Document:

<PAGE>

                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.4

                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

         This Agreement is made and entered into this 18th day of December,
2002, (the "Agreement Date") by and between DCB Financial Corp. and its
wholly-owned subsidiary The Delaware County Bank and Trust Company
(collectively, the "Bank"), an Ohio-chartered FDIC-insured nonmember bank and
Jeffrey Benton ("Executive"), an individual. (The Bank and Executive will be
referred to collectively herein as the "Parties.")

         In consideration of the mutual promises contained herein, the
sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

1.       EMPLOYMENT

         a.       The Bank agrees to employ Executive and Executive agrees to
serve as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank. As President and
Chief Executive Officer, Executive will devote his full professional time to
rendering administrative and management services such as are customarily
performed by persons situated in similar executive positions. Executive will
perform such other duties as the Board of Directors of the Bank (the "Board,"
which may with respect to any of its obligations hereunder designate a member or
committee thereof to perform such obligation) may from time to time reasonably
direct.

         b.       The Bank agrees that during the term of Executive's employment
as President and Chief Executive Officer, the Board will nominate Executive to
stand for election as a Director of the Bank. Executive agrees to serve as a
Director of the Bank if elected by the shareholders, but agrees that he shall
have no vote regarding matters pertaining to his employment as President and
Chief Executive Officer, including but not limited to his duties,
responsibilities, goals, job performance, and compensation, and further agrees
that he may from time to time be excused by the Board from discussions regarding
such matters and that the Board may in its sole discretion meet with other
senior Bank managers out of the Executive's presence. However, upon termination
for any reason of Executive's employment hereunder, Executive will immediately
resign as a Director of the Bank and will sign all documents necessary to
accomplish such resignation. In the event Executive refuses to sign documents
necessary to so resign then this document will act as the resignation pursuant
to this paragraph.

         c.       Executive will be furnished with a private office, necessary
secretarial assistance, and with such other facilities, amenities, and services
as are appropriate for Executive's position and adequate for the performance of
the duties hereunder.

         d.       Executive represents and warrants that Executive is not a
party to any contract or agreement, written or unwritten, that would restrict
Executive's ability to be employed by the Bank in the manner specified herein.
Executive also agrees not to disclose to the Bank any information Executive is
contractually or otherwise legally bound to keep confidential.

                                                                             25.

<PAGE>

2.       TERM OF EMPLOYMENT

         Executive is hereby employed for an initial term commencing on the
Agreement Date and ending December 31, 2004. At the end of any calendar year
thereafter in which Executive is continuously employed hereunder, this Agreement
will be extended for an additional one-year term and Executive for each such
one-year extension will for all purposes continue to be considered as employed
under this Agreement unless either Party notifies the other in writing no later
than December 1 of that calendar year of his or its intent to terminate, for any
reason or no reason at all, Executive's employment hereunder.

3.       STANDARDS AND EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE

         a.       Executive agrees to devote Executive's best efforts and full
time to the business and affairs of the Bank and to discharge the duties
assigned by the Board. Executive will not during Executive's employment
hereunder render any services as an employee, independent contractor,
consultant, or otherwise, other than to the Bank, except for service on such
corporate, civic, or charitable boards or committees as are approved by the
Board.

         b.       The Board will each contract year provide Executive with
performance goals (the "Goals"), Executive's best efforts towards the attainment
of which will constitute part of Executive's duties. The Goals for calendar year
2003 are attached as Exhibit A hereto. Executive will provide the Board with no
less than quarterly reports on the status of attaining each of the Goals. The
Board may in its discretion reasonably adjust the Goals from time to time in
response to business conditions.

         c.       The Board will conduct an annual performance evaluation of
Executive, which process Executive will initiate no later than October 15 of
each year.

4.       COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

         a.       Base Salary. The Bank agrees to pay Executive (in addition to
any payments under paragraph 1(b) of this Agreement) an initial annual salary of
$150,000 (the "Base Salary"), payable on the Bank's regular payroll schedule for
other executive employees.

         b.       Equity Incentive. Executive will be granted common shares of
the capital stock of the Bank (the "Equity Incentive") in an amount of shares
determined by dividing $15,000.00 as the numerator by the opening public trading
price on the Agreement Date as the denominator and rounding down to the largest
whole number of shares. The Equity Incentive will vest on December 31, 2004,
regardless of whether Executive remains employed by the Bank.

                                                                             26.

<PAGE>

         c.       Eligibility for Performance-Based Bonus. The Goals will
include standards by which Executive may achieve a performance-based bonus of up
to $140,000.00 (the "Potential Bonus") as described below. The Board will
consider upward adjustment of the Potential Bonus each year at the time that it
sets the Goals. No later than the date 30 days after the completion of audited
financial statements for the preceding year (the "Bonus Date"), the Board will
in its sole discretion determine the total performance-based bonus for that year
(the "Bonus Amount"). It is the Parties' mutual expectation and desire that the
Executive's performance will result in the Bonus Amount for each year being at
least 65% of the Potential Bonus.

         One-half of the Bonus Amount will be paid as a lump sum cash payment
(subject to applicable withholding and payroll taxes) to Executive within 30
days of the Bonus Date. With respect to the other one-half of the Bonus Amount,
Executive will be granted the option to purchase common shares of the capital
stock of the Bank (the "Performance Bonus Stock Options") at the opening public
trading price on the Bonus Date (the "Performance Bonus Exercise Price") in an
amount of shares determined by dividing one-half of the Bonus Amount as the
numerator by the Performance Bonus Exercise Price as the denominator and
rounding down to the largest whole number of shares. The Performance Bonus Stock
options will vest as follows:

                  Fraction of Shares        Vesting Date
                      1/3      3 years from the Bonus Date
                      1/3      4 years from the Bonus Date
                      1/3      5 years from the Bonus Date

Vested Performance Bonus Stock Options will be exercisable for up to 10 years
following the Bonus Date unless Executive's employment hereunder is terminated
under paragraph 5(a) below, in which case all Performance Bonus Stock Options
not yet vested on the date of termination will be forfeited. All Performance
Bonus Stock Options will provided through a Non-Statutory Stock Option Agreement
to be developed by the Bank and approved by the Board.

         It is the Parties' mutual expectation and desire that, in order to
demonstrate and establish his commitment to the Bank's shareholders, the
Executive will of his own accord purchase capital stock of the Bank in addition
to what he may be granted and/or purchase under this paragraph 4(c) and
paragraph 4(b) above.

         d.       Executive Employee Benefits. Executive will be eligible for
all of the Bank's employee benefit plans pursuant to the terms of those plans,
as they may be amended from time to time in the Bank's sole discretion.

         e.       Reimbursement for Business and Moving Expenses. The Bank will
reimburse Executive for reasonable entertainment, travel, lodging and other
miscellaneous expenses, whether local or out-of-city, incurred on its behalf and
directly related to the performance of Executive's duties hereunder. The Bank
further agrees to furnish Executive with a corporate credit card for business
use in connection with entertainment, travel, lodging and other

                                                                            27.

<PAGE>

miscellaneous expenses. The reimbursement will include the payment of reasonable
expenses for attending meetings of trade associations. Executive will submit
documentation of the expenses incurred in a form that is satisfactory to the
Bank. In order to facilitate Executive's becoming a resident of Delaware County,
the Bank will provide up to $5,000 reimbursement for reasonable packing and
moving expenses if Executive moves from his current residence to a residence in
Delaware County while employed by the Bank and no later than December 31, 2003.

         f.       Country Club Membership and Expenses. The Bank agrees to
purchase a corporate membership at Dornoch Golf Club in Delaware, Ohio, for use
by Executive and other senior managers of the Bank at Executive's directions and
to reimburse Executive for any reasonable business-related costs associated
therewith. These expenses will be detailed and provided to the Bank in
connection with Executive's periodic submission of reasonable entertainment
expenses.

         g.       Vacation and Leaves. Executive will be entitled, without loss
of pay, to an annual vacation of not less than 4 weeks per year, to be scheduled
in a reasonable manner by Executive. Vacation time not used within the calendar
year will be forfeited. Executive will not be entitled to receive any additional
compensation from the Bank for unused vacation time, including upon the
termination for any reason of Executive's employment hereunder. Executive will
be entitled to such other leaves as are provided for executive employees under
Bank policies.

5.       TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT AND SEVERANCE PAYMENT

         In addition to either Party's right to terminate Executive's employment
hereunder pursuant to paragraph 2 of this Agreement, the Bank may terminate the
employment of Executive at any other time, with or without cause, and with or
without notice.

         a.       If the Bank terminates Executive's employment hereunder
because of Executive's dishonesty, incompetence, misconduct, breach of fiduciary
duty, failure or refusal to perform the duties and responsibilities assigned
under this Agreement (including but not limited to failure to meet the annual
budget approved by the Board), willful violation of any law, rule or regulation
(other than misdemeanor traffic violations or similar offenses), conviction of a
felony or for fraud or embezzlement, or material breach of any provision of this
Agreement (hereinafter collectively referred to termination for "Just Cause"),
or if Executive resigns or retires for any reason other that provided in
paragraph 5(c) below, Executive will have no right to receive any compensation
for any period after such termination and any Performance Bonus Stock Options
provided for in paragraph 4(c) and not yet vested will be forfeited.

         b.       If the Bank terminates Executive's employment hereunder for
any reason other than Just Cause then Executive will be entitled to continuation
of the Base Salary for a period of 12 months, provided, however, that (i) each
monthly payment will be reduced by the amount of wages or other compensation for
services rendered earned by Executive during the preceding month from sources
other than the Bank and (ii) Executive must use reasonable efforts to obtain
such

                                                                             28.

