HomeMy WebLinkAbout98-00950
i ¦
No$ GO Term
Court of Common P142C
ti
COZEN AND O'CONNOR
BY; !-I. Robert Piebach, Esquire
ATTORNEY I.D. 002812
BY; David M, Doret, Esquire
ATTORNEY I.D. #15634
The Atrium - 5th Floor
1900 Market Street.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-3716
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
P.O, Box 2255
614 North Front: Street
Harrisburg, PA 17105
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs,
v.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
Attorney for Plaintiffs
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO, PR CIPE FOR LIS PENDENS
TO THE CLERKi
Please index the below-described action for specific
performance of a contract for the sale of real. property as a l is
Pendens against the following real property, which realty is more
particularly described at Cumberland County Deed Book "F, r' Volume
32, Page 597,
1607 Industrial Drive
Carlisle,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
The action is pending in the United Stated District
Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and is docketed as
Civil Action No, 98-87, A true and correct copy of the Complaint
in the action is attached hereto as Exhibit "A",
The undersigned hereby certify that the action affects
title to or other interest in the above-described real property,
Respectfully submitted,
COZEN AND 0' ODINOR
BY:
IT. ROBERT FIEBAcn, ESQUI E
DAVID M. DORET, ?3SQUIRE
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
The Atrium Floor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2000
Dated: February 18, 1998
W'.\ir nc\0!!i"\UfiJ9tiVN?G\FMM"U in
2 »
IN THE UNITRS STATEc; DISTRICT COURT
FOR THF: MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, I I CIVIL AC'T'ION
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUI'T'Y TRUST
P,O. Box 2255
614 North Front St.reet
Fiarr. i.sburg, PA 17105
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II'.
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 1.1008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008.
Plaintiffs,
v.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Ri.vercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant.
91 p ".1 i
FILED
HARRISBURG, PA
JAN 161998
MARY E. U'ANDREA, 0 .RK
Per
Deputy C (
NO,
COMPLAINT
11 Plaintiff, Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity
Trust (the "GRAT"), is a grantor retained annuity trust organized
and existing under the law; of the Commonwealth of. Pennsylvania,
having its principal place of business at Box 2255, 614 North Front
Street, Harrisburg, PA 111105. Its trustees are the individual
plaintiffs.
2. Plaintiff, Robert M. Mumma, II, is an individual citizen
and resident of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, residing at
McCormick Road, Bowmisnsdalrt, I'A 17008, Bober('. M. Mumma, II is a
trustee of: Hie GRAT.
3, Plaintiff, Susan Mtmmlia, i.n tun individual, citizen and
resident of the Commonwealth of llnnn:iylwtni i, residing at McCormick
Road, dowmansdale, PA 17008. !;usan Mumma is a L ustee of the GRAT.
h. Defendant, Benedict _13. Randolph, is an individual citizen
and resident of the State of North Carolina, residing at 132
Ri.vercrest Drive, Greenville, North Caro-I ina, on information and
belief, Randolph also maintain; a litw ness address within this
District at 8 Modell. Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania 1.7013.
5. Jurisdiction of tlni.: exi ,t Under the doctrine of
diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C, § 1332. The amount
in controversy, exclusive of interest and costs, exceeds the sum of
$75,000.00, since the property which i.s the subject of this action
has a value in excess of the :,um,of. $75,00o.00 and, alternatively,
plaintiffs have suffered damages in excess of the sum of
$75,000,00.
6. Ventre exists in this District, in that the real estate
which is the subject. of this action is located in this District and
a substantial part of: the events giving rise to the claim occurred
in this District.
7. Defendant is the owner of certain land and improvements
located at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Pennsylvania (the
"Property"), which realty is more particularly described at
Cumberland County Deed Book Volume 32, Page 597.
- 2 -
0.. on or about December 19, 1995, Randolph, the GRAT and
McDermitt, Inc, ("McDermitt"), the then lessor of the Property,
entered into an agreement. (the "Agreement.") whereunder (a) Randolph
agreed to sell the Property to the GRAT for. $250,000,00; (b)
McDermitt assigned to the GRAT all of its right, title and interest
in the Property; and (c) the parties to the Agreement agreed that
a debt of Randolph to Mcpermi.tt, which the parties agreed to be in
the amount of $50,000.00, was to be deemed the funds of the GRAT
and was to be applied on behalf: of the GRAT to constitute the
GRAT's earnest money deposit toward the purchase price for the
Property.
9. Despite the fact that the GRAT has performed all of its
obligations under the Agreement, and that all preconditions to
conveyance of the Property have occurred (or can occur in the event
of defendant's good faith performance of its obligations under the
Agreement), and despite the fact that demand has been duly made
upon defendant- for performance under the Agreement:, Defendant.
wrongfully refuses to perform his obligations under the Agreement,
including his obligation to convey the Property to the GRAT, or,
alternatively, Lo return to the GRAT the earnest money in the
amount of $50,000.00.
COUNT ONE
10. Paragraphs I through 9 hereof are incorporated in this
Count by reference as if fully set forth herein.
11. By failing to convey the Property, Defendant is in breach
of the Agreement-.
.. 3 -
1.2,. Spec] ,lic pr.rforuruu?e of the Agreement, i.nel.udi.ng the
conveyance of the Property, !;hould be decreed.
13, Pl.ai.ntiEN do not have an adequate remedy at law,
WHEREFORE;, plaintiffs reque:,t that the Court enter judgment
(a) directing defendant to take all actions necessary to convey the
Property to the GUM,'; (b) directing than defendant: perform all of
its other obligations cinder the Agreement; and (c) awarding
plaintiffs such other and further relief as the Court deems
appropriate, including counsel fees, costs of suit- and interest.
COUNT _77WKO
14. Paragraphs I through 1.3 hereof are incorporated in this
Count by reference as if fully set forth herein.
15, Defendant is in breach of his obligal:ions tinder the
Agreement,
16, In the alternative, as a proximate result of defendant-'s
failure to perform under the Agreement, including but not limited
to the failure of defendant to convey the Property, the GRAT has
suffered damageH in excess of $75,000.00.
WHEREFORE, plaintiffs request: that the Court enter judgment
awarding the GRAT damages in an amount in excess of $75,000,00, and
awarding plaintiffs such other and further relief as the Court
deems appropriate, including counsel fees, costs of suit and
interest.
COUNIT THREE
17. Paragraphs I Lhrough 16 hereof are incorporated in this
count: by reference as if fully set forth herein,
4 _.
I
18, Ln Che aIA:ernal.:ive, Che Court. should direct that the
$50,000,00 cainrst money depos.i.t. be paid to DRAT,
WRGIRHPORE, Plaint'iff'; ro(jueSt that Che Court enter judgment
awarding the GRA'L' the rum of 550,000.00, and awarding plaintiffs
such other and further relief. as the Court deems appropriate
including counsel fees, costs of suit and interest.
Re,pectfIII ly submitted,
COZEN AND O'CO OR
BY: u
ff. (")AE TG 1, PSQU RG --
ACCor.r 11 1.a111t3 _f:fs
The Atr.i.unt Pl.oor.
1.900 Market Street
1)h1.'Ladelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2000
Dated: January 15, 1990
W.109C\IP,yV 1059B11P 4/4990140
- g _
M FI--(2-A IO
David M, Doret, Esquire hereby states;'
1. I am one of the counsel to the plaintiffs in this
action. The undersigned is submitting this verification because
counsel is most familiar with the operative facts in the Praecipe
for Lis Pendens,
2, I verify that the statements made in the foregoing
Praecipe for Lis Pendens are true and correct to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief,
3. I understand that the statements herein are made
subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities,
DATED; February 18, 1997 _
DAVI M, DORET, ESQUIRE
W'. U)vc\I[O51\0590\I9 F.\L MMOO:v
i 9, 116<
;..
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS OTTO GILROY & FALLER
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST
P.O. Box 2255
614 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17105
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98 - 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Amendment to Petition to Strike Lis Pendens
In accordance with Cumberland County Local Rule 208.3(a), Petitioner amends and
supplements his Petition to Strike Lis Pendens as follows:
1. No Cumberland County judge has yet ruled on this issue.
2. Thomas W. Scott, Esquire, is believed to represent the Respondents. His
concurrence was sought by the undersigned, but he was unable to be reached. It is
assumed that Mr. Scott does not concur.
Respectfully Submitted,
MARTS LAW OFFICES
4 lw?
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Date: December 10, 2007 Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
a CJ
-n
?
"ZJ 5
'
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS OTTO GILROY & FALLER
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
DEC 11200]
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST
P.O. Box 2255
614 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17105
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98 - 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant
RULE TO SHOW CAUSE
AND NOW, on this day of December, 2007, upon consideration of the Petitioner's
Motion to Strike Lis Pendens, a Rule is hereby issued upon Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust, Robert M. Mumma, 11, and Susan Mumma, to show cause, if any they have, why the
Motion to Strike Lis Pendens should not be granted.
This Rule is returnable at a hearing scheduled in the matter in Courtroom No. 3 , on the
day of , 200V, at ? •30,o'clock, p T m. Cumberland County
Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
BY T COURT,
BY
J.
Distribution:
Bert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian Gephart
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17101
?N?j?ry?rWASMOd A
L I M Wd +t 1 030 LOOZ
J71/- 3 W
D
m
?? .:
r
rl,
o',
`, o
„" o
t?
r
r ??
m
m
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsen(a)killiang_enhart.com
tscott(&killianeeuhart.com
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma, :
Movants No. 98-0087
V.
Benedict B. Randolph
V.
Pennsy Supply, Inc.,
Respondent
V.
Danny L. Turner, :
Additional Respondent
Judge Sylvia H. Rambo
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
MOTION FOR AN ORDER PURSUANT TO RULE 7(b)
TO JOIN AN ADDITIONAL RESPONDENT
TO ENFORCE A SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND STIPULATION OF
DISMISSAL. FOR CONTEMPT, AND TO IMPOSE SANCTIONS
Movants, Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust ("GRAT"),
Robert M. Mumma, II, and Susan Mumma (collectively "Mumma"), by and
through their attorneys, Killian & Gephart, LLP, pursuant to F.R.C.P. 7 (b) hereby
file this Motion to Join an Additional Respondent, to Enforce a Settlement
Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions,
and in support thereof, aver the following:
1. The Parties
1. Movant, Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
("GRAT") is a legally established trust entity of which Robert M. Mumma, II is
the Grantor and Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma are the Trustees. The
mailing address of the GRAT is P. O. Box 58, Bowmansdale, PA 17008.
2. Movants Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma are adult
individuals, having a legal residence address of 6880 S.E. Harbor Circle, Stuart,
FL 34996.
3. Respondent, Pennsy Supply, Inc. (hereinafter "Pennsy"), is a
Pennsylvania Corporation with a registered business address CIO CT Corporation
System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pennsy regularly does business in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
2
4. On information and belief, Additional Respondent, Danny L. Turner
(hereinafter "Turner"), is an adult individual having an address of 210 Big Pond
Road, Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
II. The Original Dispute
5. The GRAT commenced litigation against Benedict B. Randolph
("Randolph") by filing a Complaint on January 16, 1998 in the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and docketed to No. 98-
0087.
6. The litigation sought specific performance (or in the alternative,
damages) of a December 18, 1995 Letter of Intent between the GRAT and
Benedict Randolph (hereinafter "Randolph"), whereby the GRAT alleged
Randolph was to convey property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Pennsylvania
to the GRAT.
7. Pennsy was granted leave to intervene in the aforesaid litigation, as of
right, arguing that enforcement of the Letter of Intent would violate other
agreements to which both Pennsy and Mumma (or entities controlled by him) were
party
3
8. Pennsy also asserted claims against Randolph for specific
performance of its alleged right of first refusal to acquire the 1607 Industrial Drive
property and against Mr. Mumma for fraud.
9. Both Pennsy and Mumma are in the business of producing, selling
and delivering concrete, concrete by-products and asphalt in and around
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
10. The 1607 Industrial Drive property had particular value to both
Penny and Mumma because it is in an industrial park that permits concrete plants
in a geographic area where the product is in demand and it is difficult, if not
impossible, to site another similar plant due to zoning and other land use
regulations. The location of a concrete manufacturing plant is very important to
the profitable operation of a concrete manufacturing business due to the costs
associated with transporting the product to the end user.
11. All parties denied the allegations set forth in the claims by and
against one another in the litigation.
12. Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc. in the above-captioned litigation
were Michael A. Finio, Esquire and Stephen M. Donweber, Esquire, Attorney ID
Nos. 38872 and 71170, respectively, of the law firm of Saul, Ewing, Remick &
4
Saul LLP, Penn National Insurance Tower, 2 North Second Street, 7th Floor,
Harrisburg, PA 17101.
13. The case was assigned to the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo.
III. Settlement of the Original Dispute via Stipulation of Dismissal and
Settlement Agreement and General Release
14. A non jury trial on the issues presented in the original dispute was
scheduled to begin before Judge Rambo on January 18, 2000.
15. Prior to trial the parties reached a settlement of their differences.
16. At the time the trial was set to begin before Judge Rambo on
January 18, 2000, Stephen Donweber, Esquire, representing Pennsy Supply,
reported to the Court that the "parties to this action have settled all of their
claims," said settlement being made pursuant to "the authority of the respective
attorneys to settle on behalf of their clients." (Tr. 2-3). A copy of the transcript of
the settlement hearing before Judge Rambo is attached hereto as Exhibit "A."
17. A Stipulation of Dismissal ("Stipulation") was read into the record,
the terms of which were subsequently reduced to writing in a Settlement
Agreement and General Release ("Settlement Agreement").
5
18. The Stipulation and ultimate Settlement Agreement provide, in
pertinent part:
2. All claims in the above action have been settled on the
following basis:
a. Pennsy Supply, Inc. will purchase the property at
1607 Industrial Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania from Ben Randolph
for $300,000. At settlement, the proceeds of this payment shall be
divided as follows: $217,500 shall be paid to Benedict Randolph and
$82,500 shall be paid to the Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust in care of Robert M. Mumma, II Trustee. Pennsy
Supply will get title and the deed to the Carlisle property at 1607
Industrial Drive.
b. Pennsy will also give Robert M. Mumma, II a
right of first refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive
which will be triggered on Pennsy's future receipt of a bona fide offer
to purchase the property from a third party which Pennsy is willing to
accept. Pennsy will give Mumma twenty (20) days to exercise this
right and ninety (90) days to close from the date of the exercise.
A copy of the Stipulation is attached hereto as Exhibit "B." A copy of the
Settlement Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit "C."
19. According to the terms of the Stipulation, failure to comply with the
terms of the Stipulation "will result in proceedings for contempt against the non-
complying party." See Exhibit `B," paragraph 5.
20. Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc. (Michael A. Finio, Esquire or
Stephen M. Donweber, Esquire) executed the Stipulation on January 18, 2000.
6
21. The Stipulation was approved by the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo and
entered of record on January 18, 2000 at document number 114.
22. The docket entry reads:
STIPULATION AND ORDER signed by cnsl and Judge
Sylvia H. Rambo OF DISMISSAL: 1) All clms in the
above action are hereby dismissed with prejudice by all
parties. 2)3)4)5) See order for the details. (emphasis
added).
23. On January 28, 2000, the parties entered into a Settlement Agreement,
as Ordered by the Stipulation. The Settlement Agreement contains exactly the
same terms as the Stipulation.
24. The Settlement Agreement was executed by Donald Eshleman,
President of Pennsy Supply, Inc., and his signature was witnessed by Matthew M.
Haar, Esquire, an attorney with Saul Ewing who also represented Pennsy in this
matter.
25. The language of both the Stipulation approved on January 18, 2000
and the Settlement Agreement dated January 28, 2000 is clear and explicit.
7
IV. Breach of the Stipulation of Dismissal and the Settlement Agreement
and General Release
26. Movants have learned that on July 11, 2007, Pennsy Supply sold the
1607 Industrial Drive property that was at the heart of the original dispute and is
subject to Mr. Mumma's right of first refusal pursuant to the Settlement
Agreement to Turner, as evidenced by Special Warranty Deed recorded in
Cumberland County Record Book 280, Page 4684. A copy of the Deed is attached
hereto as Exhibit "D."
27. The deed from Pennsy to Turner contains a restrictive covenant that
the property conveyed by the deed is not to be "the site or location of, the
manufacture or production of concrete."
28. The Realty Transfer Tax Statement of Value accompanying the
Special Warranty Deed appears to have been signed by Michael A. Finio, Esquire,
Saul Ewing. A copy of the Realty Transfer Tax Statement of Value is attached
hereto as Exhibit "E."
29. Pennsy's receipt of Turner's offer to purchase the property, which
Pennsy was willing to accept, required Pennsy to notify Mumma of its receipt of a
8
bona fide offer to purchase the property from a third party and triggered Mumma's
right of first refusal.
30. Neither Pennsy Supply nor its counsel gave Robert M. Mumma, II
any notice of the receipt of an offer to purchase the property by Turner.
31. The sale of the property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle,
Pennsylvania to Turner on July 11, 2007 without notice to Mumma was a direct
violation of the terms of both the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement.
32. Pennsy's violation of the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement
deprived Mumma of the opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal and
acquire the property.
33. Mumma wishes to exercise his rights and to acquire Pennsy's entire
right, title and interest in the property, as required by the terms of the Stipulation
and Settlement Agreement.
34. Mumma seeks specific performance of the Stipulation of Dismissal
and the underlying Settlement Agreement and General Release through this
Honorable Court, which explicitly retained jurisdiction in this matter as set forth in
the settlement documents.
35. Mumma is willing to match the purchase price paid by Turner.
9
36. As a result of Pennsy's violation of the terms of the Stipulation and
Settlement Agreement, Mumma has suffered as yet undetermined damages on
account of his inability to acquire the 1607 Industrial Drive property in July of
2007 and to operate a portion of his concrete manufacturing and supply business
from that location.
37. Pennsy Supply was represented by the Law Firm of Saul Ewing in the
sale of the 1607 Industrial Drive property to Turner, specifically Michael A. Finio,
Esquire and Matthew Haar, Esquire.
38. Pennsy Supply and their counsel, the Law Firm of Saul Ewing,
specifically including but not limited to Michael A. Finio, Esquire and Matthew
Haar, Esquire, knew the terms and conditions under which the above-captioned
litigation was dismissed and that the property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle,
Pennsylvania was encumbered by Mumma's right of first refusal.
39. Jurisdiction to enforce the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement
remains with this Honorable Court pursuant to paragraph 4 of the Stipulation of
Dismissal dated January 18, 2000.
40. Respondent Pennsy's conduct and that of its counsel in breaching the
terms and conditions of the Stipulation and Settlement Agreement requires the
enforcement of the obligations of the Settlement Agreement and warrants the
10
imposition of sanctions against Pennsy Supply, Inc. for contempt and also for the
payment of Mumma's losses and expenses, including attorneys' fees, incurred as
a result of the violation of the Settlement Agreement and General Release and the
Stipulation of Dismissal and their enforcement through this action.
V. Notification of Breach
41. On September 20, 2007, Mumma's counsel notified Michael Finio,
Esquire that Pennsy Supply, Inc. was in breach of the Settlement Agreement and
the Stipulation of Dismissal. A copy of said Notice is attached hereto as
Exhibit "F."
42. By correspondence dated September 27, 2007 Mr. Finio advised
counsel for Mumma that he was "not directly involved in the litigation," that Mr.
Donweber and Ms. Wagner, "who helped to close the 2000 transfer from
Randolph to Pennsy" are no longer associated with Saul Ewing, and that he was
"investigating the issues" raised in counsel for Mumma's September 20, 2007
Notice. A copy of Mr. Finio's letter is attached hereto as Exhibit "G."
43. There has been no further response from Attorney Finio regarding
this matter since his letter of September 27, 2007.
11
44. On October 3, 2007 counsel for Mumma spoke with No Otto,
Esquire, counsel for Turner, and advised him of the alleged breach of the
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal by Pennsy.
VI. Joinder of Danny L.Turner
45. The property was indexed as lis pendens on February 19, 1998 in the
Cumberland County Court of Common Pleas at No. 98-950 CIVIL.
46. On information and belief, the existence of the indexed lis pendens
was known to Danny L. Turner and/or his counsel prior to the time Danny L.
Turner purchased the property from Pennsy Supply, Inc. on July 11, 2007.
47. At no time did Danny L. Turner or his counsel contact Mumma to
ascertain the status of the dispute that led to the indexing of the lis pendens. Had
they done so, they would have been advised that the settlement agreement that led
to the discontinuance of the litigation clearly provided Mumma with a right of first
refusal, which he was prepared to exercise.
48. Turner knew or should have known that the 1607 Industrial Drive
property was subject to Mumma's right of first refusal.
