the “ Disputed Capital Expenditures ”). If Owner does not agree to include the Disputed Capital Expenditures in the approved Capital Budget, or as an approved Capital Expenditure project, within thirty (30) days after delivery of Operator’s notice, then Operator shall have the right to submit the issue of whether the Disputed Capital Expenditures are necessary to enable the Hotel to meet the Hotel Standard to an Expert as provided in Article XIV. The Expert may, at the request of either party, also determine the expected sufficiency of the Capital Fund. The Expert’s determination pursuant to Article XIV as to the Disputed Capital Expenditures shall be final and binding on both Owner and Operator.

 

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(4) Operator shall not incur Capital Expenditures that are in excess of those required or permitted under the approved Capital Budget except for the following: (i) expenditures for the replacement of or additions to FFE (other than expenditures relating to Refurbishing Programs approved by Owner) from funds then on deposit or to be deposited in the Capital Fund which do not exceed                      Thousand Dollars ($                    ) (subject to CPI adjustment) for any single expenditure, or                      Thousand Dollars ($                    ) (subject to CPI adjustment) in the aggregate in any calendar year (and provided that such expenditures shall not thereby cause the Capital Fund to lack sufficient funds to pay for previously approved items contemplated in the Capital Budget); (ii) expenditures, including Capital Expenditures, which Operator reasonably deems necessary to minimize personal injury and property damage in cases of casualty or other emergency, or which Operator deems reasonably necessary in order to comply with applicable Legal Requirements, provided notice of expenditures made in reliance on this clause (ii) shall promptly (no later than 24 hours after such event) be provided to Owner, or (iii) expenditures from funds on deposit in the Capital Fund which are reasonably necessary to enable the Hotel to meet the Hotel Standard in effect at the time the expenditure is made.

Each Capital Budget shall be applicable only for the Fiscal Year to which it relates. Authorization for Capital Expenditures that have not been made by the end of the Fiscal Year for which approval is given shall lapse at the end of such year; provided, however, any Capital Expenditure that has been authorized and committed to prior to the end of any Fiscal Year may be paid in a subsequent Fiscal Year when payment thereof becomes due. A Capital Expenditure shall be deemed to have been committed to in a particular Fiscal Year if purchase orders have been placed, or goods have been received, but not yet invoiced, or, if invoiced, have not been paid, prior to the end of such Fiscal Year.

If, at the time Operator submits the proposed Annual Plan as well as the projections for the ensuing five (5) Fiscal Years with respect to the Capital Budget, Operator anticipates that funds for Capital Expenditures in excess of those which will be available in the Capital Fund will be required for the Hotel during any of such years, it shall so state in its Annual Plan including an estimate of the amounts, if any, which are anticipated. In addition, if the proposed Capital Budget anticipates any project which represents an upgrade in any of the facilities in the Hotel, Operator shall so state in connection with the Capital Budget and explain the purpose of the upgrade and whether it is necessary.

 

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(d) Operation in Accordance with Annual Plan . Operator agrees that it shall use commercially reasonable efforts to operate the Hotel in a manner consistent with the approved Annual Plan; however, Owner and Operator both acknowledge that the forecasts of revenues and estimated expenses contained in any Annual Plan represent Operator’s good faith estimate of the same for the relevant Fiscal Year and are not in any way a guarantee of actual results. Actual revenues and expenses can vary from forecasts and estimates for reasons beyond the reasonable control of Operator including, without limitation, the following: (i) the volume of business and the levels of hotel occupancy; (ii) the mix of business (that is, the relationship of food and beverage revenues to other hotel related revenues and the relationship of group business to individual travel business); (iii) prevailing wage rates and the effects of collective bargaining agreements; (iv) inflation; (v) utility rates, insurance premiums and tax increases; (vi) unanticipated and extraordinary repair and maintenance expenses; (vii) the need to meet competitive market conditions; (viii) major market downturns, and (ix) other similar causes.

4.2 Legal Requirements .

Owner shall take such actions as are necessary to cause the Hotel to have met all then-applicable Legal Requirements for operation in accordance with the Hotel Standard as of the Opening Date, including, without limitation, the procurement of all liquor and other licenses required to permit lawful operation as of the Opening Date. Following the Opening Date, Operator shall maintain in Owner’s name or in Operator’s name, as determined and agreed by Owner and Operator, or both, as may be required by Legal Requirements, all licenses or permits required for the ongoing operation of the Hotel and its related facilities (exclusive of permits, such as certificates of occupancy, relating to the development or construction of the Hotel, which shall continue to be the responsibility of Owner), and Operator shall use commercially reasonable efforts to operate the Hotel in compliance with all Legal Requirements including the rules, regulations or orders of any agency or instrumentality establishing life safety or fire safety standards applicable to the Hotel. Owner and Operator shall cooperate with each other in all reasonable respects as may be necessary or advisable to permit the Hotel to be operated in compliance with Legal Requirements, including, without limitation, preparation and execution of required applications for operational licenses and permits, execution of necessary consents, providing necessary information regarding Owner, Operator or the Hotel, as applicable, and submitting to requirements of local police and governmental officials regarding specialized licenses such as liquor licenses. With respect to any licenses or permits that are not proprietary to Operator, Owner reserves the right at any time, without cost or expense to Operator, to implement a transfer of any such license or permit into the

 

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name of Owner or Successor Manager so long as such transfer shall not adversely affect Hotel operations or the right or ability of Operator to manage and operate the Hotel substantially in accordance with its operations prior to such transfer.

4.3 Maintenance, Repairs, Alterations and Reserves .

(a) Subject to the provisions of Section 4.1 relating to the Annual Plan, Operator shall from time to time conduct such ordinary course repair and maintenance work and replacements of FFE as may be required to maintain the Hotel in accordance with the Hotel Standard.

(b) Neither Owner nor Operator shall, without the prior written consent of the other party, (x) modify or alter the Hotel if such modifications or alterations have the effect of (i) changing the Hotel room count; (ii) reducing or eliminating restaurants, banquet or meeting space, health or exercise facilities, parking or other Hotel facilities, or (iii) compromising the Hotel Standard; or (y) undertake any Refurbishing Program at the Hotel. Each of Owner and Operator shall have the right to condition its approval of any of the foregoing on its review and approval of plans and specifications and project schedules for the foregoing. Once any of the foregoing projects are mutually approved by Owner and Operator, Owner shall be responsible for arranging for the performance of such alterations and improvements, in conformity with the approved plans and specifications and in accordance with a schedule and in a manner approved by Operator, so as to minimize, to the extent feasible, the interference of such work with the operation of the Hotel.

During the Term, with respect to any Fiscal Year, in the event the Hotel undergoes any Refurbishing Program, expansion or similar renovation ( “Major Project” ), Owner shall enter into a separate agreement with Operator or its Affiliates pursuant to which (1) Operator or its Affiliates shall be retained to provide technical consultative services for the planning, design and construction associated with the Major Project for an agreed fee, and (2) such Major Project shall be required to meet the then applicable Hotel Standard (as specifically set forth in such separate agreement). To minimize disruption to the Hotel and its operations, any Major Project to be undertaken shall require the approval of Operator in terms of timing, scope, planning, and any other matters affecting Hotel operations. Any and all costs associated with the Major Project (including any fees payable to Operator and it Affiliates) shall be paid for by Owner, at its expense, and not be a charge against Hotel operations.

 

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(c) Operator shall establish and maintain an account of a type and with an institution approved by Owner (the “Capital Fund” ) intended to cover the cost of (i) additions to and replacements of FFE; (ii) payments under Capital Leases for FFE replacements or additions after the Opening Date pursuant to Capital Leases approved by Operator and Owner; (iii) routine maintenance, routine repairs and minor alterations that are reasonably necessary in Operator’s opinion and are normally classified as “capital expenditures” under the Uniform System; and (iv) other Capital Expenditures approved by Operator and Owner to be covered by the Capital Fund, either pursuant to a Capital Budget or otherwise, and for no other purpose. Operator shall have the right to withdraw funds from the Capital Fund for the payment of any of the foregoing amounts that Operator is otherwise authorized to expend in accordance with this Agreement. During the Term, Operator shall transfer into the Capital Fund from the Operating Accounts, on a monthly basis, an amount equal to three percent (3%) of the Gross Receipts for each calendar month through and including the end of the first (1 st ) Fiscal Year hereunder ; four percent (4%) of the Gross Receipts for each calendar month thereafter through the end of the second (2 nd ) Fiscal Year hereunder; and five percent (5%) for each Fiscal Year thereafter through the end of the term. All interest earned on funds on deposit from time to time in the Capital Fund shall remain in, and become part of, the Capital Fund. All funds at any time on deposit in the Capital Fund shall be the property of Owner, and shall be returned to the full control of Owner upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, it being understood and agreed, however, that during the Term the Capital Fund shall constitute one of the Operating Accounts and be subject to all of the terms applicable thereto as set forth in Section 4.7 below.

(d) In the event Operator determines in its reasonable judgment that the balance in the Capital Fund for the forthcoming Fiscal Year will not be sufficient to maintain the Hotel in accordance with the Hotel Standard, Operator shall so notify Owner, and at the request of Owner at any time, explain or comment on the reason for such insufficiency in writing and upon Owner’s request shall meet in person with Owner and its designees to confer on the subject. Owner shall have thirty (30) days after receipt of such notification (or if Owner requests an explanation or meeting, thirty (30) days after the later of (i) Owner’s receipt of Operator’s explanation or (ii) the date of such meeting) to approve Operator’s request for additional funding. Owner shall not withhold its approval with respect to funding that, in Operator’s business judgment, is required to maintain the Hotel Standard and keep the Hotel in a competitive operating condition. Owner shall have thirty (30) days from receipt of Operator’s notice (or if

 

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Owner requests an explanation or meeting, thirty (30) days after the later of (i) Owner’s receipt of Operator’s explanation or (ii) the date of such meeting) to provide a written explanation of its disapproval. The parties will attempt in good faith to resolve Owner’s objections within thirty (30) days of Operator’s receipt of Owner’s objections. If the parties are unable thereafter to resolve any disputes between them with respect to the Capital Fund within thirty (30) days after delivery by Owner of its objections, either party shall have the right to cause such dispute to be resolved by Expert determination conducted in accordance with the provisions of Article XIV below; provided that the Expert’s decision shall be limited to determining whether the funding is reasonably required to ensure the Hotel meets the Hotel Standard. If Owner does not provide notice of disapproval within the thirty (30) day time period, such items shall be deemed conclusively approved.

(e) With respect to funding for undisputed items or for those items that the Expert determined were necessary or if Owner fails to promptly provide the notice set forth in Section 4.3(d) above, Owner shall promptly provide such funds during the Fiscal Year in question. If Owner fails to provide such funding within fifteen (15) days following request therefor, Operator shall be entitled to claim an Event of Default under Section 11.1(b) of this Agreement.

4.4 Hotel Employees .

Subject to the limitations set forth herein, Operator shall have the sole and exclusive right and authority to direct Hotel Employees, and to select, hire, supervise, promote, demote, transfer in or transfer out, discipline, suspend or terminate Hotel Employees. Any written employment agreements with any Key Personnel which purport to bind Owner shall have Owner’s prior written approval, but no agreement which merely fixes compensation, benefits and other terms and conditions of employment, but does not otherwise assure employment, shall be deemed an employment agreement for purposes hereof. All Hotel Employees shall be employed by Operator or (at Operator’s election) an Affiliate of Operator, as agent for Owner; however, all Employee Costs shall be the sole responsibility of Owner and may be paid by Operator from the Operating Accounts. Unless the amount thereof has been deducted in computing the amount of reimbursement to Operator for Employee Costs, Operator shall remit to Owner, by deposit in the Operating Accounts, the full amount of the net benefit of any tax credits received by Operator by reason of employment at the Hotel after deduction of any costs incurred in applying for or claiming said tax credits. If the Operating Accounts are insufficient to pay any Employee Costs as and when they are payable, Owner shall be obligated to fund such deficiency in accordance with the

 

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procedures set forth in Section 4.7(b). To the extent not otherwise prohibited by Legal Requirements, upon request of Owner from time to time, Operator shall make available, for inspection by Owner, copies of all employee policies and procedures, including copies of employee manuals and handbooks in effect at the Hotel. Operator also shall make available, upon request of Owner from time to time, Hotel Employee job classifications, number of Hotel Employees in each job classification, job descriptions (if applicable), pay scales and benefits provided to each job classification to the extent not otherwise prohibited by Legal Requirements and subject in all cases to employee confidentiality rights and protection of Operator’s Proprietary Materials.

Operator and not Owner shall be responsible for the supervision of all Hotel personnel and other employees of Operator, and for administering their remuneration, taxes, withholding, insurance and Social Security. Operator shall not employ, nor be required to employ, any employee who is not permitted to work in the United States pursuant to applicable immigration laws. In connection with the employment of personnel, if, and to the extent, specifically requested by Owner in writing, and subject to compliance with applicable Legal Requirements, Operator shall implement and maintain criminal record screening procedures in accordance with Operator’s policies, the cost of which shall be a Operating Expense.

Operator shall consult with Owner in advance of the hiring of the general manager, director of sales and marketing and controller (the “ Key Personnel ”) and Operator’s selection of the Key Personnel shall be subject to Owner’s reasonable approval; provided that (a) Owner shall be deemed to have approved any Key Personnel candidate selected by Operator if Owner has not notified Operator in writing of Owner’s disapproval of such candidate within ten (10) days following Operator’s request for such approval (which shall be accompanied by a written summary of such candidate’s professional experience and qualifications) and (b) Owner may not reject more than three (3) candidates for any Key Personnel position. In the event that Owner rejects three (3) such candidates proposed by Operator for any position, Operator may hire any such persons in its sole discretion, including, without limitation, those candidates that Owner has previously rejected.

4.5 Centralized Services .

(a) Throughout the Term, Operator shall make available to and for the benefit of the Hotel the full range of Centralized Services made generally available by Operator to other Brand Hotels from time to time (as such Centralized Services are added, deleted or altered by Operator from time to time). The Hotel’s participation in all such Centralized Services shall be mandatory

 

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except with respect to those Centralized Services (if any) that Operator, from time to time at its election, designates as “non-mandatory”.

(b) The Hotel shall be charged for its equitably allocable share of the Centralized Services Costs attributable to the Centralized Services in which the Hotel participates (or is obligated to participate) without duplication of other charges to the Hotel; the amounts so charged (the “ Centralized Services Charges” ) shall be determined on the same basis as such amounts are determined for substantially all other Brand Hotels that participate in such Centralized Services without mark-up, except as may be required by law and payable by the Hotel as an Operating Expense. Centralized Services Charges shall be fair and reasonable (as determined by Operator, in its reasonable discretion, with respect to the costs of individual items or services to similarly situated Brand Hotels). The method of allocation of the Centralized Services Costs among participating Brand Hotels may change from time to time at the reasonable discretion of Operator, provided that such method of allocation shall at all times be determined on a reasonable, equitable and non-discriminatory basis.

(c) A current list of all Centralized Services (including their designation as “mandatory” and “non-mandatory”) and of the applicable Centralized Services Charges payable by the Hotel with respect to such Centralized Services, shall be provided to Owner prior to each Fiscal Year as part of the Annual Plan for such Fiscal Year.

4.6 Purchasing .

(a) During the Term, Operator shall arrange for the purchase of all Operating Equipment, consumables and inventories, services and replacements of and additions to FFE, subject to and in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement with the objective of securing competitive prices for purchased goods and services consistent with Operator’s standards of quality and service. At Operator’s discretion, such purchases may be made either directly from vendors and suppliers or through the services of one or more Purchasing Companies. Moreover, Operator may, in its discretion (subject to the following provisions of this Section 4.6) elect to purchase the items described therein under Chain Contracts, provided that the prices and terms of the goods and services purchased under such Chain Contracts are competitive with the prices and terms of goods and services of equal quality available from others. In determining whether such prices and terms are competitive, they will be compared to the prices and terms that would be offered by reputable and qualified unrelated third parties on an arm’s length basis for similar

 

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goods and/or services (and, for purposes of such comparison, the goods and/or services being purchased may be grouped in reasonable categories, rather than being compared item by item). Owner understands and acknowledges that Operator or its Affiliates may hold investments in one or more of the vendors, suppliers or Purchasing Companies from which goods or services are provided to the Hotel (under Chain Contracts or otherwise) and that Operator or its Affiliates may receive certain payments, fees, commissions or reimbursements from such vendors, suppliers or Purchasing Companies. Operator shall disclose any such investments, affiliations or payments to Owner from time to time, typically on an annual basis in connection with the delivery of the Annual Plan, subject to the proviso described in Section 2.5(d) above with respect to Pritzker Family investments.

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to Operator, Owner may request Operator’s reasonable approval to opt out of participating in any one or more particular Chain Contracts or from purchasing goods or services through any one or more particular vendors, suppliers or Purchasing Companies, provided that (i) Owner can demonstrate to Operator that (x) the cost to the Hotel of purchasing from other sources the goods or services that would otherwise be purchased under the applicable Chain Contracts or through the applicable vendors, suppliers or Purchasing Companies would be no greater than the cost of purchasing such goods or services under the Chain Contracts or through the applicable vendors, suppliers or Purchasing Companies, as the case may be, and (y) the purchase of such goods or services from other sources would not result in compromise to the Hotel Standard, to the quality or price of the goods or services to be provided, or to the availability or reliability of the goods or services in question, (ii) in the case of Brand Standard Items to be purchased for the Hotel, the goods to be purchased from other sources are identical (in manufacturer, specifications and brand) to those that would have been purchased under the Chain Contracts, and (iii) doing so does not cause Operator to violate the terms of any Chain Contracts. Operator shall maintain a current list of Brand Standard Items, which list shall be provided to Owner from time to time, typically on an annual basis in connection with the delivery of the Annual Plan. In entering into Mandatory Contracts, Operator shall conduct business only with Persons which it reasonably believes to be reputable and reliable, and shall endeavor to obtain price, quality, delivery and other terms that are competitive in the marketplace and are appropriate to the needs of the Hotel.

 

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4.7 Operating Accounts .

(a) Operator shall establish one or more bank accounts into which all funds received from the management and operation of the Hotel and all Owner contributions to Hotel working capital, shall be deposited and from which Operator shall pay Hotel costs and expenses for the Hotel (the “Operating Accounts” ), and shall also maintain sufficient sums on hand at the Hotel in house banks and petty cash funds to meet cash needs of Hotel operations. All monies received by Operator from the operation of the Hotel, as well as all working capital provided by Owner, pursuant to Section 4.7(b) or otherwise, shall be deposited in the Operating Accounts. All Operating Accounts shall be maintained in the name of Operator, as agent for Owner, in a bank or banks designated by Operator, and all funds deposited therein shall be the sole property of Owner but shall be under the control of Operator, as Owner’s agent, subject to the provisions of this Agreement. Operator shall establish reasonable controls intended to ensure accurate reporting, safety and security of all transactions involving the Operating Accounts. Unless due to Operator’s Grossly Negligent Acts or Willful Misconduct, any loss suffered in an Operating Account, or in any investment of funds into any such account, shall be borne by Owner, and Operator shall have no liability or responsibility therefor.