<PAGE>

employment or other work and, upon the Bank's request, provide documentation of
such efforts to the Bank's satisfaction.

         c.       If the Bank while Executive is employed hereunder merges with,
is acquired by, or sells substantially all of its assets to an entity not
affiliated with the Bank or an entity created for the express purpose of
facilitating such a transaction, Executive will receive the severance payments
provided for in and subject to the terms of paragraph 5(b) of this Agreement if
Executive resigns employment within one year of the closing date of such merger,
acquisition, or sale.

         d.       Executive's employment hereunder automatically terminates upon
the death of Executive. In the event of such death, Executive's estate will be
entitled to receive the compensation due Executive through the last day of the
calendar month in which Executive's death occurred.

         e.       Special Regulatory Events. Notwithstanding any other provision
of this Agreement, the obligations of the Parties will be as follows in the
event of any of the following circumstances:

                  i.       If Executive is suspended and/or temporarily
prohibited from participating in the conduct of the Bank's affairs by a notice
served under Section 8 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12 U.S.C. Section
1818, the Bank's obligations under this Agreement will be suspended as of the
date of service of such notice unless otherwise ordered by a tribunal of
competent jurisdiction. If the charges in the notice are dismissed, the Bank
may, in its sole discretion, pay Executive all or part of the compensation
withheld while the obligations of this Agreement were suspended and reinstate
in whole or in part any of the obligations which were suspended.

                  ii.      If Executive is removed from office and/or
permanently prohibited from participating in the conduct of the Bank's affairs
by an order issued under Section 8 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12
U.S.C. Section 1818(e) or Ohio Revised Code Sections 1121.33 and 1121.34, all
obligations of the Bank under this Agreement will terminate as of the effective
date of the order.

                  iii.    If the Bank is in default, as defined in Section 3(x)
(1) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12 U.S.C. Section 1813(x)(1), or
declared insolvent by the Ohio Superintendent of Banks pursuant to Ohio Revised
Code Section 1125.09, all obligations under this Agreement will terminate as of
the date of default or insolvency, but this provision will not affect any
vested rights of the Parties.

                  iv.      All obligations under this Agreement may be
terminated by the FDIC at the time the FDIC enters into an agreement to provide
assistance to or on behalf of the Bank under the authority contained in Section
13(c) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12 U.S.C. Section 1823(c).

                                                                             29.

<PAGE>

6.       EXECUTIVE'S COVENANTS PROTECTING THE BANK'S BUSINESS RESOURCES

         a.       Non-Disclosure of Trade Secrets and Other Confidential
Information. Executive acknowledges that Executive has received, and the Bank
agrees to continue to provide to Executive on an ongoing basis, certain of the
Bank's confidential business information. Executive will not divulge, disclose,
reveal, or communicate to any business entity or other person such information
or any trade secrets or other information that Executive may have obtained
during the term of employment with the Bank concerning any matters affecting or
relating to the business of the Bank, including without limitation any of its
customers or borrowers (including lists thereof), sales prices (including price
lists), costs, plans, technology, processes, policies, techniques, trade
practices, finances, accounting methods, methods of operations, trade secrets,
or other data considered by the Bank to be confidential information, for so long
as such information is not publicly available other than in whole or in part
through the efforts of Executive.

         b.       Books and Records. Executive will, upon the termination of
employment hereunder, surrender and deliver to the Bank all property of the
Bank, including any and all customer or price lists, manuals, blueprints,
operating plans, books, records, papers and similar items (including all copies
thereof in his possession) that contain information regarding the business of
the Bank.

         c.       Covenant Not to Compete. Executive will not during employment
under this Agreement or for a period of 2 years after termination (or, if
termination occurs on or before December 31, 2003, for a period of 1 year after
termination), regardless of the reason for termination thereof compete with the
Bank without the Bank's prior written consent. Executive will be deemed to be
competing with the Bank if Executive is self-employed as, employed by, works
for, becomes associated with (whether as partner, officer, director, 10%
shareholder, consultant, Executive, agent, or otherwise), furnishes information
to, or communicates with any of the Bank's customers or borrowers on behalf of
any business entity or other person that competes or that may reasonably be
construed to compete with the Bank, including but not limited to any business
entity that (i) itself or through an affiliated entity produces, markets, or
sells products, renders services, or engages in business activities that are the
same as, similar to, or otherwise competitive with those of, or under
development or research by the Bank and (ii) produces, markets, or sells such
products, renders such services, or engages in such activities in the Bank's
market area at that time (as that market area may change from time to time).

         Executive acknowledges that Executive is qualified for other comparable
employment, including for entities that do not compete with the Bank.
Accordingly, Executive represents and warrants that Executive's experience and
capabilities are such that this covenant will not prevent Executive from earning
an adequate livelihood for Executive and Executive's dependents if this covenant
should be specifically enforced against Executive.

                                                                             30.

<PAGE>

         d.       Other Bank Employees. Executive will not during employment
under this Agreement or for a period of 2 years after termination (for any
reason) thereof induce or solicit, or attempt to induce or solicit, any other
Bank employee to leave employment with the Bank without the Bank's prior written
consent.

         e.       Remedies for Breach. Executive stipulates that the covenants
contained herein are essential for the protection of the trade secrets,
confidential business and technological information, customer relationships, and
competitive position of the Bank; that a breach of any covenant contained herein
would cause the Bank irreparable damage for which damages at law would not be an
adequate remedy; and that, in addition to damages and other remedies to which
the Bank would otherwise be entitled, it will be entitled to whatever injunctive
relief is appropriate for any such breach. Executive also agrees that Executive
will be responsible for attorney fees and other legal expenses incurred by the
Bank or its successors or assigns to enforce any of the covenants in this
paragraph 6 against Executive.

         f.       Tolling Period. The term(s) of any covenant(s) in this
paragraph 6 will not run during any time in that Executive is in violation of
said covenant(s).

         g.       Claims against the Bank Not a Defense. The existence of any
claim(s) or cause(s) of action of Executive against the Bank will not constitute
a defense to the enforcement by the Bank of any or all of the covenants
contained in this paragraph 6.

         h.       Survival of Covenants. The covenants in this paragraph 6 will
survive the termination of this Agreement.

7.       MISCELLANEOUS

         a.       Successors and Assigns. This Agreement will be binding upon
and inure to the benefit of (i) the Bank and its successors and assigns and (ii)
Executive and Executive's heirs and personal representatives.

         b.       Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other
communications hereunder will be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly
given if delivered via telecopy, overnight delivery, or prepaid certified or
registered U.S. Mail, return receipt requested, to the following addresses or to
such other address as either party may designate by like notice.

                  If to the Bank, to:
                  Dr. G. William Parker
                  c/o DCB Financial Corp.
                  110 Riverbend Avenue
                  Lewis Center, Ohio 43035

                                                                             31.

<PAGE>
                  If to Executive, to:
                  Jeffrey Benton
                  8140 Crossgate Court North
                  Dublin, Ohio 43017

and to such other additional person(s) or location(s) as either party will have
designated to the other party in writing by like notices.

         c.       Entire Agreement; Modification. This Agreement contains the
entire agreement of the Parties about the subjects in it, and it replaces all
prior contemporaneous oral or written agreements, understandings, statements,
representations and promises by either party. No supplement, modification, or
amendment to this Agreement will be effective and binding unless the same is
contained in a writing accepted and duly executed by the Parties.

         d.       Paragraph Headings. The paragraph headings used in this
Agreement are included solely for convenience and will not affect, or be used in
connection with, the interpretation of this Agreement.

         e.       Severability. The provisions of this Agreement will be deemed
severable and the invalidity or unenforceability of any provision will not
affect the validity or enforceability of the other provisions hereof.

         f.       Governing Law. This Agreement will, except to the extent that
federal law will be deemed to apply, be governed by and construed and enforced
in accordance with the law of Ohio.

         g.       Arbitration of Disputes. All disputes under this Agreement,
except for claims for injunctive relief, will be settled conclusively and
without right of appeal therefrom by arbitration in Delaware County, Ohio,
before a single arbitrator pursuant to the Rules of Commercial Arbitration of
the American Arbitration Association ("AAA"). The arbitrator will be selected by
the joint agreement of the Parties, but if they do not so agree within 10
calendar days after notice from either party to the other that it is instituting
arbitration, they will request from the AAA a panel of 7 arbitrators from which
the Parties will alternately strike names until a single arbitrator has been
selected. The initial strike will be determined by the flip of a coin. Each
Party will pay its own expenses of arbitration and the expenses of the
arbitrator will be equally shared provided that, if in the opinion of the
arbitrator any claim, defense, or argument raised in the arbitration was
unreasonable, the arbitrator may assess all or part of the expenses of the other
Party (including attorney fees) and of the arbitrator as the arbitrator deems
appropriate. To the extent the Parties resort to judicial action arising under
this Agreement for injunctive relief, to enforce the judgment of an arbitrator,
or because an arbitrator deems issues not arbitrable, the Parties hereby
expressly consent to the jurisdiction of, and agree that such an action will be
instituted only in, the state and federal courts sitting in or for Delaware
County, Ohio, waive any objection to venue therein, and consent to service of
process in any such action by certified mail.

                                                                             32.

<PAGE>

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have entered this Agreement on the day
and year first hereinabove written.

                        FOR THE BANK:

                                      DCB Financial Corp.

                                      By:/s/ G. William Parker, M.D.
                                         ---------------------------------------
                                         G. William Parker, M.D.
                                      Its: Chairman, Board of Directors

                                      And:/s/ Vicki J. Lewis
                                          --------------------------------------
                                          Vicki J. Lewis
                                      Its: Chair, Salary and Benefits Committee

                                      FOR EXECUTIVE:

                                        /s/ Jeffrey Benton
                                      ------------------------------------------
                                        Jeffrey Benton

                                                                             33.

<PAGE>

                        EXHIBIT A TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

2003 GOALS AND PERFORMANCE BONUS STANDARDS

Potential Bonus - $140,000.00

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
             Goal(1)                                     % of Potential Bonus Awarded for Attainment
             -------                                     -------------------------------------------
<S>                                                      <C>
Earnings per share of at least $1.30                                           5
Earnings per share of at least $1.55                                          10
Earnings per share of at least $1.70                                          15

Growth in assets(2) of at least 8%                                             5
Growth in assets of at least 10%                                              10
Growth in assets of at least 12%                                              15

Efficiency ratio of not greater than 60                                        5
Efficiency ratio of not greater than 57                                       10
Efficiency ratio of not greater than 54                                       15

Camel rating of 1                                                             20

Completion of strategic plan update by 3/31/03                                15

Qualified stock option plan completed and voted on
     by shareholders by 9/30/03                                                5

Completion of succession plan and talent
     review by 10/31/03                                                        5

Compensation and incentive compensation review for
     all employees completed and approved by the Board
     by 10/31/03                                                               5

Meet monthly with all employees                                                5
</TABLE>

-------------------
(1) All financial goals to be measured by audited financial statements. Bonus
amounts for achievement of successive financial thresholds are cumulative; e.g.,
achieving earnings per share of at lease $1.70 will result in awarding a total
of 15% of the potential bonus.