49. In order for this court to properly enforce the Stipulation of
Dismissal and the Settlement Agreement and General Release, Turner should be
12
joined as an Additional Respondent so as to subject him to the jurisdiction of the
Court.
WHEREFORE, Movants respectfully request that this Honorable Court
issue an Order that:
(a) Joins Danny L. Turner as an Additional Respondent to this action,
subjecting him to the jurisdiction of this court;
(b) Holds Pennsy Supply, Inc. in contempt for failing to notify Mumma
of the receipt of a bona fide offer from a third party to purchase the
property at 1607 Industrial Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which
would have triggered Mumma's right of first refusal;
(c) Voids the transaction by which Pennsy purported to convey the
property to Turner;
(d) Orders Pennsy Supply, Inc. to convey all of its right, title and interest
in the 1607 Industrial Drive property to Mumma or Mumma's
designee within 90 days of the Order upon payment by Mumma to
Pennsy of $430,123.00;
(e) Imposes sanctions upon Pennsy Supply in the amount of all transfer
taxes, title fees, legal fees, costs and other expenses incurred by
13
Mumma in conjunction with the acquisition of the 1607 Industrial
Drive property from Pennsy;
(f) Schedules a hearing at which time Mumma may establish all
consequential damages, including but not limited to lost profits and
lost opportunity suffered as a result of Pennsy's breach of the
Settlement Agreement;
(g) Imposes sanctions on Pennsy in the amount of all damages suffered
by Mumma;
(h) Orders Pennsy to pay all attorneys' fees and costs incurred by
Mumma in enforcing the Settlement Agreement, acquiring the
property and establishing damages; and
14
(i) Grants whatever additional relief, including additional monetary
sanctions against Pennsy Supply, Inc. and/or its counsel as this
Honorable Court deems just and appropriate.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Linda J. Olsen
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Date: December 19, 2007 Attorneys for Movants
15
Exhibit "A"
JAN
. peggy? ? 8 ?g99 ?
. pvey B c??Ak
Vicki L. Fox, RMR
Official Reporter.
TI A- f._ e..[ ...
i:ruuvu X%
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
,FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUBBLk r' 11, GRANTOR.
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II; and
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
v. CIVIL ACTION NO. 1:CV-9'8-087
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
Defendant
V*
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC., :
Intervenor/Defendant
TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS
SETTLEMENT HEARING
BEFORE: HON. SYLVIA H. RAMBO.. Judge
DATE: January 18, 2000
PLACE: Courtroom Number Three
Federal Building
'Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
COUNSEL PRESENT:.
DAVID S. BRADY, Esquire
_For - Plaintiffs
STEPHEN M. DONNEBER, Esquire
CHRISTINE STICKLER, Esquire
For - Intervenor Defendant
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
THE COURT: Good morning, everyone.
MR. DONWEBER: Good morning, Your Honor. Your
Honor, Stephen Donweber representing Pennsy Supply.
THE COURT: Yes, sir.
MR. DOWEBER: Your Honor, it is with pleasure and
I must admit some mild surprise that I report to the Court
that the parties to this action have settled all of their
claims.
In that vein, Your Honor, I would very much like
to read the stipulation of dismissal into the record. That
includes the basic terms of the settlement. And then also
confirm on the record the authority of the respective
attorneys to settle on behalf-of their clients.
THE COURT: We don't have a representative for
either of them here; correct?
MR. DONWRBER: Not Mr. Mumma.
MR. BRADY: Your Honor, I am here for Robert
Mumma. I am David Brady.
THE COURT: I know, Mr. Brady. I ft just
concerned. Mr. Mumma in the past is now pursuing his
attorneys. I am concerned that I don't have him personally
here. Let's go.
MR.•DONWEBER: Your Honor, if.David could confirm
on the report that he had the authority of his client to
settle this case.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
3
THE COURT: I don't doubt his word for that.
MR. BRADY: Yes. I do have his authority to
settle for this-terms of the Donweber letter that was
exchanged last week.
THE COURT: Okay. Let's go ahead.
MR. DONWEBER: Thank you very much, Your Honor:
(reading) Pursuant to Rule 41(a)(1) of the Federal Rules of
Civil Procedure, the parties to the'above action hereby
stipulate and agree as follows: (end of reading) THE COURT: Slow down now for the record.
MR. DONWEBER: Thank you. (Reading] All claims in
the above action are hereby dismissed 'with prejudice by all
parties;.
2. All claims in the above action have been
settled on the following basis:
(a) Pennsy Supply, Inc. will purchase the property
at 1607 Industrial Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania from Ben
Randolph for $300,000.00. At settlement, the proceeds of
this payment shall be divided as follows: $217,5,00.00 shall.
be paid to Benedict Randolph and $82,500.00 shall be paid to
the Robert.M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust in
care of Robert M. Mumma, II Trustee. Pennsy Supply will get
title and the deed to the Carlisle property at 1607
Industrial Drive.. Closing on this transaction shall be
completed within twenty days of execution of a final
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
settlement agreement with regard to this action.
(b) Pennsy also gave Robert M. Mumma, II a right
of first refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial
Drive which will be triggered on Pennay's future receipt of a
bona fide offer to purchase the property from a third party
which-Pennsy is willing to accept. Pennsy will give Mumma
twenty days to exercise this right and ninety days to close
from the date of exercise. '
This dismissal is contingent upon payment of the
proceeds of sale as outlined herein. A mutually agreeable
settlement agreement shall be executed-by the parties within
ten days of the date of this stipulation.
This Court shall retain jurisdiction to enforce•
this stipulation end the underlying settlement agreement in
this action.
Failure to comply with the terms of this
stipulation will result in proceedings for contempt against
the non-complyiAg party. (end of reading)
THE"COURT: I am not too sure about that. I think
there has been a recent Third Circuit case that says the
Court does not have to retain jurisdiction to enforce a
settlement. I will check it out.
Let's go back over that. Settlement agreement is
to be-finalized when?
MR. DONWEBER: The settlement agreement will be
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16'
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
finalized within ton days of the date of this stipulation,
Your Honor.
THE COURT: The stipulation is dated when?
MR. DONWEBER: The stipulation is dated today.
THE COURT: Okay. Go ahead.
MR. DONWEBER: Thank you, Your Honor. And the
finial paragraph is simply that the parties respectfully
request the approval of the Court of this stipulation.
Your Honor, I have facsimile signatures from Steve
Fishman. I expect the original signature in my office when I
return. I have an original signature from Mr. Brady, and my
original signature is on this document. We intend to file
this document as of record this afternoon.
Thank you very much, Your Honor.
THE COURT: Mr. Brady?
MR. BRADY: Yes,.Your Honor. I have heard
Mr. Donweber read the terms of the stipulation, and those are
correct.
THE COURT: I wonder if the Court could have a
copy of the stipulation.
MR. DONWEBER: Of course,.Your Honor. May I
approach?
THE COURT: Yes, you.may. Give it to Mark.
Mr. Brady, may I have on the record what authority you have
to enter into this for Mr. Mumma?
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8-
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
:25
MR. BRADY: Yes.. I had discussions with Mr.. Mumma
by telephone on Friday. I received a fax from him. I
believe it is dated 1/14 of 2000 at 16:05 hours or 16:09. It
is on a MacIntosh -- faxed from a fax board of a computer so
it does not carry a signature.
However, it states David, you have my authority to
settle Randolph matter per the terms of the Donweber letter.
THE-COURT: Be sure to hold on to that fax.
MR. BRADY: Yea, Your Honor.
THE COURT: Since it requires my signature,
perhaps I should have the original.
MR. DONWEBER: Of course, Your Honor. The
original signature from THE COURT: No, no, the original stipulation. Is
there an original stipulation somewhere?
MR. DONWEBER:. Yes, Your Honor.
THE COURT: Because it requires my signature, and
'that should be the one that goes on the record.
MR. DONWEBER: Absolutely, Your Honor. I am still.
awaiting an original signature, however, from Steve Fishman I
was planning on filing the original document this afternoon.
with the Court.
THE COURT: That's fine. I will sign it then when
I get the original.
MR. DONWEBER% Terrific.
. a
7
1
2
3
4
5
5
7
8
9
10
li
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
THE-COURT: Do you want that sealed or anything;
is there any need for that?
MR. DONWEBER: There is no need from my.client's
perspective, Your Honor.
MR. BRADY: I think I would request that it be
sealed.
THE COURT: I will do it for a limited period of
time because once the records are transferred, we have to
unseal everything, once they are sent to the Records Center.
All right? Is there anything further?
MR. DONWEBER: Nothing here, Your Honor.
THE COURT: I am going to close the case even
though it says that I am to retain jurisdiction.
MR. DONWEBER: I understand, Your Honor.
.THE COURT: Anything further from anyone else?
MR. BRADY:. That is all, Your-Honor.
MR. DONWEBER: That is all, Your Honor.
THE COURT: I thank.you for your efforts in
resolving this matter. it means a great deal to me. Thank
you very much.
MR. DONWEBER: Thank you very much, Your Honor.
MR. BRADY: Thank you very much, Your Honor.
THE COURT: Court is adjourned.
THE CLERK: Court is adjourned.
(Whereupon, the proceedings were concluded.)
a
8
1
2
3
.4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
i5
16
17,
18
19
20
21
22
23
24-
25
T hereby certify that the proceedings and evidence
are contained fully and accurately in the notes taken-by me
on the trial of the above cause, and that this copy•is a
correct transcript of the same.
Vicki L. Fox, RMR
Official Reporter
The foregoing certification of this transcript
does not apply to any reproduction by any means unless under
the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying
reporter.
Exhibit "B"
4k
F 'M
Exhibit "B"
V r
Il?
IN THE UNITED STATES DIS OURT
FOR THE MEDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II,
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA,11; and
SUSAN MUMMA NO. P-0087
Plaintiffs, R./'?'l Uer
v.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
Defmxbnt,
V. JAN 18 2000
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC..,
Intervenor/Defendant.
i
the above action hereby stipulate and agree as follows:
Pursuant to Rule 41(a)(1) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, the parties to
1. All claims in the above action are hereby dismissed with prejudice by all
Pin;
STIPULATION OF DL'31VIISSAL
2. All claims in the above action have been settled on the following basis:
a. Penny Supply, Inc. will purchase the property at 1607 Industrial
Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania from Ben Randolph for $300,000. At settlement, the proceeds
of this payment shall be divided as follows: $217,500 shall be paid to Benedict Randolph and
$82,500 shall be paid to the. Robert M. Mumma, H Grantor Retained Annuity Trust in care of
Robert M. Mumma, H Trustee. Pennsy Supply will get title and the deed to the Carlisle
property at 1607 Industrial Drive. Closing on this transaction shall be completed within twenty
(20) days of execution of a final settlement agreement with regard to this action.
cardw from the rem d
.pate 41
Mary E. WAWNW, .
PW
Clerk
b. Penusy will also give Robert M. Mumma, H a right of first
refusal to'purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive which will be triggered on Penny's
future receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase the property from a third party which Penney is
willing to accept. Penny will give Mumma twenty (20) days to exercise this right and ninety
(90) days to close from the date of exercise.
3. This dismissal is contingent upon payment of the proceeds of sale as
outlined herein. A mutually agreeable settlement agreement shall be executed by the parties
within ten days of the date of this Stipulation.
4. This Court shall retain jurisdiction to enforce this Stipulation and the
underlying settlement agreement in this action.
5. Failure to comply with the terms of this Stipulation will result in
proceedings for contempt against the non-complying.party.
-2-
5. The parties* respectfully request the approval of the Court of this
Stipulation-
David David S. Brady, Esquire
4 Central Boulevard
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Attorney for Pldndffs
Dated:
'A? kw,.,,Z
Michael A. F!Wo, Esquire
Stephen M. Donweber, Bsgdire
Attorney ID Nos. 38872 & 71170
Saul, Ewing, Renick & Saul LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 N. Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc.
Dated: I-- IV - CM
APPROVED:
. SYLVIA . RAW
Wited States District Judge
Steven J. Fishman; Esquire
Fishman & Morganthai
95 Alexander Spring Road, Suite 3
Carlisle, PA 17103
Attorney far Benedict Randolph
Dated:
N' k??'O
JAN BJnal PA
28
.Au br,? ?+?/?1k
-3-
1
' L/Li;\J i? i . • V V i ? i4 • tliVL VV=I V iY1 E1Li Y; i'7j\
.
6. The parties respectfi:lly request the approval of the Court of this
Stipulation.
David S. Brady, Esquire
4 Contml Boulevard
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Ammey,for Plana fs
Dated:
Michad A. Finio, Esquire
Steph= M...Domeber, Equix
Attornay ID Nos. 38873 & 71170
Saul, Bwhl& Renick & Sala LLP
ream National In=WW Tower
2 N. Socoad Str c4 7th Floor
EkTig g, PA 17101
Atior mpjbr Penney Sappily, etc,
Dated:
APPROVED:
-ted States Dist Anorney for Bm&a Randolph
. MVIA H. =Judge
Dated:
-3-
Fishman & Morganthal
95 Alounder Spring Road, Suite 3
Carlisle, PA 17103
6. The parties mspectfltlly request the approval of the Court of this
Stipulation.
David S. Brady, Steven J, Fishman, Esquire
C" Stcpben Hill, M. PA 17011 Donweber. Esquire 95 Alexander Spring Road, Suite',
Dated: Dated:
Saul, Ewing, Rarruck & Saul UP
1P?esm National bmurance, Tower
2 N. Second Street, 71h Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Carlisle PA 17103
• ,ar Platnt?
.
' Attorney, far Bnredict Rxnd?vlph
4 CentrMichaelal A. Fnio, Boulevard Esquire Fishmma•& Iviorgardhal
AAttorncyttorney ID Nos. 38872 & 71170
Atmrnays jbr Pemtsy &4ply, bm
Dated:
APPROVED:
ete VIA H.
a District Judge
-3-
.
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE ,
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
* * MAILING CERTIFICATE OF CLERK * * .
Re:- 1:98-cv-00087 Mumma v. Randolph
True and correct copies of the attached were mailed by the clerk
to the following:
David S. Brady, Esq.
4 Central Boulevard
Camp Hill, PA 17011 Fax No.: FAX 717-330-2082
Steven J.•Fishman, Esq.
O'Brien, Baric & Scherer
17 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Michael A. Finio, Esq.
Saul, Ewing, Remick & Saul, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Patricia A. Trujillo, Esq.
Saul, Ewing, Remick & Saul., LLP
Penn National.Insurannce Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Stephen M. Donweber, Esq.
Saul, Ewing, Remick & Saul LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
A
CC:
Judge
Magistrate Judge
U.S. Marshal
Probation
U.S. Attorney
Atty. for Deft.
Defendant
Warden
Bureau of Prisons
Ct Reporter
Ctroom Deputy
Orig-Security
Federal Public Defender
Summons Issued
Standard Order 93-5
Order to Show Cause
Bankruptcy Court
Other
)
}
)
} with N/C attached to complt. and served by:
U.S. Marshal C ) Pltf's Attorney ( )
with Petition attached & mailed certified mail
to- US Atty Gen ( ) PA Atty (den
DA of County ( ) Respondents ( )
MARY E. D'ANDREA, Clerk
DATE : /.- Lr' 0 0
BY: I-L
eputy, er
Exhibit "C"
Exhibit "C"
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
SETTLEMEN'T' AGREENIEN7 AND GENERAL RELEASE
THIS SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND GENERAL RELEASE ("this
Agreement"), consisting of seven (7) pages, is entered into this 28th day of January. 2000. by
and aruong Robert M. Mumma. 11, Susan Mumma. the Robert M. Mumma, 11, Grantor
Retained Annuity Trust ("Plaintiffs"): Benedict B. Randolph ("Randolph"); and Pennsy
Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy").
RECITALS
On January 16, 1998, Plaintiffs filed this action, captioned as Robert M.
Mumma, It. Susan Mumma. and the Robert M. Mumma. 11, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
v. Benedict B. Randolph. No. 98-CV-87 (M.D. Pa.), in the Middle District of Pennsylvania
("this litigation"). This litigation sought specific performance (or.-in the alternative, damages)
of a December 18. 1995 Letter of Intent between the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
CURAT") (as buyer) and Benedict Randolph (as seller) to convey property at 1607 industrial
Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
On February.22, 1999, Pennsy was granted.leave to intervene in this litigation
as of right, arguing that enforcement of the Letter of Intent would violate other agreements to-
which both Pennsy and Mr. Mumma (or entities controlled by him) were party. Pennsy also
asserted claims against Randolph for specific performance of its right of first refusal, and
against Mr. Mumma for fraud.
PLEASE, READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
All parties deny the allegations set forth in the claims asserted by and against
one another in this litigation. Nevertheless, Plaintiffs, Pennsy, and Randolph mutually desire
to provide for the terms and conditions under which the parties shall be fully released from all
liabilities, and any of them, arising out of or otherwise relating to this litigation.
IT IS AGREED:
1. The Recitals set forth above are incorporated into and made a part of this
Agreement;
2. All claims asserted in this litigation by all parties are hereby dismissed
with prejudice by all parties,
3. In consideration of the general releases set forth below,
a. Pennsy Supply. Inc. will purchase the property at 1607 Industrial
Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania from Ben. Randolph for $300.000. At settlement, the proceeds
of this payment shall be divided as follows: $217,500 shall be paid to Benedict Randolph and
$82.500 shall be paid to the Robert M. Mumma, li Grantor Retained Annuity Trust in care of
Robert M. Mumma, it Trustee. Pennsy Supply will get title and the deed to the Carlisle
property at 1607 Industrial Drive. Closing on this transaction shall be completed within twenty
(20) days of execution of this Agreement.
b. Pennsy hereby gives Robert M. Mumma, Il a right of first
refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive which will be triggered on Penny's
future receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase the properry from a third party which Pennsy is
-2-
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE, 'SIGNING
willing to accept. Mumma will have twenty (20) days fi•om the date ofreceipt of Pennsy's
notice to exercise this right and ninety (90) days from the date of exercise to close.
4. Releases
a. Robert M. Mumma, II, Susan Mumma, and the Robert M.
Muruna, ii, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust ("Plaintiffs"), each on his/her/its own behalf and
on behalf of his/her/its owners, principals, shareholders, partners, directors, officers,
members, employees, agents. beneficiaries, successors and assigns, and each of them, fully
releases and forever discharges Benedict B. Randolph and Pennsy Supply, Inc., his/its owners,
principals, shareholders, partners, directors, officers, members, employees, agents.
beneficiaries, successors and assigns, and each of them, from any and all manner of claims.
demands, causes of action, costs, attorneys fees, liabilities and other claims of every kind and
nature whatsoever, which they now have, ever had, or may hereafter have, against any and all
of them, arising by virtue of acts or omissions arising out of or otherwise relating in any
manner whatsoever to this litigation set forth in the Recitals herein. This release is a full and
complete general release relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, and it shall remain in
effect despite any subsequent discovery of facts in addition to or different from those which the
parties now know or believe to be true.
b. Benedict Randolph, on his own behalf and on behalf of his
employees, agents, beneficiaries, successors and assigns, and each of them, fully releases and
forever discharges Plaintiffs and Pennsy Supply. Inc., their owners, principals, shareholders,
partners, directors, officers, members, employees, agents, beneficiaries, successors and
-3-
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEI+4RE SIGNING
assigns, and each of them, from.any and all manner of claims, demands, causes of action,
costs, attorneys fees, liabilities and other claims of every kind and nature whatsoever, which he
now has, ever had, or may hereafter have, against any and all of them, arising by virtue of acts
or omissions arising out of or otherwise relating in any manner whatsoever to this litigation set
forth in the Recitals herein. This release is a full and complete general release relating to the
subject matter of this Agreement, and it shall remain in effect despite any subsequent discovery
of facts in addition to or different from those which the parties now know or believe to be true.
C. Pennsy Supply. Inc., on its own behalf and on behalf of its
owners, principals, shareholders, partners, directors, officers, members, employees, agents,
beneficiaries. successors and assigns. and each of them. fully releases and forever discharges
Benedict B. Randolph and Plaintiffs. their owners, principals, shareholders, partners,
directors, officers, members, employees, agents, beneficiaries, successors and assigns, and
each of theta, from any and all manner of claims, demands, causes of action, costs, attorneys
fees, liabilities and other claims of every kind and nature whatsoever, which it now has, ever
had, or may hereafter have, against any and all of them, arising by virtue of acts or omissions
arising out of or otherwise relating in any manner whatsoever to this litigation set forth in the
Recitals herein. This release is a full and complete general release relating. to the subject
matter of this Agreement, and it shall remain in effect despite any subsequent discovery of
facts in addition to or different from those which the parties now know or believe to be true.