(b) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, Owner shall, at all times during the Term, cause sufficient working capital funds to be on hand in the Operating Accounts to permit (i) the timely payment of all current liabilities of the Hotel (including, without limitation, Management Fees, and each installment thereof, insurance premiums, and all other amounts at any time payable to Operator hereunder), and all other items entering into the calculation of Adjusted Profit (other than property taxes and Debt Service), (ii) the uninterrupted and efficient operation of the Hotel at all times during the Term, and (iii) the performance by Operator of its other obligations hereunder. If at any time Operator determines that there are not sufficient working capital funds available in the Operating Accounts to satisfy the requirements enumerated above, Operator shall notify Owner of the existence and amount of the shortfall (a “Funds Request” ) and, within fifteen (15) days following the delivery of the Funds Request, Owner shall deposit into the Operating Accounts the funds requested by Operator in the Funds Request.

(c) Operator shall pay out of the Operating Accounts, to the extent of funds available therein from time to time, all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the operation of the

 

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Hotel (other than property taxes and Debt Service, which shall be the responsibility of Owner), and all other amounts required or permitted to be paid by Operator in the performance of its duties and obligations hereunder. Checks or other documents of withdrawal drawn upon the Operating Accounts shall be signed exclusively by representatives of Operator or Hotel Employees designated by Operator, as agent for Owner. All persons drawing on such accounts shall be bonded or insured. Owner may grant security interests in the Operating Accounts to secure the obligations of Owner to Lenders, but only where such Lenders have agreed in a Creditor Non-Disturbance Agreement, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit D , that all such security interests shall be subject to the rights, power and authority of Operator under this Agreement so as to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the Hotel and the payment of all costs and expenses of its operation (including amounts due to Operator hereunder) whenever arising.

(d) Contemporaneously with furnishing the monthly statement for each calendar month pursuant to Section 4.8(b)(1) below (and after withdrawal of the Management Fee and other amounts due to Operator hereunder and the amounts required to be deposited to the Capital Fund) Operator shall remit to Owner out of the Operating Accounts the amount ( “Owner’s Remittance Amount” ) by which the total funds then in the Operating Accounts (other than the Capital Fund) exceed the amount, as reasonably determined by Operator, of working capital to be maintained in the Operating Accounts in accordance with Section 4.7(b). Each remittance of Owner’s Remittance Amount shall be made to Owner at Owner’s address then in effect for receipt of notices hereunder, or at such other place as Owner may, from time to time, designate in a written notice to Operator.

4.8 Books and Records; Reporting .

(a) Financial Records . Operator shall keep complete and accurate books of account and other records reflecting the financial results of the operation of the Hotel (the “Financial Records” ). The Financial Records shall relate solely to Hotel operations and shall not include (i) records of ownership expenses (such as, for example, but without limitation, Debt Service and costs of preparation of Owner tax returns); (ii) fixed asset accounting; and (iii) other records pertaining solely to Owner and its operations separate from Hotel operations. Such Financial Records shall, at all times, be kept in all material respects in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles except to the extent of any inconsistencies with the Uniform System, in which case they will be kept in conformance with the Uniform System. Owner acknowledges

 

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that Operator does not maintain, as part of the Financial Records, any fixed asset accounts, and further acknowledges that Operator does not maintain inventories of fixed assets (including, without limitation, FFE), or conduct interim inventory counts or perpetual inventory records with respect to other items of personal property. The Financial Records shall be deemed proprietary to both Operator and Owner, and each shall have the non-exclusive right to use the same both in connection with the ownership and operation of the Hotel, and otherwise. The Financial Records shall be made available in the place where they are kept for inspection and copying by Owner and by representatives of Owner at all reasonable times upon reasonable advance notice to Operator, provided such inspections shall be carried out in a manner that will minimize disruption to Hotel operations or Operator’s shared services offices, as applicable. Financial Records shall be maintained by Operator pursuant to Operator’s records retention programs and policies in effect from time to time, a copy of which shall be made available to Owner upon request. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term, prior to any destruction or disposition of Hotel books and records, Operator shall notify Owner thereof in writing and shall (i) not destroy or dispose of the same for a period of thirty (30) days following delivery of such notice; and (ii) shall, if directed by Owner in writing within the aforesaid period of thirty (30) days, in lieu of destroying or disposing of the same, deliver the same to Owner or as Owner may otherwise direct. Operator agrees that Owner and authorized representatives may inspect any sales, use, occupancy, lodger’s or other tax returns or reports, and accompanying schedules and data, required to be filed for the Hotel with any governmental agencies.

(b) Reports . Throughout the Term (and also after expiration or earlier termination of the Term as to any period ending prior to the expiration or earlier termination thereof), Operator shall deliver to Owner the following financial statements and reports (all of which shall conform to the Financial Records):

(1) Monthly, within fifteen (15) days following the end of each calendar month, (x) a report on the results of operations of the Hotel showing, in reasonable detail, Gross Receipts (by department) for such month and for the fiscal period then ended, Adjusted Profit for such month and for the fiscal period then ended, and the amount of Basic Fee and Incentive Fee earned and accrued for the fiscal period then ended, (y) an accounting with respect to the Capital Fund showing the amount deposited therein during the fiscal period then ended, the amounts withdrawn therefrom during such period, and a statement, in reasonable detail, showing the purpose or purposes for which such withdrawals were made; and (z) a comparison of the results of

 

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operations for the Hotel for the fiscal period then ended with the Operating Budget and with the comparable period in the prior Fiscal Year. The monthly report shall include, either as part of the report or by supplemental schedule, sufficient information from which Owner can determine, for the period in question (i) the reimbursements paid to Operator pursuant to Section 6.3, (ii) the amount of Centralized Services Costs paid by the Hotel, and (iii) the amount paid to Operator for Centralized Services Charges.

(2) Annually, within ninety (90) days following the end of the Fiscal Year, (i) audited financial statements (the “Annual Financial Statements” ) of the Financial Records of the Hotel for the preceding Fiscal Year, (ii) disclosure, in the Annual Financial Statements, in reasonable detail of all Management Fees, Centralized Services Charges, and any other material amounts paid or payable to Operator or its Affiliates with respect to the preceding Fiscal Year, and (iii) concurrently with the delivery of the Annual Financial Statements, a statement of Capital Expenditures made for such Fiscal Year and a comparison thereof with the approved Capital Budget.

(c) Meetings . Operator agrees that it shall meet with Owner, and representatives of Owner, from time to time at the request of Owner to discuss any of the matters set forth in any of the financial or other reports delivered pursuant to this Section 4.8, or otherwise to discuss matters pertaining to the operation of the Hotel. Such meetings shall be conducted between Owner and the Hotel’s general manager, or other relevant members of the executive staff of the Hotel; provided, however, at the request of Owner, Operator’s senior vice president of field operations having jurisdiction over the Hotel shall be available (not more frequently, however, than quarterly) to attend any such meetings.

(d) Audits. (i) Owner may cause an audit of the Financial Records of the Hotel to be performed by a firm of independent certified public accountants of recognized national standing in the hotel industry ( “Accountants” ) selected by Owner; provided, however, that Owner shall notify Operator of its intent to require such an audit for the subject Fiscal Year and the identity of the Accountants to be retained no later than forty-five (45) days following receipt of the Annual Financial Statements. The auditor so selected shall conduct the audit, prepare the audited Annual Financial Statements for preceding Fiscal Year, and issue the report thereon no later than May 31of each Fiscal Year. The cost of the audit shall be an Operating Expense for the current Fiscal Year. In connection with such audit, Operator shall make available to the

 

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Accountants all financial books and records of the Hotel that may be requested by the Accountants and shall otherwise cooperate in all reasonable respects in connection with the performance of the audit. The audit shall be conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Any information regarding management of the Hotel obtained by Owner as a result of the audit shall be maintained as confidential information.

(ii) In the event that Owner elects to have an audit performed in accordance with (i) above, the audited Annual Financial Statements issued in accordance therewith all information contained therein, shall be binding and conclusive on the parties hereto, without further right to review, protest, object or appeal, unless within sixty (60) days following the delivery of such audited Annual Financial Statements, either party shall deliver to the other party notice of its objection thereto setting forth in reasonable detail the nature of such objection (“Objection Notice”).

(iii) In the event Owner does not elect to have an audit performed in accordance with (i) above or audited Annual Financial Statements are not issued by May 31, the Annual Financial Statements delivered pursuant to (b)(2) above and all information contained therein, shall be binding and conclusive on the parties hereto, without further right to review, protest, object or appeal, unless within sixty (60) days following the delivery of such Annual Financial Statements, or within sixty (60) days of May 31 (in the event that Owner has elected to have an audit done pursuant to this subparagraph (d) and the audited Annual Financial Statements have not been delivered by May 31), either party shall deliver to the other party an Objection Notice with respect to the Annual Financial Statements.

(iv) If the parties are unable thereafter to resolve any such timely noticed objections (pursuant to either (b) or (c) above) within thirty (30) days of receipt by either party of the Objection Notice, either party shall have the right to cause such objection to be resolved by dispute resolution, conducted in accordance with the provisions of Article XII below. In the event that neither party submits such objection to dispute resolution as provided herein within sixty (60) days of the Objection Notice, then the Annual Financial Statements or the audited Annual Financial Statements, as the case may be, and all information contained therein, shall be binding and conclusive on the parties hereto, without further right to review, protest, object or appeal.

 

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(e) Unless Owner has provided Operator notice, as described in subparagraph (d) above, of its intent to cause an audit of the Financial Records of the Hotel to be performed, the Annual Financial Statements delivered pursuant to subsection (2) above, and all information contained therein, shall be binding and conclusive on the parties hereto, without further right to review, protest, object or appeal, unless, within sixty (60) days following the delivery thereof, either party shall deliver to the other party notice of its objection thereto setting forth in reasonable detail the nature of such objection (“Objection Notice”). If the parties are unable thereafter to resolve any such timely noticed objections within thirty (30) days of receipt by either party of the Objection Notice, either party shall have the right to cause such objection to be resolved by dispute resolution, conducted in accordance with the provisions of Article XIV below. In the event that neither party submits such objection to dispute resolution as provided herein within sixty (60) days of the Objection Notice, then the Annual Financial Statements delivered pursuant to subsection (2) above, and all information contained therein, shall be binding and conclusive on the parties hereto, without further right to review, protest, object or appeal.

ARTICLE V

Trade Names and Other Intellectual Property

5.1 Name of Hotel .

During the Term, the Hotel shall at all times be identified by the name [“                    ”] . The name of the Hotel may be changed from time to time with the mutual approval of both Operator and Owner, but only to a name that conforms to Operator’s then-applicable naming protocol and includes the Brand name. If Operator changes any Protected Names or Protected Marks, Owner shall be obligated to (and Operator may) implement measures adopting such changes at the Hotel only if such changes are being implemented at not less than fifty percent (50%) of Brand Hotels.

5.2 Ownership of Intellectual Property .

Operator shall employ for the benefit of the Hotel the Protected Names and Protected Marks, to the extent reasonably applicable to the Hotel, as determined by Operator in its sole discretion, without payment of additional compensation or fee to Operator. Owner acknowledges that each of the Protected Names and Protected Marks, when used either alone or in conjunction with any other word or words, or any other marks, are the exclusive property of Operator, and Owner acknowledges that

 

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Operator alone has the exclusive right to determine the form of presentation of the Protected Names and the Protected Marks in conjunction with the operation of the Hotel, including the marketing, promotion, advertising and management thereof, for the sales or marketing of any goods or services, or on any Hotel signage. Owner hereby covenants and agrees (and shall require any transferee, assignee or successor to agree) that without Operator’s consent (which may be granted, conditioned or withheld in Operator’s sole discretion unless otherwise contemplated in this Agreement), Owner shall not use any of the Protected Names or Protected Marks, either alone or in conjunction with any other word or words, or in conjunction with any other logos, trademarks, trade names or other marks, in connection with the use or marketing or operation of the Hotel, in the name of Owner or any Affiliate of Owner or otherwise (other than the mere textual presentation of the name of the Hotel or as provided in Section 5.3 or the linkage agreement referred to therein). Furthermore, Owner agrees that no right or remedy of Owner for any Default of Operator hereunder nor the delivery of possession of the Hotel to Owner upon expiration or earlier termination of the Term, nor any other provision of this Agreement, shall confer upon Owner, or any transferee, assignee or successor of Owner, or any Person claiming by or through Owner, the right to use any of the Protected Names or Protected Marks, either alone or in conjunction with any other word or words or in conjunction with any other logos, trademarks, trade names or other marks, in connection with the use or operation of the Hotel or otherwise except as may be provided in Article XII of this Agreement. In the event of any breach of this covenant by Owner, Operator shall be entitled to damages, to relief by injunction, and to all other available legal rights or remedies. The provisions of this Section 5.2 shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

5.3 Owner Marketing .

(a) All marketing for the Hotel shall be conducted by Operator.

(b) Owner may not develop, maintain or authorize any Website that either has the word “hyatt” or any similar word as part of its domain name or URL or that accepts reservations for the Hotel (other than through an approved link to a Hotel System Website). Owner may, with Operator’s approval and subject to the conditions in Section     , establish an “ Owner Organization Website. ” Owner shall submit to Operator for its approval all proposed uses of the Protected Marks and Protected Names, references to the Hotel, and other information concerning Owner Organization Website as Operator periodically requests. Operator will not unreasonably withhold its approval of Owner’s use of a Owner Organization Website. Operator may implement and periodically modify, and Owner must comply with, the Hotel Standard relating to

 

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any Owner Organization Websites and other electronic uses of the Protected Marks and Protected Names and may withdraw its approval of any Website that no longer meets Operator’s minimum standards.

Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, including, without limitation, Section 5.1 hereof, Owner shall have the right to include within any Owner Organization Websites a direct link connecting such websites to either the Operator reservations website, or to the specific page at the Operator website in which bookings can be made for the Hotel. If Owner elects to implement such linkage to the Operator website, the same shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:

(i) The linkage arrangements shall be subject to reasonable approval by Operator for the purpose of ensuring that the linkages are maintained in a manner that does not adversely affect either the security of the Operator website or the integrity of its systems. Among other things, such linkages must conform to Operator technical specifications and policies in effect from time to time regarding, among other things, connectivity, security, privacy, database applications, graphic design and website functionality. Operator will advise Owner on request of all such specifications and policies which would adversely affect the exercise of Owner’s rights under this Section 5.3(b).

(ii) Owner shall have the right to terminate any linkage to the Operator website at any time at its discretion and at Owner’s cost, and, after termination thereof, to elect thereafter (but in any event during the Term), at its discretion, to reinstate such linkage at Owner’s cost on the terms and conditions herein set forth.

(iv) All linkage arrangements, and all right of Owner to link to the Hyatt website, shall terminate, without further act or notice of either Owner or Hyatt, concurrently with the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, and both parties agree to take all action reasonably necessary (and each consents to any actions taken by the other which may be reasonably necessary) to terminate the links at such time.

(v) Any information of a technical nature regarding the Operator website furnished to Owner in order to enable the linkage herein contemplated shall, for all purposes hereof, be deemed Proprietary Materials of Operator.

 

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(vi) Prior to implementing any linkage, Owner shall advise Operator’s Vice President of Marketing-Electronic Distribution and provide him/her with such reasonable information as he/she shall request to review compliance with the requirements of this Section 5.3(b).

(vii) If it shall at any time be determined by Operator, in its sole discretion, that the maintenance of the linkage compromises the security of the Operator website, or in any manner impedes, impairs or interferes with the operation, security or functionality of the Operator systems, Operator shall notify Owner thereof, and Owner shall take such measures as may be reasonably necessary (with the cooperation and assistance of Operator) to rectify the situation.

(viii) All costs or expenses incurred in connection with creating or maintaining the link shall be an Owner Expense. Any costs incurred in connection with investor and employee newsletters and communications, and in connection with annual reports, shall be paid by Owner and shall not be an Operating Expense.

(ix) All reservations booked as a result of the linkage shall be booked through the Operator reservation system and shall be subject to terms and policies (such as rates, cancellation policy, deposit policy and the like) applicable to other Hotel bookings made through the Operator website.

(x) Neither Owner nor any other party maintaining linkages pursuant to clause (c) below shall be entitled to, and shall not receive, any commission, fee or other compensation for any reservations booked as a result of any website maintained by Owner or such third party, or, if any fee shall be so payable, it shall be paid by Owner and shall not be an Operating Expense.

(xi) Any data collected or compiled by Owner (or any third party contemplated by clause (c) below) shall be kept in strict compliance with applicable privacy laws and Owner shall indemnify, defend and hold Operator, and its officers, directors, employees and Affiliates, free and harmless from any loss, cost, liability or expense suffered or incurred by Operator by reason of any breach or violation by Owner or its Affiliates (or by any such third party) of applicable privacy laws as a consequence of Owner’s activity under this Section 5.3.

 

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(c) Owner and Operator acknowledge that electronic marketing, both currently and anticipated for the future, is and increasingly will become a major marketing outlet in the hotel industry and for the Hotel. Operator maintains a number of such programs currently and anticipates other programs as technology advances in the future. Accordingly, as part of each marketing plan submitted as part of the Annual Plan, Owner and Operator shall discuss, among other things, electronic marketing programs, and Operator will include the anticipated costs thereof as part of the Operating Budget.

ARTICLE VI

Payments to Operator

6.1 Management Fees .

(a) Amount of Fees . For the services to be rendered by Operator under this Agreement, Owner shall pay Management Fees to Operator consisting of the Basic Fee and the Incentive Fee as follows:

(1) A basic fee (the “Basic Fee” ) equal to three percent (3%) of the Gross Receipts for each Fiscal Year; plus

(2) An incentive fee (the “Incentive Fee” ) equal to twenty percent (20%) of the amount by which Adjusted Profit, if any, for each Fiscal Year exceeds the Hurdle Amount.

Except for the Management Fees and reimbursements to Operator (all as herein expressly provided), Operator shall not be entitled to any fees or other form of remuneration or compensation for any services provided to Owner for the benefit of the Hotel.