(2) From 12/31/02 to 12/31/03.

                                                                             34.<PAGE>
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10(e)

                                 LOAN AGREEMENT
                                 --------------

         This agreement is made effective December 3, 1997, between Core
Materials Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Borrower"), and KeyBank,
National Association, a national banking association ("Lender").

                             BACKGROUND INFORMATION
                             ----------------------

                  A. Borrower has applied to Lender for the Loan (deemed in
ss.l, below).

                  B. Lender has approved Borrower's application for the Loan by
the commitment letter dated August 28, 1997, as amended (the "Loan Commitment"),
and Lender is willing to make the Loan available to Borrower but only on the
terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this agreement and the Loan
Documents (defined in ss.2, below).

                  C. Pursuant to the Loan Commitment, Lender is providing three
other credit facilities to Borrower in the form of (i) a $12,000,000
sale/leaseback equipment financing facility (the "Sale/Leaseback"); (ii) a
$5,500,000 equipment lease (the "Operating Lease"); and (iii) a standby letter
of credit (the "Letter of Credit") to be issued on behalf of Borrower to support
the issuance of "Industrial Development Revenue Bonds" (the "Bonds") by Borrower
in the approximate amount of $7,500,000. The documents executed by Borrower in
connection with the Sale/Leaseback and the Operating Lease, including without
limitation the Master Equipment Lease Agreements between Borrower and Lender,
are sometimes hereafter collectively referred to as the "Lease Documents."

                  D. It is presently anticipated that the Letter of Credit will
be issued during the first calendar quarter of 1998. The Borrower's obligations
relating to the issuance of the Letter of Credit shall be evidenced by a
Reimbursement Agreement between Borrower and Lender and such other documents as
Lender may require (collectively, the "Letter of Credit Documents"), which shall
be executed on or before the date of issuance of the Letter of Credit.

                             STATEMENT OF AGREEMENT
                             ----------------------

                  Borrower and Lender acknowledge the accuracy of the foregoing
Background Information and agree as follows:

                  SECTION.l. LOAN; USE OF LOAN PROCEEDS. On the terms and
subject to the conditions set forth in this agreement and the Loan Documents (as
defined below), Lender shall provide to Borrower and Borrower shall accept from
Lender a $7,500,000 revolving loan (the "Loan"). Borrower shall use the proceeds
of the Loan to refinance Borrower's existing debt, to finance Borrower's new
facility in Gaffney, South Carolina, for working capital, to pay the Fee
(defined in ss.5, below), and to pay Lender's Costs (defined in ss.6, below).

                  SECTION 2. EVIDENCE OF INDEBTEDNESS AND SECURITY FOR THE
LOANS. The Loan shall be evidenced by a Revolving Variable Rate Promissory Note
(the "Note"), a copy of which is attached to this agreement as Exhibit A and
incorporated into this agreement by reference.

         The Note, including all extensions, renewals, amendments, modifications
and replacements thereof, along with all of Borrower's obligations under this
agreement and the other Loan Documents (defined below), shall be secured by:

                  (a) a first priority security interest in all business assets
         of Borrower, including without limitation all inventory, equipment,
         materials, receivables, instruments, mortgage-backed securities and
         other tangible and intangible property, excepting the property leased
         by Borrower as set forth on Schedule l attached hereto ("Leased
         Property"), (collectively the "Assets");

                  (b) first priority mortgage liens upon the real and personal
         property of Borrower located at: (i) 800 Manor Park Drive, Columbus,
         Ohio (the "Ohio Property"); and (ii) 24 Commerce Drive, Gaffney, South
         Carolina

<PAGE>

         (the "South Carolina Property"), such Properties being hereafter
         sometimes referred to individually as a "Property" and collectively as
         the "Properties;" and

                  (c) UCC-1 Financing Statements to perfect Lender's security
         interest in the Collateral (the "UCC Financing Statements") which will
         be filed with the following:

                           (1)      Ohio Secretary of State
                           (2)      Franklin County, Ohio Recorder, Real Estate
                                    Records
                           (3)      Franklin County, Ohio Recorder, Personal
                                    Property Records
                           (4)      South Carolina Secretary of State
                           (5)      Cherokee County, South Carolina Recorder,
                                    Real Estate Records
                           (6)      Cherokee County, South Carolina, Personal
                                    Property Records

         The security interest described in (a) shall be in the form of a
Security Agreement between Borrower and Lender (the "Security Agreement") and
the mortgage liens described in (b) shall be in the form of an Open-End
Mortgage, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Security Agreement from Borrower to
Lender covering the Properties (the "Mortgages"). The Note, Security Agreement,
Mortgages, and UCC Financing Statements shall be referred to collectively as the
"Loan Documents." The Assets and the Properties shall hereinafter be referred to
collectively as the "Collateral."

         SECTION 3. RATE OF INTEREST; TERMS OF PAYMENTS: LATE CHARGES;
PREPAYMENT CHARGES; AND DEFAULT. The rate of interest, terms of payment, late
charges, prepayment charges, and default rates for the Loan shall be those set
forth in the Note.

         SECTION 4. TERM OF LOAN. The principal balance of the Note and accrued
interest thereon shall be due and payable in accordance with the Note and the
entire unpaid principal balance of the Note and all accrued interest thereon
shall be due and payable on or before the "Maturity Date" as set forth in the
Note.

         SECTION 5. FEES. At the closing of the Loan (the "Closing"), Borrower
shall pay to Lender a loan fee of $10,000 (the "Fee"). Borrower is also paying
(a) a $25,000 fee in connection with the Sale/Leaseback at the time of its
execution and (b) an origination fee of $20,000, the first annual fee equal to
1% of the face amount of the letter of credit, and an investment banking fee of
$75,000 at the time of the issuance of the Letter of Credit.

                  Borrower shall also pay to Lender a fee in connection with the
Loan equal to one-eighth of one-percent per annum of the unused portion of such
Loan during the previous calendar quarter, commencing in the first quarter of
1998, which fee shall be due within fifteen days after receipt of an invoice
from Lender.

         SECTION 6. COSTS AND EXPENSES. In addition to the payment of the Fee,
Borrower shall pay or reimburse Lender, as applicable, for all of Lender's
reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses relating to, or incidental with, the
Loan, including without limitation recording and filing fees, title examination
and insurance costs, escrow fees, appraiser's fees, engineer's fees,
environmental audit fees, inspection fees, surveyor's fees, costs and expenses
relating to administration of the Loan, Lender's attorneys' fees (including
costs and expenses) whether incurred before or after the Closing (collectively,
"Lender's Costs").

         SECTION 7. DEPOSITORY REQUIREMENTS. While any sums advanced under the
Loan remain outstanding, Borrower shall maintain its primary depository/cash
management relationship with Lender.

         SECTION 8. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS.
Except as specifically set forth on Schedule 2 attached hereto (Exceptions to
Representations and Warranties), Borrower represents, warrants, and covenants,
as applicable, that all of the following statements are true and correct as of
the date of this agreement and shall continue to be true and correct until such
time as the Notes are paid in full and all of Borrower's obligations under this
agreement and the Loan Documents are satisfied in full:

<PAGE>

                  (a) Borrower is a duly organized and validly existing Delaware
         corporation in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware,
         and is qualified to do business and is in good standing in each other
         jurisdiction where Borrower's operations require it to be so qualified,
         including without limitation in the States of Ohio and South Carolina.

                  (b) Except as noted on Schedule 2, as of the Closing, there
         has been no material adverse change in Borrower's financial statements
         and other documents and materials submitted to Lender with Borrower's
         application for the Loan since the period covered by such statements,
         documents and materials.

                  (c) Borrower has not employed or engaged any broker, finder,
         or agent who may claim a commission or fee relating to the Loan, and
         Borrower shall indemnify and hold Lender harmless from any such claim,
         demand, or litigation resulting therefrom.

                  (d) Borrower has full power and authority to execute and
         deliver this agreement and the Loan Documents and to perform and
         observe its obligations under this agreement and the Loan Documents;
         and this agreement and the Loan Documents have been duly and validly
         executed and delivered by Borrower, and are the legal, valid, and
         binding obligations of Borrower enforceable in accordance with their
         respective terms.

                  (e) Neither the execution or delivery of this agreement or the
         Loan Documents, nor the consummation of any of the transactions
         contemplated in this agreement or the Loan Documents, nor compliance
         with the terms and provisions in this agreement or the Loan Documents,
         will contravene or conflict with: (i) any provision of law, statute, or
         regulation to which Borrower or any of its properties is subject; (ii)
         any judgment, license, order, or permit applicable to Borrower or any
         of its properties; (iii) any indenture, mortgage, or other agreement or
         instrument to which Borrower is a party or by which Borrower or any of
         its properties is subject or bound; or (iv) Borrower's certificate of
         incorporation, by-laws, qualifications to do business in any state, or
         any actions or proceedings of Borrower. No consent, approval,
         authorization, or order of any court or governmental authority or third
         party is required in connection with the execution, delivery, and
         performance by Borrower of this agreement or the Loan Documents.

                  (f) Borrower is not in material default under any agreement,
         indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement, lease,
         franchise, or other obligation to which it is a party or by which it or
         any of its property is bound. Borrower is not in violation of any law,
         ordinance, governmental rule, or regulation to which it is subject,
         which violation might materially adversely affect the business,
         prospects, profits, properties, or financial condition of Borrower. No
         event has occurred and is continuing which constitutes an Event of
         Default (as defined in ss.13, below) or would, with the lapse of time
         or giving of notice or both, constitute such a default.