-d-
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
d. The above releases are limited only to the subject matter of this
litigation and shall not apply to any other litigation currently pending between or among the
above parties.
5. This settlement is contingent upon payment of the proceeds of sale as
outlined herein.
6. Failure to comply with the terms of this Settlement Agreement will result
in proceedings for contempt against the non-complying party.
7. All parties aver that they have carefully read and clearly understand the
meaning of this Settlement Agreement and General Release. All parties agree that this
Settlement Agreement and General Release is to be interpreted under and governed by
Pennsylvania law, and intend to be legally bound by its terms. All parties were provided with
this Settlement Agreement and General Release several days before being asked to sign it and
have had the opportunity to discuss it with a lawyer and/or with any other person or persons of
their choosing.
8. The individuals who execute this Settlement Agreement and General
Release represent and warrant that: (i) they are duly authorized to execute this Settlement
Agreement and General Release, and (ii) no other signature, act or authorization is necessary
-5-
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
to bind such entity to the provisions of this Settlement Agreement and General Release. 5
f lLi? { v?G'G'( t: t 'fir rr.?7.ry<
?tl?t???C?7? .4 t?E???err S ?r ???? r' t' rr?C ?
t?-r? vrl ???c?t%, !xcf rcat?Gf? t??.4.? firf`rflrC?
Gl.?'z ? ?i., 5%tli? !h ra'eYrr?fGF ? tn:c'r1f .
5?t .Cf ce7-ts)hALK !r'i'ke !t•?t,c}? -lam (.ri S 7
Signed, Executed and Delivered by: Signed, Executed and Delivered by:
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, SUSAN PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.
MUMMA, THE ROBERT M. MUMMA,
11, GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST
(Name - tmumn) (Name - PLMEM.,r)
we - t
(Title - Kam mr)
Witness:
S. Brady, Esquire
Dated: r t---
Stephen M. Donweber, Esquire
Dated:
-6-
FROM Md)6 UINGP"E NO. : 9310274 Jan. 10 2000 09:24AM F?
• res ti? ed N7,3? aM "
L, c I. yu u : Uo PAQ1 00810 R1$htFAX P.
MASE o Cd1tBF(j L QR?fAglt wvn. off]
,y
SIPd, lowild aid DWhw d by:
BLMDICT H, RAMLPH
a a .G
Mrs
wkma-,
C?? ?, do
,*t: W,,.
.,.
Exhibit "D"
. Exhibit "D"
0
Parcel NSO-08-0519-014C
1 08---RT P. ZIEGLER
SPECIAL WARRANTY DZBMCORDgR OF DEED.
C MSERUM15 C01J11TY-1
THIS INDENTURE is made the _,(L day of July in* 7a A& on
. "'Or
(2007) between PENNSY SUPPLY, INC., a Pennsylvania Corporation (herem called the
Creator), of the one part, and DANNY L. TURNER, of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
(hereinafter called the Grantee), of the other pact.
WITNESSETH, that the Grantor, for and in opnsideration of the sum of One 001100
(1;1.00) lawful money of the United States of Amerlcs u iM it wo and truly paid by the Orantee,
at or before the sealing and delivery hereo& the receipt whereof is 'wmwledged, has
granted, bargained and sold, aliened, enfeoffed, released and confirmed, and by
does grant, bargain and sell, alien, enfeflft release and confirm unto the omtee his heirs
assigns,
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situate in the Borough of Carlisle, County
of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described as set forth in the
legal description attached to this Deed as Exhibit "A" and incorporated by reference.
. UNDER AND SUBJECT to all conditions, easements, rights of way, agroe wts,
covenants, liens, reservations, exceptions, restrictions and other encumbrances of record, to the
extent still valid, subsisting and enforceable.
FURTHER UNDER AND SUBJECT to the covenant and agreement that the teal
property conveyed in this deed shall not be used for, nor shall said real property be the sine or
location of, the manufactm or production of concrete. This covenant and agreement "I be
perpetual, shall be binding upon Grantee and Grantee's heirs and assigns, shall tan with the land
and shall be enforceable by Grantor and its successors and assigns.
TOGETHER with all and singular the improvements, ways, streets, allays; driveways,
passages, waters, water-courses, rights, liberties, privileges, hereditanwats and appurtenances,
whatsoever unto the hereby granted premises belonging, or in any wise appertaining, and the
reversions and remainders, rents, issues, and profuts thereot and all ft estate, right, title,
interest, property, claim and demand whatsoever of it, the Orantor, in law, equity, or otherwise
howsoever, oC in and to the same and every part thereof.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said lot or piece of ground above described,with the
buildings and improvements thereon erected, hereditaments and premises hereby granted, or
mentioned and intended so to be, with the appurtenances, unto the Graatee his heirs and assigns,
to and for the only proper use and behoofof the Grantee, his heirs and assigns forever.
UNDER AND SUBJECT, as aforesaid.
134114.11M MM 1 6009 280 PAIE4684
A
r
AND the Grantor, for itself and its successors and assigns, does covenant, promise and
agree, to and with the Grantee We heirs and a"*=, by these presents, that it, the Grantor, and its
successors and assigns, all and singular the henditumts and premisa s hereby granted or
mentioned and intended so to be, with the appurftances, unto the Grantee, his heirs and assigns,
against the Grantor and its successors and assigns, and against all and every person and persons
whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the moo or any part thereof, by, from or under it or
any of them, shall and will, subject as aforesaid, SPECIALLY WARRANT and forever
DEFEND.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Grantor has hereunto set its corporate hand and seal.
Dated the day and year first above written,
SIGNED AND DELIVERED
IN THE PRESENCE OF:
ATTEST:
By:
Prints N Derv S. erslice
Title:
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.
By: 17 2az_
Print Name: O. Good
Title: Via ideal
iHSiu moro, 2 560K 2$0 PACE4685
. 4
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS
COUNTY OF /-Arwy???
On this // day of July 2007, before me a Notary Public in and for the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the undusigned officer, persoaally appeared Randy 0.Oood,
who acknowledged himself to be the Vice President of Pennsy Supply, Inc. a corporation;, and
that as such officer, being authorized to do so, executed the foregoing instrument for the purposes
therein contained by signing the name of the corporation by himself as such officer.
In Witness Wha vof, l hereunto set mry official seal.
SEAL)
?wen? orta?sx?ver?uNataty Public
NOTAML W
V-.wd j, Quo, Notary Public My Commission Expires:
cdiiii&?aowb: almbarhoe ?
W eanow0fi peoaakr10.20t0
The address of the within-named Grantee is:
MXVkFAC;Mi
1Sfe 1OA ( r)aE,-R
,,64,C, 5
13y: c
Attorney for Grantee
?. ?::.....;L rccurded
l ertand County PA
Recorder of Deeds
114314.1 NIOW
BOOK 280 PAOE4686
Exhibit "A"
ALL THAT CIMTAIN piece or parcel of land situate in the Borough of Carlisle,
County of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania designated aS Parcel No. 7 on a
certain Land Subdivision Plan for Ritner Park Associates, recorded on March 16, 1984 in
Cumberland County Plan Book 45, Page 46, bounded and described in accordance with said
Land Subdivision Plan, as follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a point on the eastern boundary line of Industrial Drive (a 60' wide right
of way containing a paved cartway having a width of 361, more or less); and at the northwestern
comer of Parcel No. 2 on said Land Subdivision Plan; thence extending from said beginning
point along the eastern boundary line of Industrial Drive North 17 degrees 50 minutes 30 seconds
West a distance of 208.13 feet to a point on the southern line of Parcel No. 3 on the above
referenced Land Subdivision Plan; thence along said boundary line North 72 degrees 9 minutes
30 seconds But a distance of 500 feet to a point along lands now or formerly of Carlisle Syntex
Systems; thence along said boundary line South 17 degrees 50 minutes 30 seconds Past a
distance of 208.13 feet to a point at the nordieasttrn corner of Parcel No. 2 on said Land
Subdivision Plan; thence along said Parcel No. 2 South 72 degrees 9 minutes 30 seconds West a
distance of 500 feet to a point, being the point or place of BEGINMNG.
CONTAINING 2.389 acres, more or less.
BRING the same premises which Benedict B. Randolph by deed dated February 9, 2000
and recorded February 10, 2000 in Cumberland County Record Book 216, Page 64, granted and
conveyed unto Pennsy Supply, Inc., Grantor and Party of the First Part herein.
M
N
17+114.1111WW «. uu tv o : f9 4 N b BGOK 28 FACE4687
Exhibit "E"
Exhibit "E"
wsli')6T 7,X 46-94)
• itfco QNIr
fLM Tit h6
REALTY TRANSFER TAX
t
COwatONtntA IHOFMMN friVAA7A STATEMENT OF VALUE
nv
w
DiAiT IMMatanvarM
aVaaAVa aamraouu rAxts .?
M
MAR&MMIUM .it6MMAIMt SMRmmfor.it0uctlons
Comphte each secd? and Rile in 4WHcne with Recorder of Deeds when (1) the Nil vdndoondderalian is not set bib in tltt deed, (2) when the deed
is without ecusideratica, or by fly or (3) a tax exemplioa Is claimed. A Statomoat of Value is sot required if the Mailer is wholly exempt from tax
All tnqufrks may be
h idml A. Finio, Esquire Am Code (717) 23$-7671
Strost Address city Ste% • Zip Cods --
2 North Second Street 7 h flooT HaMobura PA 17101
-F-T-PA-RSFER DATA DwafmospiamelDoccon"
d"Ift* 6) Srvatu(s)/Ltasa(a1
P Su ,Inc- Damn L. Tumor
StrestAddraw Street Ad&W
1001 Paxton Strect
City 310te Ceae City "0 zip Code
ftwm PA 17104 PA
Q VAN or intatatt succession
a Transfer to rmwriat Devabpment Agency. pw"Of BMW
0 Transfer to a Trust. (Attach cowfiete copy of trust agreawat tdendfyhp ail beneficiaries.
Q Transfer between prbneipol and agannt, (Attach conpkte copy of aganey/4" party agreement.)
Q Transfers to the Com"Wenith, the United stow and Instrtaa MIltifa by 9114. dedication, condenwnation or in ku of cmndem eion.
W condann aff" or In ku of cmndeaaotk% attach a copy of resolution)
0 Transfer from nart9W to a hoWer of a nw rtgW ie default. Mortgage gook Nwaber Pops Mpow
Q Corrective or confirmatory deed. (Attach complete copy of the prior deed being corrected or confers ed.)
Q Statutory corporate cansotidotion, merger or division (Attach copy of articiiesi
Q Other OPlem explain exemption claimed, if ether than lWadab m)
L Wsr psnolths of low, I declare that i have ex oMW this Statemet, Inckoft s"t smq * g htfmgwt ilm . and to best of mty
l Avkdye and belief, it is trus, and atarplete.
or
11067/11/07
17
FAILURE TO COM!'LETE 1N15 FORM PRfW4 OR ATTACH AFPLICMLE DOCtA+jWrAWW MAY RoUt.T w THE RECORDEtt S aF3lSAL ro RECORD THE
DEED.
WK 280 FACE4688
Exhibit "F"
Exhibit "F"
THE LAW FIRM of
THOMAS W. SCOTT KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP MATEMM. FAUST-
JANBGOWENPENNY 218 PINE STREET CZ000."05)
TEn.WCBJ. MCGOWAN P. O. BOX 886
MI UELJ.O'CONNOR' HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA 17108-0886 OfCow ah
[ INDA J. 01SIN JOHN D. S[LIdAN
ROBERTI DANM S'" TJ31 PHONE (717) 232-1851 SUM B.OBPHART
. MARYEAND BAR FAX NO. (717) 238-0592
«MBW MEY BAR wwwAffliangepbart wm
NOTICE
September 20, 2007
VIA HAND DELIVERY and CERTIFIED MAIL
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Re: Robert M. Mamma. II -Grantor Rd&tnd Annuity. Treat; Robert M.
Mumma. II_andSusan Mumma v. Benedict B. Ran?o?p IV. ennev_
S0R*2Inc.
U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania
No. 98-0087
Dear Mr. Finio:
This office has been retained to represent Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan
Mumma, individually and as agents for the Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust (" GRAr ). From our review of the materials presented to us and the
docket in the above-referenced case, the following appear to be the relevant facts:
1. Litigation was. commenced on January 16, 1998 in the United States District
Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and docketed to No. 98-0087.
2. The case was assigned to the Honorable Sylvia. H. Rambo.
3. A settlement hearing was held before Judge Rambo on January 18, 2000, at
which time counsel for the parties reported to the Court that the parties had settled their
claims.
7904 0750 0002 8064 3455
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
September 20, 2007
Page 2
4. A Stipulation of Dismissal was read into the record, the terms of which
were subsequently reduced to writing in a "Settlement Agreement and General Release."
5. The Settlement Agreement provided, in pertinent part, that Pennsy Supply,
Inc. gave Robert M. Mumma, H "a right of first refusal to purchase the property at 1607
Industrial Drive which will be triggered on Pennsy's future receipt of a bona fide offer to
purchase the property from a third patty which Pennsy is willing to accept. Mumma will
have twenty (20) days from the date of receipt of Pennsy's notice to exercise this right
and ninety (90) days from the date of exercise to close."
6. The Court retained jurisdiction to enforce the Stipulation of Dismissal and
the underlying Settlement Agreement.
7. Failure to comply with the terms of the Stipulation "will result in
proceedings for contempt against the non-complying party."
8. Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc. (Michael A. Finio, Esquire or Stephen M.
Donweber, Esquire) executed the Stipulation on January 18, 2000, and the Stipulation
was approved by the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo and entered of record on that date.
9. The Settlement Agreement and General Release was executed by Donald
Eshleman, President of Pennsy, Inc., and his signature was witmed by Matthew M.
Haar, Esquire, an attorney with Saul Ewing who represented Pennsy Supply, Inc. in this
matter.
We have now learned that on July 11, 2007, the property that is subject to Mr.
Mumma's right of fast refusal was sold to Danny L. Turner, as evidenced by Special
Warranty Deed recorded in Cumberland County Record Book 280, Page 4684. The
Realty Transfer Tax Statement of Value sets forth an actual cash consideration of
$4300123.00 and appears to have been signed by Michael A. Finio. Mr. Mumma was
never given notice of the proposed sale to Danny L. Turner or an opportunity to exercise
his right of first refusal.
On its face, this appears to be a clear and direct violation of the Settlement
Agreement and the Stipulation of Dismissal. Mr. Mumma wishes to exercise his rights
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
September 20, 2007
Page 3
and acquire the property. He is willing to match the purchase price paid by W. Turner.
To that end, we request that you take whatever steps are necessary to secure reconveyance
of the property to your client, Pennsy Supply, Inc. so that the property can be conveyed to
Mr. Mumma, without restrictions.
At this point, we have not notified the third-party purchaser or the Court of this
notice and demand because we are hopeful that you will promptly respond and rectify this
situation so that the property can be conveyed to Mr. Mumma. We look forward to
receiving a response from you within the next five (5) days.
Sincerely yours,
Linda .Olsen
Thomas W. Scott
LJO/TWS/
cc: Robert M. Mumma, II
Exhibit "G"
Exhibit "G" SEP 2 8 W
Attomeys at Law
A DdMi. LLP
September 27, 2007
Via Facsimile and First-Class Mail
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian & Oephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Re: Mumma GRAS'. of A L. Randolph v. Penney Suu>Dlvt Inc.
No. 980087 (M.D. Pa.) - -
Dear Linda and Tom:
michael A. Finio
Phone: (717) 238-7671
Fax: (717) 257-7585
mfinio@saW.com
WWw-sa .coln
I have your September 20, 2007, letter. I just returned from vacation. We are
investigating the issues you raised. This may take a while, as I was not directly involved in the
litigation to which you refer, and Mr. Donweber is no longer with us, nor is Ms. Wagner, who
helped to close the 2000 transfer from Randolph to Pennsy. As soon as I am able to review their
files, which I am certain are in archives, and find them to speak with them so I can better
understand the facts, I will be back in touch.
Thank you.
MAFlkls
very truly yours,
'o
Michael At :o
2 North Second Street, 7'4 Floor ? Harrisburg. PA 17101.1619 • Phone: (717) 257-7500 • Fax: (717)_238-4622
BALTIMORE CHESTERBROOK HARRISBURG NBWAM PHILADELPHIA PRINCETON WASHINGTON WILMINGTON
6129.19/27/07 ADUAWAULDAMcu LMPARTHNOW
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsenA killian¢ephart.com
tscott(&killianQephart.com
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma, :
Movants :
v :
Benedict B. Randolph
V.
Pennsy Supply, Inc., :
Respondent
V. :
Danny L. Turner,
Additional Respondent
No. 98-0087
Judge Sylvia H. Rambo
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
CERTIFICATE OF NON-CONCURRENCE
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire and Thomas W. Scott, Esquire, counsel for
Movants, Robert M. Mumma, 11 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust; Robert M.
Mumma, II and Susan Mumma, state that on December 18, 2007 a copy of the
Motion for an Order Pursuant to rule 7(b) to Join an Additional Respondent, to
Enforce a Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and
to Impose Sanctions was hand delivered to Michael A. Finio, Esquire with a
request that Mr. Finio's concurrence or non-concurrence be communicated to
counsel for Movants by 2:00 p.m. on December 19, 2007. Mr. Finio failed to
respond to that request. For purposes of complying with L.R. 7. 1, the within
Certificate of Non-Concurrence is being filed as though Mr. Finio had informed
Movants' counsel that he does not concur in this Motion.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Linda J. Olsen
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Date: December 191 2007 Attorneys for Movants
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsenakilliangenhart.com
tscott@killianget)hart.com
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma, :
Movants :
V. :
Benedict B. Randolph
V.
Pennsy Supply, Inc.,
Respondent :
V.
Danny L. Turner, :
Additional Respondent
No. 98-0087
Judge Sylvia H. Rambo
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I do certify that I served a true and correct copy of the within document
upon the following by electronic filing:
Counsel for Pennsy Supply, Inc.
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
and
David S. Brady, Esquire
and also by United States first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
Counsel for Danny L. Turner
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
Ten East High Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
Stephen M. Donweber
Saul Ewing LLP
1500 Market Street West
38th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102-2186
Steven J. Fishman
Fishman & Morgenthal
95 Alexander Spring Road
Suite 3
Carlisle, PA 17013
Patricia A. Trujillo, Esquire
Saul Ewing, Remick & Saul, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
/s/ Linda J. Olsen
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street, P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Dated: December 192 2007
enrisylvania Middle District Version 3.0.5
iervice of Process:
1:98-cv-00087-SHR Mumma et al v. Randol h CASE CLOSED on 01/18/2000
.LOSED, HBG
United States District Court
Middle District of Pennsylvania
lotice of Electronic Filing
Page 1 of 2
'he following transaction was entered by Olsen, Linda on 12/19/2007 at 4:03 PM EST and filed on 12/19/2007
-ase Name: Mumma, et al v. Randolph
-ase Number: 1:98-cv-87
Filer: Robert M. Mumma, II
Robert M. Mumma, II
Susan Mumma
WARNING: CASE CLOSED on 01/18/2000
Document Number: 122
Docket Text:
"ERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by Robert M. Mumma, II, Susan Mumma, Robert M. Mumma, II, Robert M. Mumma,
:I re [121] First MOTION to Enforce Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, to join additional respondent,
or contempt and to impose sanctions Revised Certificate of Service (Olsen, Linda)
[:98-cv-87 Notice has been electronically mailed to:
)avid S. Brady bradylaw 'a fastmail.net
4ichael A. Finio mfinio@saul.com, ksitler@saul.com
,inda J. Olsen lolsen@killiangephart.com
bomas W. Scott tscott@killiangephart.com
:98-cv-87 Filer will deliver notice by other means to::
tephen M. Donweber
aul Ewing LLP
500 Market Street West
3th Floor
iiladelphia, PA 19102-2186
even J. Fishman
shman & Morgenthal
Alexander Spring Rd
cite 3
irlisle, PA 17013
tricia A. Trujillo
ps:Hecfpamd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/Dispatch.pl?628199335823155 12/19/2007
PenAsylvania Middle District Version 3.0.5
Saul, Ewing, Remick & Saul, LLP
Penn National Insurannce Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
The following document(s) are associated with this transaction:
Document description:Main Document
Original Mename:n/a
Electronic document Stamp:
[STAMP dcecfStamp_ID=1027698419 [Date-- 12/19/2007] [FileNumber=1823950-
0][45f32054086e6f01f809873fb2f8698acfdeba464e75dd46e2dcl462cel53ba4dc
f826d85e026fb4b9423bbebc008c4869ad5ef2c9176b1350a6df79e2831053]]
Page 2 of 2
tps:Hecf.pamd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/Dispatch.pl?628199335823155 12/19/2007
1
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma,
Plaintiffs/Movants
Benedict B. Randolph
V.