(b) Monthly Installments . With respect to any Fiscal Year and each calendar month included therein, the Basic Fee and the Incentive Fee shall each be payable in monthly installments equal to the amount of the Basic Fee or Incentive Fee, as applicable, calculated (in the manner described in Section 6.1(a) above) for the Cumulative Period in respect of such calendar month, less the aggregate amount of the tentative monthly installments having theretofore been paid for such Fiscal Year on account of the Basic Fee or Incentive Fee, as applicable. Operator may pay each such monthly installment to itself by withdrawing the same from the Operating Accounts at any time after Operator shall furnish to Owner the unaudited financial statement for such calendar month pursuant to Section 4.8(b)(1) hereof.

 

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(c) Year-End Reconciliation . If for any Fiscal Year, the aggregate amount of the tentative monthly installments paid to Operator on account of the Basic Fee and Incentive Fee shall be more or less than the Management Fee payable for such Fiscal Year based upon the final determination of Gross Receipts and Adjusted Profit for such Fiscal Year as reflected in the Annual Financial Statement for such Fiscal Year prepared in accordance with Section 4.8, then, by way of year end adjustment, within fifteen (15) days after the delivery of such Annual Financial Statement to Owner, Operator shall pay into the Operating Accounts the amount of such overpayment or withdraw from the Operating Accounts the amount of any such underpayment and provide written notice thereof to Owner promptly thereafter.

6.2 Centralized Services Charges .

In addition to the Management Fees and all other amounts required to be paid to Operator under this Agreement, Owner shall pay to Operator the Centralized Services Charges. The Centralized Services Charges shall be paid to Operator on a monthly basis, by Operator’s withdrawing the same from the Operating Accounts on scheduled dates during such month when such amounts are generally payable to Operator by other Brand Hotels, which withdrawals shall be equitable and reasonable as determined by Operator, in the exercise of its reasonable discretion, on the basis of the cost of individual items or services to similarly situated Brand Hotels. If any final accounting of the Centralized Services Charges results in additional amounts due to Operator, Operator may reimburse itself, as an Operating Expense, at any time after delivery to Owner of the Centralized Services Costs audit, for the additional amount due Operator, and if Owner has overpaid, as disclosed by the Centralized Services Costs audit, Owner shall be entitled, at Operator’s option, either to a credit against the next installment of Centralized Services Charges due hereunder or a payment from Operator, to be deposited in the Operating Accounts, in the amount of the overpayment (or, if this Agreement shall have previously terminated or the Term expired, Operator shall refund the difference to Owner in cash).

6.3 Reimbursements .

In addition to the Management Fees, Centralized Services Charges and any other amounts required to be paid to Operator in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement, Owner shall reimburse Operator as follows: (i) for any Employee Costs paid directly by Operator or its Affiliates with respect to Hotel Employees for their services at or responsibilities for the Hotel; (ii) out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Operator in providing technical assistance services to Owner in connection

 

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with any Refurbishing Program; (iii) travel and other reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of Operator personnel when assigned to temporary full-time duty at the Hotel (for the period of such assignment); (iv) travel and other reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of Operator’s Corporate Personnel when traveling for the benefit of the Hotel (equitably allocated when such travel is also for purposes other than the direct benefit of the Hotel); (v) relocation costs for managerial employees transferred to the Hotel; (vi) insurance premiums for coverage maintained by Operator with respect to the Hotel pursuant to Sections 7.1 and 7.2; and (vii) all third party costs and expenses incurred by Operator, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees in connection with any cooperation or assistance from Operator requested by Owner (such as, for example, but without limitation, execution of consents, agreements or other documents) relating to any sale, transfer, leasing or financing of the Hotel by Owner. Reimbursements for any such costs shall be made on a periodic basis as costs are incurred and may be paid by withdrawal by Operator of the required amounts from the Operating Accounts, or, at Operator’s election, by set off against amounts otherwise payable to Owner hereunder. The reimbursements provided for in this Section 6.3 shall include only direct out-of-pocket expenses and not any general overhead, and shall be allocated to the Hotel on a direct pass through basis, without mark up or profit, and after deduction for any portions thereof properly allocated to any other hotel within the Operator Hotel Group. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any of the Key Personnel is transferred by Operator to another Hyatt-branded hotel within twenty-four (24) months of his/her commencement of employment at the Hotel, or in the event any other managerial employee is transferred by Operator to another Hyatt-branded hotel within eighteen (18) months of his/her commencement of employment at the Hotel, relocation costs in connection with the transfer of a replacement managerial employee shall be paid by Operator, and shall not be an Operating Expense; provided, however, that (i) the provisions of this clause shall not apply to relocation expenses for replacement of Key Personnel or other managerial employees required as a result of the death, resignation or termination of employment with Operator of the former Key Personnel or managerial employee who is being replaced or a transfer of Key Personnel or managerial employee initiated as a result of Owner’s request that a Hotel employee be transferred or removed from service at the Hotel; and (ii) in the case of any transferred managerial employee, other than Key Personnel, within the aforesaid period of eighteen (18) months, only a prorata portion of the relocation costs for his/her replacement shall be borne by Operator, such portion being a prorated amount of the total relocation costs for such replacement based on the actual tenure of employment at the Hotel of the person transferred in relation to the full eighteen (18) month period, with the balance being an Operating Expense. The Hotel shall not be the focus of training for Hotel Employees in manner or quantity that distinguishes the Hotel from other Brand Hotels.

 

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6.4 Interest on Overdue Sums .

If either party shall fail to pay, when due, any sum payable to the other hereunder, the Defaulting Party shall, without notice to or demand upon it, be liable to the other party for the payment of such sum together with interest thereon at the rate of (a) “Prime Rate” plus 3% per annum or (b) the maximum rate of interest allowed by law, whichever shall be less, from the date when such sum shall become due to the date of actual payment. For the purposes hereof, “Prime Rate” shall mean the rate per annum published from time to time in the Wall Street Journal as the prevailing prime rate of interest.

6.5 Tax on Reimbursements .

Whenever any reimbursement due Operator under Section 6.3 or any other provision of this Agreement shall be subject to a gross receipts or similar tax under applicable law, Owner shall remit reimbursement to Operator, together with such tax payable thereon, so that Operator shall receive such reimbursement net of any taxes or similar charges. Any payments made by Owner in this connection shall be paid from the Operating Accounts to the extent there is sufficient working capital to pay such amounts and be deducted in computing Adjusted Profit for the period incurred (provided that any interest due on such sums pursuant to Section 6.4 shall be an Owner expense and shall not an Operating Expense). At Owner’s request, Operator will resist, by appropriate proceedings, any liability for any tax which is the subject of the foregoing indemnification, in which case all expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees) incurred by Operator in resisting or defending itself against such liability shall be deemed an Operating Expense payable from the Operating Accounts.

ARTICLE VII

Insurance

7.1 Property Insurance .

Operator shall procure and maintain, on behalf of itself Owner and the Hotel, the following “Property Insurance” coverages with respect to the Hotel with financially responsible insurance companies selected by Operator having an A.M. Best rating of A- or better, the cost of which shall be Owner’s expense and paid or reimbursed to Operator upon notice and delivery of an invoice, advice, document or other demand from Operator to Owner:

(a) All Risk Property insurance in an amount equal to the full replacement cost of the Hotel, to include the perils of flood, named windstorm, and earthquake (if the Hotel is in a zone

 

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warranting such coverages). If flood, earthquake and windstorm are not obtainable for replacement cost, a reasonable amount must be carried relative to other hotels of similar value and type located in the Hotel’s market area.

(b) Boiler and machinery coverage, in amounts reasonably acceptable to Operator.

(c) Business interruption insurance for all risk perils (including flood, named windstorm, and earthquake to the extent applicable as reasonably determined by Operator) covering at least one (1) years’ loss of profits and necessary continuing expenses for interruption of the Hotel. If business interruption is not obtainable, a reasonable amount must be carried relative to other hotels of similar value and type located in the Hotel’s market area. Such coverage may be maintained by Operator either in separate policies of insurance or as part of Operator’s property and boiler and machinery coverage.

7.2 Operational Insurance .

Operator shall procure and maintain, on behalf of itself, Owner and the Hotel, the following “Operational Insurance” coverages with respect to the Hotel with financially responsible insurance companies selected by Operator having an A.M. Best rating of A- or better and licensed and authorized to do business in the jurisdiction in which the Hotel is located the cost of which shall be an Operating Expense which shall be paid or reimbursed to Operator out of the Operating Accounts:

(a) Comprehensive public liability insurance, to include excess liability coverage, against claims for bodily injury, death or property damage occurring on, in or about the Hotel or in conjunction with the operations of the Hotel, and automobile liability insurance on vehicles operated in conjunction with the operation of the Hotel (whether owned, rented or leased in Owner’s name or Operator’s name).

(b) Workers’ compensation insurance covering the Hotel Employees, to include employer’s liability, in compliance with or at a minimum not less than the statutory amount as required under applicable provisions of law.

(c) Crime insurance including (i) employee dishonesty coverage, covering Operator’s employees in job classifications normally bonded or insured in other Operator Hotels or as otherwise required by law, (ii) loss inside the premises coverage, (iii) loss outside the

 

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premises coverage, (iv) money orders and counterfeit paper currency coverage, (v) depositor’s forgery coverage, and (vi) computer fraud.

(d) Employment practices liability insurance, relative to the Hotel Employees, covering employment discrimination, harassment and wrongful discharge actions.

(e) Such other insurance in amounts as is customary for hotel properties similarly situated and which Operator considers advisable for protection against claims, liabilities and losses arising out of or in connection with the operation of the Hotel.

7.3 Payment of Fees and Expenses .

If the Hotel suffers damage or loss that results in an interruption in the operations of the Hotel, Owner shall nevertheless be obligated to pay to Operator all amounts that would be due to Operator under this Agreement had such damage or loss not occurred, including the Management Fees, the Centralized Services Charges and all reimbursable expenses, and shall deposit to the Capital Fund the amounts which would have been deposited therein, for the period of the business interruption. In the event of such a business interruption, the Management Fees and deposits to the Capital Fund shall be calculated based on projections of the Gross Receipts and Adjusted Profit that would have been generated had the loss or damage not occurred. The projections regarding Gross Receipts and Adjusted Profit shall be derived from then-accepted practices in the Hotel and insurance industries for such matters, with due consideration given to the approved Annual Plan for the Fiscal Year in which the loss occurred and any financial projections for the Hotel most recently prepared by Owner or Operator prior to the loss or damage.

7.4 Application of Business Interruption Insurance Proceeds .

If the business of the Hotel is interrupted by any event or peril covered by business interruption insurance, the proceeds of any such insurance, less any portion thereof that may be payable to a Lender to cover payments of regularly scheduled Debt Service, shall be deposited in the Operating Account(s) and utilized by Operator in the same manner as funds generated from the operation of the Hotel are utilized by it in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, including payment of the Management Fees, the Centralized Services Charges, reimbursables due to Operator, other Operating Expenses, and deposits to the Capital Fund. Owner’s obligation for the Management Fees, the Centralized Services Charges and all reimbursable expenses, and for deposits to the Capital Fund in

 

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connection with such interruption shall be fully satisfied by, and Operator shall seek payment of such obligations solely from, the proceeds available under the business interruption insurance maintained by Operator.

7.5 Payment of Other Operating Expenses .

If the Hotel suffers damage or loss that results in an interruption in the operation of the Hotel, Owner shall nevertheless be obligated to pay all expenses of operating and maintaining the Hotel (at the level that is reasonably determined by Operator to be practicable given the damage or loss that has occurred) regardless of whether there are available to Owner any business interruption insurance proceeds to cover such amounts, and Owner shall be responsible for depositing all amounts necessary for the operation and maintenance of the Hotel in the Operating Account(s) in accordance with Section 4.7(b) during the period of the business interruption.

7.6 Cost and Expense .

Premiums on policies covering more than one (1) policy year shall be charged pro rata over the applicable period of the policies and allocated to the appropriate policy year. Any reasonable reserves, losses, costs, damages or expenses which are not fully insured, or which fall within deductible limits, shall be treated as a cost of insurance and shall be deducted in computing Adjusted Profit except for Capital Expenditures incurred for repair or reconstruction of the Hotel, or any part thereof, following a casualty occurrence. Where legally permitted to do so, Operator may elect to self-insure its worker’s compensation coverage and to charge to the Hotel (and reimburse itself) for a reasonable reserve for such coverage. Owner may procure and maintain such other insurance in amounts as Owner considers advisable for protection against property damage, claims, liabilities and losses arising out of or in connection with the Hotel.

All insurance coverage is a mandatory Centralized Service and the premiums therefore shall be included in the Centralized Services Charges. Although premiums allocated to the Hotel for inclusion in Operator coverage shall be determined on an equitable allocation basis, there is no assurance, representation or warranty that there may not be an element of profit to Operator.

7.7 Policies and Endorsements .

Where permitted, all insurance provided under this Article VII shall name Operator, any Affiliate that Operator may designate, Owner, each member or partner of Owner, and each Lender and

 

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Ground Lessor as additional insureds on all liability policies and as loss payee on all property and crime policies, as their interests may appear. Specifically, without limitation, any policies providing for business interruption insurance shall name Operator as loss payee with respect to the Management Fees, Centralized Services Charges and reimbursable expenses. If either Operator or Owner retains contractors to perform work at or with respect to the Hotel under contracts requiring the contractor to provide insurance coverage for the benefit of the contracting party, all such insurance shall name both Operator and Owner as additional insureds, and any contractor indemnification provisions in any such contracts shall be provided for the benefit of both Operator and Owner. The party procuring such insurance shall deliver to the other party certificates of insurance. To the extent reasonably obtainable, all policies of insurance required to be obtained under this Article VII shall have attached thereto an endorsement that such policy shall not be cancelled or materially changed without at least thirty (30) days prior notice to Owner, Operator, the Lenders or any additional insureds.

7.8 Insurance Claims .

Operator shall, on behalf of Owner, promptly investigate all accidents on or about the Hotel made known to Operator, and report the same promptly to the appropriate insurance carrier. Upon request from time to time by Owner, Operator shall make a full report to Owner as to all material claims for damages relating to the ownership, operation and maintenance of the Hotel, and as to any damage or destruction to the Hotel and the estimated cost thereof, as such matters become known to Operator, and shall prepare any and all reports and furnish any and all information required by any insurance company in connection therewith to the extent such information is within the knowledge or possession of Operator.

ARTICLE VIII

Damage and Condemnation

8.1 Damage to or Destruction of the Hotel .

(a) If the Hotel is damaged by a Minor Casualty, Operator shall process the loss claim with the applicable insurance carriers, including settling such claim, and to arrange to have the damaged portion of the Hotel replaced or repaired. In fulfilling these obligations, Operator shall perform in accordance with Operator’s reasonable business judgment and Owner’s consent shall not be required. Owner shall promptly execute any documents that are reasonably necessary to process the claim with the insurance carriers, as well as any contract with contractors or suppliers.

 

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(b) If the Hotel is damaged or destroyed by a Total Casualty, or if the Hotel is damaged or destroyed to such an extent that the estimated time for repair or restoration thereof, in the reasonable opinion of Owner, shall exceed eighteen (18) months from the commencement of such repair or restoration, or the damage or destruction shall occur at any time within the last three (3) years of the then applicable Term (taking into account any remaining Renewal Options) and if, in connection with any of the foregoing, Owner elects not to rebuild or restore the Hotel, then either party shall be entitled to elect to terminate this Agreement by notice to the other party given at any time within ninety (90) days after the occurrence of such damage or destruction. If there shall be any dispute between Owner and Operator as to whether Owner’s estimate of the cost of restoration, the full replacement cost of the Hotel, or the estimated time for repair or restoration is reasonable under the circumstances, the said dispute shall be submitted to arbitration conducted in accordance with the provisions of Article XIV.

(b) If the Hotel or any material portion thereof shall be damaged to a greater extent than a Minor Casualty, but less than a Total Casualty, or if the Hotel is damaged by a Total Casualty and the parties have elected not to terminate the Agreement pursuant to Section 8.1(b) above, Owner shall, with due diligence, repair, rebuild or replace the same substantially to its condition prior to such damage or destruction. If Owner fails to undertake such work within one hundred eighty (180) days after the fire or other casualty (or such later date on which such insurance proceeds shall have been received), or shall fail to complete such work diligently, within eighteen (18) months following the fire or other casualty (or such longer time period as may be agreed between Owner and Operator), Operator may, at its option, terminate this Agreement immediately upon notice to Owner.

(c) If one of the parties terminates this Agreement pursuant to subsection (b) above and, at any time within three (3) years following any such termination, Owner nevertheless commences repair or restoration or rebuilding of a first-class hotel meeting the Hotel Standard on, or in the vicinity of, the Site, or anywhere else utilizing the proceeds of insurance from such damage or destruction, Operator shall have the right (but not the obligation), exercisable at any time within ninety (90) days after Operator has actual knowledge of the commencement of such repair, restoration or rebuilding, to elect to manage and operate the rebuilt, repaired or restored hotel in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement from the opening date of the rebuilt, repaired or restored hotel and for the unexpired Term (including available Renewal Terms) remaining as of the date of the damage or destruction event which resulted in Owner’s termination hereof.

 

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8.2 Condemnation .

(a) If the whole of the Hotel, or such portion thereof as shall render the remaining portion of the Hotel unsuitable for use as a hotel conforming to the Hotel Standard, shall be taken or condemned in any eminent domain, condemnation, compulsory acquisition, expropriation or like proceeding (including conveyances or transfers in lieu thereof) by any competent authority for any public or quasi-public use or purpose, Owner or Operator may terminate this Agreement upon ninety (90) days’ notice to the other party. Operator shall have the right to institute or intervene in any available legal or similar proceedings to determine fair compensation for such taking or condemnation for the purpose of representing Operator’s compensable interest in any award for such taking or condemnation arising from this Agreement and Operator’s right of quiet enjoyment hereunder. Any award made to Owner that does not recognize the separate compensable interest of Operator shall be apportioned between the parties in consideration of all relevant factors. If the Parties cannot agree upon such apportionment within ninety (90) days after the amount of the award payable to Owner has been determined by settlement or a final judicial determination, either Party may submit the dispute for resolution in accordance with Article XIV.

(b) If the portion of the Hotel remaining after any taking or condemnation described above is suitable for use as a hotel meeting the Hotel Standard, this Agreement shall not terminate, but Owner shall, at its expense, repair any damage to the Hotel, or any part thereof, so as to render the Hotel a complete and satisfactory architectural and operational unit meeting the Hotel Standard, and in such event, Owner shall retain the balance (if any) of the award received for such taking or condemnation, after deduction of the cost of repair or restoration.

(c) If there is a taking or condemnation of all or part of the Hotel for temporary use not in excess of two (2) years, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. Owner shall commence restoration, repairs and alterations promptly after the termination or the taking or condemnation for temporary use and shall complete the same with diligence. All awards or other proceeds on account of the taking shall be treated as Gross Receipts of the Hotel. This Agreement shall then continue in effect for the balance of the Term (including Renewal Terms, if any) remaining after the initial date of such taking.