                  (g) There are no claims, suits, or causes of action (whether
         legal, equitable, or administrative) pending or threatened against
         Borrower which will or may materially adversely affect the properties,
         business, prospects, profits, or financial condition of Borrower or the
         ability of Borrower to consummate or perform the transactions
         contemplated by this agreement or the Loan Documents.

                  (h) Borrower is not in default or delinquent in the payment of
         any type of material tax or assessment with any governmental entity.

                  (i) As of the Closing, there is no fact that Borrower has not
         disclosed in writing to Lender which could materially or adversely
         affect the properties, business, prospects, or conditions (financial or
         other) of Borrower.

                  (j) Borrower shall use the proceeds of the Loan solely for
          those uses permitted under ss.l.

                  (k) Borrower shall furnish to Lender, promptly upon becoming
          aware of the existence of any condition or event constituting an Event
          of Default, or which, with the giving of notice or lapse of time or
          both,

<PAGE>

          would constitute an Event of Default under this agreement or any
          Loan Document, a written notice specifying the nature and period of
          existence thereof, and what action Borrower is taking or proposes to
          take with respect thereto.

                  (l) Borrower shall maintain proper books of account and
         records containing entries of all of the transactions entered into by
         Borrower in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                  (m) Upon reasonable advance notice (oral or written), Borrower
         shall provide Lender and Lender's employees and agents access to the
         Collateral to examine the existence and condition of such Collateral,
         which shall include but not be limited to reviewing (and, in the event
         of default, making copies of) all of Borrower's books and records
         relating thereto.

                  (n) Borrower shall maintain liability and all-risk (hazard)
         insurance coverage on all of the Collateral in amounts reasonably
         satisfactory to Lender. Such insurance coverages shall be issued by an
         insurance company (or companies) acceptable to Lender, shall contain
         such terms and be in such amounts acceptable to Lender, shall name
         Lender as an additional named insured and loss payee, shall provide
         Lender with written notice 30 days prior to the expiration,
         cancellation, non-renewal, or amendment of such policy (or policies).
         Borrower shall, from time to time upon the reasonable request of
         Lender, provide Lender with copies of the binder (or binders) and the
         policy (or policies) to evidence the coverage required under this
         section.

                  (o) Borrower shall pay when due all taxes, assessments, and
         other governmental charges imposed upon it or its assets, franchises,
         business, income, or profits before any penalty or interest accrues
         thereon, and all claims (including without limitation claims for labor,
         services, materials, and supplies) for sums which by law might be a
         lien or charge upon any of its assets; provided that (unless any
         material item or property would be lost, forfeited, or materially
         damaged as a result thereof) Borrower's failure to pay any such tax,
         assessment or charge shall not be a default if Borrower pays the same
         within 30 days after Borrower becomes aware that the same is overdue or
         if it is being diligently contested in good faith by Borrower and, if
         such contested charges, together with all interest and penalties
         thereon, exceeds $250,000, if Lender is notified in advance of such
         contest and receives adequate reserve or other appropriate security
         (including without limitation demonstrated financial capacity of
         Borrower to pay same) reasonably acceptable to Lender to protect the
         Lender against any loss therefrom.

                  (p) Borrower shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to
         Lender: (i) monthly internally prepared financial statements for
         Borrower certified as being true, accurate, and complete by an officer
         of Borrower, not later than 50 days after the expiration of each month;
         (ii) quarterly and annual covenant compliance certificates for Borrower
         certified as being true, accurate, and complete by an officer of
         Borrower, relating to those covenants described in ss.11, below, not
         later than 50 days after the expiration of each fiscal quarter and 95
         days after expiration of each fiscal year, as applicable, of the
         Company; (iii) year-end financial statements prepared in accordance
         with generally accepted accounting principles for Borrower, audited by
         a firm of independent accountants, not later than 95 days after the
         expiration of each fiscal year of Borrower; and (iv) all other
         information or documentation (financial or otherwise), including
         without limitation, financial statements, tax returns, income
         statements, balance sheets, accounts receivable and account payable
         agings relating to Borrower upon reasonable request of Lender from time
         to time.

                  (q) Borrower has good and marketable title to all of its
         properties and assets, including without limitation the Collateral. The
         attached Schedule 1 sets forth all real or personal property leased by
         Borrower. All such properties and assets are free from liens or
         encumbrances, other than (1) the liens in favor of Mellon Bank which
         Borrower is causing to be terminated and released of record
         contemporaneously with the execution and delivery of this agreement,
         and (2) the liens in favor of Navistar International Transportation
         Corp., a Delaware corporation ("Navistar"), which are being
         subordinated to the liens of Lender pursuant to a subordination
         agreement, dated on or about this same date (the "Subordination
         Agreement"). The amount of outstanding principal and interest owed by
         Borrower to Navistar, at any given point in time, is hereinafter
         referred to as the "Subordinated Debt." Borrower shall not cause or
         permit any other liens or encumbrances to affect or attach to any such
         properties

<PAGE>

         and assets, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, without
         the prior written consent of Lender, except for purchase money liens
         for assets purchased by Borrower after the Closing.

         SECTION 9. EVIDENCE OF TITLE. Prior to the Closing, Borrower shall
furnish to Lender ALTA mortgagee's title insurance commitments with extended
coverage (i.e., without any of the standard exceptions) (the "Title
Commitments") for the Properties (in the amount of $7,500,000 on the Ohio
Property and $5,000,000 on the South Carolina Property), with such provisions
for reinsurance or co-insurance as Lender may require, written by a title
insurance company acceptable to Lender, which bind the title insurance company
to insure Lender that Borrower will have, upon Closing, good and marketable
title to the respective Property covered thereby, and that each Mortgage will be
the first lien on the respective Property to which it applies. The Title
Commitment shall show each Property to be free and clear of all defects, liens,
encumbrances, security interests, restrictions and easements which are not
acceptable to Lender or which would unreasonably interfere with the present use
of such Property. The Title Commitments shall contain all affirmative coverages
and endorsements as may be required by Lender in its discretion, including
without limitation affirmative coverage that the Property covered thereby has
ingress and egress to a publicly dedicated street. The title policies issued
pursuant to the Title Commitments (the "Title Policies") shall be delivered to
Lender within 15 days after the Closing. Both the Title Commitments and the
Title Policies shall show Lender as the insured, and shall contain no exceptions
except those specifically approved by Lender. Prior to Closing, Borrower shall
execute and deliver a no-lien affidavit and such agreements, affidavits,
waivers, bonds, and indemnities as are desired or required by either Lender or
the title insurance company to issue the Title Commitments and Title Policies.

         Lender shall be provided with an insured closing letter from the title
insurance company regarding the title agent, if any. Lender reserves the right
to require reinsurance in such amounts and from such companies as may be
acceptable to Lender (such reinsurance to be evidenced by an ALTA Reinsurance
Agreement with provisions for direct access).

         SECTION 10. SURVEY AND SURVEYOR'S CERTIFICATION. Prior to the Closing,
Borrower shall furnish to Lender a current survey of each of the Properties
prepared in accordance with the minimum detail requirements for land title
surveys, including without limitation those items set forth in "Table A," as
adopted by the American Land Title Association and the American Congress on
Surveying and Mapping (version 1992) (the "Survey"). The Surveys shall: (a) be
prepared by a surveyor registered in the State in which the Property is located;
and (b) show: (i) all of the boundaries of the Property; (ii) the location of
any improvements on the Property (including all dimensions thereof); (iii) all
easements and encumbrances set forth in the Title Commitment, setback lines,
deviations between survey lines and title lines, rights-of-way, encroachments,
bench marks; and (iv) all utility lines (water, sewer, gas, electric, and
telephone); and (c) depict any other matters requested by Lender. In addition,
the Surveys must contain a full legal description of the Property covered
thereby, certification of square footage and acreage, identification of adjacent
and contiguous streets as well as measurements to the nearest intersection. The
Surveys shall contain a surveyor's certification in form and substance
satisfactory to Lender, including a certification that, other than the area set
forth on the Surveys and disclosed to Lender, the Property is located within a
HUD-designated flood hazard area.

         SECTION 11. NEGATIVE COVENANTS. In addition to the affirmative
covenants set forth in ss.8, until such time as the Notes are paid in full and
all of Borrower's obligations under this agreement and the Loan Documents are
satisfied in full, Borrower shall:

                  (a) Not permit the Maximum Senior Funded Debt to EBITDA Ratio
         (as defined below) to exceed 4.0:1.00 as determined at the end of each
         fiscal quarter, commencing December 31, 1998, calculated for the four
         quarters then ended.

                  (b) Not permit the Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio
         (defined below) to be less than 1.10:1.00 as determined at the end of
         each fiscal quarter, commencing with the quarter ending December 31,
         1999, calculated for the four quarters then ended.

                  (c) Not permit the Minimum Debt Service Coverage Ratio
         (defined below) to be less than 1.50:1.00 as determined at the end of
         each fiscal quarter, commencing March 31, 1998, for the fiscal quarter
         then ended; June

<PAGE>

         30, 1998, for the two fiscal quarters then ended; September 30, 1998,
         for the three fiscal quarters then ended; and December 31, 1998, and
         each fiscal quarter thereafter for the four quarters then ended.

                  (d) Not incur Unfunded Capital Expenditures (as defined below)
         in excess of $5,500,000 during the fiscal year ending December 31,
         1998.

         For purposes of this section:

                  (i) "Maximum Senior Funded Debt to EBITDA Ratio" shall mean
         the (A) sum of the commitment amount of the Loan ($7,500,000 as of the
         date hereof), the total Sale/Leaseback obligations, and the outstanding
         principal balances of the Industrial Development Revenue Bonds and any
         other permitted debt (other than the Subordinated Debt) divided by (B)
         EBITDA (as defined below).