Pennsy Supply, Inc., :
Respondent
V.
Danny L. Turner, :
Additional Respondent
ORDER
AND NOW, this day of
2007, upon
consideration of Movants' Motion for an Order Pursuant to Rule 7(b) to Join an
Additional Respondent, to Enforce a Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of
Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions, it is hereby ORDERED that:
(a) Danny L. Turner is joined as an Additional Respondent to this action,
subjecting him to the jurisdiction of this court;
No. 98-0087
Judge Sylvia H. Rambo
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
Pennsy Supply, Inc. is held in contempt for failing to notify Mumma
of the receipt of a bona fide offer from a third party to purchase the
property at 1607 Industrial Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which
would have triggered Mumma's right of first refusal;
The transaction by which Pennsy purported to convey the property to
Danny L. Turner is hereby VOID;
Pennsy Supply, Inc. shall convey all of its right, title and interest in
the 1607 Industrial Drive property to Mumma or Mumma's designee
within 90 days of the date of this Order upon payment by Mumma to
Pennsy of $430,123.00;
Sanctions are imposed upon Pennsy Supply in the amount of all
transfer taxes, title fees, legal fees, costs and other expenses incurred
by Mumma in conjunction with the acquisition of the 1607 Industrial
Drive property from Pennsy;
A hearing at which time Mumma may establish all consequential
damages, including but not limited to lost profits and lost opportunity
suffered as a result of Pennsy's breach of the Settlement Agreement
shall be held on the day of
Courtroom . at
o'clock _ M.;
2007 in
2
(g) Sanctions are imposed on Pennsy in the amount of all damages
suffered by Mumma;
(h) Pennsy shall pay all attorneys' fees and costs incurred by Mumma in
enforcing the Settlement Agreement, acquiring the property and
establishing damages; and
(i) Additional relief, including additional monetary sanctions against
Pennsy Supply, Inc. and/or its counsel as this Honorable Court is
awarded in an amount to be determined following hearing.
BY THE COURT:
J.
DATE
Distribution:
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire, Killian & Gephart, LLP, 218 Pine Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire, Killian & Gephart, LLP, 218 Pine Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Michael A. Finio, Esquire, Saul Ewing, LLP, Penn National Insurance Tower, 2 North Second Street,
7th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire, Martson Law Offices, Ten East High Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
3
t
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I do certify that I served a true and correct copy of the within document upon the
following by hand delivery, addressed as follows:
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Martson Deardorff Williams Otto Gilroy & Faller
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
loan C. St
Killian &
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Dated: December 20, 2007
s
.
C-)
? r^ ? - C
c:> } .
3 L ,•
r
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
210 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Attorneys for Respondents
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
Box 58
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs/Respondents
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDLOPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS IN THE NATURE OF AN OBJECTION TO
JURISDICTION, BASED ON PENDENCY OF A PRIOR ACTION AND IN THE
NATURE OF A DEMURRER
Robert M. Mumma, H Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, ("TRAT"), Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma (collectively "Mumma"), by and through their attorneys, Killian & Gephart,
LLP, file the following Preliminary Objections to the Petition to Strike Lis Pendens of
Respondent Danny L. Turner, and in support thereof aver the following:
1. Respondent Robert M. Mumma, R Grantor Retained Annuity Trust ("GRAT") is a
legally established trust entity of which Robert M. Mumma, R is the Grantor and Robert M.
Mumma, II and Susan Mumma are the Trustees. The mailing address of the GRAT is P. O. Box
58, Bowmansdale, PA 17008.
2. Robert M. Mumma, 11 and Susan Mumma are adult individuals, having a legal
residence address of 6880 S.E. Harbor Circle, Stuart, FL 34996.
3. Petitioner is Danny L. Turner ("Turner"), an adult individual residing at 210 Big
Pond Road, Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
4. Turner is the record owner of real estate located in Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, known as 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Pennsylvania (the "Property")
5. The Property was indexed as lis pendens on February 19, 1998 in the Cumberland
County Court of Common Pleas at No. 98-950 CIVIL.
6. The Property was the subject of litigation commenced by the GRAT against
Benedict B. Randolph ("Randolph") in the United States District Court for the Middle District of
Pennsylvania and docketed to No. 98-0087, which action was filed on January 16, 1998 (the
"Middle District litigation").
7. The Middle District litigation sought specific performance (or in the alternative,
damages) of a December 18, 1995 Letter of Intent between the GRAT and Benedict Randolph
2
(hereinafter "Randolph"), whereby the GRAT alleged Randolph was to convey property at 1607
Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Pennsylvania to the GRAT.
8. Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy") was granted leave to intervene in the aforesaid
litigation, as of right, arguing that enforcement of the Letter of Intent would violate other
agreements to which both Pennsy and Mumma (or entities controlled by him) were party.
9. At the time the trial was set to begin before Judge Rambo on January 18, 2000,
the parties to the Middle District litigation reached an agreement for settlement.
10. A Stipulation of Dismissal ("Stipulation") was read into the record, the terms of
which were subsequently reduced to writing in a Settlement Agreement and General Release
("Settlement Agreement").
11. The Stipulation and underlying Settlement Agreement provide, in pertinent part:
2. All claims in the above action have been settled on the following
basis:
b. Pennsy will also give Robert M. Mumma, II a right of first
refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive which will be triggered
on Pennsy's future receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase the property from a
third party which Pennsy is willing to accept. Pennsy will give Mumma twenty
(20) days to exercise this right and ninety (90) days to close from the date of the
exercise.
A copy of the Stipulation is attached to Petitioner's Petition to Strike Lis Pendens and hereto as
Exhibit "A."
12. Turner purchased the Property from Pennsy on July 11, 2007.
3
13. On information and belief, the existence of the indexed lis pendens was known to
Danny L. Turner and/or his counsel prior to the time Danny L. Turner purchased the property
from Pennsy Supply, Inc. on July 11, 2007.
14. At no time did Danny L. Turner or his counsel contact Mumma to ascertain the
status of the dispute that led to the indexing of the lis pendens.
15. Had they done so, they would have been advised that the settlement agreement
that led to the discontinuance of the litigation clearly provided Mumma with a right of first
refusal, which he was prepared to exercise.
16. Turner knew or should have known that the 1607 Industrial Drive property was
subject to Mumma's right of first refusal.
Motion to Deny Petitioner's Petition to Strike Lis Pendens for Lack of Jurisdiction
17. Pursuant to the terms of Stipulation of Dismissal, approved by Judge Rambo, the
Middle District Court retained jurisdiction in the Middle District litigation and, therefore, also
retained jurisdiction over the GRAT, Pennsy, and the Property.
18. Contrary to the assertions of Petitioner Danny L. Turner in paragraph 9 of the
Petition to Strike Lis Pendens, the Property does, in fact, bear relationship to the Middle District
litigation because the Stipulation and Settlement Agreement provide for conditions precedent to
any sale of the Property by Pennsy Supply, Inc. and specifically set forth that the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania "shall retain jurisdiction to enforce [the]
Stipulation and the underlying settlement agreement in this action."
4
Motion to Dew Petitioner's Petition to Strike Lis Pendens
Based on Pendency of Prior Matter
19. A Motion to Join an Additional Respondent, To Enforce a Settlement Agreement
and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions was filed with the U.S.
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania on December 19, 2007. A copy of said
Motion is attached hereto as Exhibit "A."
20. Clearly, there are three parties to the dispute over the purported sale of the
Property by Pennsy to Turner, and those parties are: Pennsy, Turner, and the GRAT.
21. Once the federal court has acted on the Motion to join Turner as an additional
respondent to the matter docketed to No. 98-0087, all three parties will properly be before the
federal court.
22. Petitioner's request to strike lis pendens should be denied because the subject
matter of this Petition, the parties to the Petition, and the resolution of the issues raised by the
Petition are all pending before the Middle District in the action filed in 1998.
23. The simultaneous litigation of both suits would create a duplication of effort and
waste judicial resources. See Crutchfield v. Eaton Coro., 806 A.2d 1259, 1262 (Pa. Super. 2002).
24. All disputes regarding the sale or title to the property that is the subject of the
Middle District litigation and over which the Middle District Court has retained jurisdiction
should, and will, be resolved in federal court.
25. Any and all issues raised by Turner in the Petition to Strike Lis Pendens are
properly within the jurisdiction of the federal court action.
5
Demurrer
26. Even if Petitioner is right and the lis pendens indexed in Cumberland County at
No. 98-950 would have automatically terminated upon the dismissal of the Middle District
litigation, the filing of the December 19, 2007 Motion reopens the Middle District litigation,
permitting Mumma to file a new lis pendens at any time; therefore, Turner is not entitled to the
relief requested in his Petition.
Prior Rulings in this Action
27. Judge Edward E. Guido has issued a Rule to Show Cause and scheduled a hearing
on the Petition to Strike Lis Pendens on January 10, 2008 at 2:30 p.m.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs/Respondents respectfully request that this Honorable Court
grant their Preliminary Objections denying Petitioner's Petition to Strike Lis Pendens and remove
this matter to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania where jurisdiction
properly lies.
ted,
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Date: December 20, 2007 Attorneys for Plaintiffs/Respondents, Robert M.
Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust,
Robert M. Mumma, 11 and Susan Mumma
xi:Ninm
8 E :8 Wit 03 030 LODZ
1 bViG,Nv ud :IjHi dQ
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
P.O. Box 58
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
t
Plaintiffs/Respondents
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98 - 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ORDER OF COURT
QA
AND NOW this I day of January, 2008, upon request of counsel for the Petitioner,
Danny L. Turner, and it being represented to the Court that counsel for Respondent Robert M.
Mumma, H, does not object, the hearing scheduled on the Petition to Strike Lis Pendens in the
above matter which was scheduled for Thursday, January 10, 2008, at 2:30 p.m. is continued
generally.
The hearing will be rescheduled at the request of either partor, in the alternative, the
case will be listed for Argument upon agreement of counselpl? e p ' s.
BY
Judge
cc: Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
1'E.S Mgt LeC L
1
go tE d 0! €CIT E
r^; e i rn, ?„ f
r w
F:\FILFSWkm\7436\7436.43.AFF
Crated: 9/20/04 0:06FM
Revim& 2/4108 9:49AM
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS OTTO GILROY & FALLER
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
I.D. 29943
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Attorneys for
ROBERT M. NIUMMA, II, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST NO. 98-950
P.O. Box 2255
614 North Front Street CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Harrisburg, PA 17105
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA,
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
s _qC
AFFIDAVIT
I, Danny L. Turner, being duly sworn according to law to depose and state as follows:
On July 11, 2007, when I purchased real estate at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania (Property), I was not personally aware of the existence of a Court Order which
required Pennsy Supply, Inc. (Penny) to give Robert M. Mumma, II, (Mumma) a Right of First
Refusal to purchase the Property nor was I personally aware of the existence of a written agreement
whereby Pennsy gave Mumma a Right of First Refusal to purchase the Property.
2
I did not personally become aware of any claims Mumma was asserting with respect to the Property
until after July It, 2007.
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
L.
??? .. ?? S? 5YLVA?`11A
N10S 0 ER PU h Y
BED J.
o 'Ian. 26, 2012
OWY
On this, the -day of , 2008, before me, a Notary Public in and
for the County of Cumberland, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the undersigned officer,
personally appeared Danny L. Turner, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person
whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same
for the purposes therein contained.
Notary Public
R"
n ??
?
;?7
?
` ^'jjf
\?
'
?
T
,.
t?i! ? _
``
F J4..?
?
Y
?-'f^{
?
l ? ^S.
I 1 11.1: 1(; ji•:t1.'.1:i,. I -:,rr,i,l1?.;1:1 -.;_o
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie .I. Marvell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
MARTSON DLARDORFF WII.I.IAIvIS OT'I'O GILROY & FAI.LI R
MARTSON LAW OFIICI:S
10 East f l igh Strut
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST
P.O. Box 2255
614 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17105
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 98 - 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION -- LAW
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville. North Carolina
Defendant
SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS
Danny L. Turner, by and through his attorneys, MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS
OTTO GILROY & FALLER, hereby files a Supplement Petition to Strike the Lis Pendens filed in
the above case, and states as follows:
1. Petitioner Danny L. Turner filed a Petition To Strike Lis Pendens (Petition) in the
above case on December 10, 2007.
2. By Order of Court dated December 14, 2007, the Honorable Edward E. Guido issued
a Rule to Show Cause on Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, Robert M.
Mumma, II, individually, and Susan Mumma to show cause why the Petition to Strike the Lis
Pendens should not be granted. Said Order scheduled a hearing in the case on January 10, 2008.
3. On December 20, 2007, Robert M. Mumma, 11, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust,
Robert M. Mumma, II, and Susan Mumma (collectively "Mumma") filed Preliminary Objections
to the Petition in the nature of an objection to jurisdiction, based upon pendency of a prior action,
and in the nature of a demurrer.
4. By agreement of the parties, the hearing scheduled for January 10, 2008, was
continued generally.
5. By Order of the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo at Docket No. 98-CV-0087 in the United
States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Petitioner Danny L. Turner was joined
as a party in the Federal action at the mentioned docket number which formed the basis of the lis
pendens filed in Cumberland County at the above referenced docket number.
6. After a hearing, the filing of briefs and oral argument, the Honorable John E. Jones,
III, issued a decision November 19, 2008, in the Federal action which, essentially, dismissed
Petitioner Turner from the Federal action and ordered "Turner shall retain possession of the Carlisle
property subject to the term of his contract with Pennsy." The Order further denied Mumma's
request for an opportunity to exercise a right of first refusal that it claimed to have with Pennsy
Supply, Inc. A copy of the decision and Order of the Federal Court is attached hereto and marked
"Exhibit All.
7. The decision of the Federal Court is conclusive and binding on all parties and,
essentially, renders the lis pendens filed by Mumma as void.
8. The lis pendens may be perceived as a potential cloud on the title of the property
owned by Turner, and Turner requests this Honorable Court to strike the lis pendens.
9. The only Judge who previously participated in this case is the Honorable Edward E.
Guido who signed the Rule to Show Cause as mentioned above.
10. Thomas W. Scott, Esquire, is legal counsel for Mumma and it is understood by the
undersigned that Mumma does not concur in this Petition.
WHEREFORE, Petitioner requests your Honorable Court to strike the indexing of the lis
pendens filed in the above matter.
Respectfully Submitted,
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
Hubert X. Gilroy, Es ire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Date: November 4, 2008 Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 1 of 13
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, and
SUSAN MUMMA
Movants,
v
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Respondent,
V.
Civil No. 98-cv-0087
Judge John E. Jones III
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Respondent.
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER
November 19, 2008
THE BACKGROUND OF THIS ORDER IS AS FOLLOWS:
Pending before this Court is a self-styled "'First Motion to Enforce
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, to Join Additional Respondent
and to Impose Sanctions filed by the Movant" ("Movant's Motion" or "Motion"),
which was filed on December 19, 2007. (Rec. Doc. 121). For the reasons that
1
EXHIBIT
A
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 2 of 13
follow, we will grant in part and deny in part the Movant's Motion.
FACTUAL BACKGROUND:
In 1998, litigation was commenced to the above caption between Robert M.
Mumma ("Mumma") and Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy") regarding a piece of land
in Carlisle (the "Carlisle property" or "Property") that was used for manufacturing
concrete. Mumma recorded a lis pendens on the Property in Cumberland County
while it was the subject of litigation, which was ultimately resolved through a
settlement agreement that was memorialized by a court order. That agreement
gave Pennsy ownership of the Property but also granted Mumma a first right of
refusal if Pennsy ever chose to sell the Property. Unlike the lis pendens, the right
of first refusal was not placed on the public record in Cumberland County.
A few years later, Danny L. Turner ("Turner") expressed interest in the
Property. He retained counsel who conducted a title search and discovered the
aforementioned lis pendens on the Carlisle Property. According to Turner's
counsel, the following steps were taken to ensure the Property was not
encumbered: (i)Turner received verbal assurances from Pennsy's attorneys at Saul
Ewing that the matter involving the lis pendens had been settled and dismissed; (ii)
he obtained a copy of the docket report` showing that the underlying case in federal
' The docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details."
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 3 of 13
court that formed the basis of the lis pendens had been dismissed with prejudice;
and (iii) received an executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were
no agreements affecting the premises.
Upon receiving these assurances, Turner made an offer for the Property.
Pennsy did not inform Turner of Mumma's first right of refusal nor did Pennsy
notify Mumma that it had a potential purchaser for the Property. Instead, Pennsy
ignored Mumma's first right of refusal and sold the Property in 2007 to Turner
under a deed restriction that operated in perpetuity, prohibiting Turner, and all
future grantees, from using the premises to manufacture concrete.
When Mumma later learned of this transaction, he filed a motion to compel
Pennsy to comply with the settlement agreement and honor.the first right of refusal
(the aforementioned "Movant's Motion"). At that time, the case was before our
colleague, the Honorable Sylvia Rambo, who, in addition to allowing the joinder of
Turner, scheduled a hearing for April 3, 2008 (the "Hearing") to take testimony
thereon. (Rec. Doc. 134).
PROCEDURAL HISTORY:
At the Hearing, Judge Rambo appropriately bifurcated the Movant's Motion
into discrete portions, the first concerning the merits of the motion ("merits
portion") and the second relating to the nature and extent of relief, if any should be
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11119/2008 Page 4 of 13
afforded ("relief portion"). Judge Rambo conducted the Hearing and entered an
Order directing the parties to address three distinct legal issues.' (Rec. Doc. 139).
These issues were fully briefed when Judge Rambo entered an Order of Recusal on
August 1, 2008. (Rec. Doc. 150). The case was then assigned to Chief Judge
Yvette Kane, who, on August 6, 2008, also entered an Order of Recusal that, in
turn, resulted in the reassignment of the case to us. (Rec. Doc. 140).
Oral argument regarding the briefed legal issues commenced before us on
November 131 2008. After digesting the substance of the arguments at that
proceeding, and upon a review of the submissions made prior thereto by all parties,
we are now prepared to resolve the merits portion of the Movant's Motion.
Accordingly, the following discussion will focus exclusively on the merits portion
of the motion; issues of relief will be addressed at a later time.
DISCUSSION:
At bottom, the dispute presents the Court with two overarching issues, which
we will address separately below.
A. DID PENNSY BREACH THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
WHEN IT FAILED TO HONOR MUMMA'S FIRST RIGHT
' These issues were: (i) Was the restrictive use covenant in the Pennsy-Turner deed valid
and enforceable?; (ii) May the first right of refusal be recorded and if so, must it in order to be
enforceable? (iii) Did the lis pendens impart constructive notice to Turner such that he had a
duty to investigate the outcome ofthe1998 Mumma-Pennsy litigation?
4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 5 of 13
REFUSAL AND, IF SO, WHAT WAS THE CONSEQUENCE
OF THAT BREACH?
Despite the somewhat contrived controversy regarding this issue set forth in
the briefs filed by Pennsy, at oral argument Pennsy freely admitted that it had in
fact breached the settlement agreement when it failed to notify Mumma that it had
a potential purchaser for the Carlisle property. Implicit in this concession is
Pennsy's admission that Mumma's first right of refusal was valid and enforceable
despite Mumma's failure to record it.' After all, if the first right of refusal was
void as a result of the failure to record, Pennsy's failure to notify Mumma of a
potential purchaser for the Carlisle property would not have resulted in a breach.
The consequence of this breach was, unquestionably, that Pennsy sold the Carlisle
property, encumbered by a perpetual use restriction prohibiting concrete
manufacturing on it, to Turner. These conclusions lead us to focus on the second
and more complex issue that follows.
B. WAS TURNER A GOOD FAITH PURCHASER?
When a seller (in this case Pennsy) transfers a parcel of land, in which a
' Indeed, we believe this implicit admission to be in line with Pennsylvania law, which
has held, "the purpose of the recording statutes is to protect subsequent bona fide purchasers
from injuries caused by secret pledges of property." Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Game
Comm'n v. Ulrich, 565 A.2d 859, 861 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 1989). 'Therefore, "Pennsylvania
recording laws ... do not render invalid an unrecorded interest in land." Id. at 862 (citing Land
v. Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. 515 A.2d 1024 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 1986).
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 6 of 13
third party (in this case Mumma) has an interest or right, to a buyer (in this case
Turner), the buyer can retain possession of the property unencumbered by the third
party's interest or right if the buyer is a ``bona fide purchaser." See Wurtzel v. Park
"Towne Place Apartments Ltd. P'ship, 2001 WL 1807405 (Pa. Com. Pl. 2001);
Semenko v. Campbell, 28 Pa. D&C 618, 620 (Pa. Com. Pl. 1982). A "bona fide"
or "good faith" purchaser is a party who "pay [s] valuable consideration, ha/s] no
notice of the outstanding rights of others,' and act[s] in good faith." Poffenberaer
v. Goldstein, 776 A.2d 1037, 1042 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 2001) (citations omitted).