 

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ARTICLE IX

Assignment

9.1 Assignment by Operator .

(a) Except as expressly provided below, Operator shall not sell, assign, pledge, encumber, hypothecate, transfer or otherwise dispose of (collectively, “Transfer”), in whole or in part, any of its rights or interests hereunder, or enter into any agreement with any Person, other than an Affiliate of Operator as provided and subject to the provision of this Section 9.1, delegating any of Operator’s duties or responsibilities hereunder (other than routine maintenance and service contracts entered into in the usual and ordinary course of business) but may, without Owner’s consent, assign or grant security interests in or to its right to receive Management Fees hereunder as security for any monetary obligations of Operator. It is understood and agreed that any consent granted by Owner to any such Transfer shall not create any obligation on the part of Owner to grant further consents. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Operator may, without the consent of Owner, Transfer its rights under this Agreement in whole, but not in part, to any Affiliate of Operator, or to any Person that may become an Affiliate as a result of a related and substantially concurrent transaction, or to any successor or assign of Operator which may result from any merger, consolidation or reorganization, or to a Person which shall acquire all or substantially all of the business and assets of Operator relating to the Brand Hotels, subject, in each such case, to compliance by Operator with each of the following terms and conditions:

(1) The transferee, whether an Affiliate or a third party, shall, as of the effective date of the proposed Transfer, have the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to fulfill the obligations of Operator hereunder.

(2) Not later than the effective date of any such Transfer, the transferee (whether or not an Affiliate of Operator) shall be entitled to use in connection with the operation of the Hotel the Brand and such other Protected Names and Protected Marks as are in use at the Hotel immediately prior to such transfer, and shall have available to it the operating systems and other resources needed for the continued management and operation of the Hotel as a Brand Hotel, including, without limitation, the benefit of services that are designed to approximate the Centralized Services available to the Hotel immediately prior to such Transfer and any cost or expense incident to such Transfer, including increased Operating Expenses as a direct result thereof, shall not be borne by the Hotel or by Owner.

 

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(3) The transferee shall have executed a written instrument, a certified copy of which shall be delivered to Owner not later than twenty (20) days following the effective date of any such Transfer, expressly assuming and agreeing to pay, perform and discharge all of the liabilities and obligations of Operator hereunder, including, without limitation, any such liabilities or obligations arising or accruing prior to, on or after the effective date of any such Transfer.

(b) No delegation by Operator of any part of its operating duties and responsibilities hereunder to an Affiliate of Operator, and no change in the party or parties directly or indirectly in control of Operator or Affiliates of Operator, shall be deemed an assignment of this Agreement.

(c) Upon satisfaction and discharge of the conditions described above in connection with any Transfer, Operator shall be relieved of any liability or obligation hereunder arising after the date of such assignment, except in the case of an assignment to an Affiliate in which case Operator shall remain liable hereunder for so long as such assignee shall remain an Affiliate of Operator.

(d) It is understood and agreed that any disposition by Operator of a Controlling Interest in any Affiliate to which it has previously assigned this Agreement, shall be deemed a Transfer requiring the prior written consent of Owner as herein required unless all conditions hereinabove set forth to such Transfer shall have been complied with and satisfied in connection with such disposition (other than an express assumption agreement).

9.2 Assignment by Owner .

(a) In addition to any permitted collateral assignments to Lenders pursuant to Article X, Owner shall have the right to assign all of its rights and interests in this Agreement to any Person in connection with a sale or transfer of the Hotel (including, without limitation, any lease of the Hotel substantially in its entirety), and to issue or permit the transfer of any Ownership Interest to any Person, without the prior written consent of Operator; provided, however, Owner shall not sell, assign or transfer the Hotel, or interest therein or issue or permit the transfer of any Ownership Interest to any Person (i) engaged, directly or indirectly, as a substantial part of its business, in the management, licensing or operation (as opposed to the mere ownership) of at least                     (    ) hotels in the United States as a “brand”; (ii) who does not

 

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have the financial capacity to perform the obligations of Owner under this Agreement; (iii) who would be considered by regulators in the gaming industry to be unsuitable business associates of Operator or its Affiliates or would in any way jeopardize the Hotel’s liquor licenses; (iv) who fails or refuses to execute the assumption document referred to in the next succeeding sentence, if so required; or (v) who fails or refuses to provide disclosure information reasonably requested by Operator sufficient to assess the business reputation of such Person.

(b) Upon any assignment hereof in connection with a sale or other transfer of the Hotel, Owner shall be relieved of its duties, obligations and liabilities hereunder arising after such assignment so long as the assignee shall expressly assume in writing all such duties, obligations and liabilities (including, without limitation, those arising or relating to events occurring prior to any such assignment) and shall agree to be bound by this Agreement as evidenced by a written instrument executed by such assignee in favor of Operator in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Operator and such assignee and thereupon Owner shall be released from its liabilities and obligations hereunder arising after the date of such assignment to the extent such liabilities have been expressly assumed by the assignee. Owner and/or any Ownership Participant desiring to effect an assignment of a Controlling Interest in Owner shall give Operator not less than thirty (30) days advance notice of its intention to do so, which notice shall identify in reasonable detail the direct and indirect controlling owners of the proposed purchaser and shall be accompanied by the latest available audited and unaudited financial statements of the proposed purchaser and its direct or indirect beneficial owner of the Controlling Interest. The transfer or conveyance of the Hotel to any then Affiliate of Owner, or to any Person that may become an Affiliate as a result of a related and substantially concurrent transaction, or to any successor or assign of Owner which may result from any merger, consolidation or reorganization, or to a Person which shall acquire all or substantially all of the business and assets of Owner, shall not be considered a sale or transfer under this Section 9.2, but the transferee or successor shall be obligated in connection therewith to assume the obligations of Owner hereunder, as above provided, in the case of a Transfer.

(c) In the case of any Ground Lease relating to the Hotel, whether to or from an Affiliate of the then Owner or Ownership Participant or otherwise, (i) the lessee shall become the “Owner” hereunder and shall assume all of the liabilities and obligations of Owner herein set forth; (ii) the lessor shall execute a Lessor Non-Disturbance Agreement as described in

 

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Section 10.1(c), and (iii) if the lessee is an Affiliate of Owner, the lessor shall not be relieved of any of the liabilities or obligations of Owner hereunder.

ARTICLE X

Financing

10.1 Owner Financing .

(a) Operator acknowledges that Owner shall be permitted to encumber the Hotel by financing the construction, development, furnishing and equipping of the Hotel pursuant to a mortgage, deed of trust, or security document encumbering the Hotel and/or the Site (a “Mortgage”) throughout the Term through equity and/or debt financing, all of which shall be subject to the following requirements:

(1) The Mortgage is from an Institutional Lender;

(2) As of the date of the financing, the proposed ratio of the total aggregate Adjusted Profit to the annual debt service for all Mortgages encumbering the Hotel and the Site, including the proposed Mortgage, is projected to equal or exceed one and two-tenths to one (1.2:1) for the twelve (12) calendar months immediately following the date of the financing; one and twenty five one hundredths to one (1.25:1) for the twelve (12) calendar months immediately following the first anniversary of the financing; and one and thirty five one hundredths to one (1.35:1) for the twelve (12) calendar thereafter; and

(3) The Person providing financing is not a Person to whom or to which Owner would be prohibited from assigning its interest in this Agreement pursuant to Section 9.3.

(b) Owner shall obtain from each Lender a “Creditor Non-Disturbance Agreement” reasonably acceptable to Operator, Owner and Lender, pursuant to which the Lender shall agree, for itself any successor-in-interest to Lender with respect to the debt financing in question, that if any “Foreclosure Purchaser” shall acquire title to the Hotel, the Foreclosure Purchaser shall accept an attornment from Operator, and agree that the rights, interests, privileges, authority and power of Operator hereunder shall in no event be disturbed by the Foreclosure Purchaser, and that this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect for all the rest and remainder of the Term subject only to termination in accordance with its terms or in connection with the exercise of any available right or remedy hereunder. Operator agrees that a

 

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Creditor Non-Disturbance Agreement in form substantially similar to the form attached to this Agreement as Exhibit D would satisfy the foregoing requirements.

The provisions of this Section 10.1 shall be independent of any other provisions of this Agreement. For purposes hereof, a “Foreclosure Purchaser” shall mean (i) Lender, any Affiliate of Lender, or any party designated by Lender to take title to the Hotel, (ii) any successor in interest to Lender under any of the instruments or documents evidencing or securing the financing in question, (iii) any purchaser at a foreclosure sale, (iv) any purchaser of the Hotel acquiring title to the Hotel in connection with the exercise of any remedies (or in lieu of the exercise thereof) by a Lender, or its successor in interest, (v) purchaser from a Lender who shall have acquired the Hotel following acquisition thereof by Lender pursuant to foreclosure proceedings or pursuant to any acts or proceedings in lieu of foreclosure, (vi) any trustee in bankruptcy or Owner in its capacity as debtor-in-possession under bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization laws, and (vi) any party acquiring the Hotel pursuant to a plan or reorganization or liquidation of Owner pursuant to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization laws.

(b) Ground Lease . No Ground Lease shall be entered into with respect to the Hotel, nor shall any Ground Lease be in effect regarding the Site, including, without limitation, any Ground Lease between Owner and any Affiliate of Owner, unless the Ground Lessor shall theretofore or concurrently therewith or herewith have entered into a “Lessor Non-Disturbance Agreement” with Operator, whereby, upon a termination of the said Ground Lease during the Term, Operator shall attorn to the Ground Lessor with respect to this Agreement, and the Ground Lessor shall agree, for itself and any successor-in-interest under the Ground Lease, to accept such attornment, to assume the obligations of Owner hereunder, and to not disturb or otherwise interfere with Operator’s rights, authority or privileges hereunder except in the case of an Event of Default by Operator or otherwise in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement.

10.2 Advance Notice of Financing or Ground Lease .

Not less than five (5) business days prior to the signing of any financing documents or Ground Lease, Owner shall inform and furnish Operator with the identity of the proposed Lender or Ground Lessor, as applicable, and Operator shall have the right, but not the obligation, to inform the proposed Lender or Ground Lessor of the legal relationship between Owner and Operator and its Affiliates and that neither Operator nor its Affiliates make any warranties or representations in connection

 

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with any information provided to such Lender or Ground Lessor by Owner, and to inform the proposed Lender or Ground Lessor of the requirements of this Article X.

ARTICLE XI

Default

11.1 Defaults .

The occurrence of any one or more of the following events which continues for more than the period of grace (if any) provided below shall constitute an “Event of Default” by the party in respect of which such event occurs, and such party shall be deemed a “Defaulting Party” with respect thereto and in “Default” under this Agreement:

(a) If Owner shall fail to provide funds to be deposited in the Operating Accounts in response to a Funds Request in accordance with, and within the time required under, Section 4.7(b) hereof.

(b) If Owner or Operator shall fail to keep, observe or perform any other material covenant, agreement, term or provision of this Agreement to be kept, observed or performed by Owner or Operator, as applicable, and such default shall continue for a period of thirty (30) days after notice thereof by the Non-Defaulting Party to the Defaulting Party.

(c) If Owner or Operator shall apply for or consent to the appointment of a receiver, trustee or liquidator for Owner or Operator, as applicable, or for all or a substantial part of its assets, or shall file a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they come due, make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, file a petition or answer seeking reorganization or arrangement with creditors or liquidators or to take advantage of any insolvency proceeding, or if any order, judgment or decree shall be entered by any court of competent jurisdiction on the application of a creditor adjudicating Owner or Operator, as applicable, a bankrupt or insolvent or approving a petition seeking reorganization or liquidation of Owner or Operator, as applicable, or appointing a receiver, trustee or liquidator for Owner or Operator, as applicable, or for all or a substantial portion of its assets, and such judgment, order or decree shall continue unstayed and in effect for any period of ninety (90) consecutive days.

(d) If any required licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages are at any time suspended, terminated or revoked by reason of the unlicensability of Owner or Operator (as

 

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opposed to the effect of any general legislation or governmental act prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages in general or by the class of businesses of which the Hotel is a part) and such suspension, termination or revocation shall continue for a period of sixty (60) consecutive days.

11.2 Curing Defaults .

No event which is curable but which, by the nature of such event, is not susceptible, with the exercise of diligence, of being cured within the applicable grace period, shall constitute an Event of Default so long as the Defaulting Party has commenced to cure such default within such grace period and proceeds thereafter with due diligence and in good faith to cure the same. Failure to commence or proceed with reasonable diligence to cure such default until completion shall terminate any right to additional time to cure. In no event shall additional time to cure apply in cases where the Event of Default in question may be cured on a timely basis by the payment of money in the amount due.

11.3 Remedies .

(a) Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default by either party, the “Non-Defaulting Party” (that is, the party not in Default hereunder with respect to the event in question) shall have, and may exercise against the Defaulting Party, such rights and remedies as may be available to the Non-Defaulting Party at law or in equity, including, without limitation, actions for specific performance or damages; provided, however, neither party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement by reason of the occurrence of an Event of Default of the other party hereunder unless (x) the Event of Default in question represents intentional misconduct, reckless behavior or repeated Events of Default of a similar nature by the Defaulting Party; or (y) remedies at law are inadequate to redress such Event of Default; or (z) termination is provided for under any of the express provisions of this Agreement. Whenever termination of this Agreement is an available remedy, the same may be exercised by notice to the Defaulting Party and this Agreement shall terminate on the date set forth in such notice, which date shall in no event be sooner than ten (10) days nor later than thirty (30) days, after the delivery thereof. The right of termination set forth in the preceding sentence, if available, shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights or remedies provided hereunder or at law or in equity by reason of the occurrence of any such Event of Default, it being understood and agreed that the exercise of

 

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the remedy of termination shall not constitute an election of remedies and shall be without prejudice to any such other rights or remedies otherwise available to the Non-Defaulting Party.

(b) In addition to the rights set forth in Section 11.3(a) above, upon the occurrence of a monetary Default by either party, the Non-Defaulting Party shall accrue interest at an annual rate equal to the Prime Rate plus three (3) percentage points from and after the date on which the Default occurred. Upon the occurrence of a monetary default by Owner, Operator shall have the right (without affecting Operator’s other remedies under this Agreement) to withdraw the amount plus interest pursuant to this Section 11.3(b) owed to Operator or any other Operator Affiliate by Owner from distributions otherwise payable to Owner pursuant to this Agreement.

(c) The rights granted in this Section 11.3 shall not be in lieu of, but shall be in addition to, any and all rights and remedies available to the Non-Defaulting Party (including, without limitation, injunctive relief and damages) by reason of the applicable provisions of law or equity.

(d) NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING TO THE CONTRARY IN THIS AGREEMENT OR AT LAW, IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING BETWEEN THE PARTIES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY ARBITRATION PROCEEDING) ARISING UNDER OR WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT OR IN ANY MANNER PERTAINING TO THE HOTEL OR TO THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE PARTIES HEREUNDER, EACH PARTY HEREBY UNCONDITIONALLY AND IRREVOCABLY WAIVES AND RELEASES ANY RIGHT, POWER OR PRIVILEGE EITHER MAY HAVE TO CLAIM OR RECEIVE FROM THE OTHER PARTY HERETO ANY PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGING AND AGREEING THAT THE REMEDIES HEREIN PROVIDED, AND OTHER REMEDIES AT LAW AND IN EQUITY, WILL IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES BE ADEQUATE. THE FOREGOING WAIVER AND RELEASE SHALL APPLY IN ALL ACTIONS OR PROCEEDINGS BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND FOR ALL CAUSES OF ACTION OR THEORIES OF LIABILITY, WHETHER FOR BREACH OF THIS AGREEMENT OR FOR VIOLATION OF ANY OTHER DUTY OWING BY EITHER PARTY TO THE OTHER WHICH MAY IN ANY WAY RELATE TO OPERATOR’S MANAGEMENT OR OPERATION OF THE HOTEL. BOTH PARTIES FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY ARE EXPERIENCED IN

 

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NEGOTIATING AGREEMENTS OF THIS SORT, HAVE HAD THE ADVICE OF COUNSEL IN CONNECTION HEREWITH, AND HAVE BEEN ADVISED AS TO, AND FULLY UNDERSTAND, THE NATURE OF THE WAIVERS HEREIN CONTAINED.

ARTICLE XII

Termination and Transition

12.1 Inability to Operate in Accordance with Hotel Standard .

Without limiting Operator’s right to enforce Owner’s obligation to permit the Hotel to be operated in accordance with the Hotel Standard (and without limiting any other remedy available to Operator for Owner’s non-compliance with such obligation), if the Annual Plan approved by Owner for any Fiscal Year, or the funds actually made available by Owner to Operator from time to time, are insufficient to permit Operator to operate and maintain the Hotel in accordance with the Hotel Standard, then Operator shall have the right to terminate this Agreement by providing written notice of such termination to Owner within ninety (90) days following Operator’s determination that the Hotel is not, or cannot be, operated and maintained in accordance with the Hotel Standard as provided herein. Any such termination shall be effective ninety (90) days following delivery of such written notice.

12.2 Transition of Management .

Upon expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement (whether pursuant to this Article XII, or based upon an Event of Default by a party or otherwise), Operator and Owner will cooperate with each other and with an Successor Manager to effect an orderly transition of management functions from Operator to Owner, or to any Successor Manager designated by Owner and if such termination is an early termination prior to the expiration of the Term, notwithstanding the effective date of termination, Operator and Owner shall reasonably agree on the terms of an extension of no more ninety (90) days thereafter so long as any costs incurred by Operator in connection therewith shall be reimbursed to Operator promptly upon request therefor. The provisions of this Section 12.2 shall govern with respect to specific matters relating to the transition of management of the Hotel.

(a) Employment Matters .

(1) Because the Hotel Employees will be employees of Operator (or an Affiliate of Operator), the termination of this Agreement will result in a termination of their employment with Operator (or such Affiliate), although Owner acknowledges that Operator shall

 

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have the right (but shall not be obligated) to make offers of employment to any Hotel Employees for employment at other hotels within the Operator Hotel Group and Operator acknowledges that Owner or Successor Manager shall have the right to make offers of employment to any management personnel then employed at the Hotel for continuing employment at the Hotel following written confirmation from Operator that Operator does not intend to continue such personnel’s employment with Operator. In the event, in connection with the termination of this Agreement, WARN Act notices are required, Operator shall be obligated to deliver such notices unless Owner requests otherwise.