                  (ii) "Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" shall mean the sum
         of EBITDA and rent (lease) expense, including without limitation rent
         payments in connection with the Sale/Leaseback and the Operating Lease,
         for a given period, divided by the sum of (A) interest expense (which
         shall not include interest on the Subordinated Debt which is deferred
         and not paid), (B) rent (lease) expense, including without limitation
         rent payments in connection with the Sale/Leaseback and Operating
         Lease, (C) principal payments on the Subordinated Debt, the Bonds and
         any other permitted debt, and (D) Unfunded Capital Expenditures in the
         amounts disclosed by Borrower in its financial statements, for such
         period.

                  (iii) "Minimum Debt Service Coverage Ratio" shall mean the sum
         of EBITDA and rent (lease) expense, including without limitation rent
         payments in connection with the Sale/Leaseback and the Operating Lease,
         for a given period, divided by the sum of (A) interest expense (which
         shall not include interest on the Subordinated Debt which is deferred
         and not paid), (B) rent (lease) expense, including without limitation
         rent payments in connection with the Sale/Leaseback and Operating
         Lease, and (C) principal payments on the Subordinated Debt, the Bonds
         and any other permitted debt, for such period.

                  (iv) "EBITDA" shall mean, for any period, (A) the sum of the
         amounts for such period of (1) net income, (2) interest expense, (3)
         charges for federal, state, local and foreign income taxes, (4)
         depreciation and amortization expense, and (5) extraordinary losses
         (and any unusual losses arising outside the ordinary course of business
         not included in extraordinary losses determined in accordance with
         generally accepted accounting principles) minus (B) the sum of the
         amounts for such period of (1) extraordinary gains (and any unusual
         gains arising outside the ordinary course of business not included in
         extraordinary gains determined in accordance with generally accepted
         accounting principles) and (2) to the extent not deducted from total
         interest expense, any net payments received during such period under
         interest rate contracts and any interest income received in respect of
         cash investments.

                  (v) "Unfunded Capital Expenditures" shall mean any capital
         expenditure made for which no long-term funding source is specifically
         available.

         SECTION 12. CLOSING DELIVERIES. At or prior to the Closing, Borrower
shall have delivered or cause to be delivered to Lender, unless specifically
waived by Lender in writing, the following items, each of which shall be in form
and content satisfactory to Lender:

                  (a) Fully-executed originals of this agreement and all of the
         Loan Documents.

                  (b) All items, instruments, documents, insurance policies,
         title commitments, surveys, opinions, certificates, and all other
         matters and documents required to be furnished by Borrower at or prior
         to the Closing under this agreement or any of the Loan Documents or
         otherwise required by Lender.

                  (c) Payment of the Fee and payment or reimbursement of all of
         Lender's Costs.

<PAGE>

                  (d) An environmental audit for each Property prepared by a
         firm acceptable to Lender which audit contains findings acceptable to
         Lender.

                  (e) The Surveys as required under ss.10.

                  (f) Confirmation satisfactory to Lender that no Event of
         Default exists and no condition which through notice or passage of time
         or both would cause or result in an Event of Default and that all
         representations and warranties contained in this agreement and all of
         the Loan Documents shall be true and complete in all material respects.

                  (g) Copies of all applicable governmental permits required to
         operate Borrower's business and evidence of, and compliance with, all
         governmental laws, regulations, ordinances, and other requirements
         pertaining thereto.

                  (h) The Title Commitments and any affidavits, agreements,
         indemnities, or other documentation to be delivered by Borrower to
         Lender or the title insurance company in accordance with ss.9.

                  (i) The Subordination Agreement signed by Navistar, together
         with the mortgage subordination and UCC-3 financing statements referred
         to therein.

                  Notwithstanding anything here to the contrary, the agreement
         of Lender to execute, deliver and/or accept this agreement and the
         other Loan Documents at Closing prior to its receipt of all of the
         items listed above shall not be construed as a waiver by Lender of its
         right to receive, review and approve such items, nor as a waiver of all
         or any of the conditions to disbursement of Loan proceeds under ss.16,
         below.

         SECTION 13. EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following
events shall be an Event of Default under this agreement and all of the Loan
Documents.

                  (a) The determination by Lender that any representation or
         warranty made by Borrower in this agreement (including without
         limitation those representations and warranties set forth in ss.8) or
         any of the Loan Documents is untrue or was untrue in any material (as
         determined by Lender) respect when made.

                  (b) The failure by Borrower to pay the full amount of any
         installment of interest or principal and interest, within 5 days alter
         the same is due under the Note.

                  (c) The failure by Borrower to perform or observe any
         covenant, condition, or obligation contained in this agreement or any
         of the Loan Documents (excluding those monetary obligations covered
         under (b), above, and excluding the representations and warranties
         covered under (a), above) which failure continues uncured for 15 days
         after delivery by Lender to Borrower of notice of such failure.

                  (d) The occurrence of any default described in ss.14.

                  (e) The filing of a voluntary or involuntary petition in
         bankruptcy or insolvency or for reorganization, arrangement,
         adjustment, liquidation, dissolution or composition or for the
         appointment of a receiver, guardian, or trustee by or against Borrower,
         provided that if such petition is an involuntary petition, Borrower
         shall have 25 days from the date of such filing to have the same
         discharged.

                  (f) The making of an assignment for the benefit of creditors
         by Borrower, or at such time as Borrower fails generally to pay its
         debts as they become due.

                  (g) The appointment of a receiver or trustee for all or any
         portion of the Collateral.

<PAGE>

                  (h) The dissolution, merger, reorganization, or other change
         in the corporate structure of Borrower, without the prior written
         consent of Lender.

                  (i) The transfer or attempted transfer by Borrower of any
         legal or equitable ownership interest in all or any portion of the
         Collateral, except for sales in the ordinary course of Borrower's
         business, without the prior written consent of Lender, which consent
         may be withheld in Lender's sole discretion.

                  (j) The determination by Lender that the condition of all or
         any portion of the Collateral has deteriorated to the extent that
         Lender's security has been materially impaired.

                  (k) The entry of a material judgment or lien against Borrower
         which is not satisfied, discharged or bonded-off, or any collection
         action relating to such judgment or lien is not stayed so as to prevent
         the issuance of a certificate of judgment against Borrower, within 10
         days alter the date of entry of such judgment or lien.

                  (l) Any change in the financial position of Borrower which, in
         the reasonable opinion of Lender, materially and adversely affects
         Lender's security position with respect to the Collateral.

                  (m) The concealment or removal by Borrower of any part of its
         property with intent to hinder, delay, or defraud its creditors or any
         of them, or the making or suffering of a transfer of any of its
         property which may be fraudulent under any bankruptcy, fraudulent
         conveyance, or similar law, or the making by Borrower of any transfer
         of its property to or for the benefit of a creditor at a time when
         other creditors similarly situated have not been paid, or any other
         action by Borrower which results in Borrower permitting any creditor to
         obtain a lien upon any of its property through legal proceedings which
         is not vacated within 10 days from the date thereof.

                  (n) The failure by Borrower to pay the full amount of any
         payment when due, including any applicable grace period therein, or to
         observe or perform any of its other obligations under the Lease
         Documents.

                  (o) The occurrence of any material default by Borrower under
         its supply agreement with Navistar.

                  Upon the occurrence of any of the above-described events,
Lender may declare the Note due and payable upon demand without presentment,
protest, notice, or demand of any kind. Borrower shall not have the opportunity
to cure any default if such failure is incapable of being cured, in Lender's
reasonable discretion, or if the failure is described under any of (a), (b),
(d), (e), (f), (g), (h), (i), (j) and (n).

         SECTION 14. CROSS DEFAULT. Any default by Borrower of any obligation of
Borrower to Lender or any of Lender's affiliates, whether or not relating to the
Loan, including without limitation any default under the Lease Documents or the
Letter of Credit Documents, shall constitute an Event of Default under this
agreement and all of the Loan Documents.

         SECTION 15. EXISTENCE AND AUTHORITY OPINION OF COUNSEL. At or prior to
the Closing, Borrower shall furnish or cause to be furnished to Lender:

                  (a) Evidence satisfactory to Lender that Borrower has the
         authority under its organizational documents to enter into this
         agreement and the Loan Documents, and to perform all of its covenants
         and obligations under those documents.

                  (b) Certified copy of Borrower's certificate of incorporation
         filed with the Delaware Secretary of State.

                  (c) Certificate of foreign qualification (or authorization to
         do business) for Borrower from the Secretary of State of the following
         jurisdictions:

                           (i)      Ohio, and

<PAGE>

                           (ii)     South Carolina.

                  (d) Certificate of good standing for Borrower from the
         Secretary of State of the following jurisdictions:

                           (i)      Delaware,
                           (ii)     Ohio, and
                           (iii)    South Carolina.

                  (e) Copy of Borrower's bylaws certified by the Borrower's
secretary.

                  (f) Certified corporate resolution of Borrower approving the
         Loan and authorizing an officer of Borrower to execute this agreement
         and all of the Loan Documents on behalf of Borrower.

                  (g) A written opinion of counsel for Borrower in form and
substance satisfactory to Lender.

         SECTION 16. PROCEDURE FOR BORROWING UNDER LOAN. Provided all conditions
described in the following paragraph are satisfied, Borrower may borrow under
the Loan on any Business Day (meaning a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or
other day on which commercial banks in Columbus, Ohio, are authorized or
required by law to close) provided that the Borrower gives the Lender telephonic
or written notice (each, a "Notice of Borrowing") which must be received by the
Lender prior to 1:00 p.m., Columbus, Ohio, time, on the requested Borrowing Date
for each Loan disbursement, specifying (i) the requested Borrowing Date of such
borrowing, which shall be a Business Day and (ii) the aggregate amount of such
requested Borrowing. Each borrowing pursuant to the Loan shall be in an
aggregate principal amount equal to $50,000 plus whole multiples of $5,000. Upon
receipt of each such Notice of Borrowing from the Borrower, the Lender shall
deposit such requested borrowing for the benefit of the Borrower on the
requested Borrowing Date, subject to the satisfaction of the terms and
conditions of this agreement, by crediting the loan account on the books of the
Lender in the amount of such requested borrowing. Lender is hereby authorized,
and may at its option, but shall have no obligation, to record the date and
amount of each borrowing made in connection with the Loan, and the date and the
amount of each payment or prepayment of principal thereof, on its separate
written or electronic records maintained in the ordinary course of its business,
and any such recordation shall constitute prima facie evidence of the accuracy
of the information so recorded; however, the failure of the Lender to make such
recordations shall not effect the obligations of the Borrower to repay
outstanding principal, interest or any other amounts due hereunder or under the
Note in accordance with the terms hereof and thereof.