In this instance, it is not contested that Turner paid valuable consideration
for the Carlisle property. However, Mumma does assert that Turner is not a bona
fide purchaser because Turner had notice of his first right 6f refusal and therefore
did not pursue his course of conduct in good faith. Turner, obviously, denies this
assertion. Both parties use the same sequence of events to bolster their claims,
which is as follows.
After expressing an interest in purchasing the Property, Turner retained
counsel who conducted a title search and discovered that there was a lis pendens on
the Property. According to Turner's counsel, the following steps were taken to
' In claiming that one has no notice of the rights of another, the claimant must exercise
due diligence in attempting to discover said third party rights. Lyon v.Alley, 130 U.S. 177, 183
(1889).
6
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 7 of 13
ensure the Property was not encumbered: (i) he obtained a copy of the docket
report' showing that the underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of
the lis pendens had been dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal
assurances from Pennsy's attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the lis
pendens had been settled and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an
executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements
affecting the premises.
Mumma argues that the lis pendens discovered by Turner's counsel, in
tandem with the docket report's direction to "see order for details," imparted
constructive notice to Turner that there was a potential cloud on the title to the
Carlisle property-. Accordingly, Mumma posits that Turner's decision to proceed
with the transaction without discovering the nature of the encumbrance exhibits a
failure of due diligence constituting bad faith, which prevents Turner from
qualifying as a bona fide purchaser. Mumma avers that Turner could have done
any of a number of things, all within the range of due diligence, that would have
enabled him to discover the nature of encumbrance. For instance, Mumma argues
that 'Turner could have contacted Mumma himself, since Mumma was the party
' As previously noted, the docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details," At
the Hearing, Turner's counsel admitted, with great candor, that upon seeing the order he
attempted to access PACER to verify the contents of the order but was unsuccessful in doing so.
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 8 of 13
benefitted by the encumbrance, to inquire about the lis pendens. Additionally,
Mumma asserts that Turner could have checked the docket for the settlement order,
as was suggested by the docket report.
Conversely, Turner aptly notes that "lis pendens" literally means "a pending
suit." McCahill v.Roberts, 219 A.2d 306, 308 (Pa. 1996), and that a lis pendens
serves to give notice to third parties of one thing and one thing alone: that the
property is subject to litigation, Vintage Homes v. Leven, 554 A.2d 989 (Pa.
Super. 1989). Thus, Turner avers that when he discovered a lis pendens on the
Property, he was put on notice that it was the subject of litigation. With this
knowledge, Turner received two separate assurances from Pennsy's counsel that
the lis pendens was no longer on the Property and that the title to the Property was
free and clear of any encumbrances. Turner admits that he could have called
Mumma to verify the nature of the encumbrance. He also admits that he could
have expended additional energy in checking the settlement order. But, as Turner
notes, the proper question is not could he have done these things; rather, it is
should he have been required to do them. When taken in the context of Turner's
course of conduct, we believe that the answer to the latter question is a resounding
no.
"Due diligence" is defined as `'[tjhe diligence reasonably expected from, and
8
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 9 of 13
ordinarily exercised by, a person who seeks to satisfy a legal requirement or to
discharge an obligation." BLACK'S LAw DICTIONARY (8th ed.). Therefore, in the
instant matter, "due diligence" would be the degree of diligence expected from an
ordinary purchaser of real property in attempting to discover encumbrances on the
sought-after property. Although we have already recounted Turner's actions
(through his counsel Mr. Otto) in this regard, we summarize them again to
emphasize our point. In attempting to discover if the Carlisle property was
encumbered, Turner (i) obtained a copy of the docket report showing that the
underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of the lis pendens had been
dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal assurances from Pennsy's
attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the lis pendens had been settled
and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an executed seller's affidavit
from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements affecting the premises. In our
considered view, after completing these steps and receiving these assurances, an
ordinary purchaser could reasonably expect that the property was free from
encumbrances. Turner, through his counsel Mr. Otto, did just that.'
b Indeed, we are of the opinion that Turner's actions were entirely reasonable, and that his
inquiries justifiably led him to believe that the Carlisle property was unencumbered. As a matter
of fact, our determination that Turner was a bona fide purchaser is buttressed by the actions of
both Pennsy and Mumma. First, the seemingly blatant misrepresentations made by Pennsy's
counsel to Turner's counsel regarding the clarity of the title to the Carlisle property supports our
belief that Turner did not in fact have notice, constructive or otherwise, of Mumma's first right
9
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 10 of 13
Mumma would have us impose upon Turner a duty that would have required
him to obtain assurances from each party involved in the underlying litigation
regarding the details of its resolution, despite the fact that the docket showed it to
have been fully resolved. Surely, this would saddle Turner and title searchers
everywhere with an excessively onerous burden requiring verification of clear title
from each and every potential source of any type of encumbrance.' This
undoubtedly would hamper the free alienability of real property, a concept which is
supported by a strong public policy. Peters v. East Penn Tw,V Sch Dist., 126 A.2d
802, 802 (Pa. Super. 1957). We decline the invitation to impossibly complicate
property acquisition by imposing such a heavy burden. Accordingly, we find that
Turner was a bona fide purchaser, for value. Therefore, Turner's interest is
superior to that of Mumma's, meaning that Turner shall retain the Property despite
Mumma's first right of refusal.
of refusal. Second, while Mumma certainly was not required to record the first right of refusal,
his failure to do so is another factor that militates in favor of the conclusion that Turner had no
notice of the first right of refusal and therefore acted in good faith when proceeding to
consummate the transaction for the Carlisle property.
' The professional diligence required by counsel in real estate transactions is grindingly
difficult on a good day. Simply put, we believe that Mr. Otto did everything that could have
been reasonably expected of him in representing Mr. Turner. Having practiced in this same area,
we clearly would have followed the same course as Mr. Otto did in examining the title to the
Carlisle property. It could never have been within Mr. Otto's contemplation that Penns_N's
counsel's failure to reveal the right of first refusal would be followed by an affidavit from
Pennsy itself to the same effect.
10
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 11 of 13
CONCLUSION:
We now conclude yet another chapter in this ongoing legal saga between
Mumma and Pennsy, which has now effectively protracted itself over the span of a
decade. Regrettably for Turner, he was pulled into the vortex of this maelstrom as
R
a result of his purchase of the Carlisle property, however, our resolution will end
his participation in the case sub judice. He departs along with the Carlisle
property, largely due to Mumma's unfortunate decision, as aforestated, not to
record his right of first refusal.
The above having been said, we would be remiss in failing to note our
disquietude over the conduct by both Pennsy and its counsel. Clearly, absent their
acts, which were disingenuous to say the least, we would not be at this point.
While the facts and law will not allow us to provide Mumma with his fondest hope,
the denial of the property to Turner and effective reinstatement of the right of first
refusal, we will now move to a second phase that will allow Mumma to state a case
for alternative relief.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED THAT:
The relief requested in the Movant's Motion (Rec. Doc. 121) is
GRANTED IN PART and DENIED IN PART to the following
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 12 of 13
extent:
a. The Motion is GRANTED insofar as the Movant asserts that
Pennsy breached the settlement agreement.
b. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal against Turner,
the bona fide purchaser for value.
C. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to purchase the Carlisle Property from Mumma on
terms similar or identical to those conditioned upon Turner.
2. Turner shall RETAIN possession of the Carlisle property subject to
the terms of his contract with Pennsy. Turner is furthermore
DISMISSED from the case.
3. Both Mumma and Pennsy shall submit initial briefs regarding the
measure of damages resulting from Pennsy's breach of the settlement
by December 2, 2008. The parties shall submit reply briefs, if any, by
December 16, 2008.
4. The Court will schedule additional proceedings as necessary after a
review of the requested submissions.
12
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 13 of 13
S/ John E. Jones III
John E. Jones III
United States District Judge
13
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Shelly R. Brooks, an authorized agent for Martson Deardorff Williams Otto Gilroy &
Faller, hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Petition was served this date by depositing same
in the Post Office at Carlisle, PA, first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian Gephart
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17101
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
Shel y . rooks
Ten a High Street
Carl , PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Dated: November dt , 2008
c`°, ?,
- ?a
v
t ; ,.r,i
--=,A ,_?
;.4
F??
?, _y .
?,
_... -?.
?? : -, y
n
.. _.,
_?
c7
?._„, ? ?
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, on this X*day of N , 2008, upon consideration
of the Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens, a Rule is hereby issued upon Robert M. Mumma,
11, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, Robert M. Mumma, 11, and Susan Mumma, to show cause, if any
they have, why the Supplement Motion to Strike Lis Pendens should not be granted.
This Rule is returnable at a hearing scheduled in the matter in Courtroom No. 3 of the
Cumberland County Courthouse on the day of 200Er at
•
3• ( ,o'clock, k.m.
BY TH
BY
Edward E. Guido, Judge
Distribution:
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013 /
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian Gephart
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886 VI-t t
Harrisburg, PA 17101
7-1!
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
210 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717)232-1851
Attorneys for Respondents
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II GRANTOR IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Box 58 PENNSYLVANIA
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
NO. 98-950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Box 508
McCormick Road
Bowmansdale, PA 17008
Plaintiffs/Respondents
v.
BENEDICT B. RANDLOPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, North Carolina
Defendant
RESPONSE TO SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS
Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, and Robert M. Mumma, II and
Susan Mumma, by and through their attorneys, Killian & Gephart, LLP, hereby file the within
Response to the Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens, and state as follows:
Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Denied as stated. The Order of the Honorable John E. Jones, III, issued November 19,
2008 and attached as Exhibit A to the Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens is a
writing that speaks for itself, and any characterization inconsistent with the Order of
Court is denied. By way of further answer, Judge Jones' Order states:
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. The relief requested in Movant's Motion (Rec. Doc. 121) is GRANTED
IN PART and DENIED IN PART to the following extent:
a. The Motion is GRANTED insofar as the Movant asserts that
Pennsy breached the settlement agreement.
b. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal against Turner, the
bona fide purchaser for value.
C. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to purchase the Carlisle Property from Mumma on
terms similar or identical to those conditioned upon Turner.
2. Turner shall RETAIN possession of the Carlisle property subject to the
terms of his contract with Pennsy. Turner is furthermore DISMISSED
from the case.
7. Denied as an incorrect conclusion of law. By way of further answer, Judge Jones'
November 19, 2008 Order is not a final appealable order pursuant to F.R.C.P. 54, which
provides, in pertinent part, that:
2
[A]ny order or other decision, however designated, that adjudicates
fewer than all the claims or the rights and liabilities of fewer than
all the parties does not end the action as to any of the claims or
parties and may be revised at any time before the entry of a
judgment adjudicating all the claims and all the parties' rights and
liabilities.
F.R.C.P. 54(b). It is the present intention of Mumma to appeal Judge Jones' Order
granting possession of the Property to Turner and dismissing Turner from the case at such
time as the Order becomes final and appealable. (Appendix A)
8. Denied as stated. The existing lis pendens is a cloud on the title to the real property. By
way of further answer, Respondent Mumma has, contemporaneously with the filing of
this Response, filed a praecipe requesting that an additional lis pendens be indexed
against the Property on account the pending litigation currently lodged in Judge Jones'
courtroom.
9. Admitted.
10. Admitted. By way of further answer, who will ultimately become the owner of the 1607
Industrial Drive property is a question squarely lodged within the jurisdiction of the
United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and at some time in
the future, quite possibly within the Third Circuit Court of Appeals of the United States
of America. Both the original lis pendens filed February 19, 1998 indexed at No. 98-950
Civil, and the presently filed lis pendens specifically identifying Danny L. Turner as
Property Owner, are properly filed in this Court and should remain of record. The
purpose of the lis pendens is to provide notice to the world that there is existing litigation
3
that may affect title to the Property. That was true in 1998; it was true in 2007; and it
remains true in 2008.
WHEREFORE, Respondents Robert M. Mumma, II, and related entities respectfully
request this Honorable Court to enter an Order denying the relief requested in the Petition and the
Supplemental Petition.
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. 415681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Tel: (717) 232-1851
Respectfully submitted
lam/
Dated: December 9, 2008
Attorneys for Plaintiffs/Respondents, Robert M.
Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust,
Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma
4
A
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsenAkilliang_ephart. com
tscotta,killiangephart.com
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II : CUMBERLAND COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA
and Susan Mumma,
Plaintiffs No. _ 7 ?' C? `f G i .'??
V.
Benedict B. Randolph
V. .
Pennsy Supply, Inc.,
Defendant
V. .
Danny L. Turner, .
Additional Defendant
PRAECIPE FOR LIS PENDENS
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please index the below-described action for specific performance of a contract for the sale
of real property as a lis pendens against the following real property, which property is more
particularly described at Cumberland County Deed Book 280, Page 4684, a copy of which is
attached hereto as Exhibit "A," and which is known and numbered as:
1607 Industrial Drive
Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
An action is pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of
Pennsylvania, and is docketed as Civil Action No. 98-CV-0087 titled Motion for an Order
Pursuant to Rule 7(b) to Join an Additional Respondent, to Enforce a Settlement Agreement and
Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions. A copy of the Motion is
attached hereto as Exhibit "B."
Mumma sought to join Danny L. Turner as an Additional Respondent in the foregoing
pending action, and on April 3, 2008, The Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo issued an Order joining
Danny L. Turner to the pending action. A copy of said Order is attached hereto as Exhibit "C."
Following recusal of Judge Rambo and reassignment to The Honorable John E. Jones Ill, a
hearing was held on November 13, 2008. On November 19, 2008, Judge Jones issued a
Memorandum and Order granting possession of the 1607 Industrial Road property to Turner and
dismissing Turner from the case. A copy of the Memorandum and Order is attached hereto as
Exhibit "D." Judge Jones' November 19, 2008 Order is not a final, appealable Order pursuant
to F.R.C.P. 54 which provides, in pertinent part, that:
[A]ny order or other decision, however designated, that adjudicates
fewer than all the claims or the rights and liabilities of fewer than
all the parties does not end the action as to any of the claims or
parties and may be revised at any time before the entry of a
judgment adjudicating all the claims and all the parties' rights and
liabilities.
F.R.C.P. 54(b). It is the present intention of Mumma to appeal Judge Jones' Order granting
possession of the property to Turner and dismissing Turner from the case at such time as the
Order becomes final and appealable.
2
The undersigned hereby certifies that the pending U.S. Middle District action affects title
to or other interest in the above-described real property.
Respectfully submitted,
4 - V41-- -
Tho as W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Date: 2-U 0 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
I? u
.,
Pareel NSUB-0574-014C
Exhibit "W'
P00ERr P. ZIEGLER
SPECIAL WARRANTY DEMCORDER OF OEEO,.
C`1'1-r8ERLAt46 COU11rY-1
THIS INDENTURE is made the IL day of July in yc'] ven
(2007) between PENNSY SUPPLY, INC., a Pennsylvania Corporation (here' called the
Grantor), of the one part, and DANNY L. TURNER, of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
(hereinafter called the Grantee), of the other part.
WITNESSETH, that the Grantor, for and in consideration of the sum of One 00!100
($1.00) lawful money of the United States of America, u fd it t l and truly paid by the Grantee,
at or before the sealing and delivery hereof, the receipt whereof is here knowledged, has
granted, bargained and sold, aliened, enfeoffed, released and confirmed, and by seats
does grant, bargain and sell, alien, enfepf ; release and confirm unto the Grantee his heirs an
assigns,
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situate in the Borough of Carlisle, County
of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described as set, forth in the
legal description attached to this Deed as Exhibit "A" and incorporated by reference.
UNDER AND SUBJECT to all conditions, easements, rights of way, agreements,
Covenants, liens, reservations, exceptions, restrictions and other encumbrances of record, to the
extent still valid, subsisting and enforceable.
. FURTHER UNDER AND SUBJECT to the covenant and agreement that the real
property conveyed in this deed shall not be used for, nor shall said real property be the site or
location of, the manufaoWm or production of concrete. This covenant and agreement shall be
perpetual, shall be binding upon Grantee and Grantee's heirs and assigns, shall run with the land
and shall be enforceable by Grantor and its successors and assigns.
TOGETHER with all and singular the irnproverncrtts, ways, streets, alleys; driveways,
passages, waters, water-courses, rights, liberties, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances,
whatsoever unto the hereby granted premises belonging, or in any wise appertaining, and the
reversions and remainders, rents, issues, and profits thereof, and all the estate, right, title,
interest, property, claim and demand whatsoever of it, the Grantor, in law, equity, or otherwise
howsoever, of, in and to the same and every part thereof.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said lot or piece of ground above described,with the
buildings and improvements thereon erected, hereditaments and premises hereby granted, or
mentioned and intended so to be, with the appurtenances, unto the Grantee his heirs and assigns,
to and for the only proper use and behoof of the Grantee, his heirs and assigns forever.
UNDER AND SUBJECT, as aforesaid.
134 1,.17110W I BooK 280 Pht14684
AND the Grantor, for itself and its successors and assigns, does covenant, promise and
agree, to and with the Grantee his heirs and assigns, by these presents, that it, the Grantor, and its
successors and assigns, all. and singular the hereditamcnts and premises hereby granted or
mentioned and intended so to be, with the appurtenances, unto the Grantee, his heirs and assigns,
against the Grantor and its successors and assigns, and against all and every person and persons
whomsoever ]awfully claiming or to claim the same or any part thereof, by, from or under it or
any of them, shall and will, subject as aforesaid, SPECIALLY WARRANT and forever
DEFEND.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Grantor has hereunto set its corporate hand and seal.
Dated the day and year first above written.
SIGNED AND DELIVERED
IN THE PRESENCE OF,
ATTEST:
By:
Print Name Dere S. Venderslice
Title: Scorc6lry
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.
By: 0- -.'?
Print Name: y O. Good
Titlq: Vice esident
134714.1 711UT
2 BQOK 280 PACE4685
. 4
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA.
f SS
COUNTY OF
On this // - day of July 2007, before me a Notary Public in and for the
Commonwealth of pennsylvania, the undersigned officer, personally appeared Randy 0. Good,
who acknowledged himself to be the Vice President of Pennsy Supply, lac, a corporation, and
that as such officer, being authorized to do so, executed the foregoing instrument for the purposes
therein contained by signing the name of the corporation by himself as such officer.
In Witness Whereof, I hereunto set my official seal.
. SEAL]
Notary Public
ot+ MOM ALTH of e>7+NSY1.v?xtA
NOr`AtMiAL SEAL
vjq x s of, Not y Pubtie My Commission Expires:
Ca6iiele&to Oimbc6W COMP
M eommiuiaaat ' Dctaoba10,20EQ
The address of the within-named Grantee is:
1 LAA Z (IV C,4, t (t?j
9r>o>,?
?o?l
By: ?-
Attorney for Orantee
rccurded
i'land County PA
"Are
r Recorder of Deeds
1)431{.1 MOW
800K 260 PAGE4686
Exhibit "A"
ALL THAT CEPtTAIN piece or parcel of land situate in the Borough of Carlisle,
County of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania designated as Parcel No. 7 on a
certain Land Subdivision Plan for Ritner Park Associates, recorded on March 16, 1984 in
Cumberland County Plan Book 45, Page 46, bounded and described in accordance with said
Land Subdivision Plan, as follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a point on the eastern boundary line of Industrial Drive (a 60' wide right
of way containing a paved cartway having a width of 36', more or, less); and at the northwestern
oomer of Parcel No. 2 on said Land Subdivision Plan; thence extending from said beginning
point along the astern boundary line of Industrial Drive North 17 degrees 50 minutes 30 seconds
West a distance of 208.13 feet to a point on the southern line of Parcel No. 3 on the above
referenced Land Subdivision Plan; thence along said boundary line North 72 degrees' 9 minutes
30 seconds East a distance of 500 feet to a point along lands now or formerly of Carlisle Syntex
Systems; thence along said boundary line South 17 degrees 50 minutes 30 seconds East a
distance of 208.13 feet to a point at the northeastern corner of Parcel No. 2 on said Land
Subdivision Plan; thence along said Parcel No. 2 South 72 degrees 9 minutes 30 seconds West a
distance of 500 feet to a point, being the point or place of BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 2.389 acres, more or less.
BEING the same premises which Benedict B. Randolph by deed dated February 9, 2000
and recorded February 10, 2000 in Cumberland County Record Book 216, Page 64, granted and
conveyed unto Pennsy Supply, Inc., Grantor and Party of the First Part herein.