(2) Except to the extent any applicable insurance maintained with respect to the Hotel shall reimburse Operator for its loss, Owner shall be responsible for, shall reimburse Operator for, and shall indemnify, defend and hold Operator, and each of Operator’s shareholders, officers, directors, employees and agents, completely free and harmless of and from any and all costs, expenses, claims, liabilities, loss or damages of any kind or nature that result or could result from the termination of the employment of the Hotel Employees by Operator or its Affiliate (notwithstanding any continuation of their employment at the Hotel as employees of Owner or a Successor Manager). The foregoing reimbursement and indemnity obligation includes, without limitation, all accrued payroll, accrued benefits such as vacation pay and sick days and all other Employee Costs or other employment liabilities (including severance obligations) accruing up to and including the date of termination or incurred as a result of such termination, any multi-employer withdrawal liability, obligations under then-existing or subsequently negotiated collective bargaining agreements, and any liabilities or obligations under WARN and other requirements applicable to severance or termination of employment. The foregoing provisions of Section 12.2, shall not limit, impair or otherwise prejudice the rights of Owner to collect or recover damages by reason of the occurrence of any Event of Default by Operator hereunder.

(b) Insurance . The Hotel’s inclusion in Operator’s chain-wide policies of insurance and, if applicable, Operator’s self-insurance program will be terminated as of the effective date of termination of this Agreement, and Operator shall have the right to reimburse itself for such premiums which may have accrued to the date of termination by withdrawing the appropriate amount thereof from the Operating Accounts. If Owner’s pro rata share of premiums under the chain-wide policies of insurance shall have been paid in advance, Operator shall reimburse Owner for the unused portion of such insurance premiums. Owner consents to the termination of

 

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the insurance program with respect to the Hotel as of the effective date of termination of this Agreement and agrees that Operator shall have no further obligation, after the effective date of such termination, to provide or obtain any insurance coverage for the benefit of Owner or the Hotel thereafter. If the Hotel has participated in Operator’s self-insured worker’s compensation, or other self-insured programs, Owner shall remain liable for the payment of deductible amounts under such programs for claims attributable to events occurring on or prior to the expiration or earlier termination hereof.

(c) Receivables . Operator will reasonably cooperate with Owner, at Owner’s sole cost and expense, in the collection of any receivables outstanding as of the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, and will remit to Owner any amounts collected directly by Operator after the effective date of termination which relate to such receivables.

(d) Proprietary Interests . After termination of this Agreement, neither Owner, nor any Person acting on behalf of Owner, shall directly or indirectly hold itself or the Hotel out to the public as being or remaining (or otherwise associated with) a Brand Hotel or a member of the Operator Hotel Group or in any way affiliated with Operator. Accordingly, the following provisions shall apply as of the termination of this Agreement:

(1) Owner shall cease using all Proprietary Materials, all such Proprietary Materials being the sole property of Operator which may be removed by Operator (without any payment or other reimbursement) as of the effective date of termination of this Agreement, and Owner shall no longer be entitled to use any thereof.

(2) Owner shall cease the use and display of the Protected Names and the Protected Marks, except that Owner shall have the right to continue to use any consumable inventory, Operating Equipment and supplies bearing the Protected Names or any of the Protected Marks for a period not in excess of thirty (30) days following the date of termination or until supplies thereof on hand as of the termination date shall be exhausted, whichever shall first occur, but shall have no right to reorder any quantities of such items. All signs, displays and other materials in or on the Hotel bearing any of the Protected Names or Protected Marks will be removed, or covered over, by Owner as its expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Operator shall have the right (but not the obligation), as of the date of termination of this Agreement, to purchase (x) any items of Operating Equipment, consumables or supplies bearing the Protected

 

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Names or any of the Protected Marks (other than those also bearing the name of the Hotel) which are in reserve storage or are contained in unopened containers, at a price equal to the acquisition cost thereof to Owner, and (y) any other items bearing the Protected Names or any Protected Mark at a reasonable price to be agreed upon between Owner and Operator; provided that, except for a termination at the expiration of the Term, Operator’s right to purchase under this sentence shall not extend to that quantity of items reasonably necessary for the operation of the Hotel in the ordinary course of business until such items can be replaced using commercially reasonable diligence to procure replacement items, this proviso, however, to be subject to the above provisions of this Section 12.2 limiting the time during which Owner may continue to use items bearing the Protected Names and Protected Marks. In connection with the purchase of any such items, Operator shall have the obligation, at its expense, to pay for and remove the same from the Hotel not later than fourteen (14) days after the effective date of termination. Without in any way limiting the generality of the foregoing, on the termination date, Owner shall remove at its expense, or otherwise cover or obliterate, all interior and exterior signs and graphics bearing the Protected Names or any Protected Mark so as not to be visible to the public.

(3) Although the removal of any software programs shall be coordinated with the installation of replacement systems, Operator shall have no obligation to allow the proprietary software to remain in the Hotel beyond the termination of this Agreement; Upon request, Operator will provide Owner with a written list of operating and accounting systems software actually installed in the Hotel by or for Operator, and, if requested by Owner and subject to limitations in Section 12.2(e) regarding assignment of Chain Contracts, Operator will request and use commercially reasonable efforts, without cost to Operator, to obtain extensions of any such operating or accounting software systems licensing agreements for up to ninety (90) days following termination of this Agreement, with any costs related thereto being Owner’s expense. To the extent necessary for an orderly transition of management functions, both a hard copy and, if feasible, an electronic copy of guest information relating to their patronage of the Hotel for the period through the termination of this Agreement shall be given to Owner (except for such information which may have previously been discarded in accordance with applicable records retention policies). Operator shall use commercially reasonable efforts to facilitate the orderly electronic transfer of all non-proprietary records and information pertaining to the Hotel and to Owner’s or Successor Manager’s systems, with any costs relating thereto being an Operating Expense, but not otherwise at Operator’s cost or expense. Non-proprietary information on guests,

 

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patrons or groups relating to the Hotel may be used by Operator and Owner, and their Affiliates, on a non-exclusive basis in the conduct of their respective businesses (both during and after the Term), including, but not limited to, use by Operator in connection with guest loyalty programs.

(e) Service Contracts and Leases . Owner acknowledges that Operator may not have the ability to transfer to Owner the continuing benefits of Chain Contracts, or any contract with a Purchasing Company, upon termination of this Agreement. Owner agrees that such contracts, leases and service agreements will not be assigned, transferred or continued after such date, and Operator may, therefore, remove the Hotel from any such contracts applicable to the Hotel, as of the effective date of termination of this Agreement. Any other leases or contracts entered into by Operator as agent for Owner shall remain the liability and obligation of Owner, in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, and Owner shall indemnify Operator for any liabilities arising thereunder. To the extent Operator has leased any computer equipment or communications equipment for use at the Hotel in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement pursuant to chain-wide programs for the acquisition or leasing thereof, Owner shall have the right, at its option, either to request that any such lease be transferred to Owner (to the extent the same are transferable without the consent of third parties) or that Operator seek to buy out the equipment covered by any such lease, the cost of which shall be borne solely by Owner. Any such lease transfer or buy-out shall be subject to the approval of the third party owners of such equipment. If not assignable or if the same cannot be bought out, Operator shall remove all such equipment from the Hotel at any time on or after the effective date of termination of this Agreement but in no event later than fourteen (14) days thereafter.

(f) Bookings . Following the termination of this Agreement, Owner agrees that it shall, and shall cause any Successor Manager to, honor all bookings for future reservations or use of Hotel rooms or facilities which may have been accepted or entered into by Operator on or at any time prior to the termination of this Agreement, in accordance with the terms of such bookings as accepted by Operator (including, without limitation, bookings made in good faith by Operator for employee complimentary rooms, Gold Passport® reservations and bookings pursuant to outstanding gift certificates or Operator promotional programs). Operator shall, on the effective date of termination, provide Owner with a complete list of all such bookings, the terms applicable thereto, and the amount of advance deposits (if any) received with respect to each such booking. Owner will assume and fully indemnify Operator with respect to any advance deposits theretofore received by Operator, on behalf of the Hotel.

 

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(g) Notification of Customers . With respect to any guests or patrons having or seeking to make reservations at the Hotel for a date after the expected date of termination or expiration, Operator may inform such guests or parties that the Hotel will not be a Operator Hotel during all or part of their expected stay, or on their expected event date, and, if requested by the guest, may state that Operator operates other hotels in the area, naming such hotels.

(h) Licenses and Permits . All transferable licenses or permits relating to the Hotel which have been obtained in the name of Operator shall be transferred and assigned to Owner or the Successor Manager and Operator shall provide Owner with a complete listing of all permits and licenses (whether or not transferable and whether in Operator’s name or in the name of Owner) as soon as reasonably practicable prior to the effective date of termination so as to permit Owner or Successor Manager sufficient time to apply for new licenses or permits or to effect transfer to Owner’s name or the name of Successor Manager. With respect to any non-transferable licenses or permits, Operator agrees that it shall cooperate reasonably with Owner and Successor Manager in obtaining new licenses or permits, and, in connection therewith, shall surrender or agree to surrender corresponding licenses or permits to the extent applicable solely to the Hotel which are then carried in Operator’s name. The foregoing shall be without fee or other compensation to Operator other than reimbursement of Operator’s reasonable costs incurred in connection therewith.

(i) Operating Accounts . All funds in the Operating Accounts which are in excess of minimum amounts necessary to keep such accounts open, plus the amount of then outstanding checks, drafts, or orders of withdrawal or other items drawn against the Operating Accounts, and net of any amounts payable or reimbursable to Operator hereunder, shall be remitted to Owner as of the effective date of expiration or termination. Operating Accounts shall remain open for a period of one (1) year after expiration or termination in order to enable clearance of outstanding items. After such one (1) year period, Operator will cooperate with Owner to close all such Operating Accounts and transfer any remaining funds to Owner.

Provided Owner shall provide access to books and records of the Hotel, to the Hotel premises and to Hotel employees, Operator shall prepare and deliver to Owner, within sixty (60) days following the effective date of expiration or termination, an accounting as described in Section 4.8(b), which accounting shall be in final form to the extent practicable, the cost of which shall be an Operating Expense. Operator shall continue to cooperate with Owner and be

 

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available, and make any books and records available to the extent necessary, in order for Owner and the accountants to prepare the Annual Financial Statements for the applicable Fiscal Year in accordance with Section 4.8(b). In connection with the preparation of reports and accountings required of Operator hereunder, Owner agrees to grant to Operator continued access to the books of the Hotel for such purpose. Costs incurred in preparing reports and accountings by Operator shall be an Operating Expense.

(j) Accounts Payable . Accounts payable of the Hotel remaining unpaid as of the effective date of expiration or termination shall be assumed by Owner and paid as and when due. For this purpose, the term “accounts payable” shall include, without limitation, liabilities accrued as of such date, but not yet billed, together with any amounts required to be paid to Operator hereunder. In addition, if any items of FFE have been ordered prior to expiration or termination hereof in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, Owner shall pay all required charges therefor, whether or not shipped or received at the Hotel prior to such date. Owner shall indemnify and hold Operator harmless from any cost or liability relating to the foregoing. After the effective date of expiration or termination, Operator will consult with Owner at Owner’s request (without fee but with no obligation to incur costs unless Owner reimburses such costs) regarding any accounts payable, including with respect to any disputes which may arise between Owner and the account creditor.

(k) Telephone Number . Owner may continue to use the telephone number of the Hotel as in effect prior to the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement as the telephone number of the Hotel for a period of three (3) months after expiration or earlier termination hereof, after which Owner shall cease to use the same.

ARTICLE XIII

Indemnification

13.1 Indemnification of Operator .

Owner shall indemnify, defend and hold Operator (and its officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees and Affiliates) free and harmless of and from any and all damages, liability, cost, claim or expense, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees and expenses, arising out of or in any way related to the Hotel or to the performance by Operator of its duties hereunder or to the termination of this Agreement and the resulting transition of management of the Hotel and of the

 

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employment of Hotel Employees, except to the extent such damages, liabilities, costs, claims or expenses arise out of or are attributable to Operator’s Grossly Negligent Acts or Willful Misconduct; provided, however, Owner shall have no liability hereunder to the extent Operator is reimbursed for its loss from the proceeds of insurance maintained in accordance with the provisions of Article VII, and, with respect to such coverage, Operator agrees that it will, in good faith, pursue its available insurance recoveries prior to making demand on Owner for indemnity.

13.2 Indemnification of Owner .

Operator shall indemnify, defend and hold Owner (its partners, and their respective partners, members, shareholders, officers, directors, agents, employees and Affiliates) free and harmless of and from any and all damages, liabilities, costs, claims or expenses, including, without limitation, attorneys fees and expenses arising out of or in any way relating to Operator’s Grossly Negligent Acts or Willful Misconduct; ; provided, however, Operator shall have no liability hereunder to the extent Owner is reimbursed for its loss from the proceeds of insurance, and, with respect to such coverage, Owner agrees that it will, in good faith, pursue its available insurance recoveries prior to making demand on Operator for indemnity. Amounts paid by Operator in fulfillment of its indemnification obligations under this Section 13.2, shall not be deemed an expense of the operation of the Hotel and shall not be deducted in computing Gross Operating Profit, it being understood and agreed that such amounts shall be borne and paid for solely by Operator.

13.3 Survival .

The provisions of this Article XIII shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

ARTICLE XIV

Dispute Resolution

14.1 Alternative Dispute Resolution .

Subject to Sections 14.4 and 14.6, the Parties agree for themselves and their respective Affiliates, and each of their respective shareholders, trustees, beneficiaries, directors, officers, employees or agents, that all controversies, disputes, or claims between the Parties arising from or relating to this Agreement (collectively, “Disputes” ) shall be subject to, and resolved in accordance with, this

 

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Article XIV. (For the purposes of this Article XIV, the term “Party” shall refer to each of the Persons referenced in this Section 14.1).

14.2 Mediation .

(a) If either Party gives notice to the other Party of the existence of a Dispute, then, commencing within five (5) days after the date of such notice, the Parties shall, through their senior business representatives and (if they so desire) counsel, negotiate in good faith for a period of at least twenty (20) days in an effort to resolve the Dispute.

(b) If the Parties are unable to resolve the Dispute within such twenty (20) day period, either Party may then submit the Dispute to non-binding mediation under the then applicable rules and jurisdiction of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”), in which event, the Parties shall participate in at least ten (10) hours of mediation within the thirty (30) day period after such Dispute has been submitted for mediation. The fees and costs of such mediation shall be borne equally by the Parties.

(c) If the Dispute remains unresolved at the conclusion of such mediation, either Party may then submit the Dispute to arbitration in accordance with Section 14.3.

14.3 Arbitration .

(a) Subject to Section 14.4 and 14.6, all Disputes that have not been resolved through negotiation or mediation pursuant to Section 14.2 shall be submitted to final and binding arbitration administered by the AAA. If the AAA no longer exists or is unable to administer the arbitration of the Dispute in accordance with this Article XIV, and the Parties cannot agree on the identity of a substitute arbitration service provider within ten (10) days after notice by the complaining Party, then such Party shall petition a             court of competent jurisdiction to identify a substitute arbitration service provider, who will administer the dispute resolution process in accordance with this Article XIV. The arbitration proceedings shall be held in             .

The arbitration shall be governed exclusively by the United States Arbitration Act or any successor law, without reference to any state arbitration statutes. In any such arbitration proceeding, each Party shall submit or file any claim that would constitute a compulsory counterclaim (as defined by Rule 13 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure) within the same proceeding as the claim to which it relates. Any such claim that is not submitted or filed

 

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in such proceeding shall be barred. The arbitrator may not consider any settlement discussions or offers that might have been made by either Owner or Operator.

(b) The arbitration proceedings will be conducted by one (1) arbitrator and, except as this Section otherwise provides, according to the AAA’s then current commercial arbitration rules. The arbitrator must be chosen from a proposed list of at least thirty (30) arbitrators who are licensed attorneys and retired civil law judges each with no less than ten (10) years of judicial experience, and who are listed on the AAA’s National Roster of Neutrals (or such other equivalent replacement roster of experienced arbitrators that the AAA designates). All proceedings will be conducted at a suitable location chosen by the arbitrator that is within ten (10) miles of Operator’s then current principal business address. All matters relating to arbitration will be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. Sections 1 et seq .) and not by any state arbitration law.

The arbitrator has the right to award any relief that he or she deems proper, including money damages (with interest on unpaid amounts from the date due), specific performance, injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees and costs, provided that the arbitrator may not declare any Proprietary Mark generic or otherwise invalid or award any punitive, exemplary, or treble or other forms of multiple damages against either party. The award of the arbitrator shall be conclusive and binding upon all parties hereto and judgment upon the award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(c) Operator and Owner agree that arbitration will be conducted on an individual, not a class-wide, basis; that only Operator (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, and/or employees, as applicable) and Owner (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents and/or employees, as applicable) may be the parties to any arbitration proceedings described in this Section 14.3; and that an arbitration proceeding between Operator (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents, and/or employees) and Owner (and/or its Affiliates and its and their respective owners, officers, directors, agents and/or employees) may not be consolidated with any other arbitration proceeding between Operator and any other person. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary in this Section 14.3, if any court or arbitrator determines that all or any part of the preceding sentence is unenforceable with respect to a dispute that otherwise would be subject to arbitration under this Section, then all parties agree that this arbitration clause shall not apply to that dispute and that such dispute shall be resolved in a judicial proceeding in accordance with this Article XIV.

 

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(d) Despite Operator’s and Owner’s agreement to arbitrate, Operator and Owner each have the right in a proper case to seek temporary restraining orders and temporary or preliminary injunctive relief from a court of competent jurisdiction; provided, however, that Operator and Owner must contemporaneously submit the dispute for arbitration on the merits as provided in this Article XIV.

(e) The Parties agree that the award of the arbitrator shall be binding upon Operator and Owner, and that judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(f) No arbitrator shall (i) then be in the employ of any Person which, at the time of such arbitration, shall be a hotel operator or hotel management company, or (ii) have ever been in the employ of Owner or Operator.

(g) THE ARBITRATOR SHALL HAVE NO AUTHORITY TO AWARD ANY PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OR TO VARY OR IGNORE THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT, AND SHALL BE BOUND BY CONTROLLING LAW. THE ARBITRATOR’S FAILURE TO APPLY CONTROLLING LAW OR ENTRY OF A DECISION THAT IS NOT BASED ON SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE IN THE RECORD SHALL BE GROUNDS FOR MODIFYING OR VACATING AN ARBITRATION DECISION.

(h) Disputes Less than $500,000 .