         The obligation of Lender to make disbursements of the Loan to Borrower
pursuant to the Note and this agreement is subject to the full satisfaction, in
the opinion of Lender, of each of the following conditions:

                  (a) The representations, warranties and covenants made by
         Borrower in this agreement or any other Loan Document, and any
         representations, warranties and covenants made by Borrower which are
         contained in any certificate, document or financial or other statement
         furnished at any time under or in connection herewith or therewith,
         shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the date the
         Lender makes a disbursement to Borrower pursuant to the Revolving Note
         (the "Borrowing Date").

                  (b) No Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing
         on the Borrowing Date.

                  (c) All resolutions, certificates, corporate and other
         proceedings and all other documents and legal matters in connection
         with the transactions contemplated by this agreement and the Loan
         Documents, shall all have been provided, and shall be in form and
         substance reasonably satisfactory to Lender prior to the Borrowing
         Date.

                  (d) No petition for voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy or
         insolvency or for reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, liquidation,
         dissolution or composition or for the appointment of a receiver,
         guardian, or trustee has been filed by or against Borrower.

<PAGE>

         Each time Lender provides a loan to Borrower under the Note pursuant to
a request by Borrower, it shall constitute a representation, warranty and
covenant by each Borrower that as of the Borrowing Date the conditions contained
in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) of this ss.16 have been fully satisfied.

         SECTION 17. ASSIGNMENT. No rights under this agreement nor in or to the
proceeds of the Loan may be assigned by Borrower without the prior written
consent of Lender.

         SECTION 18. NON-WAIVER. No failure by either party to insist upon
strict compliance with any term of this agreement or to exercise any option,
enforce any right, or seek any remedy upon any default of the other party shall
affect, or constitute a waiver of, the first party's right to insist upon that
strict compliance, exercise that option, enforce that right, or seek that remedy
with respect to that default or any prior, contemporaneous, or subsequent
default. No custom or practice of the parties at variance with any provision of
this agreement shall affect, or constitute a waiver of, either party's right to
demand strict compliance with the provisions of this agreement.

         Section 19. NOTICES. All notices and other communications under this
agreement to be made to either Lender or Borrower shall be in writing and shall
be deemed given when delivered personally, telecopied (which is confirmed
electronically), or mailed by certified mail (return receipt requested) or sent
by Federal Express, UPS, or other nationally recognized overnight delivery
service for overnight delivery to that party at the address for that party (or
at such other address for such party as such party shall have specified in
notice to the other party):

                  (a)      If to Lender:

                           KeyBank, National Association
                           88 East Broad Street
                           Columbus, Ohio 43215
                           Attention: Roger D. Campbell
                           Telecopy No.  (614) 460-3469

                           With a copy to:

                           Baker & Hostetler LLP
                           65 East State Street, Suite 2100
                           Columbus, Ohio 43215
                           Attention: Kevin H. Connor, Esq.
                           Telecopy No.  (614) 462-2616

<PAGE>

                  (b)      If to Borrower:

                           Core Materials Corporation
                           800 Manor Park Drive
                           Post Office Box 28183
                           Columbus, Ohio 43228
                           Attention: Kevin L. Barnett
                           Telecopy No.  (614) 870-4028

                           With a copy to:

                           Vorys, Sater, Seymour & Pease
                           52 East Gay Street
                           Columbus, Ohio 43216-1008
                           Attention: Phil Johnston, Esq.
                           Telecopy No.  (614) 464-6350

         SECTION 20. GOVERNING LAW. All questions concerning the validity or
meaning of this agreement or relating to the rights and obligations of the
parties with respect to performance under this agreement shall be construed and
resolved under the laws of Ohio.

         SECTION 21. VENUE. The parties to this agreement hereby designate the
Court of Common Pleas of Franklin County, Ohio, as a court of proper
jurisdiction and exclusive venue for any actions or proceedings relating to this
agreement; hereby irrevocably consent to such designation, jurisdiction, and
venue; and hereby waive any objections or defenses relating to jurisdiction or
venue with respect to any action or proceeding initiated in the Court of Common
Pleas of Franklin County, Ohio.

         SECTION 22. SEVERABILITY. It is the intention of the parties to comply
fully with all laws and public policies, and this agreement shall be construed
consistently with such laws and public policies to the extent possible. If and
to the extent that any court of competent jurisdiction is unable to so construe
any provision of this agreement and holds that provision to be invalid, that
invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions of this agreement, which
shall remain in full force and effect.

         SECTION 23. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Time is of the essence relating to
this agreement and with respect to all other obligations to be performed under
this agreement, but delay in the exercise by Lender of its rights hereunder
shall not be deemed a waiver of such right by Lender.

         SECTION 24. CAPTIONS. The captions at the beginning of the sections and
several subsections of this agreement are not part of the context of this
agreement, but are only labels to assist in locating those sections and
subsections, and shall be ignored in construing this agreement.

         SECTION 25. JURY TRIAL WAIVER. Borrower, after consulting or having the
opportunity to consult with legal counsel, knowingly, voluntarily and
intentionally waives any right it may have to a trial by jury in any action or
proceeding based upon or arising out of this agreement or any of the Loan
Documents or any course of conduct, dealings, statements, whether oral or
written, or actions of either party. Borrower shall not seek to consolidate, by
counterclaim or otherwise, any action in which a jury trial has been waived with
any other action in which a jury trial cannot be or has not been waived.

         SECTION 26. NO THIRD PARTY BENEFIT. This agreement is intended for the
exclusive benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, successors and
assigns. Nothing contained in this agreement shall be construed as creating any
rights or benefits in or to any third party.

         SECTION 27. COMPLETE AGREEMENT. This document, along with the Loan
Documents, contains the entire agreement among the parties and supersedes any
prior discussions, negotiations, representations, or agreements among them
respecting

<PAGE>

the subject matter. No additions or other changes to this agreement
shall be made or be binding unless made in writing and signed by each party to
this agreement.

CORE MATERIALS CORPORATION                     KEYBANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

By: /S/ KEVIN L. BARNETT                        By: /s/ ROGER D. CAMPBELL
    ---------------------------------               ---------------------------
    Kevin L. Barnett, Vice President                Roger D. Campbell, Senior
    and Chief Financial Office                      Vice President

<PAGE>

                                    Exhibit A
                          VARIABLE RATE PROMISSORY NOTE
                          -----------------------------

$7,500,000.00                                            December _____ , 1997

         For value received, the undersigned, Core Materials Corporation, a
Delaware corporation, with offices at 800 Manor Park Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(hereinafter referred to as "Maker") promises to pay to the order of KeyBank,
National Association, a national banking association (hereinafter referred to as
"Payee," which term shall include any holder hereof), at its principal place of
business at 88 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215, or at such other place
as Payee may designate, the principal sum of Seven Million Five Hundred Thousand
Dollars ($7,500,000), or so much thereof as may be advanced by Payee to Maker
from time to time, together with all charges herein provided and interest on the
unrepaid advances of said principal sum from date of disbursement by Payee,
payable in cash at the rates and in the manner hereinafter set forth.

                                    ARTICLE I
                                   DEFINITIONS
                                   -----------

         1.1 The following terms wherever used in this Note shall have the
following meanings:

         "Collateral" shall mean all accounts receivable, equipment, inventory
and mortgage-backed securities owned by Maker, as more particularly described in
the Security Agreement.

         "Default Rate of Interest" shall mean the rate equal to two percent per
annum plus the applicable rate of interest being charged hereunder.

         "Designated LIBOR Rate" shall mean the applicable LIBOR Rate elected by
Maker in the applicable Interest Rate Notice of Election.

         "Designated LIBOR Rate Amount" shall mean the amount of outstanding
principal designated by Maker in an Interest Rate Notice of Election to be
converted from being charged interest hereunder from the variable Rate to a
LIBOR rate; provided that such amount designated by Maker shall not be less than
$250,000.

         "Interest Rate Conversion Option" shall mean the option of Maker to
convert the interest rate being charged hereunder on a Designated LIBOR Rate
Amount for the LIBOR Period from the variable Rate to a LIBOR Rate.

         "Interest Rate Conversion Date" shall mean that date which is the first
day of the first month immediately following receipt by Payee of an applicable
Interest Rate Notice of Election.

         "Interest Rate Notice of Election" shall mean the written or oral
(provided written confirmation is received by Payee by the next business day)
statement of maker to Payee informing Payee of Maker's election to exercise the
Interest Rate Conversion Option and containing such additional information as is
required to permit Payee to effectively convert the rate of interest, including
without limitation the Designated LIBOR Rate Amount.

         "LIBOR Business Days" shall mean business days in which dealings in
dollars are carried out in the London Interbank Market.

         "LIBOR Period" shall mean a period of time equal in duration to 30
days, but in no event a period extending beyond the Maturity Date.

         "LIBOR Rate" shall mean the rate per annum equal to (i) two percent,
plus (ii) a rate determined pursuant to the following formula:

<PAGE>

                              LONDON INTERBANK RATE
                              ---------------------
                         100% - LIBOR Reserve Percentage

         "LIBOR Reserve Percentage" shall mean the reserve requirement including
any supplemental and emergency reserves (expressed as a percentage) applicable
to member banks of the Federal Reserve System in respect of "Eurocurrency
Liabilities" under Regulation D of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System, or any substituted or amended reserve requirement hereinafter applicable
to member banks of the Federal Reserve System, which is in effect as of the
applicable Interest Rate Conversion Date and taking into account any
transitional requirements thereto becoming effective during the applicable LIBOR
Period.

         "Loan Agreement" shall mean that certain Loan Agreement dated December
___, 1997, pursuant to which the principal amount of this Note is to be
disbursed, by which Payee agrees to loan funds to Maker pursuant to the terms
and conditions stated therein.