?p
134314.1 1110W C. r+ .???pp r.31t 4u BQOK 2$ PACE4$87
.H ?MGm+pW pN C4??w?f 4ca ?'NN?. c41t T?J?1 4
pvN?.ABdOi?N WOO
cx k,?'f j3
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsen(a killianaephart.com
tscott(-aWllianZephart.com
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma,
Movants
V.
Benedict B. Randolph
V.
Pennsy Supply, Inc.,
Respondent
V.
Danny L. Turner,
Additional Respondent :
No. 98-0087
Page 1 of 15
Judge Sylvia H. Rambo
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
MOTION FOR AN ORDER PURSUANT TO RULE 7(b)
TO JOIN AN ADDITIONAL RESPONDENT,
TO ENFORCE A SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND STIPULATION OF
DISMISSAL FOR CONTEMPT AND TO IMPOSE SANCTIONS
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 2 of 15
Movants, Robert M. Mumma., II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust ("GRAT"),
Robert M. Mumma, II, and Susan Mumma. (collectively "Mumma"), by and
through their attorneys, Killian & Gephart, LLP, pursuant to F.R.C.P. 7 (b) hereby
file this Motion to Join an Additional Respondent, to Enforce a Settlement
Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions,
and in support thereof, aver the following:
1. The Parties
1. Movant, Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
("GRAT") is a legally established trust entity of which Robert M. Mumma, II is
the Grantor and Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma are the Trustees. The
mailing address of the GRAT is P. O. Box 58, Bowmansdale, PA 17008.
2. Movants Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma are adult
individuals, having a legal residence address of 6880 S.E. Harbor Circle, Stuart,
FL 34996.
3. Respondent, Pennsy Supply, Inc. (hereinafter "Pennsy"), is a
Pennsylvania Corporation with a registered business address C/O CT Corporation
System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pennsy regularly does business in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 3 of 15
4. On information and belief, Additional Respondent, Danny L. Turner
(hereinafter "Tumer"), is an adult individual having an address of 210 Big Pond
Road, Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
II. The Original Dispute
5. The GRAT commenced litigation against Benedict B. Randolph
("Randolph") by filing a Complaint on January 16, 1998 in the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and docketed to No. 98-
0087.
6. The litigation sought specific performance (or in the alternative,
damages) of a December 18, 1995 Letter of Intent between the GRAT and
Benedict Randolph (hereinafter "Randolph"), whereby the GRAT alleged
Randolph was to convey property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Pennsylvania
to the GRAT.
7. Pennsy was granted leave to intervene in the aforesaid litigation, as of
right, arguing that enforcement of the Letter of Intent would violate other
agreements to which both Pennsy and Mumma (or entities controlled by him) were
party.
3
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 4 of 15
8. Pennsy also asserted claims against Randolph for specific
performance of its alleged right of first refusal to acquire the 1607 Industrial Drive
property and against Mr. Mumma for fraud.
9. Both Pennsy and Mumma are in the business of producing, selling
and delivering concrete, concrete by-products and asphalt in and around
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
10. The 1607 Industrial Drive property had particular value to both
Pennsy and Mumma because it is in an industrial park that permits concrete plants
in a geographic area where the product is in demand and it is difficult, if not
impossible, to site another similar plant due to zoning and other land use
regulations. The location of a concrete manufacturing plant is very important to
the profitable operation of a concrete manufacturing business due to the costs
associated with transporting the product to the end user.
11. All parties denied the allegations set forth in the claims by and
against one another in the litigation.
12. Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc. in the above-captioned litigation
were Michael A. Finio, Esquire and Stephen M. Donweber, Esquire, Attorney ID
Nos. 38872 and 71170, respectively, of the law firm of Saul, Ewing, Remick &
4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 5 of 15
Saul LLP, Penn National Insurance Tower, 2 North Second Street, 7th Floor,
Harrisburg, PA 17101.
13. The case was assigned to the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo.
III. Settlement of the Original Dispute via Stipulation of Dismissal and
Settlement Agreement and General Release
14. A non jury trial on the issues presented in the original dispute was
scheduled to begin before Judge Rambo on January 18, 2000.
15. Prior to trial the parties reached a settlement of their differences.
16. At the time the trial was set to begin before Judge Rambo on
January 18, 2000, Stephen Donweber, Esquire, representing Pennsy Supply,
reported to the Court that the "parties to this action have settled all of their
claims," said settlement being made pursuant to "the authority of the respective
attorneys to settle on behalf of their clients." (Tr. 2-3). A copy of the transcript of
the settlement hearing before Judge Rambo is attached hereto as Exhibit "A."
17. A Stipulation of Dismissal ("Stipulation") was read into the record,
the terms of which were subsequently reduced to writing in a Settlement
Agreement and General Release ("Settlement Agreement").
5
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 6 of 15
18. The Stipulation and ultimate Settlement Agreement provide, in
pertinent part:
2. All claims in the above action have been settled on the
following basis:
a. Penny Supply, Inc. will purchase the property at
1607 Industrial Drive in Carlisle, Pennsylvania from Ben Randolph
for $300,000. At settlement, the proceeds of this payment shall be
divided as follows: $217,500 shall be paid to Benedict Randolph and
$82,500 shall be paid to the Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust in care of Robert M. Mumma., II Trustee. Pennsy
Supply will get title and the deed to the Carlisle property at 1607
Industrial Drive.
b. Penny will also give Robert M. Mumma, II a
right of first refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive
which will be triggered on Pennsy's future receipt of a bona fide offer
to purchase the property from a third party which Pennsy is willing to
accept. Pennsy will give Mumma twenty (20) days to exercise this
right and ninety (90) days to close from the date of the exercise.
A copy of the Stipulation is attached hereto as Exhibit "B." A copy of the
Settlement Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit "C."
19. According to the terms of the Stipulation, failure to comply with the
terms of the Stipulation "will result in proceedings for contempt against the non-
complying party." See Exhibit "B," paragraph 5.
20. Attorneys for Pennsy Supply, Inc. (Michael A. Finio, Esquire or
Stephen M. Donweber, Esquire) executed the Stipulation on January 18, 2000.
6
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 7 of 15
21. The Stipulation was approved by the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo and
entered of record on January 18, 2000 at document number 114.
22. The docket entry reads:
STIPULATION AND ORDER signed by cnsl and Judge
Sylvia H. Rambo OF DISMISSAL: 1) All clms in the
above action are hereby dismissed with prejudice by all
parties. 2)3)4)5) See order for the details. (emphasis
added).
23. On January 28, 2000, the parties entered into a Settlement Agreement,
as Ordered by the Stipulation. The Settlement Agreement contains exactly the
same terms as the Stipulation.
24. The Settlement Agreement was executed by Donald Eshleman,
President of Pennsy Supply, Inc., and his signature was witnessed by Matthew M.
Haar, Esquire, an attorney with Saul Ewing who also represented Pennsy in this
matter.
25. The language of both the Stipulation approved on January 18, 2000
and the Settlement Agreement dated January 28, 2000 is clear and explicit.
7
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 8 of 15
IV. Breach of the Stipulation of Dismissal and the Settlement Agreement
and General Release
26. Movants have learned that on July 11, 2007, Pennsy Supply sold the
1607 Industrial Drive property that was at the heart of the original dispute and is
subject to Mr. Mumma's right of first refusal pursuant to the Settlement
Agreement to Turner, as evidenced by Special Warranty Deed recorded in
Cumberland County Record Book 280, Page 4684. A copy of the Deed is attached
hereto as Exhibit "D."
27. The deed from Pennsy to Turner contains a restrictive covenant that
the property conveyed by the deed is not to be "the site or location of, the
manufacture or production of concrete."
28. The Realty Transfer Tax Statement of Value accompanying the
Special Warranty Deed appears to have been signed by Michael A. Finio, Esquire,
Saul Ewing. A copy of the Realty Transfer Tax Statement of Value is attached
hereto as Exhibit "E."
29. Penny's receipt of Turner's offer to purchase the property, which
Pennsy was willing to accept, required Pennsy to notify Mumma of its receipt of a
8
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 9 of 15
bona fide offer to purchase the property from a third party and triggered Mumma's
right of first refusal.
30. Neither Pennsy Supply nor its counsel gave Robert M. Mumma, II
any notice of the receipt of an offer to purchase the property by Turner.
31. The sale of the property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle,
Pennsylvania to Turner on July 11, 2007 without notice to Mumma was a direct
violation of the terms of both the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement.
32. Pennsy's violation of the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement
deprived Mumma of the opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal and
acquire the property.
33. Mumma wishes to exercise his rights and to acquire Pennsy's entire
right, title and interest in the property, as required by the terms of the Stipulation
and Settlement Agreement.
34. Mumma seeks specific performance of the Stipulation of Dismissal
and the underlying Settlement Agreement and General Release through this
Honorable Court, which explicitly retained jurisdiction in this matter as set forth in
the settlement documents.
35. Mumma is willing to match the purchase price paid by Turner.
9
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 10 of 15
36. As a result of Penny's violation of the terms of the Stipulation and
Settlement Agreement, Mumma has suffered as yet undetermined damages on
account of his inability to acquire the 1607 Industrial Drive property in July of
2007 and to operate a portion of his concrete manufacturing and supply business
from that location.
37. Pennsy Supply was represented by the Law Firm of Saul Ewing in the
sale of the 1607 Industrial Drive property to Turner, specifically Michael A. Finio,
Esquire and Matthew Haar, Esquire.
38. Pennsy Supply and their counsel, the Law Firm of Saul Ewing,
specifically including but not limited to Michael A. Finio, Esquire and Matthew
Haar, Esquire, knew the terms and conditions under which the above-captioned
litigation was dismissed and that the property at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle,
Pennsylvania was encumbered by Mumma's right of first refusal.
39. Jurisdiction to enforce the Stipulation and the Settlement Agreement
remains with this Honorable Court pursuant to paragraph 4 of the Stipulation of
Dismissal dated January 18, 2000.
40. Respondent Pennsy's conduct and that of its counsel in breaching the
terms and conditions of the Stipulation and Settlement Agreement requires the
enforcement of the obligations of the Settlement Agreement and warrants the
10
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 11 of 15
imposition of sanctions against Pennsy Supply, Inc. for contempt and also for the
payment of Mumma's losses and expenses, including attorneys' fees, incurred as
a result of the violation of the Settlement Agreement and General Release and the
Stipulation of Dismissal and their enforcement through this action.
V. Notification of Breach
41. On September 20, 2007, Mumma's counsel notified Michael Finio,
Esquire that Pennsy Supply, Inc. was in breach of the Settlement Agreement and
the Stipulation of Dismissal. A copy of said Notice is attached hereto as
Exhibit "F."
42. By correspondence dated September 27, 2007 Mr. Finio advised
counsel for Mumma that he was "not directly involved in the litigation," that Mr.
Donweber and Ms. Wagner, "who helped to close the 2000 transfer from
Randolph to Pennsy" are no longer associated with Saul Ewing, and that he was
"investigating the issues" raised in counsel for Mumma's September 20, 2007
Notice. A copy of Mr. Finio's letter is attached hereto as Exhibit "G."
43. There has been no further response from Attorney Finio regarding
this matter since his letter of September 27, 2007.
11
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 12 of 15
44. On October 3, 2007 counsel for Mumma spoke with No Otto,
Esquire, counsel for Turner, and advised him of the alleged breach of the
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal by Pennsy.
VI. Joinder of Danny L.Turner
45. The property was indexed as lis pendens on February 19, 1998 in the
Cumberland County Court of Common Pleas at No. 98-950 CIVIL.
46. On information and belief, the existence of the indexed Us pendens
was known to Danny L. Turner and/or his counsel prior to the time Danny L.
Turner purchased the property from Pennsy Supply, Inc. on July 11, 2007.
47. At no time did Danny L. Turner or his counsel contact Mumma to
ascertain the status of the dispute that led to the indexing of the lis pendens. Had
they done so, they would have been advised that the settlement agreement that led
to the discontinuance of the litigation clearly provided Mumma with a right of first
refusal, which he was prepared to exercise.
48. Turner knew or should have known that the 1607 Industrial Drive
property was subject to Mumma's right of first refusal.
49. In order for this court to properly enforce the Stipulation of
Dismissal and the Settlement Agreement and General Release, Turner should be
12
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 13 of 15
joined as an Additional Respondent so as to subject him to the jurisdiction of the
Court.
WHEREFORE, Movants respectfully request that this Honorable Court
issue an Order that:
(a) Joins Danny L. Turner as an Additional Respondent to this action,
subjecting him to the jurisdiction of this court;
(b) Holds Pennsy Supply, Inc. in contempt for failing to notify Mumma
of the receipt of a bona fide offer from a third party to purchase the
property at 1607 Industrial Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which
would have triggered Mumma's right of first refusal;
(c) Voids the transaction by which Pennsy purported to convey the
property to Turner;
(d) Orders Pennsy Supply, Inc. to convey all of its right, title and interest
in the 1607 Industrial Drive property to Mumma or Mumma's
designee within 90 days of the Order upon payment by Mumma to
Pennsy of $430,123.00;
(e) Imposes sanctions upon Pennsy Supply in the amount of all transfer
taxes, title fees, legal fees, costs and other expenses incurred by
13
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 14 of 15
Mumma in conjunction with the acquisition of the 1607 Industrial
Drive property from Pennsy;
(f) Schedules a hearing at which time Mumma may establish all
consequential damages, including but not limited to lost profits and
lost opportunity suffered as a result of Pennsy's breach of the
Settlement Agreement;
(g) Imposes sanctions on Pennsy in the amount of all damages suffered
by Mumma;
(h) Orders Pennsy to pay all attorneys' fees and costs incurred by
Mumma in enforcing the Settlement Agreement, acquiring the
property and establishing damages; and
14
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 121 Filed 12/19/2007 Page 15 of 15
(i) Grants whatever additional relief, including additional monetary
sanctions against Pennsy Supply, Inc. and/or its counsel as this
Honorable Court deems just and appropriate.
Respectfully submitted,
Al Linda J. Olsen
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Date: December 19, 2007 Attorneys for Movants
15
?x
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/1412008 Page 1 of 7
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. M II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
UST- ROBERT M. MUMMA, H.
and SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs,
V.
BENEDICT B. R.ANDOLPH,
PENNSY SUPPLY INC., and
DANNY L. TURNR,
Defendants.
Civil No. 1:98-CV-0087
JUDGE SYLVIA H. RAMBO
MEMORANDUM
This is a new chapter in an ongoing dispute over the sale of real
property located at 1607 Industrial Drive, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania ("the property").
Currently pending before the court is a motion by Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor
Retained Annuity Trust, Robert M. Mumma, H and Susan Mumma (collectively
referred to in this opinion as "Mumma") for an order (1) enforcing a settlement
agreement and stipulation of dismissal, (2) joining an additional respondent, Danny
L. Turner, (3) holding Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Penny") and its lawyers in contempt
for violating the settlement agreement and (4) imposing sanctions. (Doc. 121.) This
opinion will only address the court's jurisdiction to enforce the settlement and the
joinder of Turner.
1. Background
In 1998, Mumma commenced an action in this court against Benedict
Randolph ("Randolph) seeking to enforce a letter of intent from Randolph to sell
the property to Mumma. Penny, the purchaser of the property from Randolph,
intervened in the suit. The parties reached a settlement before trial, and on January
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/14/2008 Page 2 of 7
18, 2000, a stipulation of dismissal was read into the record and signed by the
parties and this court. In pertinent part, the stipulation provides as follows:
2. All claims in the above action have been settled on the following
basis:
b. Penny Supply Inc. will also give Robert M. Mumma, II a
right of first refusal to purchase fihe prop?sy at 1607
Industrial Drive which will be tngggerect on Penny's future
receipt of a bona fide offer to urchase the property from a
thirdparty which Pennsy is willing to accept; Pennsy will
give MMumma twenty (20) days to exercise this right and
ninety (90) days to close from the date of exercise.
4. This Court shall retain jurisdiction to enforce this Stipulation and
the underlying settlement agreement in this action.
5. Failure to comply with the Perms of this Stipulation will result in
proceedings for contempt against the non-complying party.
(Doc. 121 Ex. B.) February 8, 2000, the settlement agreement was executed by the
parties. (Id. Ex. C.) The agreement provided that "Penny hereby gives Robert M.
Mumma, II a right of fast refusal to purchase the property at 1607 Industrial Drive
which will be triggered on Pennsy's future receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase
the property from a third party which Pennsy is willing to accept...." (Id.)
On July 11, 2007, Pennsy conveyed the property to Turner. (Doc. 121
Ex. D.) Neither Pennsy nor its counsel notified Mumma of the offer by Turner prior
to the sale. Mumma maintains that he was willing to purchase the property at the
price Turner paid, but was unable to exercise his right of fast refusal on the property
because he was not informed of Turner's offer.
On December 19, 2007, after learning of the sale, Mumma filed a
motion to enforce the settlement agreement, to join Turner as a party, to find Pennsy
and its counsel in contempt, and to impose sanctions. (Doc. 121.) A brief in
support was filed on January 16, 2008. (Doc. 123.) With respect to the-enforcement
of the settlement agreement, Mumma seeks money damages and specific
performance of the right of first refusal to purchase the property. Mumma requests
that the court void the. conveyance of the property from Pennsy to Turner and order
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/14/2008 Page 3 of 7
Pennsy to convey the property to Mumma upon tender of the purchase price paid by
Turner. On February 4, 2008, Pennsy filed a response (Doc. 126) and a brief in
opposition to Mumma's motion (Doc. 127). On February 5, 2008, counsel entered
an appearance on behalf of Turner (Doc. 128) and filed a response (Doc. 129) and a
brief in opposition (Doc. 130). On February 14, 2008, Mumma filed briefs in reply
to Pennsy (Doc. 132) and Turner (Doc. 133). Accordingly, the matter has been fully
briefed.
II. Discussion
Mumma seeks enforcement of the stipulation of dismissal and
settlement agreement and joinder of Turner as a necessary party to this litigation.
Pennsy and Turner oppose the motion, arguing that this court lacks jurisdiction to
enforce the settlement and that joinder of Turner is unnecessary. These issues will
be addressed in turn.
A. Subject Matter Jurisdiction
The court's subject matter jurisdiction over the dispute concerning
Mumma's right of first refusal to the property has been challenged. Mumma argues
that the court has ancillary jurisdiction to enforce the settlement because the court
expressly retained such jurisdiction in paragraph four of the stipulation of dismissal.
Turner asserts that the dispute concerning the right of first refusal is separate from
the settlement agreement and that the court lacks an independent basis for
jurisdiction over the matter. The court concludes that it has subject matter
jurisdiction over this dispute.
In Kokkonen v. Guardian Life Ins. Co. ofAm., 511 U.S. 375, 380-81
(1994), the Supreme Court recognized that a federal district court may exercise
ancillary jurisdiction to enforce a court-approved settlement agreement. In
3
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/1412008 Page 4 of 7
Kokkonen, the district court dismissed a complaint with prejudice after the parties
reached a settlement agreement. Id. at 377. In the order dismissing the case, the
court did not refer to the settlement agreement or expressly retain jurisdiction to
enforce the agreement. Id. The Supreme Court held that the district court lacked
subject matter jurisdiction to later enforce the settlement agreement because the
breach of the settlement agreement did not flout the court's authority. Id. at 380-81.
However, the Court went on to explain,
The situation would be quite different if the parties' obligation to
comply with the terms of the settlement agreement had been made part
of the order of dismissal---either by separate provision (such as a
provision "retaining jurisdiction" over the settlement agreement) or by
incorporating the terms of the settlement agreement in the order. In that
even f, a breach of the agreement would be a violation of the order, and
ancillary jurisdiction to enforce the agreement would therefore exist.
That, however, was not the case here.
Id. at 381.
By contrast, in this case the terms of the settlement agreement that
Mumma seeks to enforce were incorporated into this court's order dismissing the
case, and the court expressly retained jurisdiction to enforce the agreement. Cf.
Shaffer v. GTE North, Inc., 284 F.3d 500, 504-05 (3d Cir. 2002) (no ancillary
jurisdiction where court's dismissal order did not incorporate specific terms of
settlement or expressly retain jurisdiction); In re Phar-Mor, Inc. Sec. Lit., 172 F.3d
270, (3d Cir. 1999) (holding that incorporation of the phrase "pursuant to the terms
of the Settlement" in the dismissal order was insufficient to confer subject matter
jurisdiction to enforce the settlement). Accordingly, this court has ancillary
jurisdiction to enforce the settlement agreement.
Turner argues that Mumma's current claim is not ancillary to the
stipulation of dismissal or settlement, but instead arises from the breach of a wholly
separate agreement between Pennsy and Mumma regarding the right of first refusal.