For any arbitration pursuant to which either party seeks an award for money damages in an amount less than Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 US Dollars (US$500,000.00), the following provisions shall apply:

(1) Except as otherwise directed by the arbitrators, the Parties shall (i) produce relevant documents and information to each other as if Rule 34 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure applied to the arbitration proceeding. On a date set by the arbitrator, but in no event more than thirty (30) days after the arbitrator is selected, the

 

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Parties shall exchange document requests. The Parties may schedule up to three (3) depositions, which shall be noticed and taken in a manner consistent with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure as if those Rules applied to the arbitration proceeding. Any such discovery shall be completed within sixty (60) days following the selection of the arbitrator.

(2) On a date set by the arbitrator, but in no event more than thirty (30) days after the depositions are complete, the Parties shall deliver to the arbitrator and each other a written statement of their respective positions with respect to the Dispute(s) at issue and their reasons in support thereof. Within fourteen (14) days thereafter, the Parties may submit to the arbitrator and, if so, deliver to each other, a written response to the other Party’s statement.

(3) Unless requested by the arbitrator, no hearing shall be required in connection with any arbitration, and the arbitrator may elect to base his or her award on the written material submitted by the Parties; provided, however, that the Parties shall submit to hearings, and be prepared to present testimony, if so requested by the arbitrator.

(4) Following receipt of the written materials from each Party provided for in subparagraph (2) above, and following any hearing held in connection with such arbitration, the arbitrator shall render his or her award; provided, however, that if more than one Dispute is submitted to the same arbitrator for resolution, each such Dispute shall be deemed a separate arbitration for purposes of this subparagraph and shall be subject to a separate award by the arbitrator.

(f) Disputes of $500,000 or More .

Any arbitration pursuant to which either Party is seeking an award for money damages equal to or in excess of Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 US Dollars (US$500,000.00), shall be conducted pursuant to the Commercial Dispute Procedures of the AAA; provided, however, that, in all events, the parties shall (i) produce relevant documents and information to each other as if Rule 34 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure applied to the arbitration proceeding, and (ii) be entitled to take at least three (3) depositions, which shall be noticed and taken in a manner consistent with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure as if those Rules applied to the arbitration proceeding. The arbitrator shall follow the Federal Rules of Evidence in making any evidentiary rulings.

 

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14.4 Litigation .

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article XIV, the Parties shall have the right to immediately commence litigation or other legal proceedings without seeking alternative dispute resolution with respect to any claims (a) by Operator relating to the Protected Names or Protected Marks, (b) relating to emergency or injunctive relief, or (c) relating to enforcement of the dispute resolution provisions of this Agreement. In furtherance of the foregoing, each Party acknowledges and agrees that (x) a Party shall have the right to seek to obtain injunctive relief without bond, but upon notice required under applicable Legal Requirements (an “Enjoining Party” ); and (y) such injunctive relief shall be in addition to such further and other relief as may be available to an Enjoining Party or its Affiliates at law or in equity. Any action by either Party described in this Section 14.4 shall be brought in a court for                      or a court of the United States located in                     . The Parties consent to the jurisdiction of such courts and waive any right to have such action transferred from such courts on the grounds of improper venue or inconvenient forum. The Parties also waive trial by jury in the event of any such action, and the Parties agree that service of process for purposes of any such action need not be personally served or served within the                     , but may be served with the same effect as if the Party were served within the             , by notice in the manner prescribed for notices under this Agreement pursuant to Section 16.5 below.

14.5 Prevailing Party’s Expenses .

The prevailing Party in any arbitration, litigation or other legal action or proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement shall be entitled to recover from the losing Party all reasonable fees, costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing Party in connection with such arbitration, litigation or other legal action or proceeding (including any appeals and actions to enforce any arbitration awards and court judgments), including reasonable fees, expenses and disbursements for attorneys, experts and other third parties engaged in connection therewith and its share of arbitrator fees and costs. If a Party prevails on some, but not all, of its claims, such Party shall be entitled to recover an equitable amount of such fees, expenses and disbursements, as determined by the applicable arbitrator or court. All amounts recovered by the prevailing Party under this Section 14.5 shall be separate from, and in addition to, any other amount included in any arbitration award or judgment rendered in favor of such Party.

 

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14.6 Third-Party Litigation .

This Article XIV shall not apply in the event that a third party has commenced litigation against one or more Parties outside of                      ( “Third Party Action” ) and a defendant Party in the Third Party Action files a cross-complaint or third-party complaint against another Party that arises out of the same facts or transactions at issue in the Third Party Action.

14.7 Expert Determination .

Where this Agreement calls for a matter to be referred to an Expert for determination, the following provisions shall apply:

(a) The use of the Expert shall be the exclusive remedy of the parties and neither party shall attempt to adjudicate any dispute in any other forum. The decision of the Expert shall be final and binding on the parties and shall not be capable of challenge, whether by arbitration, in court or otherwise;

(b) Each party shall be entitled to make written submissions to the Expert, and if a party makes any submission it shall also provide a copy to the other party and the other party shall have the right to comment on such submission. The parties shall make available to the Expert all books and records relating to the issue in dispute and shall render to the Expert any assistance requested of the parties. The costs of the Expert and the proceedings shall be borne as directed by the Expert unless otherwise provided for herein. The Expert may direct that such costs be treated as Operating Expenses;

(c) The Expert shall make its decision with respect to the matter referred for determination by applying the Hotel Standard; and

(d) The terms of engagement of the Expert shall include an obligation on the part of the Expert to: (i) notify the parties in writing of his decision within thirty (30) days from the date on which the Expert has been selected (or such other period as the parties may agree or as set forth herein); and (ii) establish a timetable for the making of submissions and replies.

 

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ARTICLE XV

Representations, Warranties and Covenants

15.1 Representations of Owner .

Owner represents and warrants to Operator as of the Effective Date as follows:

(a) Owner is an entity duly organized and in good standing in its jurisdiction of organization as set forth on the first page hereof, and authorized to do business in the state in which the Hotel is located, and has all necessary authority and approvals to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder.

(b) This Agreement constitutes a valid and binding obligation of Owner and does not and will not violate or conflict with any of the organizational or governing documents of Owner or any Legal Requirements to which Owner is subject, or the Hotel or any substantial portion of Owner’s assets is bound or affected.

(c) There are no legal proceedings pending, or, to Owner’s actual knowledge, threatened, against Owner that might result in any inability of Owner to perform its obligations pursuant to this Agreement.

(d) Owner has engaged no broker, agency or finder in connection with this transaction.

(e) Owner is the sole owner of the fee title to the Site and the Hotel, free and clear of any encumbrances that would have a material adverse effect on Operator’s ability to operate the Hotel in accordance with this Agreement.

(f) To Owner’s knowledge, (i) no hazardous or toxic materials, substances or wastes are or have been manufactured, generated, processed, used, handled, stored, disposed, released or discharged at, on, in, over, under or from the Hotel, the Site or the real property adjacent to the Hotel, (ii) there are no soil, water, air, mineral, chemical or environmental conditions or contamination at, on, in, over, under or from the Hotel, the Site or real property adjacent to the Hotel that does, or with the passage of time will, require any remediation, abatement, removal, clean up, monitoring or other corrective action, or notice or reporting to any governmental authority or employees or patrons of the Hotel, pose any threat to the health and safety of the employees or patrons of the Hotel or the environmental or natural resources in general, or

 

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otherwise require, based on Legal Requirements or standards of prudent ownership, any remediation, abatement, removal, clean up, monitoring or other corrective action, (iii) there exists no identifiable threat of the contamination of the Site by release of hazardous or toxic materials, substances or wastes or otherwise from existing sources adjacent to the Hotel, and (iv) there are no underground storage tanks at the Site.

15.2 Representations of Operator .

Operator represents and warrants to Owner as of the Effective Date as follows:

(a) Operator is an entity duly organized and in good standing in its jurisdiction of organization as set forth on the first page hereof, and authorized to do business in the state in which the Hotel is located, and has all necessary authority and approvals to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder.

(b) This Agreement constitutes a valid and binding obligation of Operator and does not and will not violate or conflict with any of the organizational or governing documents of Operator or any Legal Requirements to which Operator is subject, or any substantial portion of Owner’s assets is bound or affected.

(c) There are no legal proceedings pending, or, to Operator’s actual knowledge, threatened, against Operator that might result in any inability of Operator to perform its obligations pursuant to this Agreement.

(d) Operator has engaged no broker, agency or finder in connection with this transaction.

(e) No third party has made any claim of rights or interests in the Brand (or against the Protected Names and Protected Marks associated therewith) that would prevent the use of the Brand or such associated Protected Names and Protected Marks in connection with the operation of the Hotel as a Brand Hotel as contemplated by this Agreement.

15.3 No Representation Regarding Forecasts .

In entering into this Agreement, Operator and Owner acknowledge that neither Owner nor Operator has made any representation to the other regarding forecasted earnings, the probability of future success or any other similar matter respecting the Hotel and that Operator and Owner understand

 

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that no guarantee is made to the other as to any amount of income to be received by Operator or Owner or as to the future financial success of the Hotel.

15.4 Quiet Enjoyment .

Owner covenants that throughout the Term, Owner shall have a valid and subsisting interest in the Hotel sufficient at all times to enable Operator to perform its duties and obligations hereunder in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Owner covenants and agrees, for the benefit of Operator, that so long as Operator shall not be in Default hereunder, Operator shall be entitled to operate the Hotel for the Term, and Owner shall, at no expense to Operator, undertake and prosecute all appropriate actions, judicial or otherwise, to protect the title of Owner in the Hotel and Operator’s rights with respect to the Operating Accounts so as to enable Operator to operate the Hotel in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement on an uninterrupted basis.

15.5 Condo-Hotel; Fractional Ownership .

Owner shall not subdivide the Hotel; including, without limitation, creation of a so-called “condo-hotel”, nor shall Owner subject the Hotel or any portion thereof or interest therein (or permit the same to be subjected) to a strata or condominium ownership or similar regime, or to any timeshare or fractional ownership regime, in each case without Operator’s consent, which may be granted or withheld in Operator’s sole discretion and which may be conditioned upon Owner and Operator having reached agreement on the terms pursuant to which Operator would (a) license the use of the Brand in connection with the sale of any interests in the Hotel and/or (b) provide management services to any such project.

15.6 Financing and Sales .

Any financing, sale (whether issuance of securities or otherwise) or issuance of indebtedness of any nature by Owner or any Person controlling Owner, shall be offered and sold only in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements, including, without limitation, federal and state securities laws, and only upon disclosure to all purchasers, lenders and offerees that (a) neither Operator nor any of its Affiliates, officers, directors, agents or employees is an issuer or underwriter of the transaction, and that (b) Operator and said Affiliates, officers, directors, agents and employees have not assumed and shall not have any liability arising out of or related to the transaction, including, without

 

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limitation, any liability or responsibility for any financial statements, projections or other financial information, or descriptions of Owner or the Hotel, contained in any prospectus or similar written or oral communication. Operator shall have the right to approve any description of Operator, or any description of this Agreement, any depiction of the Protected Names and Protected Marks, any disclaimer language regarding subsections (a) and (b) above, or Owner’s relationship with Operator hereunder which may be contained in any prospectus or other communication and Owner shall furnish copies of all such materials to Operator for such purpose not less than fourteen (14) days prior to the delivery thereof to any prospective lender or purchaser.

15.7 Gaming Regulations .

Operator or its Affiliates (including certain Pritzker Family related companies) are, or may from time to time be, engaged, in the United States and foreign countries, in the ownership and operation of gaming facilities which require Operator and its Affiliates to comply with gaming regulations and to conduct periodic gaming compliance reviews. On request, Owner shall use commercially reasonable efforts to (a) provide Operator any information regarding Owner and its Affiliates and Ownership Participants as Operator reasonably believes is necessary to complete its compliance review, and (b) will use reasonable good faith efforts to obtain such information from actual or potential Lenders and Ground Lessors. In addition, if, at any time during the Term, or during the Pre-Opening Period, either Operator or any of its Affiliates (including any Pritzker Family related companies) receives notice from any gaming regulatory authority requesting information regarding Owner or any Ownership Participant, Owner agrees that it shall, and shall cause said Ownership Participant to, provide such information to Operator promptly and with due diligence. If Owner has concerns regarding the request, Owner may advise Operator setting forth the nature of its concerns, and Operator shall use its diligent efforts to enable Owner, or any of its Ownership Participants, to meet with relevant regulatory authorities to discuss any concerns relating to Owner, or any Ownership Participant, which any regulatory authority may have, and to work with that authority towards a solution to any such concerns or issues; provided, however, that (i) Operator shall have no obligations under this sentence if its action may adversely affect the issuance, renewal or continuing effectiveness of any gaming license; (ii) any costs incurred by Owner, or its Ownership Participants, shall not constitute Operating Expenses; and (iii) in no event shall any proposed agreement between Owner or its Ownership Participants and any gaming authority (x) contain any obligations binding on Operator or its Affiliates (including any Pritzker Family related company), (y) condition or otherwise limit the granting, renewal or continuing effectiveness of any gaming license held by Operator or its Affiliates (including any Pritzker Family related company), or (z) otherwise

 

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adversely affect or limit the rights and obligations of Operator hereunder, without, in each case, the written approval of Operator. In the event any gaming regulator shall determine that any gaming license applied for or held by Operator or its Affiliates (including any Pritzker Family related company) is subject to denial, revocation, non-renewal or the imposition of burdensome terms or conditions by reason of Operator’s association with Owner or any Ownership Participant, or any Lender or Ground Lessor, Operator shall have the right, exercisable by written notice to Owner, to terminate this Agreement (and, if applicable, the Pre-Opening Agreement), and all the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder (and, if applicable, under the Pre-Opening Agreement), such termination to be effective upon the date (not sooner than ninety (90) days nor later than one hundred eighty (180) days after delivery of said notice) set forth in the notice from Operator to Owner.

ARTICLE XVI

General

16.1 Interpretation .

(a) All references in this Agreement to particular sections or articles shall, unless expressly otherwise provided or unless the context otherwise requires, be deemed to refer to the specific sections or articles in this Agreement. In addition, the words “hereof”, “herein”, “hereunder” and words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular section or article.

(b) The Article and Section headings contained herein are for convenience of reference only and are not intended to define, limit or describe the scope or intent of any provision of this Agreement.

(c) All pronouns and variations thereof used herein shall, regardless of the pronoun actually used, be deemed to refer to the masculine, feminine, neuter, singular or plural as the identity of the Person may, in the context in which such pronoun is used, require.

(d) Time is of the essence of this Agreement and every portion hereof.

16.2 Approvals .

Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, whenever the approval or consent of either party to this Agreement is requested with respect to any matter, such approval or consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. If a party shall desire the approval or consent of the other

 

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party hereto to any matter, such party may give notice to such other party that it requests such approval, specifying in reasonable detail the matter as to which such approval is requested. If such other party shall not approve such matter in writing within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice or such longer period as may be specifically provided for herein, such other party shall be deemed to have approved or consented to the matter referred to in such notice.

16.3 Force Majeure .

The obligations of either party to perform under this Agreement within specified times (other than the payment of money) shall be extended for a period of time equivalent to the period of delay caused by Force Majeure. If, at any time during the Term, Operator is unable to perform its obligations under this Agreement due to Force Majeure, or if it becomes necessary, in Operator’s or Owner’s reasonable opinion, to cease operation of the Hotel in order to protect the Hotel and/or the health, safety and welfare of the guests and/or employees of the Hotel due to the occurrence of a Force Majeure Cause, or to curtail or substantially modify Hotel operations to resulting changes in business conditions, Operator or Owner, after good faith consultation with the other, may close and cease or partially cease, or curtail or substantially modify, operation of all or any part of the Hotel as necessary based on the occurrence of the Force Majeure Cause, reopening and recommencing operation of the Hotel when Operator deems that the reopening and recommencement of operations may be done pursuant to applicable Legal Requirements and without jeopardy to the Hotel, its guests or Hotel employees, or Operator’s reputation as an operator of first-class hotels.

Within sixty (60) days after learning about the occurrence of any event that constitutes a Force Majeure Cause, or, if applicable, of the impact of an event which can reasonably be expected to have a material adverse affect on the financial performance of the Hotel and would therefore constitute a Force Majeure Cause, the party learning thereof shall give the other party written notice setting forth a description of the Force Majeure Cause or potential Force Majeure Cause and its cause (to the extent known to such party), and a description of the condition delaying the performance of such party’s obligations. In the case of Operator, such notice shall include a statement as to whether Operator anticipates that the provisions of Section 1.3(b) shall be applicable. Thereafter, as soon as reasonably practicable, said party shall also inform the other party of the expected duration of such Force Majeure Cause, or the expected duration of its impact on Hotel operations as well as the potential impact on performance of said party’s obligations under this Agreement, all to the extent known or reasonably

 

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estimable. The party whose performance hereunder is adversely affected by a Force Majeure Cause shall confer with the other party regarding the conditions caused by the Force Majeure Cause, the affected party’s plans with respect thereto, and shall provide any information concerning the foregoing as may be reasonably requested by the other party.

16.4 Estoppel Certificates .

On request from time to time Operator shall execute and deliver to Owner or any Lender or Ground Lessor, within thirty (30) days following Operator’s receipt of written request therefor, a certificate in a form reasonably satisfactory to Operator: (a) certifying that this Agreement has not been modified and is in full force and effect (or, if there have been modifications, that the same is in full force and effect as modified and specifying the modifications); (b) stating whether, to the actual knowledge of the general manager and controller of the Hotel, any Default by Owner exists, and if so, specifying each Default of which the general manager or controller may have knowledge and that said persons know of no act, event or omission that, with the giving of notice or the passage of time, or both, could become a default by Owner; and (c) providing any additional information reasonably requested by Owner or a Lender, and agreeable to Operator; provided, however, that in no event shall Operator be required to agree to any waivers with respect to the Agreement or other agreements in effect between the parties. The Parties acknowledge that the estoppel shall not constitute an amendment, modification or waiver of any term or condition of this Agreement, or any right or remedy of Operator hereunder with respect to any claims that are not known by Operator as of the date of such estoppel certificate. On similar notice or request from Operator, Owner, any Lender (with respect to any mortgage on the Hotel), or any Ground Lessor (with respect to any Ground Lease) shall execute and deliver to Operator a similar certificate. In the event of any conflict between the estoppel certificate and this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail.