         "Loan Documents" shall collectively mean this Note, the Security
Agreement, Loan Agreement and any other instrument, affidavit, certificate or
document heretofore, now or hereafter given by Maker in connection with the
closing of the loan evidenced by this Note.

         "London Interbank Market" shall mean the buying and selling of dollar
deposits payable outside the United States of America between Payee and other
financial institutions in the ordinary course of Payee's business.

         "London Interbank Rate" shall mean the per annum rate of interest
(rounded upward to the nearest 1/8 of 1%) at which United States dollar deposits
in immediately available and freely transferable funds, would be offered to
Payee on the applicable Interest Rate Conversion Date as of 10:00 a.m. New York
City time (or at such time on the next LIBOR Business Day closest to the
Interest Rate Conversion Date), which deposits are in immediately available
funds, for a period comparable to the applicable LIBOR Period and in an amount
comparable to the specified Designated LIBOR Rate Amount.

         "Maturity Date" shall mean November 30, 1999.

         "Note" shall mean this Variable Rate Cognovit Promissory Note.

         "Prime Rate" shall mean the interest rate established and announced
from time to time by Maker as its prime rate, based upon its consideration of
economic, money market, business and competitive factors, and it is not
necessarily the most favorable rate of Maker. Each change in said Prime Rate
shall, without notice, automatically and immediately change the rate of interest
due hereon.

         "Rate Quote" shall mean any rate quoted to Maker by Payee in response
to a Rate Quote Request, which response may be made either verbally or in
writing and shall include the duration of the quote. If the quote is verbal,
Payee's internal rate sheet on the date of such quote shall be conclusive
evidence of the rate quoted. Unless specified otherwise, a Rate Quote shall be
deemed valid for 24 hours.

         "Rate Quote Request" shall mean a request by Maker to Payee to quote
any rate of interest available hereunder pursuant to Maker's Interest Rate
Conversion Option, which request shall be made either verbally or in writing and
shall contain all necessary information required by Payee in order to give a
Rate Quote.

         "Reconversion Date" shall mean the first day immediately following the
last day of the applicable LIBOR Period.

         "Security Agreement" shall mean a certain Security Agreement dated
December ___, 1997, pursuant to which Maker has granted to Payee a security
interest in the Collateral to secure payment of this Note.

         "Variable Rate" shall mean the rate equal to the Prime Rate.

<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE II
                       PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST
                       ----------------------------------

         2.1 From and after the date of this Note, interest on the unrepaid
advances of the principal sum from date of disbursement by Payee at the Variable
Rate shall be due and payable monthly on the first day of each month commencing
January, 1998, and continuing on the first day of each month thereafter through
the Maturity Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Maker shall have the option to
convert the interest rate charged on all or portions of the outstanding
principal balance to a LIBOR Rate as set forth in Section 2.2 hereof. In the
event Maker shall effectively convert the interest charged on all or portions of
the outstanding principal balance pursuant to Section 2.2, interest on such
portions shall accrue and be due and payable as set forth in Section 2.2.

         2.2 Maker may, at any time, exercise Maker's Interest Rate Conversion
Option to convert the interest rate payable hereunder on a Designated LIBOR Rate
Amount from the variable Rate to a LIBOR Rate for the LIBOR Period. Maker shall
be entitled to request a Rate Quote from Payee by submitting a Rate Quote
Request. In the event Maker desires to accept a Rate Quote, Maker shall deliver
to Payee an Interest Rate Notice of Election. In the event Maker shall
effectively elect a LIBOR Rate, commencing on the applicable Interest Rate
Conversion Date, interest on the applicable Designated LIBOR Rate Amount shall
accrue at the LIBOR Rate indicated in the applicable Rate Quote and interest
payments shall be due and payable monthly at such LIBOR Rate for the applicable
LIBOR Period, commencing on the first day of the first month next immediately
following the applicable Interest Rate Conversion Date and continuing through
the applicable Reconversion Date, at which time the interest rate payable
hereunder on such Designated LIBOR Rate Amount shall automatically reconvert to
the Variable Rate and monthly payments shall be due and payable in accordance
with Section 2.1, above, thereafter throughout the balance of the term of this
Note, unless reconverted by Maker's re-exercise of an Interest Rate Conversion
Option, in which case a new LIBOR Rate and LIBOR Period shall then be
determined.

         2.3 All interest payable in accordance with this Note shall be
calculated on the basis of the actual number of calendar days elapsed but
computed on a daily basis as if each year consisted of 360 days.

         2.4 All principal and all accrued and unpaid interest shall be due and
payable in full on the Maturity Date.

         2.5 In the event that any applicable law, treaty, rule or regulation
(whether domestic or foreign) now or hereafter in effect, or any interpretation
or administration thereof by any governmental authority charged with the
interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by Payee with any
request or directive of any such authority (whether or not having the force of
law) (each of the foregoing being referred to as a "Regulatory Requirement"),
shall (a) affect the basis of taxation or payments to Payee of any Designated
LIBOR Rate Amount under this Note (other than taxes imposed on the overall net
income of Payee by the jurisdiction, or by any political subdivision or taxing
authority of any such jurisdictions in which Payee has its principal office), or
(b) shall impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit or
similar requirement against assets of, deposits with or for the account of, or
credit extended by Payee, or (c) shall impose any other condition, requirement
or charge with respect to this Note or the Loan Documents (including, without
limitation, any capital adequacy requirement, any requirement which affects the
manner in which Payee allocates capital resources to its commitments or any
similar requirement), and the result of any of the foregoing change in external
conditions is to increase the actual cost to Payee of making or maintaining the
loan evidenced by this Note (the "Loan") or any advance hereunder, to reduce the
actual amount of any sum receivable by Payee thereon, or to reduce the actual
rate of return on the capital of Payee from the actual cost, sum receivable or
rate of return applicable on the date of this Note, then Maker shall pay to
Payee, from time to time, upon request of Payee, additional amounts sufficient
to compensate Payee for such increased cost, reduced sum receivable or reduced
rate of return (collectively, "Reduced Earnings") to the extent Payee is not
compensated therefor in the computation of the interest rates applicable to the
Loan. A detailed statement as to the amount of such increased cost, reduced sum
receivable or reduced rate of return, prepared in good faith and submitted by
Payee to Maker, shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent
manifest error in determination. Payee shall promptly notify Maker of any event
occurring after the date of this Note that entitles Payee to additional
compensation pursuant to this Section. This provision is for the benefit of
Payee and is not intended to increase the yield to payee above the rates of
interest provided for in this Note.

<PAGE>

         2.6 Notwithstanding any other provision of this Note to the contrary,
if, upon receiving an Interest Rate Notice of Election (a) deposits in U.S.
dollars for periods comparable to the LIBOR Period are not available to Payee in
the London Interbank Market, or (b) the LIBOR Rate will not accurately cover the
cost to Payee of making or maintaining the related Designated LIBOR Rate Amount,
or (c) by reason of national or international financial, political or economic
conditions or by reason of any applicable Regulatory Requirement, including
without limitation exchange controls, it is unlawful, impossible or unduly
burdensome for Payee (i) to advance the relevant Designated LIBOR Rate Amount or
(ii) to continue any outstanding sum as a Designated LIBOR Rate Amount or (iii)
to convert any outstanding sum to a Designated LIBOR Rate Amount, then Maker
shall not be entitled, so long as such circumstances continue, to request a
Designated LIBOR Rate Amount or a continuation of or conversion to the LIBOR
Rate for any such outstanding sum from Payee. In the event that such
circumstances no longer exist, Payee shall again consider requests for
Designated LIBOR Rate Amounts and requests for continuation of and conversions
to such advances.

         2.7 In the event that any Regulatory Requirement, including without
limitation exchange controls, shall make it unlawful or impossible for Payee to
maintain any Designated LIBOR Rate Amount under this Note, the Maker shall after
receipt of notice thereof from Payee, repay in full the then-outstanding
principal amount of all Designated LIBOR Rate Amounts together with all accrued
interest thereon to the date of payment and all amounts due to the affected
Payee under Section 2.8, (a) on the last day of the then-current LIBOR Period,
if any, applicable to such Designated LIBOR Rate Amount, if Payee may lawfully
continue to maintain such Designated LIBOR Rate Amount of such day, or (b)
immediately if Payee may not continue to maintain such Designated LIBOR Rate
Amount to such day. This provision is for the benefit of Payee and is not
intended to increase the yield to Payee above the rates of interest provided for
in this Note. This Section 2.7 shall apply only as long as such illegality
exists. Payee shall use reasonable, lawful efforts to avoid the impact of such
law, treaty, rule or regulation. As an alternative to the repayment obligation
provided in this Section 2.7, Maker may, at its option, and at the time provided
in this Section 2.7, convert any affected advance or a portion thereof to the
Variable Rate or to any Designated LIBOR Rate Amount of a duration that remains
unaffected by the foregoing external conditions, in each case accompanied by the
payment of all accrued interest on the affected advance to the date of
conversion and all amounts due to Payee under Section 2.8.

         2.8 If Maker makes any payment of principal with respect to any
Designated LIBOR Amount on any other date than the last day of a LIBOR Period
applicable thereto or if Maker fails to borrow any Designated LIBOR Amount after
notice has been given to Payee in accordance with Section 2.2, or fails to make
any payment of principal or interest in respect of a Designated LIBOR Amount
when due or at the Maturity Date, the Maker shall reimburse Payee on demand for
any resulting actual and direct loss or expense incurred by Payee, determined in
Payee's reasonable opinion, including without limitation any loss incurred in
obtaining, liquidating or employing deposits from third parties. A detailed
statement as to the amount of such loss or expense, prepared in good faith and
submitted by Payee to Maker, shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes
absent manifest error in determination. This provision is for the benefit of
Payee and is not intended to increase the yield to Payee above the rates of
interest provided for in this Agreement.

         2.9 The provisions of sections 2.5 and 2.8 shall survive the
termination and payment in full of this Note.

                                   ARTICLE III
                                  LATE CHARGES
                                  ------------

         3.1 If any of said payments of principal or interest or any combination
thereof are not paid in full within five days after such payment is due, then in
addition to the amount of said payment there shall be due, and Maker promises to
pay, a late charge in respect of each said payment in the amount of 5% which
Maker agrees is a fair and reasonable charge for costs incurred by Payee in
processing such late payment and shall not be deemed a penalty.