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/1412008 Page 5 of 7
According to Turner, Pennsy satisfied both the stipulation of dismissal order and the
settlement by granting Mumma the right of first refusal, which then formed a second
agreement. Pennsy's subsequent failure to actually notify Mumma constitutes a
breach of the second agreement, but not the stipulation of dismissal or the
settlement. Under this logic, Mumma's claim against Pennsy regarding the right of
first refusal requires an independent basis for subject matter jurisdiction and cannot
be based on ancillary jurisdiction.
It is premature for the court to decide whether Pennsy has in fact
satisfied the terms of the stipulation of dismissal and settlement. However, with
respect to subject matter jurisdiction, the result would be the same in either case.
Even if Turner's characterization of the settlement and right of first refusal is
accepted and enforcement of the right of first refusal is not ancillary to the prior
order, Plaintiff has asserted diversity as an independent basis for subject matter
jurisdiction. There is complete diversity among the parties because Plaintiffs are
citizens of Florida' and both Pennsy and Taylor are citizens of Pennsylvania.
Additionally, the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000. Thus, the court has an
independent basis for subject matter jurisdiction over this dispute pursuant to 28
U.S.C. § 1322.
B. Joinder of Danny L. Turner
Mumma seeks to join Danny L. Turner as a party to this matter pursuant
to Fed. R. Civ. Pro. 19(a)(1)(B)(i) as a necessary party to this litigation. Rule
19(a)(1)(B)(i) provides as follows:
I As an unincorporated association, the Robert M. Mumma, ll Grantor Retained Annuity
Trust is a citizen of every state in which its members are citizens for the purpose of determining diversity
jurisdiction. See Trent Realty Ass v. First Fed. Sav. & Loan Assn of Phila., 657 F.2d 29, 31-32 (3d Cir.
1981). Thus, despite the fact that the Robert M. Mumma, H Grantor Annuity Trust has a Pennsylvania
address, there is complete diversity because Robert M. Mumma H and Susan Mumma, the trustees, are
both citizens of Florida.
5
Case 1:98-cv-00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/14/2008 Page 6 of 7
(a) Persons Required to Be Joined if Feasible.
(1) Required Party. A person who is subject to service of
process and whose joinder will not deprive the court of
subject-matter jurisdiction must be joined as a p if:
(B) that person claims an interest relating to the
subject of the action and is so situated that
disposing of the action in the person's absence
may:
(i) as a practical matter impair or impede the
person's ability to protect the interest
The court agrees that Turner must be joined. Penny and Tumor base their
objections to joinder on the argument that Mumma will be unable to prevail on the
merits of his claim. However, because Mumma is asking this court to void the
conveyance of the property from Pennsy to Turner, and to order Pennsy to convey
the property to Mumma, Turner has an interest in the subject matter of this action
which would be difficult to protect if he is absent from this action. Additionally,
joinder of Turner is feasible because it will not destroy the court's subject matter
jurisdiction due to the complete diversity between Mumma on the one hand and
Pennsy and Turner on the other. Accordingly, Turner will be joined as a party to
this action.
III. Conclusion
For the reasons stated above, the court has jurisdiction over Mumma's
request to enforce judgment and Turner will be joined as a party. An appropriate
order will issue.
s/S lvia H. Rambo
United States District Judge
Dated: March 14, 2008.
Case 1:98-cw00087-SHR Document 134 Filed 03/14/2008 Page 7 of 7
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMIMLAA, H
GRANTOR RETAINS ANNUITY
TRUST- ROBERT M. MUMMA, H
and 91 9AN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs,
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
PENNSY SUPPLY INC., and
DANNY L. TURNER,
Defendants.
Civil No. 1:98-CV-0087
JUDGE SYLVIA H. RAMBO
s
ORDER
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT:
(1) Danny L. Turner is JOINED as aparty to this action;
(2) A hearing will be held on the merits of Mumma's motion for
enforcement of judgment at 9:30 a.m. on April 3, 2008 in Courtroom No. 3, Eighth
Floor, Federal Building, Third and Walnut Streets, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and
(3) A hearing will be held on the issues of contempt and sanctions at a
later date.
s/S Ivia H. Rambo
United States District Judge
Dated: March 14, 2008.
?? ? f
??
C
fn
x
W
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 1 of 13
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, If, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, and .
SUSAN MUMMA Civil No. 98-cv 0087
Movants,
V.
BENEDICT B. R.ANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Judge John E. Jones III
Respondent,
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Respondent.
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER
November 19, 2008
THE BACKGROUND OF THIS ORDER IS AS FOLLOWS:
Pending before this Court is a self-styled "First Motion to Enforce
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, to Join Additional Respondent
and to Impose Sanctions filed by the Movant" ("Movant's Motion" or "Motion")
which was filed on December 19, 2007. (Rec. Doc. 121). For the reasons that
I
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 2 of 13
follow, we will grant in part and deny in part the Movant's Motion.
FACTUAL BACKGROUND:
In 1998, litigation was commenced to the above caption between Robert M.
Mumma ("Mumma") and Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy') regarding a piece of land
in Carlisle (the "Carlisle property" or "Property") that was used for manufacturing
concrete. Mumma recorded a lis pendens on the Property in Cumberland County
while it was the subject of litigation, which was ultimately resolved through a
settlement agreement that was memorialized by a court order. That agreement
gave Pennsy ownership of the Property but also granted Mumma a first right of
refusal if Pennsy ever chose to sell the Property. Unlike the lis pendens, the right
of first refusal was not placed on the public record in Cumberland County.
A few years later, Danny L. Turner ("Turner") expressed interest in the
Property. He retained counsel who conducted a title search and discovered the
aforementioned lis pendens on the Carlisle Property. According to Turner's
counsel, the following steps were taken to ensure the Property was not
encumbered: (i)Turner received verbal assurances from Pennsy's attorneys at Saul
Ewing that the matter involving the lis pendens had been settled and dismissed; (ii)
he obtained a copy of the docket report` showing that the underlying case in federal
' The docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details."
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 3 of 13
court that formed the basis of the Ifs pendens had been dismissed with prejudice;
and (iii) received an executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were
no agreements affecting the premises.
Upon receiving these assurances, Turner made an offer for the Property.
Pennsy did not inform Turner of Mumma's first right of refusal nor did Pennsy
notify Mumma that it had a potential purchaser for the Property. Instead, Pennsy
ignored Mumma's first right of refusal and sold the Property in 2007 to Turner
under a deed restriction that operated in perpetuity, prohibiting Turner, and all
future grantees, from using the premises to manufacture concrete.
When Mumma later learned of this transaction, he filed a motion to compel
Pennsy to comply with the settlement agreement and honor the first right of refusal
(the aforementioned "Movant's Motion"). At that time, the case was before our
colleague, the Honorable Sylvia Rambo, who, in addition to allowing the joinder of
Turner, scheduled a hearing for April 3, 2008 (the "Hearing) to take testimony
thereon. (Rec. Doc. 134).
PROCEDURAL HISTORY:
At the Hearing, Judge Rambo appropriately bifurcated the Movant's Motion
into discrete portions, the first concerning the merits of the motion {"merits
portion") and the second relating to the nature and extent of relief, if any should be
3
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 4 of 13
afforded ("relief portion'). Judge Rambo conducted the Hearing and entered an
Order directing the parties to address three distinct legal issues? (Rec. Doc. 139).
These issues were fully briefed when Judge Rambo entered an Order of Recusal on
August 1, 2008. (Rec. Doc. 150). The case was then assigned to Chief Judge
Yvette Kane, who, on August 6, 2008, also entered an Order of Recusal that, in
turn, resulted in the reassignment of the case to us. (Rec. Doc. 140).
Oral argument regarding the briefed legal issues commenced before us on
November 13, 2008. After digesting the substance of the arguments at that
proceeding, and upon a review of the submissions made prior thereto by all parties,
we are now prepared to resolve the merits portion of the Movant's Motion.
Accordingly, the following discussion will focus exclusively on the merits portion
of the motion; issues of relief will be addressed at a later time.
DISCUSSION
At bottom, the dispute presents the Court with two overarching issues, which
we will address separately below.
A DID PENNSY BREACH THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
WHEN IT FAILED TO HONOR MUMMA'S FIRST RIGHT
These issues were: (i) Was the restrictive use covenant in the Pennsy-Turner deed valid
and enforceable?; (ii) May the first right of refusal be recorded and if so, must it in order to be
enforceable? (iii) Did the lis pendens impart constructive notice to Turner such that he had a
duty to investigate the outcome of the1998 Mumma-Pennsy litigation?
4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 5 of 13
REFUSAL AND, W SO, WHAT WAS THE CONSEQUENCE
OF THAT BREACH?
Despite the somewhat contrived controversy regarding this issue set forth in
the briefs filed by Pennsy, at oral argument Pennsy freely admitted that it had in
fact breached the settlement agreement when it failed to notify Mumma that it had
a potential purchaser for the Carlisle property. Implicit in this concession is
Penny's admission that Mumma's first right of refusal was valid and enforceable '
despite Mumma's failure to record it.' After all, if the first right of refusal was
void as a result of the failure to record, Penny's failure to notify Mumma of a
potential purchaser for the Carlisle property would not have resulted in a breach.
The consequence of this breach was, unquestionably, that Pennsy sold the Carlisle
property, encumbered by a perpetual use restriction prohibiting concrete
manufacturing on it, to Turner. These conclusion lead us to focus on the second
and more complex issue that follows.
B. WAS TURNER A GOOD FAITH PURCHASERZ
When a seller (in this case Pennsy) transfers a parcel of land, in which a
a Indeed, we believe this implicit admission to be in line with Pennsylvania law, which
has held, "the purpose of the recording statutes is to protect subsequent bona fide purchasers
from injuries caused by secret pledges of property." Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Game
mm'n v. Ulrich. 565 A.2d 859,861 (Pa. Commw. CG 1989). Therefore, "Pennsylvania
recording laws ... do not render invalid an unrecorded interest in land." Id at 862 (citing and
v. Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, 515 A.2d 1024 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 1986).
5
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 6 of 13
third party (in this case Mumma) has an interest or right, to a buyer (in this case
Turner), the buyer can retain possession of the property unencumbered by the third
party's interest or right if the buyer is a "bona fide purchaser." See Wurtzel Y. Park
Towne Place Apartments Ltd. P'ship, 2001 WL 1807405 (Pa. Com. Pl. 2001);
Sem nko Cam ell, 28 Pa. D&C 618, 620 (Pa. Com. PI. 1982). A "bona fide"
or "good faith! 'purchaser is a party who "pay[s] valuable consideration, hats] no
notice of the outstanding rights of others,4 and act[s] in good faith." Poffenberger
v Goldstein, 776 A.2d 1037, 1042 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 2001) (citations omitted).
In this instance, it is not contested that Turner paid valuable consideration
for the Carlisle property. However, Mumma does assert that Turner is not a bona
fide purchaser because Turner had notice of his first right of refusal and therefore
did not pursue his course of conduct in good faith. Turner, obviously, denies this
assertion. Both parties use the same sequence of events to bolster their claims,
which is as follows.
After expressing an interest in purchasing the Property, Turner retained
counsel who conducted a title search and discovered that there was a lis pendens on
the Property. According to Turner's counsel, the following steps were taken to
` In claiming that one has no notice of the rights of another, the claimant must exercise
due diligence in attempting to discover said third party rights. Lyon v.Allev, 130 U.S. 177, 183
(1889).
6
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11!1912008 Page 7 of 13
ensure the Property was not encumbered (i) he obtained a copy of the docket
reports showing that the underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of
the Us pendens had been dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal
assurances from Pennsy's attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the Us
pendens had been settled and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an
executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements
affecting the premises.
Mumma argues that the lis pendens discovered by Turner's counsel, in
tandem with the docket report's direction to "see order for details," imparted
constructive notice to Turner that there was a potential cloud on the title to the
Carlisle property. Accordingly, Mumma posits that Turner's decision to proceed
with the transaction without discovering the nature of the encumbrance exhibits a
failure of due diligence constituting bad faith, which prevents Turner from
qualifying as a bona fide purchaser. Mumma avers that Turner could have done
any of a number of things, all within the range of due diligence, that would have
enabled him to discover the nature of encumbrance. For instance, Mumma argues
that Turner could have contacted Mumma himself, since Mumma was the party
' As previously noted, the docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details." At
the Hearing, Turner's counsel admitted, with great candor, that upon seeing the order he
attempted to access PACER to verify the contents of the order but was unsuccessful in doing so.
7
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 8 of 13
benefitted by the encumbrance, to inquire about the Us pendens. Additionally,
Mumma asserts that Turner could have checked the docket for the settlement order,
as was suggested by the docket report.
Conversely, Turner aptly notes that "lis pendens" literally means "a pending
suit." McCahill v.Roberts, 219 A.2d 306, 308 (Pa. 1996), and that a Us pendens
serves to give notice to third parties of one thing and one thing alone: that the
property is subject to litigation, Vintage Homes Leven, 554 A.2d 989 (Pa.
Super. 1989). Thus, Turner avers that when he discovered a Us pendens on the
Property, he was put on notice that it was the subject of litigation. With this
knowledge, Turner received two separate assurances from Pennsy's counsel that
the Us pendens was no longer on the Property and that the title to the Property was
free and clear of any encumbrances. Turner admits that he could have called
Mumma to verify the nature of the encumbrance. He also admits that he could
have expended additional energy in checking the settlement order. But, as Turner
notes, the proper question is not could he have done these things; rather, it is
should he have been required to do them. When taken in the context of Turner's
course of conduct, we believe that the answer to the latter question is a resounding
no.
"Due diligence" is defined as "[t)he diligence reasonably expected from, and
8
Case 1:98-cv 00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 9 of 13
ordinarily exercised by, a person who seeks to satisfy a legal requirement or to
discharge an obligation." BLACK'S LAW DICTIONARY (8th ed.). Therefore, in the
instant matter, "due diligence" would be the degree of diligence expected from an
ordinary purchaser of real property in attempting to discover encumbrances on the
sought-after property. Although we have already recounted Turner's actions
(through his counsel Mr. Otto) in this regard, we summarize them again to
emphasize our point. In attempting to discover if the Carlisle property was
encumbered, Turner (i) obtained a copy of the docket report showing that the
underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of the Us pendens had been
dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal assurances from Pennsy's
attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the lfs pendens had been settled
and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an executed seller's affidavit
from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements affecting the premises. In our
considered view, after completing these steps and receiving these assurances, an
ordinary purchaser could reasonably expect that the property was free from
encumbrances. Turner, through his counsel Mr. Otto, did just that 6
e Indeed, we are of the opinion that Turner's actions were entirely reasonable, and that his
inquiries justifiably led him to believe that the Carlisle property was unencumbered. As a matter
of fact, our determination that Turner was a bona fide purchaser is buttressed by the actions of
both Pennsy and Mumma. First, the seemingly blatant misrepresentations made by Pennsy's
counsel to Turner's counsel regarding the clarity of the title to the Carlisle property supports our
belief that Turner did not in fact have notice, constructive or otherwise, of Mumma's first right
9
Case 1;98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 962 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 10 of 13
Mumma would have us impose upon Turner a duty that would have required
him to obtain assurances from each party involved in the underlying litigation
regarding the details of its resolution, despite the fact that the docket showed it to
have been fully resolved. Surely, this would saddle Turner and title searchers
everywhere with an excessively onerous burden requiring verification of clear title
from each and every potential source of any type of encumbrance. This
undoubtedly would hamper the free alienability of real property, a concept which is
supported by a strong public policy. Peters v. East Penn Twn. Sch Dist 126 A.2d
802, 802 (Pa. Super. 1957). We decline the invitation to impossibly complicate
property acquisition by imposing such a heavy burden. Accordingly, we find that
Turner was a bona fide purchaser for value. Therefore, Turner's interest is
superior to that of Mumma's, meaning that Turner shall retain the Property despite
Mumma's first right of refusal.
of refusal. Second, while Mumma certainly was not required to record the first right of refusal,
his failure to do so is another factor that militates in favor of the conclusion that Turner had no
notice of the first right of refusal and therefore acted in good faith when proceeding to
consummate the transaction for the Carlisle property.
The professional diligence required by counsel in real estate transactions is grindingly
difficult on a good day. Simply put, we believe that Mr. Otto did everything that could have
been reasonably expected of him in representing Mr. Turner. Having practiced in this same area,
we clearly would have followed the same course as Mr. Otto did in examining the title to the
Carlisle property. It could never have been within Mr. Otto's contemplation that Penny's
counsel's failure to reveal the right of first refusal would be followed by an affidavit from
Pennsy itself to the same effect.
10
Case 1:98-cv 00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page l l of 13
CONCLUSION:
We now conclude yet another chapter in this ongoing legal saga between
Mumma and Pennsy, which has now effectively protracted itself over the span of a
decade. Regrettably for Turner, he was pulled into the vortex of this maelstrom as
a result of his purchase of the Carlisle property; however, our resolution will end
his participation in the case sub judice. He departs along with the Carlisle
property, largely due to Mumma's unfortunate decision, as aforestated, not to
record his right of first refusal.
The above having been said, we would be remiss in failing to note our
disquietude over the conduct by both Pennsy and its counsel. Clearly, absent their
acts, which were disingenuous to say the least, we would not be at this point.
While the facts and law will not allow us to provide Mumma with his fondest hope,
the denial of the property to Turner and effective reinstatement of the right of fast
refusal, we will now move to a second phase that will allow Mumma to state a case
for alternative relief.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. The relief requested in the Movant's Motion (Rec. Doc. 121) is
GRANTED IN PART and DENIED IN PART to the following
11
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 12 of 13
extent:
a. The Motion is GRANTED insofar as the Movant asserts that
Pennsy breached the settlement agreement.
b. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal against Turner,
the bona fide purchaser for value.
C. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to purchase the Carlisle Property from Mumma on
terms similar or identical to those conditioned upon Turner.
2. Turner shall RETAIN possession of the Carlisle property subject to
the terms of his contract with Pennsy. Turner is furthermore
DISMISSED from the case.
3. Both Mumma and Pennsy shall submit initial briefs regarding the
measure of damages resulting from Pennsy's breach of the settlement
by December 2, 2008. The parties shall submit reply briefs, if any, by
December 16, 2008.
4. The Court will schedule additional proceedings as necessary after a
review of the requested submissions.
12
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 13 of 13
s/ E Jones III
John E. Jones III
United States District Judge
13
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I do certify that I served a true and correct copy of the within document upon the
following by depositing a copy of same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Martson Deardorff Williams Otto Gilroy & Faller
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Dated:
rev ?7
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date, a copy of the foregoing Response to
Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens has been served on counsel of record addressed as
follows and as indicated:
By Hand Delivery
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
By First Class Mail, Postage Prepaid
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
J an C. ady, eg ssistant
=LLI &GEP ART, LLP
treet
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Dated: December 9, 2008
?-y s
S
'
? ?
i
.r.;
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
210 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Attorneys for Respondents
lolsen@killiangepharLcom
tscott(a,killiangenhart.com
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
and
SUSAN MUMMA
Plaintiffs/Respondents
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDLOPH
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
STATUS REPORT AND REQUEST TO CONTINUE
HOLDING PETITION TO STRM LIS PENDENS IN ABEYANCE
NOW COMES, the Robert M. Mumma II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, Robert
M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma, by and through counsel, Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
and Killian & Gephart, LLP, and provide this Honorable Court with the following status
report concerning related litigation, and sets forth the following:
1. A Praecipe for Lis Pendens was filed in this matter on February 18, 1997
regarding a dispute over the ownership of property located at 1607 Industrial Drive,
Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, which is currently the subject of an action
pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania,
docketed at Civil Action No. 98-CV-0087.
2. Attached to the Lis Pendens is a copy of the complaint filed in Federal
Court at CV-98-0087, which sets forth a dispute regarding rights to the 6107 Industrial
Drive, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania property.
3. On December 10, 2007, Danny L. Turner filed a Petition to Strike the Lis
Pendens in this case.
4. An action is pending in the United States District Court for the Middle
District of Pennsylvania, and is docketed as Civil Action No. 98-CV-0087 titled Motion
for an Order Pursuant to Rule 7(b) to Join an Additional Respondent, to Enforce a
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose
Sanctions.
5. On April 3, 2008, The Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo issued an Order joining
Danny L. Turner to the pending action. Following recusal of Judge Rambo and
reassignment to The Honorable John E. Jones III, a hearing was held on November 13,
2008.
6. On November 19, 2008, Judge Jones issued a Memorandum and Order
granting possession of the 1607 Industrial Road property to Turner and dismissing Turner
from the case. Judge Jones' November 19, 2008 Order is not a final, appealable Order
pursuant to Fed. R.Civ. P. 54
2
7. On December 9, 2008, counsel for Turner filed a Motion to Strike the Lis
Pendens based upon the entry of Judge Jones' Order dismissing Turner from the case.