16.5 Notices .

All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed duly delivered (a) upon personal delivery thereof to, and actual receipt by, the other party; (b) upon electronic facsimile transmission to the other party, at its fax number as set forth below, provided such delivery is followed by an original of the notice delivered to the other party by overnight delivery or United States postal service delivery and provided the facsimile copy sent by the sender provides an automatic notation confirming the delivery thereof; (c) on the next business day following delivery by the sender to a recognized and reliable air freight delivery service; or (d) three (3) business days following

 

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deposit in the United States mails. All notices delivered hereunder shall be pre-paid by the sending party and shall be addressed to the parties as follows:

 

If to Owner:     

 

   
    

 

   
    

 

   
     Fax No.:   

 

     
     With a copy to:      
  

 

   
  

 

   
  

 

   
     Fax No.:   

 

     
If to Operator:     

Hyatt Center

71 South Wacker Drive

12 th Floor

Chicago, Illinois 60606

Attention: General Counsel

Fax No.: 312.780.5282

     

Either party hereto shall have the right to change its address for notice or its fax number, or the identity of Persons (not more than two (2) in number) entitled to receive copies of any such notices, by delivery in the manner hereinabove provided of an appropriate notice to the other party setting forth the new address or the new fax number, or the identity of the additional or replacement Persons entitled to receive copies, or any one or more thereof.

16.6 Third Party Beneficiaries .

None of the rights or obligations hereunder of either party shall run to, or be enforceable by, or be deemed to have been made for the benefit of, any party other than the parties to this Agreement and their respective successors and assigns in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

16.7 Counterparts .

This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which when taken together shall constitute a single instrument.

 

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16.8 Entire Agreement .

This Agreement, the Pre-Opening Agreement, and the exhibits to this Agreement and the Pre-Opening Agreement constitute the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior understandings and writings between the parties.

16.9 Severability .

If any term or provision of any Article or Section of this Agreement, or the application thereof to any persons or circumstances, shall to any extent or for any reason be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement and the application of such term or provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid or unenforceable shall not be affected thereby, and each term and provision of any Article or Section of this Agreement shall be valid and enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law.

16.10 Amendments .

This Agreement may be changed or modified only by an agreement in writing signed by the parties hereto, and no oral understandings shall be binding as between the parties.

16.11 Successors and Assigns .

Subject to the express provisions of Article X above, this Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the parties hereto, and their respective successors and assigns.

16.12 Governing Law .

This Agreement is made pursuant to and shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of                     . Subject to the provisions of Article XIV, any litigation between the parties relating to matters pertaining to the Hotel shall be brought only in federal or state courts having jurisdiction over the parties and the subject matter of the dispute, located in                     .

16.13 Survival and Continuation .

Notwithstanding the termination of the Term or Operator’s management of the Hotel in accordance with this Agreement, all terms, provisions and obligations of either party contained herein which, by the express terms of this Agreement, survive the expiration or termination hereof, or which, in

 

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order to give them effect and accomplish their intent and purpose, need to survive such termination (including, without limitation, the provisions of Article XIII hereof), shall survive and continue until they have been fully satisfied or performed.

16.14 Confidentiality .

(a) All information regarding the Hotel or Owner not otherwise in the public domain by publication or otherwise shall, except as otherwise herein expressly permitted or provided, be received and maintained by Operator in a confidential manner and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior written consent of Owner or otherwise in accordance with the express provisions of this Agreement. Owner agrees that it will hold strictly confidential and not disclose (i) any information relating to Operator and its operating procedures and policies including, without limitation, all Proprietary Materials, (ii) any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement, except with prior written consent of Operator and except pursuant to court order or otherwise required by law, or to potential Lenders or equity investors or potential purchasers with whom Owner is engaged in good faith negotiations relating to the Hotel, or to Owner’s lawyers, accountants or other similar consultants or professionals on an “as needed” basis in connection with matters pertaining to the Hotel, and with a clear and conspicuous identification of such information as confidential, and (iii) all information regarding Hotel operations (including, without limitation, financial results of operations, statistical data, pricing information, occupancy data including room rate information, bookings pace, customer or group information, and other such data and information), except for disclosures permitted by the preceding clause (ii).

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing (but subject in all respects to applicable Legal Requirements), nothing contained herein shall be deemed to prohibit Operator from disclosing any such information to (i) reputable statistical computation firms who agree not to disclose the identity of the Hotel with respect to such confidential information; or (ii) other Persons when such disclosure is deemed reasonably necessary by Operator in order to perform its obligations hereunder; (iii) other Persons in accordance with lawful standard industry information sharing arrangements; (iv) financing sources and prospective purchasers of Operator, or its assets, or of the Hotel, who have executed a confidentiality agreement; or (v) gaming regulators as may be required pursuant to Section 15.7.

(c) The provisions of this Section 16.14 shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

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16.15 Further Assurances .

Each party hereto shall execute and deliver all such other appropriate supplemental agreements and other instruments and take such action as may be necessary to make this Agreement fully and legally effective, binding and enforceable as between the parties hereto and as against third parties.

16.16 Intentionally Omitted .

16.17 Trade Area Restriction and Competing Facilities .

(a) Subject to the further provisions of this Section 16.17(a), during the Restricted Period, neither Operator nor any of its Affiliates shall open and operate, or authorize any other party to open and operate any Brand Hotel (other than the Hotel) the physical premises of which are located within the Area of Protection. The foregoing restriction shall not apply to:

(1) any hotel (including other hotels within the Operator Hotel Group) other than a Brand Hotel; or

(2) any timeshare or vacation ownership resort or any fractional ownership or whole-ownership residential property, or

(3) any Brand Hotel located within the Area of Protection as of the Effective Date, or any substitution, replacement or expansion of such existing Brand Hotel that does not increase the number of guest rooms in such Brand Hotel by more than thirty percent (30%) of the number of guest rooms existing in such Brand Hotel as of the Effective Date.

(b) Notwithstanding the general restriction described in the first sentence of Section 16.17(a), if at any time during the Term Operator or any of its Affiliates acquire, or acquire the right to operate or manage (whether through purchase, sale, merger, consolidation, or other transaction), another chain, franchise system, group or portfolio of at least four (4) hotels, one (1) or more of which hotels are located in the Area of Protection, Operator or its Affiliates may then convert, or cause to be converted, one or more of the acquired hotels within the Area of Protection from its (or their) original trade identity to Brand Hotels and then to operate, or authorize any other party to operate, such hotel or hotels as Brand Hotels. For avoidance of doubt, and as more fully set out in Section 16.17(a), Owner acknowledges and agrees that any

 

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ownership, operation or licensing of Brand Hotels (or any other hotels or other properties) outside of the Area of Protection is completely unrestricted.

(c) Owner hereby consents to the ownership, operation and licensing by Operator and its Affiliates of other Brand Hotels (with the exception of the area inside the Area of Protection for the duration of the Restricted Period except as otherwise set forth in Section 16.7(a)(1), (2) or (3)) outside of the Area of Protection and other non-Brand hotels within the Operator Hotel Group (including the addition of other hotels and hotel brands to the Operator Hotel Group), wherever located, and even if they may be deemed competitive with the Hotel, and Owner agrees that Operator shall not be prohibited or restricted from doing so, except as expressly provided in this Section 16.17.

(d) Notwithstanding the restriction described herein, the provisions of this Section 16.17 shall be conditioned upon, and shall be of no force and effect if the milestones as described in Section 12.1 (a), (b), (c), (d) of (e) are not met.

[Signatures on following page]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

 

OWNER:
By:  

 

Its  

 

OPERATOR:
HYATT CORPORATION , a Delaware corporation
By:  

 

Its  

 

 

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EXHIBIT A

Legal Description of Site

 

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EXHIBIT B

Definitions

Except as herein expressly provided, and in addition to any other definitions herein contained, the following terms shall have the respective meanings as indicated below:

Accountants shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.8(b).

Adjusted Profit shall mean, for any relevant period, an amount, not less than zero, equal to the excess (if any) of (x) Gross Operating Profit for such period over (y) the sum of the following amounts (but only to the extent that such amounts are not otherwise deducted in computing Gross Operating Profit):

 

  (a) An amount equal to the aggregate deposits to the Capital Fund made under Section 4.3(c) for such period;

 

  (b) The cost of insurance maintained by Owner and Operator in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and allocable to such period in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, together with the cost of insurance (if any) maintained by Owner with respect to the Hotel for such periods, subject to the limitations set forth in Article VII;

 

  (d) All real and personal property taxes for such period (less refunds, offsets or credits thereof, and interest thereon, if any, received during the period in question) and allocable to such period in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, including, without limitation, costs of contesting the same, but not in excess of the savings achieved by such contest;

 

  (e) The Basic Fee earned for such period (but not the Incentive Fee); and

 

  (f) All other amounts deductible in the calculation of Adjusted Profit in respect of such period under the express terms of this Agreement.

In no event shall any Capital Lease payments, any Capital Expenditures in excess of deposits to the Capital Fund, or any expenditures made from funds on deposit in the Capital Fund, or from the proceeds of insurance recoveries or condemnation awards, be deducted in computing Adjusted Profit.

Affiliate shall mean, with respect to any Person, any other person, firm, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, association, trust or other entity which, directly or indirectly, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, the subject entity. For purposes hereof, the term “control” shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such entity, either alone or in combination with any one or more Persons. Accordingly (and without limiting the generality of the preceding provisions), a corporation shall be deemed under the “control” of another

 

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corporation, if a majority of the directors of said corporation also comprise a majority of the directors of the other corporation. Persons who are Affiliates of each other are sometimes herein referred to as being “Affiliated” .

Agreement shall mean this Hotel Management Agreement and any amendments hereafter entered into between the parties.

Annual Plan shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1.

Annual Financial Statements shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.8(b)(2).

[“ Area of Protection shall have the meaning set forth in Section 16.17.]

Basic Fee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.1.

Brand shall mean [                    ].

Brand Hotels shall mean all hotels and resorts in the United States, Canada, and the islands of the Caribbean that are owned, managed, franchised or operated by Operator or its Affiliates under the Brand. No hotel shall be deemed a “Brand Hotel” solely by virtue of the fact that (i) it has the name “Hyatt” (or any other trade name of Operator) as part of its name or it refers to its affiliation with Operator or its Affiliates, such as “a Hyatt-affiliated hotel”, “a member of the Hyatt group of hotels”, “one of the family of Hyatt hotels”, “by Hyatt”, or similar such references, or (ii) it participates in the central reservations system or other Centralized Services offered by Operator or its Affiliates. Hotels operated by Hyatt International Corporation and its subsidiaries will not be considered Brand Hotels.

Brand Standard Items shall mean any specific (in terms of brand, specifications or otherwise) items of inventory, FFE, Operating Equipment or supplies, which are determined by Operator to be mandatory for all Brand Hotels or hotels within the Operator Hotel Group if deemed an appropriate point of comparison by Operator.

Building(s) shall mean all buildings and other permanent improvements constructed on the Site which shall include, without limitation, all buildings and other improvements in which are located guest rooms and suites, parking, restaurants, lounges, and health and recreational facilities, and shall also include those hotel amenities and facilities which are permanent improvements to the Site such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and the like.

Building Systems shall mean any structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and life safety equipment and systems; major architectural features or systems such as water features, curtain walls and roofs; major laundry appliances; major kitchen appliances; elevators and escalators; pumps, filters and other pool equipment; water features and other similar systems and items of equipment installed in or upon, and affixed to, the Building, whether or not the same may be movable and whether or not removal thereof would cause damage to the Building or the Site, excluding, however, any items of FFE.

Business Day” or “business day ” means days other than (i) Saturdays and Sundays, (ii) days which are federal, state or municipal holidays in                         .

 

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Business Segment applied to the Hotel shall mean that segment or segments of the hotel industry or the traveling public of which the Hotel shall be a part for operational or marketing purposes, as reasonably determined by Operator. The Hotel may be included in more than one Business Segment. A Business Segment may be identified on a customer basis (such as, for example, frequent individual business travelers), a geographical basis, on a target business basis (such as, resorts, convention hotels, or suburban hotels), or on a combination of the above or other factors.

Capital Budget shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1.

Capital Expenditures shall mean any costs or expenses actually incurred after the Opening Date (excluding costs of initial construction, furnishing, equipping and opening of the Hotel) with respect to the Hotel that are properly categorized as capital in nature under generally accepted accounting principles.

Capital Fund shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.3(c).

Capital Lease shall mean any lease of FFE equipment or other items of personal property used or proposed to be used in connection with the operation of the Hotel and which, under generally accepted accounting principles, is classified as a “capital lease”. Owner shall provide Operator with such information (including, without limitation, a copy of the lease in question) as shall be relevant for purposes of determining whether said lease is properly classified as a capital lease under generally accepted accounting principles.

Centralized Services shall mean those services generally made available by Operator, or Affiliates of Operator, from time to time during the Term on a central, regional or other shared or group basis in whole or in part to Brand Hotels and such other hotels operated or licensed by Operator or its Affiliates that Operator reasonably determines shall be provided such services. Centralized Services may include, by way of example, (i) convention, business and sales promotion services (including the maintenance and staffing of Operator’s corporate office world wide sales force, national sales forces and regional sales offices located in various parts of the United States and the world), (ii) chain-wide marketing, advertising and public relations services, (iii) centralized reservations services, (iv) the frequent guest program of Operator and its Affiliates, (iv) technology and other services and (v) control services for, among others, food and beverage, rooms, accounting, engineering, risk and human resource departments, some or all of which may, from time to time, be provided from a shared services center; provided, however, such control services shall not include any amounts for Operator’s overhead in providing headquarters supervision over the management of the Hotel or over the management of any regional or shared services offices. The scope of, and manner of providing, the Centralized Services is subject to modification (including addition and deletion of services) from time to time during the Term.

Centralized Services Charges shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.5(b).

Centralized Services Costs shall mean, with respect to any of the Centralized Services in which the Hotel participates (or is required to participate), all costs actually incurred or properly accrued by Operator or by any of its Affiliates during the period of determination in respect of the provision of such Centralized Services other than the costs of operational departmental supervision and control services, including (v) any costs or expenses payable to third party

 

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vendors or employees of Operator or its Affiliates (including support personnel) directly engaged in the rendition of such Centralized Services, (w) occupancy costs, (x) costs of equipment leases and capital improvements, (y) administrative expenses allocable to such services, and (z) allocation of related carrying costs. In any case in which employees of Operator or any Operator Affiliate devote less than all of their time to the provision of the applicable Centralized Services, employee costs shall be allocated in a reasonable manner determined in good faith by Operator to reflect the portion of time devoted by such employees to such Centralized Services. Other shared costs such as occupancy costs, utilities, and the like relating only partially to Centralized Services shall likewise be allocated by Operator to Centralized Services Costs on a fair and reasonable basis as determined in good faith by Operator so as to reflect, as nearly as reasonably possible, the portion of such costs fairly and reasonably attributable to the provision of Centralized Services. Any such allocation of shared personnel or other costs made by Operator in good faith and with the intention of fairly allocating such costs, shall be binding on the parties hereto. Centralized Services Costs shall include only the actual costs incurred by Operator, and shall not be subject to any mark up, premium or profit. Moreover, to the extent that Operator or any Affiliate of Operator receives (i) a fee or cost reimbursement from any third party, hotel, or hotel chain (including any hotel from the Operator Hotel Group other than Brand Hotels) in consideration of the provision of one or more of the Centralized Services to such third party, hotel or hotel chain, or (ii) any rebates, commissions or discounts from vendors or service providers whose costs are included as part of Centralized Services Costs, such amounts so received (including any profit element) will be offset against Centralized Services Costs. There shall likewise be credited against Centralized Services Costs with respect to any period any amounts that Operator or any of its Affiliates are entitled to be paid in respect of Centralized Services furnished during such period to hotels participating in Centralized Services that (because they are under construction or are otherwise being prepared for opening), are not included (or, if partially included, to the extent not so included) in the group of hotels among which Centralized Services Costs are then being allocated.

Certificate of Authority shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(c).

Chain Contracts shall mean those contracts entered into by Operator from time to time with third party vendors of goods or services that are intended by Operator to be available for use at all Brand Hotels or Brand Hotels within a particular Business Segment.

Controlling Interest ” in a legal entity means, whether directly or indirectly, either (a) the record or beneficial ownership of, or right to control, fifty percent (50%) or more of the equity ownership of the entity, or (b) the effective control of the power to direct or cause the direction of that entity’s management and policies, including a general partnership interest (with respect to an entity that is a partnership) and a manager or managing member interest (with respect to an entity that is a limited liability company), or the power to appoint or remove any such party. In the case of (a) or (b), the determination of whether a “Controlling Interest” exists is made both immediately before and immediately after a proposed transfer.

Corporate Personnel shall mean any personnel from the corporate offices of Operator and its Affiliates who perform activities in connection with the services provided by Operator under this Agreement.

CPI shall mean the Consumer Price Index for United States City Averages for All Urban Consumers, All Items, published from time to time by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (1982-84 = 100). If the CPI is discontinued or is unavailable or is substantially revised,

 

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a comparable index agreeable to Owner and Operator reflecting the changes in the cost of living or the purchasing power of the consumer dollar, published by any governmental agency or recognized authority shall be used in place thereof. Unless otherwise provided, any CPI adjustment shall reflect CPI changes from the end of the CPI reporting period next preceding the Opening Date to the end of the CPI reporting period next preceding the effective date of any such adjustment.

Cumulative Period in connection with the calculation of Management Fees for any month shall mean the period from the beginning of the Fiscal Year in question to the end of the month for which the calculation is being made.

Debt Service shall mean both (i) the amount of principal and interest required to be paid under any indebtedness of Owner at any time during the Term secured by a mortgage or other similar lien on the Hotel, or any part thereof or interest therein, and (ii) the amount of rent required to be paid under any Ground Lease.

Default ”, “ Event of Default and Defaulting Party shall all have the meanings set forth in Section 11.1.

Disputes shall have the meaning set forth in Section 14.1.

Effective Date shall have the meaning set forth on the cover page.

Employee Costs shall mean the aggregate compensation, including, without limitation, salary, fringe benefits, incentive compensation, bonuses, employee performance and service awards, and other such amounts paid or payable to Hotel employees, and other employee related costs such as payroll taxes and COBRA expenses less the net benefit of any tax credits (after deduction for any costs incurred in applying for or claiming said tax credits) received by Operator during the applicable period in question by reason of employment at the Hotel. The term “ fringe benefits ” shall include, without limitation, the cost of pension or profit sharing plans, workers’ compensation benefits, group life and accident and health insurance or equivalent benefits, and similar benefits available to Hotel employees by virtue of their employment.