<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE IV
                                   PREPAYMENT
                                   ----------

         4.1 This Note evidences a loan in the form of a revolving line of
credit, and Maker may, subject to the applicable provisions under this Note and
the Loan Agreement, borrow, repay, and reborrow sums an unlimited number of
times.

         4.2 In the event the applicable rate of interest charged hereunder is
the Variable Rate, the privilege is hereby reserved by Maker to prepay this Note
in whole or in part at any time and from time to time without premium or
penalty, provided that Payee shall receive written notice of Maker's intention
to so prepay not less than three days prior to such prepayment and further
provided that a payment of all accrued and unpaid interest applicable to the
portion of the principal amount to be prepaid, to the date of such prepayment,
is included with such prepayment.

         4.3 In the event the applicable rate of interest charged hereunder is
the LIBOR Rate, Maker may prepay this Note, provided that Payee shall receive
written notice of Maker's intention to so prepay not less than three business
days prior to such prepayment date ("LIBOR Prepayment Notice") and provided
further that: (a) such prepayment shall be of one or more Designated LIBOR Rate
Amount(s) in full (no partial prepayment of any Designated LIBOR Rate Amount is
permitted); (b) Maker shall indicate on the LIBOR Prepayment Notice which
Designated LIBOR Rate Amount(s) are to be prepaid ("Prepayment Amount"); and (c)
concurrently with such prepayment Maker shall pay all accrued interest and any
late charge or charges then due and owing on the Prepayment Amount. Maker may
prepay this Note on the last day of a LIBOR Period in whole or in part without
premium or penalty provided that Payee shall receive written or oral notice of
Maker's. intention to so prepay not less than one business day prior to such
prepayment and further provided that a payment of all accrued and unpaid
interest applicable to the portion of the principal amount to be prepaid, to the
date of such prepayment, is included with such prepayment.

                                    ARTICLE V
                                     DEFAULT
                                     -------

         5.1 The term "Event of Default" shall mean the occurrence of any one or
more of the following:

                  (a) A failure by Maker to make any payment of principal or
interest or any combination thereof under this Note within 5 days after the same
is due.

                  (b) The material incorrectness of any representation or
warranty made by Maker to Payee in any of the Loan Documents or any financial
statement or other document delivered to Payee in connection with the Loan.

                  (c) The inability of Maker to satisfy any one or more of the
conditions specified in the Loan Agreement as precedent to the obligation of
Payee to make a loan disbursement after an application for a loan disbursement
has been submitted by Maker to Payee.

                  (d) The failure of Maker to observe, perform or comply with
any of the other terms, covenants or conditions of Maker set forth in the Loan
Documents and to cure such failure within the time period, if any, specified
therein.

         5.2 Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default, the entire unpaid
balance of principal and interest evidenced by this Note, together with all sums
of money advanced by Payee in accordance with the terms of any one or more of
the Loan Documents, and all sums due and owing for any late charge or charges
hereunder (the foregoing being hereinafter collectively referred to as the
"Indebtedness") shall thereupon bear interest at the Default Rate of Interest,
and at the option of Payee, all the Indebtedness together with interest at the
Default Rate of Interest shall immediately become due and payable
("Acceleration") without demand made therefor and without notice to any person,
notice of the exercise of said option being hereby expressly waived, and Payee
shall have all remedies of a secured party under law and equity to enforce the
payment of all of the Indebtedness, time being of the essence of this Note. The
Default Rate of Interest shall be charged to Maker upon the occurrence of any
Event of Default notwithstanding any invoices or billing statements sent by
Payee to Maker

<PAGE>

indicating an interest rate to the contrary. In addition, any waiver of Payee's
right to charge the Default Rate of Interest or to accelerate the Indebtedness
must be made in writing and cannot be waived by oral representation or the
submission to Maker of monthly billing statements.

                                   ARTICLE VI
                                  MISCELLANEOUS
                                  -------------

         6.1 The failure of Payee to exercise any option herein provided upon
the occurrence of any Event of Default shall not constitute a waiver of the
right to exercise such option in the event of any continuing or subsequent Event
of Default. Maker hereby agrees that the maturity of all or any part of the Loan
may be postponed or extended and that any covenants and conditions contained in
this Note or in any of the other Loan Documents may be waived or modified
without prejudice to the liability of Maker on said Note or Loan Documents.

         6.2 When this Note becomes due, by Acceleration or otherwise, Payee
may, at its option, demand, sue for, collect or make any compromise or
settlement it deems desirable with reference to property held as security
herefor. Payee shall not be bound to take any steps necessary to preserve any
rights in the property held as security herefor against prior parties, which
Maker hereby assumes to do. Maker expressly authorizes Payee to deal in any
manner with any collateral and the security of every kind and character given to
secure she payment of Maker's obligations under this Note, and without limiting
the generality of the foregoing, Maker expressly authorizes Payee to waive any
rights which Payee may have relative to requiring additional collateral or to
surrendering or to releasing collateral held by Payee, or to substituting any
Collateral held by Payee for other collateral of like kind, or of any kind, nor
shall the obligations of Maker under this Note, nor the rights of Payee under
the Loan Documents be diminished or in any manner affected by the failure of
Payee to exercise its rights with reference to such collateral or in any manner
failing to proceed against the collateral or security pledged or conveyed as
security for the obligations of Maker under this Note. The provisions hereof
shall apply and be controlling as to all properly which may at any time be
security herefor.

         6.3 Maker hereby authorizes Payee, in its sole discretion, upon the
occurrence of an Event of Default, to apply all or any portion of the balance of
any account maintained by Maker with Payee to the payment or reduction, in whole
or in part, of any and all principal and interest then due, whether by
acceleration or otherwise, to Payee under this Note. Upon the occurrence of any
Event of Default, Payee shall have the right to setoff against all obligations
of Maker to Payee hereunder, whether matured or unmatured, all amounts owing to
Maker by Payee, whether or not then due and payable, and all other funds or
property of Maker on deposit with or otherwise held in the custody of Payee or
any of its affiliates, all without notice to or demand on Maker, such notice and
demand being hereby waived.

         6.4 Presentment for payment, notice of dishonor, protest, notice of
protest and diligence in bringing suit against any party hereto are hereby
waived by Maker.

         6.5 Maker hereby waives all relief from any and all appraisement or
exemption laws now in force or hereafter enacted.

         6.6 The obligations evidenced or created by this Note, as well as all
waivers of rights by Maker contained herein shall effectively bind and be the
obligations and waivers of any and all others who may at any time become liable
for the payment of all or any part of this Note, including, without limitation,
all indorsers and guarantors.

         6.7 Nothing herein contained, nor in any of the other Loan Documents or
other documents relating hereto, shall be construed or so operate as to require
Maker, or any person liable for the payment of the Loan, to pay interest in an
amount or at a rate greater than the highest rate permissible under applicable
law. Should any interest or other charges paid by Maker, or any parties liable
for the payment of the Loan, result in the computation or earning of interest in
excess of the highest rate permissible under applicable law, then any and all
such excess shall be and the same is hereby waived by Payee, and all such excess
shall be automatically credited against and in reduction of the principal
balance, and any portion of said excess which exceeds the principal balance
shall be paid by Payee to Maker and any parties liable for the payment of the
loan made pursuant to this Note, it being the intent of the parties hereto that
under no circumstances shall Maker or any parties

<PAGE>

liable for the payment of the loan hereunder, be required to pay interest in
excess of the highest rate permissible under applicable law. All Interest paid
or agreed to be paid to Payee shall, to the extent permitted under applicable
law, be amortized, prorated, allocated and spread throughout the full period
until payment in full of this Note, including the period of any renewal or
extension thereof, so that interest thereon for such full period shall not
exceed the maximum amount permitted by applicable law.

                  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein contained, in
the event that the Variable Rate should ever exceed the highest rate permissible
under applicable law, thereby causing the interest accruing on the Indebtedness
to be limited to such highest rate permissible under applicable law, then any
subsequent reduction in the Prime Rate shall not reduce the rate of interest
charged hereunder below the highest rate permissible under applicable law until
the total amount of interest accrued on the Indebtedness equals the amount of
interest which would have accrued on such indebtedness if the Variable Rate had
been in effect at all times in the period during which the rate charged thereon
was limited to the highest rate permissible under applicable law.

         6.8 Maker acknowledges and agrees that all property pledged or assigned
by Maker to Payee as security for this Note has been pledged or assigned as
security for the entirety of all Indebtedness.

         6.9 If any provision (or any part of any provision) contained in this
Note shall for any reason be held or deemed to be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability
shall not affect any other provision (or remaining part of the affected
provision) of this Note, and this Note shall be construed as if such invalid,
illegal or unenforceable provision (or part thereof) had never been contained
herein and the remaining provisions of this Note shall remain in full force and
effect.

         6.10 Maker hereby agrees to pay to Payee all costs of collecting and
securing, and of attempting to collect and to secure this Note, and all costs of
foreclosing the Mortgage, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys'
fees, appraisers' fees, court costs, notice charges and title insurance charges,
whether such attempt by made by suit, in bankruptcy, or otherwise, and said
costs and any other sums due Payee by virtue of this Note or the Mortgage may be
included in any judgment or decree rendered.

         This Note is delivered in the State of Ohio and is to be governed by
and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio. In addition to
any other appropriate jurisdiction determined by Payee, Maker hereby consents
to, and by execution of this Note, submits to the personal jurisdiction of the
Court of Common Pleas of Franklin County, Ohio and the United States District
Court sitting in Columbus, Ohio for the purposes of any judicial proceedings
which are instituted for the enforcement of this Note. Maker agrees that venue
is proper in said jurisdiction.

                                          CORE MATERIALS CORPORATION

                                           By
                                              ---------------------------------
                                           Its
                                              ---------------------------------

Source: [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00050-of-00352.parquet"}, [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00050-of-00352.parquet"}]]