Expert shall mean an independent, nationally recognized hotel consulting firm or individual who is qualified to resolve the issue in question, and who is appointed in each instance by agreement of the parties or, failing agreement, each party shall select one (1) such nationally recognized consulting firm or individual and the two (2) respective firms and/or individuals so selected shall select another such nationally recognized consulting firm or individual to be the Expert. Each party agrees that it shall not appoint an individual as an Expert hereunder if the individual who will perform the duties of the Expert (without regard to the firm he/she is affiliated with or employed by) is, as of the date of appointment or within six (6) months prior to such date, employed by such party or its Affiliates, either directly or as a consultant, in connection with any other matter. In the event that either party calls for an Expert determination pursuant to the terms hereof, the parties shall have ten (10) days from the date of such request to agree upon an Expert and, if they fail to agree, each party shall have an additional ten (10) days to make its respective selection of a firm or individual, and within ten (10) days of such respective selections, the two (2) respective firms and/or individuals so selected shall select another such nationally recognized consulting firm or individual to be the Expert. If either party fails to make its respective selection of a firm or individual within the ten (10) day period provided for above, then the other party’s selection shall be the Expert. Also, if the two (2) respective firms and/or

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   B-5  


individuals so selected shall fail to select a third nationally recognized consulting firm or individual to be the Expert, then such Expert shall be appointed by the American Arbitration Association and shall be a qualified person having at least ten (10) years recent professional experience as to the subject matter in question.

FFE shall mean all fixtures, furniture, furnishings and equipment located at the Hotel, together with all replacements therefor and additions thereto, but shall not include Operating Equipment.

Financial Records shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.8(a).

Fiscal Year shall mean the calendar year except that the first Fiscal Year hereunder shall commence on the Opening Date and shall continue until the following December 31, and the last Fiscal Year hereunder shall end on the date of the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

Force Majeure or Force Majeure Cause shall mean any one or more events or circumstances of material consequence beyond the reasonable control of the party whose performance is affected thereby that, alone or in combination, materially and adversely affects the operation of the Hotel whether or not such events or circumstances occur geographically in a location remote from the Hotel, including, without limitation, casualties, war, invasion, insurrection, acts of terrorism, sabotage, failure of transportation, outbreak of disease, inability to procure or general shortage of labor, equipment, facilities, materials or supplies in the open market, actions of labor unions, and governmental actions (but excluding causes which can be controlled by the reasonable expenditure of money in accordance with usual business practices). Changes in market conditions, without another event or circumstance affecting the Hotel as enumerated above, shall not be a Force Majeure Cause.

Foreclosure Purchaser shall have the meaning set forth in Section 10.1(b).

Funds Request shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.7(b).

Gross Operating Profit or GOP for any period shall mean the excess (if any) of (a) Gross Receipts for such period over (b) Operating Expenses for such period, calculated in accordance with the Uniform System.

Gross Receipts for any period shall mean all revenues and income of any kind derived, directly or indirectly, from the operation of the Hotel during such period, including all revenues derived from the sale during such period of rooms, food and beverages, spa services, and rents or fees payable by tenants or other service providers for such period (but not the gross receipts of such sub-tenants or service providers). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, it is the intention of the parties that the term “Gross Receipts” shall mean all amounts properly accounted for as Total Revenue for Total Operated Departments in accordance with, and as defined in, the Uniform System. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there shall be excluded in determining Gross Receipts for any period the sum of (i) any sales, excise or occupancy taxes actually collected during such period in accordance with Legal Requirements from guests or patrons of the Hotel and either remitted, or required to be remitted, to appropriate taxing authorities; (ii) amounts collected from guests or patrons of the Hotel on behalf of Hotel tenants and other third parties; (iii) interest earned on funds held in Operating Accounts (if any); (iv) insurance proceeds, condemnation proceeds, financing or refinancing proceeds and the proceeds of sale of any real or personal property comprising part of the Hotel (as distinguished from the

 

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sale of merchandise, food and beverage and other consumer goods or services), (v) any “cure” payment made pursuant to Section 1.3(e); (vi) amounts paid either to Operator or the Hotel in reimbursement for expenses either reimbursed or reimbursable to Operator or to the Hotel by third parties; (vii) proceeds from the sale of FFE. Gross Receipts shall in all events include only amounts actually paid or payable to the Hotel (in cash or services), and shall not include, except as otherwise herein expressly provided, the value of any Hotel goods or services in excess of actual amounts paid (in cash or services) provided by the Hotel on a complimentary or discounted basis.

Ground Lease shall mean any lease to Owner of the Site, or the Site together with the Building, Building Systems and/or other real or personal property, or any part or parts thereof or interests therein, regardless of its term.

Ground Lessor shall mean the landlord or lessor under a Ground Lease.

Hotel shall mean the Site, the Building(s), the Building Systems, the FFE and the Operating Equipment, together with all other items of real and personal property at any time used in connection with the operation of the foregoing, collectively.

Hotel Employees shall mean all individuals employed at or for the direct benefit of the Hotel, to perform services in the name of the Hotel. For avoidance of doubt, Operator’s Corporate Personnel are not Hotel Employees.

Hotel Standard as applied to any aspect of the construction, operation, maintenance, repair, furnishing, equipping or refurbishment of the Hotel, shall mean a collective reference to (a) a standard of service and quality that (x) would generally be considered to be “first class” and (y) is equal to or better than the level of service and quality prevailing from time to time at the Brand Hotels, and (b) the operational standards, policies and programs generally applicable to the Brand Hotels.

Hurdle Amount shall mean annual an amount equal to eleven percent (11%) of Owner’s Invested Capital as of the last day of any Fiscal Year. For any Fiscal Year consisting of less than twelve (12) full calendar months, the Hurdle Amount shall be prorated on a per diem basis on the actual number of days in such Fiscal Year in relation to 365 days in a full Fiscal Year.

Incentive Fee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.1.

Institutional Lender shall mean a foreign or domestic commercial bank, trust company, savings bank, savings and loan association, life insurance company, real estate investment trust, pension trust, pension plan or pension fund, a public or privately-held fund engaged in real estate and/or corporate lending, or any other financial institution commonly known as an institutional lender (or any Affiliate thereof) having a minimum paid-up capital (or net assets in the case of a pension fund) of One Hundred Million and 00/100 US Dollars (US$100,000,000.00) (as adjusted by the CPI Index). Institutional Lender shall also include any institution that manages the securitization of debt secured by a mortgage, deed of trust or security document encumbering the Hotel (a “Mortgage”), or to an entity which issues, or guarantees, securities backed (directly or indirectly) by, among other things, a Mortgage over the Hotel (a “Relevant Transferee”), or an entity which borrows funds from a Relevant Transferee, or to a society incorporated under the Building Societies Act of 1986, both of which shall not be subject to the minimum paid-up capital requirements (or net assets, respectively) of One Hundred Million and 00/100 US Dollars (US$100,000,000.00).

 

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Key Personnel ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.4.

Legal Requirements shall mean any provision of law, including, without limitation, any statute, ordinance, regulation, rule, award or order of any governmental agency or tribunal having jurisdiction over the Hotel or its operations.

Lender(s) shall mean any Person, including any Person Affiliated with Owner or any Ownership Participant, providing debt financing secured by the Hotel or by the Ownership Interests of any Ownership Participant, or for the development, construction, furnishing, equipping or operation of the Hotel, or to refinance any financing obtained for any of the foregoing purposes, and any of its successors or assigns and, in the context of Lender as a Foreclosure Purchaser, any Affiliate of Lender.

Mandatory Contracts shall mean those Chain Contracts which, by the terms of such contracts, are, or by reasonable determination by Operator should be, regarded as standard for all Brand Hotels or all Brand Hotels within a Business Segment, and therefore in which participation therein by Brand Hotels, or those Brand Hotels within the applicable Business Segment, is mandatory.

Major Project shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.3 (b).

Management Fees shall mean the Basic Fee and the Incentive Fee, collectively and without distinction between them.

Minor Casualty shall mean damage to the Hotel resulting from a fire or other casualty to such an extent that the total cost of repairs or restoration as reasonably estimated by Operator would not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the full replacement cost (excluding land, excavations, footings and foundations) of the Hotel.

Non-Defaulting Party ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 11.3.

Non-Disturbance Agreement shall mean either the “Creditor Non-Disturbance Agreement” or the “Lessor Non-Disturbance Agreement” referred to in Section 10.1, without distinction between them.

Opening Date shall mean the date on which the Hotel shall first open for business to the public, as determined pursuant to Section 2.4(a) and the Pre-Opening Agreement.

Operating Accounts shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.7(a).

Operating Budget shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1.

Operating Equipment shall mean linens, china, glassware, silverware, uniforms and the like, excluding FFE.

Operating Expenses for any period shall mean all ordinary and necessary operating and maintenance expenses of the Hotel incurred for such period, as determined in accordance with the Uniform System, without regard to any revisions or future editions thereof, or otherwise provided

 

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for in this Agreement, including, without limitation, Employee Costs, Centralized Services Charges, expenses reimbursable to Operator hereunder, utility costs, costs of maintenance and repair, and costs and expenses for marketing, advertising and promotion of the Hotel, but expressly excluding the following: (i) Management Fees; (ii) taxes (other than employment taxes included in Employee Costs); (iii) insurance premiums paid for any insurance policies maintained with respect to the Hotel; (iv) deposits to or expenditures from the Capital Fund; (v) costs for the rental of real or personal property (except, with respect to personal property, rentals incurred directly in connection with revenue generating activities); (vi) any depreciation and amortization of capital assets; (vii) costs for the administration of Owner (including any board or shareholder meetings) or Owner’s personnel, including salaries, wages, employee benefits and reimbursements of Owner’s directors, officers, employees or agents; and (viii) fees and costs for professional services, including the fees and expenses of attorneys, accountants and appraisers, incurred directly or indirectly in connection with any category of expense that is not itself an Operating Expense.

Operator Hotel Group shall mean all hotels and resorts owned, operated or licensed by Operator or its Affiliates under the Brand or under any other brand or identification.

Operator’s Grossly Negligent Acts or Willful Misconduct shall mean any acts or omissions constituting criminal violations, gross negligence, willful misconduct or fraud committed by Operator, its Affiliates or the Corporate Personnel, in the performance of Operator’s duties under this Agreement. The acts or omissions (including criminal violations, grossly negligent, willful or fraudulent acts or omissions) of Hotel employees shall not be imputed to Operator, or be deemed to constitute Operator’s Grossly Negligent Acts or Willful Misconduct, unless such acts or omissions resulted from the criminal violations, gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Corporate Personnel in hiring or supervising such Hotel employees.

“Owner Organization Website” is a Website that mentions the Hotel and other hotels in which Owner and its Affiliates have an interest as part of Owner’s and its Affiliates’ portfolio of properties and that has a primary purpose of promoting the entire portfolio (rather than only promoting the Hotel).

Owner’s Remittance Amount shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.7(d).

Owner’s Invested Capital shall mean the amount that equals (i) $             plus (ii) Owner-funded Capital Expenditures for the Hotel in excess of amounts on deposit or to be deposited in the Capital Fund, or from the proceeds of casualty insurance or condemnation, less the net sale proceeds from the sale of any portion of the Hotel (but not the sale proceeds for the sale of the Hotel to a successor Owner hereunder).

Ownership Interest shall mean the interest, direct or indirect, in Owner owned by any Ownership Participant.

Ownership Participant shall mean any shareholder, partner or member of Owner or other Person holding an ownership interest, direct or indirect, in Owner.

Party shall have the meaning set forth in Section 14.1.

 

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Person shall mean an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, trust or other entity or organization, including a government or political subdivision or an agency or instrumentality thereof.

Pre-Opening Agreement shall mean the Technical Services and Pre-Opening Agreement being executed and delivered, concurrently herewith, between Owner and Operator, setting forth the technical assistance and pre-opening services to be provided by Operator in connection with the Hotel.

Pre-Opening Period shall mean the period from the Effective Date to, but not including, the Opening Date.

Prime Rate shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.4.

Pritzker Family shall mean (i) all natural and adoptive lineal descendants of Nicholas J. Pritzker, deceased, and their current and former spouses; (ii) all trusts for the benefit of any Person described in clause (i) and the trustees of such trusts in their capacities as such; (iii) all legal representatives of any Person or trusts described in clauses (i) or (ii); and (iv) all partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies or other entities controlled by or under common control with any Person, trust or other entity described in clauses (i), (ii) or (iii). “Control” for purposes of this definition shall mean the ability to direct or otherwise significantly affect the major policies, activities or actions of any Person.

Proprietary Materials shall mean (i) all software from time to time owned by, or leased or licensed on an exclusive basis to, Operator or Operator’s Affiliates (including, without limitation, revisions or enhancements to otherwise commercially available software) together with related source and object codes, (ii) the Protected Names and Protected Marks and all depictions thereof, either graphic or verbal, (iii) copyrighted materials, (iv) operating handbooks (including employee manuals, training materials, user manuals, and maintenance procedures, (v) operating policies and procedures, (vi) reporting and budgeting formats, (vii) Operator promotional materials, (viii) recipes, (ix) Gold Passport ® members and member information, (x) customer information and customer contact lists for guests, patrons and groups patronizing other Operator Hotels (whether or not also patrons of the Hotel) with respect to their business at other Operator Hotels or at non-Brand Hotels, other than the information and lists specific to this Hotel, (xi) data and information on potential guests or groups, not otherwise guests or groups patronizing the Hotel, (xii) financial records of Operator and its Affiliates (except as otherwise herein expressly provided), (xiii) information relating to other Operator Hotels or non-Brand Hotels, other than those portions specific to this Hotel, (xiv) room rates and other charges at hotels other than the Hotel, (xv) business leads, booking proposals and tentative bookings not yet confirmed, and (xvi) information which Operator reasonably determines may not be disclosed by Operator or its Affiliates under applicable privacy or identity theft laws. Information and data on guests, patrons or groups relating to their use of Hotel facilities shall be deemed proprietary to both Operator and Owner, and each shall have the non-exclusive right to use the same both in connection with the ownership and operation of the Hotel, and otherwise. Information on guests and patrons of the Hotel, including all individual transient and group guest histories of the Hotel, to the extent relating to their stays at the Hotel, shall not be exclusively proprietary to Hyatt. In addition, none of the following shall be deemed proprietary to Hyatt (nor, with respect to clause (ii), to Owner): (i) any records, including correspondence, memos, notes, contracts and booking arrangements relating to bookings, whether group or individual, for use of Hotel facilities after the effective date of expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement; or (ii) information regarding group

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   B-10  


business at the Hotel prior to the effective date of expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, such information being the name and address of guests, the dates of stay, and contact information with respect to such guests and the group or groups of which such guests were a part.

Protected Marks shall mean those logos, trademarks, trade names, copyrights, service marks and other intellectual property owned by Operator or its Affiliates (or otherwise used by Operator in the operation of Operator Hotels), whether or not used in connection with the operation of the Hotel during the Pre-Opening Period or the Term.

Protected Names shall mean the names “Hyatt” and [“Regency”] and any other name that includes the word “Hyatt” (such as, for example and without limitation, “Hyatt Regency” or “Grand Hyatt” or “Park Hyatt”) either alone or in conjunction with another word or words or any other name used in the operation of Brand Hotels or other hotels within the Operator Hotel Group, including, without limitation, “Gold Passport ® .”

Purchasing Company shall mean any company or companies designated by Operator from time to time, which may or may not be a Operator Affiliate, to provide purchasing services to Operator Hotels as described in Section 4.6.

Refurbishing Program shall mean (i) any program for replacement of or additions to a major portion of FFE as part of a program to renovate a block of not less than twenty-five (25) guest rooms and suites; (ii) any program of replacement of carpeting, furnishings, fixtures or wall coverings in twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the Hotel public space, such as lobbies, guest room corridors, restaurants, banquet and meeting rooms and pre-function areas; or (iii) any material change in theme of any Hotel restaurant or bar that is reasonably anticipated to have a material adverse impact on Hotel performance. Refurbishing Programs exclude expansions of the Hotel.

Restricted Period shall mean the period of time commencing on the Opening Date and expiring on the date which is the earlier to occur of the following: (i) (            ) (        ) years following the Opening Date and (ii) (                )

Site shall have the meaning set forth in the Preliminary Statement.

Successor Manager shall mean any Person (including Owner or any Affiliate of Owner) designated by Owner as the manager and operator of the Hotel to succeed Operator upon expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

Term shall have the meaning set forth in Section 1.2.

Total Casualty shall mean damage to the Hotel resulting from a fire or other casualty to such an extent that the cost of repairs or restoration as reasonably estimated by Operator exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the full replacement cost (excluding land, excavations, footings and foundations) of the Hotel

Uniform System shall mean, at any time, the then-current edition of the “Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry”, as adopted by the Hotel Lodging Association of New York City, Inc., and the American Hotel & Lodging Association, as the same may be modified, amended, supplemented or superseded by any subsequent editions or revisions thereto.

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   B-11  


WARN or WARN Act shall mean the United States Worker Adjustment Retraining and Notification Act, together with any state and local laws, ordinances or regulations of similar import applicable to the Hotel, all as the same may have heretofore, or may hereafter, be amended.

Website ” means any web page, website, other online or Internet presence or other electronic medium.

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation   B-12  


EXHIBIT C

Certificate of Authority

The undersigned (“Owner”) is the owner of the Hotel located in                     ,                                 , at                                 , and commonly known as “[HOTEL NAME]” (the “Hotel”).

Owner and Operator Corporation (“Operator”) have entered into a certain Hotel Management Agreement, dated as of                      (the “Management Agreement”).

This will acknowledge, to all to whom this Certificate of Authority becomes known, that, pursuant to the Management Agreement, Owner, for itself and on behalf of its successors in interest and assigns with respect to the Hotel, has appointed Operator as the exclusive agent of Owner, with full power and authority, to manage and operate the Hotel for the benefit of Owner, and, in that connection, to take all action incidental thereto in its own name, or in the name of Owner.

All persons to whom this Certificate of Authority may be issued shall be fully protected in relying hereon and on Operator’s authority to manage and operate the Hotel and to take all action incident thereto, absent actual knowledge of said third party (i) of any revocation, expiration or termination of the Management; or (ii) limitation of Operator’s authority.

 

Dated:  

 

 

OWNER:

 

By:  

 

Its:  

 

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation    


EXHIBIT D

Form of Non-Disturbance Agreement

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation    


EXHIBIT E

Area of Protection

 

©2009 Hyatt Corporation    

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption “Experts” and to the use of our report dated September 28, 2009, in Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement (Form S-11 No. 333-162184) and related Prospectus of Chesapeake Lodging Trust for the registration of 12,500,000 common shares of its beneficial interest.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

New York, New York

November 20, 2009

EXHIBIT 99.5

CONSENT TO BE NAMED AS A TRUSTEE

Chesapeake Lodging Trust has filed a Registration Statement on Form S-11 (together with any amendments, the “Registration Statement”) to register common shares of beneficial interest for issuance in its initial public offering. As required by Rule 438 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the undersigned hereby consents to being named in the Registration Statement as a person who has agreed to serve as a trustee beginning immediately after the closing of the offering.

 

/s/ Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein
Name:   Jeffrey D. Nuechterlein
Date:   November 24, 2009