8. On December 11, 2008, a hearing was held before the Honorable Judge
Guido at which time the parties were present through counsel and afforded the
opportunity to make argument with regard to the Petition to Strike the Lis Pendens.
9. At the conclusion of the December 11, 2008 hearing, the Honorable Judge
Guido indicated he would defer making any ruling on the Petition to Strike for 45 days to
afford the parties an opportunity to file a motion pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 54(b) asking
the United States District Court to certify its November 19, 2008 Order as a final
judgment subject to appeal.
10. On January 14, 2009 Pennsy Supply, Inc. filed a Motion to Amend the
Order of November 19, 2008 to Certify a Final Judgment as provided in Rule 54(b). A
copy of the motion is attached as Appendix "A".
11. Counsel for Turner concurs in the motion; counsel for Mumma opposes the
motion.
12. Pennsy Supply's Motion to Certify pursuant to Rule 54(b) is currently
pending before the Honorable John E. Jones, III. The briefing schedule will be concluded
this week and it is anticipated that Judge Jones will issue an order within a reasonable
time thereafter, granting or denying the motion.
3
4
13. Without prejudice to the position set forth in Mumma's filed Response to
Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens, that it is improper to strike the lis pendens
until such time as a final order has been entered disposing of all claims in the underlying
federal court litigation, it is particularly inappropriate for the Court to take any action with
respect to the lis pendens until such time as Judge Jones has made a determination
whether to certify his decision with regard to Turners' rights to the property as a final
appealable order.
WHEREFORE, Robert M. Mumma, II, et al., Plaintiffs/Respondents, request this
Honorable Court to continue holding the Petition to Strike Lis Pendens in abeyance until
such time as Judge Jones has entered an order disposing of the Motion to Amend the
Order of November 19, 2008 to Certify Final Judgment for Appeal.
Respect bmitted
i
796'ma;w. Scott, Esquire
Attorney I.D. # 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Tel: (717) 232-1851
Dated: January 26, 2009
Attorneys for Plaintiffs/Respondents, Robert M.
Mumma, II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust,
Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan Mumma
4
w
r?
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 1 of 13
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, and
SUSAN MUMMA,
Movants,
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Respondent,
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
No. 98-0087
Judge John E. Jones III
Additional Respondent. FILED ELECTRONICALLY
MOTION TO AMEND ORDER OF NOVEMBER 19, 2008
TO CERTIFY FINAL JUDGMENT FOR APPEAL
PURSUANT TO FEDERAL RULE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE 54(b)
Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy") respectfully requests that this Court amend
its November 19, 2008 Memorandum and Order (Doc. No. 162) (the "Order")
i?
147267.2 1/1009
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 2 of 13
pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b) so as (a) to certify that there is
no just reason to delay appeal and (b) to direct the issuance of a judgment
reflecting the entry of final judgment. A proposed form of order is attached. The
averments supporting this motion are:
1. The Order granted in part and denied in part the "Motion for an Order
Pursuant to Rule 7(b) to Join an Additional Respondent, to Enforce Settlement
Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, for Contempt, and to Impose Sanctions"
("Motion") filed by Robert M. Mumma, H, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust,
Robert M. Mumma, II, and Susan Mumma ("Mumma").
2. In denying the Motion, the Order effectively refused to allow
Mumma, pursuant to a right of first refusal for 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle (the
"Property"), to undo Pennsy's sale of the Property to Danny L. Turner ("Turner")
because Turner was determined to be a bona fide purchaser for value who had no
notice of the right of first refusal, which Mumma had failed to record.
3. The Order also denied Mumma's request to purchase the Property on
terms similar or identical to those contained in the Pennsy-to-Turner transaction.
The Order allowed Turner to retain possession of the Property, subject to the terms
of his contract with Pennsy, and dismissed Turner from the case.
147267.2 1114M
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 3 of 13
4. The Order further directed the remaining parties, Pennsy and Mumma,
to submit initial briefs regarding the measure of damages resulting from Pennsy's
breach of the settlement agreement in the underlying litigation.
5. Rule 54(b) provides:
When an action presents more than one claim for relief ... or
when multiple parties are involved, the court may direct entry
of a final judgment as to one or more, but fewer than all, claims
or parties only if the court expressly determines that there is no
just reason for delay. Otherwise, any order or other decision,
however designated, that adjudicates fewer than all the claims
or the rights and liabilities of fewer than all the parties does not
end the action as to any of the claims or parties and may be
revised at any time before the entry of a judgment adjudicating
all the claims and all the parties' rights and liabilities.
Fem. R. Civ. P. 54(b) (emphasis added).
6. Accordingly, to be considered a final, appealable order, Rule 54(b)
requires (a) a specific, express finding that there is no just reason for delaying an
appeal, and also (b) a specific, express direction by the Court for the Clerk of Court
to enter a final judgment. Appellate courts also instruct that it is a "best practice"
for district courts to include an explanation of the court's decision to certify a
judgment for appeal. Carter v. City of Philadelphia, 181 F.3d 339, 346 (3d Cir.
1999).
7. In determining whether there is "no just reason for delay," courts
consider the following five factors:
1472672 V14M 3
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 4 of 13
(1) the presence or absence of a claim or counterclaim which
could result in a set-off against the judgment sought to be made
final; (2) the relationship between the adjudicated and
unadjudicated claims; (3) the possibility that the need for
review might or might not be mooted by future developments in
the district court; (4) the possibility that the reviewing court
might be obliged to consider the same issue a second time; and
(5) miscellaneous factors such as delay, economic and solvency
considerations, shortening the time of trial, frivolity of
competing claims, expense, and the like.
Waldorf v. Shuta, 142 F.3d 601, 609 (3d Cir. 1998) (quoting Waldorf v. Borough
of Kenilworth, 959 F. Supp. 675, 679 (D.N.J. 1997)).
8. Pennsy and Mumma each filed an opening brief on the measure of
damages on December 12, 2008 (Doc. Nos. 168 & 169). Mumma's brief clearly
stated that he "is not waiving any appeal rights he may have at such time as this
Court enters a judgment adjudicating all the claims and all the parties' rights and
liabilities as contemplated by F.R.C.P. 54(b)" related to Turner's retention of the
Property, the validity of the deed restriction, and Turner's dismissal from the case.
Doc. No. 169 at 2 n.1.
9. Mumma also argues that the appropriate measure of damages is his
expectation interest regarding the future operation of a concrete plant on the
Property. Id. at 5. Mumma believes that the deed "restriction would not have been
effective to limit Mumma's right to utilize the Property" as a concrete plant. Id. at
16.
147267.21/14/09 4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 5 of 13
10. The Order allowing Turner to retain the Property subject to the terms
of the Pennsy-Turner contract can only also be read to expressly uphold the deed
restriction prohibiting use of the Property as a concrete plant, since Turner is
bound by the terms of his contract with Pennsy. That issue was squarely before the
Court at the initial "liability" stage of this bifurcated proceeding and was fully
briefed prior to September 19, 2008, when this Court certified its familiarity with
the record under Fed. R. Civ. P. 63. Therefore, if the damages portion of this case
proceeds now, the deed restriction is presumptively valid and Mumma's arguments
arising from his view of its invalidity are irrelevant as to the measure of damages.
In other words, the deed restriction must also be presumed valid as to him and a
measure of damages based on what it prohibits would be improper.
11. There is no just reason for delaying the appeal of the Order. Mumma
clearly intends to appeal the Order whenever this Court certifies its finality under
Rule 54(b). Given that the law of the case makes his current view of the measure
of damages improper, it is clear that an appeal now would advance a more efficient
resolution of all issues. The other option would be to rule now that only nominal
damages are proper, and enter a more comprehensive order that allows Mumma to
file an appeal which reflects his full legal theory as to liability and damages and
pursue it in a more efficient manner.
147267.2 1/14/09 5
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 6 of 13
12. An immediate appeal of the Order would also be appropriate
considering Turner's current position. While the Court has awarded him title to
and possession of the Property, the prospect of an appeal by Mumma clearly
prejudices Turner's complete use and enjoyment of the Property, because the
decision granting him the Property will not truly be final until either (a) the entry
of a final judgment is made and is not appealed, or, (b) the entry of a final
judgment is made and on appeal the Third Circuit affirms it, and (c) the time for
certiorari passes, or is denied, etc. Until then Turner cannot improve or develop
the Property with absolute certainty that it will remain his. To try to sever all ties
with Mumma, Turner filed a motion in the Cumberland County Court of Common
Pleas to strike off both lis pendens filed by Mumma related to the Property.
Following argument on December 11, 2008, Judge Edward E. Guido indicated that
he would strike off both lis pendens if Mumma did not appeal the Order to the
Third Circuit; the Cumberland County Court's Order recognizes the prejudice to
Turner in the absence of an appeal by Mumma. Mumma has until January 26,
2009, to appeal the Order or Judge Guido will strike off the lis pendens. That
relief, however, will not determine the ultimate issue in this Court. There cannot
be a truly final determination of damages until there is a final determination on
Turner's right to keep the Property.
147267.21/14M 6
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 7 of 13
13. If the current phase of this litigation proceeds without Rule 54(b)
certification, discovery is necessary and proof of Mumma's damages at this stage
requires the parties and Court to assume the Order will stand.
14. Absent Rule 54(b) certification now, if this Court hears evidence on
the damages issue and enters an order accordingly, that order and the November 19
Order will become appealable as of right. On appeal of the "whole case," the
Third Circuit would have before it at least these issues: (1) whether it was right to
let Turner keep the Property, (2) whether, if the answer to (1) is "yes," the deed
restriction was validly imposed, (3) whether, if the answer to (1) is "no," Mumma
should get the Property with or without the deed restriction, (4) whether the
damages awarded to Mumma, if any, were proper, and (5) if Turner does not keep
the Property, whether he is entitled to damages. If the Third Circuit answers "no"
to issue (2), this case will most likely be back before this Court for purposes of
reassessing (4) and assessing (5) for the first time. Moreover, if the Third Circuit
says "no" to issue (1), arguably the entire matter will have to be relitigated in this
Court.
15. Therefore, if the Order is not certified, this Court faces the possibility
of conducting two trials on damages attributable to Pennsy's breach of the
settlement agreement because both allowing Turner to keep the Property and
upholding the deed restriction are critical elements of the manner in which M
147267.2 1/14/09 7
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 8 of 13
damages calculus in this case must be done.' An appeal now of the Order will
allow greater certainty in establishing that damages calculus with respect to the
interests of all parties, which certainly benefits both the Court and all parties.
16. In conjunction with the preparation for two trials, Pennsy and Mumma
face the harsh, costly, time-consuming, and wasteful result of conducting discovery
twice, preparing for trial twice, and participating in two trials.
17. Delay in entering a final judgment as to Turner would undermine the
federal judiciary's interest in conserving its valuable judicial resources by raising
the specter of two separate trials.
18. Examination of the five factors recited by the Waldorf court shows
that no just reason for delay exists because:
a. this case involves no claim or counterclaim which could result
in a set-off against the judgment sought to be made final;
b. the adjudicated issues (Turner's status as a bona fide purchaser
and the validity of the deed restriction) and unadjudicated issue (damages
While the issues of Turner's right to keep the Property and the validity of the
deed restriction are critical to how the damages analysis will proceed, those issues
are also legally and factually separable from the damages analysis. Thus, the Third
Circuit can review those two issues independent of the damages issue upon Rule
54(b) certification.
147267.2 1/14109
8
w
I
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 9 of 13
attributable to Pennsy's breach of the 2000 settlement agreement) are independent
and separable of each other for the purpose of appellate review;2
C. it is unlikely that the need for review will be mooted by future
developments in the district court;
d. it is highly unlikely that the reviewing court will have to
consider the same issue a second time; and
e. certification to the Third Circuit will eliminate the need for two
trials on damages, reduce the expense of preparing for two trials, and result in the
most efficient use of judicial resources.
19. District courts may stay proceedings pending appeal after Rule 54(b)
certification. See, e.u., Instructional Sys., Inc. v. Computer Curriculum Corp., 35
F.3d 813, 818 n.8 (3d Cir. 1994).
20. Given the relationship between the validity of the deed restriction and
Turner's status as a bona fide purchaser for purposes of the damages analysis, a
stay is appropriate while the Third Circuit hears the appeal or the thirty-day period
during which Mumma could appeal passes.
As noted above, the ultimate resolution of the adjudicated issues will have a
great impact on the measure of damages attributable to Pennsy's breach of the
settlement agreement, but the adjudicated issues remain legally distinct and easily
reviewable by the Third Circuit without regard to any damages analysis.
147267.2 1/14/09
9
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 10 of 13
21. Pennsy respectfully requests that this Court amend the Order by
adding the following new paragraphs 5, 6, 7, and 8:
5. For the reasons set forth in Pennsy's Motion to Amend to
Certify Final Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil
Procedure 54(b), there exists no just reason to delay appeal of this
Order Denying Mumma's request to exercise his right of first refusal
against Turner, Denying Mumma's request to purchase the Carlisle
Property on terms similar or identical to those conditioned upon
Turner, and Ordering that Turner shall retain possession of the
Carlisle Property subject to the terms of his contract with Pennsy.
6. No just reason to delay appeal exists because (1) this case
involves no claim or counterclaim which could result in a set-off
against the judgment sought to be made final; (2) the adjudicated
issues and unadjudicated issue are independent and separable of each
other for the purpose of appellate review; (3) it is unlikely that the
need for review will be mooted by future developments before this
Court; (4) it is highly unlikely that the reviewing court will have to
consider the same issues a second time; and (5) certification will
eliminate the need for two trials on damages, reduce the expense of
preparing for two trials, and result in the most efficient use of judicial
resources.
7. The Clerk of Court is hereby DIRECTED to issue a
Judgment entering final judgment in conformity with Federal Rule of
Civil Procedure 54(b).
8. Proceedings in this matter are STAYED pending the
outcome of Mumma's appeal of the Order or the expiration of the
thirty-day time period during which Mumma may file his Notice of
Appeal, whichever is later.
1472672 U14109
10
w
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page l l of 13
WHEREFORE, Pennsy respectfully requests that this Honorable Court
amend its Order of November 19, 2008 in conformity with Federal Rule of Civil
Procedure 54(b) in order to certify that there is no just reason to delay appeal and
to direct the issuance of a Judgment reflecting the entry of final judgment in favor
of Turner.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Michael A. Finio
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew M. Haar, Esquire
Emily H. Damron, Esquire
Saul Ewing LLP
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: (717) 257-7576
Date: January 14, 2009 Attorneys for Respondent Pennsy Supply,
Inc.
147267.2 1/14M 11
tt
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 12 of 13
CERTIFICATE OF CONCURRENCE
I, Matthew M. Haar, Esquire, counsel for Pennsy Supply, Inc., hereby certify
that I contacted counsel for Robert M. Mumma, H, Grantor Retained Annuity
Trust, Robert M. Mumma, H, and Susan Mumma ("Mumma") and counsel for
Danny L. Turner ("Turner") to seek their concurrence in the foregoing Motion.
Counsel for Turner concurs in the Motion. Counsel for Mumma opposes the
Motion.
/s/ Matthew M. Haar
Matthew M. Haar, Esquire
Dated: January 14, 2009
147267.2 U14/09
12
w
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 13 of 13
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this date, I served a true and correct copy of the
foregoing Motion to Amend Order of November 19, 2008 to Certify Final
Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b) upon the
following counsel of record via electronic filing:
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
PO Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17103
Attorneys for Danny L. Turner
Dated: January 14, 2009
147267.2 I/14M9
/s/ Emily H. Damron
Emily H. Damron
13
w
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173-2 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 1 of 2
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, and
SUSAN MUMMA,
Movants,
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC., .
Respondent, :
No. 98-0087
Judge John E. Jones III
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Respondent. FILED ELECTRONICALLY
ORDER AMENDING NOVEMBER 19,2008, ORDER
IN ACCORDANCE WITH FED. R. CIV. P. 54(b)
AND NOW, this day of
2009, upon
consideration of the Motion to Amend Order of November 19, 2008, to Certify
Final Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b), and
any responses thereto, it is HEREBY ORDERED that the Motion is GRANTED.
In conformity with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b), the Court's Order
of November 19, 2008, in this action is hereby AMENDED to include the
following certification in the form of additional paragraphs 5, 6, 7, and 8:
4r
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 173-2 Filed 01/14/2009 Page 2 of 2
5. For the reasons set forth in Pennsy's Motion to Amend to
Certify Partial Final Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule of
Civil Procedure 54(b), there exists no just reason to delay appeal of
this Order Denying Mumma's request to exercise his right of first
refusal against Turner, Denying Mumma's request to purchase the
Carlisle Property on terms similar or identical to those conditioned
upon Turner, and Ordering that Turner shall retain possession of the
Carlisle Property subject to the terms of his contract with Pennsy.
6. No just reason to delay appeal exists because (1) this case
involves no claim or counterclaim which could result in a set-off
against the judgment sought to be made final; (2) the adjudicated
issues and unadjudicated issue are independent and separable of each
other for the purpose of appellate review; (3) it is unlikely that the
need for review will be mooted by future developments before this
Court; (4) it is highly unlikely that the reviewing court will have to
consider the same issues a second time; and (5) certification will
eliminate the need for two trials on damages, reduce the expense of
preparing for two trials, and result in the most efficient use of judicial
resources.
7. The Clerk of Court is hereby DIRECTED to issue a
Judgment entering final judgment in conformity with Federal Rule of
Civil Procedure 54(b).
8. Proceedings in this matter are STAYED pending the
outcome of Mumma's appeal of the Order or the expiration of the
thirty-day time period during which Mumma may file his Notice of
Appeal, whichever is later.
SO ORDERED.
BY THE COURT:
The Honorable John E. Jones, 1111
a
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date, a copy of the foregoing
document has been served on counsel of record addressed as follows and as indicated:
By Hand Delivery
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
By First Class Mail, Postage Prepaid
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
1
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Attorney ID #15681
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Dated: January 26, 2009
711
3
'7'
r?
,y4
D
..r
JAN 2 7 2009
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
and
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
and
SUSAN MUMMA,
V.
Plaintiffs/Respondents,
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
Defendant.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this day of 2009, upon consideration of the
Supplemental Petition to Strike Lis Pendens, the response thereto, argument of counsel, and the
Status Report filed by Plaintiffs/Respondents, further action on this matter is continued until such
time as the Honorable Judge John E. Jones, III, United States District Court for the Middle
District of Pennsylvania, has ruled upon the pending Motion to Amend Order of November 19,
2008 to Certify Final Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b)
filed in the related case of Mumma v. Randloph, Pennsy Supply and Danny L. Turner, No. 98-
0087, U.S.D.C.M.D. Pa.
Plaintiffs are directed to file a further status report with this Court, with service upon all
counsel, within 10 days of the entry of an Order by Judge Jones disposing of the aforesaid
motion, or sixty (60) days after the date of this Order, whichs first.
T:
E. Guido, Judge
tx.: ?r
6 :I J R N ( 6001
r_,y, 32H i ?0
I)istribution:
^omas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian & Gephart, LLP, 218 Pine Street, PO Box 886, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
/Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
/ Martson Law Offices, 10 East High Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
? ' hael A, Finio, Esquire
`/Aaatthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP, Penn National Insurance
COPFS mai(?
?/a4?o4
Tower, 2 No. Second St., 7m Fl., Harrisburg, PA 17101
F \FII.ES\C1ients\7436 Turner Hydraulics\7436.43. Motion2Stnke2A
Created 9/20/04 006PM
Revised: 2/17/09 10.31 AM
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS OTTO GILROY & FALLER
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II and
SUSAN MUMMA,
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98- 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS
Danny L. Turner, by and through his attorneys, MARTSON LAW OFFICES, sets forth the
following:
1. Danny L. Turner (Turner) filed a Motion to Strike the Lis Pendens issued in the above
captioned action.
2. A hearing was held on the Petition of Turner on December 11, 2008.
3. At the end of the hearing, The Honorable Judge Guido indicated that he would strike
the lis pendens unless an appeal of the underlying federal action was filed within
forty-five days.
4. By Order of January 29, 2009, this Court continued further action on the Motion to
Strike the Lis Pendens pending action by the Federal Court on a Motion to Certify the Final
Judgment for Appeal to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, filed by Pennsy Supply, Inc..
5. By Order of February 10, 2009, the Honorable John E. Jones, III, denied the Motion
of Pennsy Supply, Inc for certification pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b) and directed
that counsel for Pennsy and Mumma engage in a telephone conference for purposes if proceeding
with a discovery schedule on the damage issue in Federal Court. Attached hereto and marked
Exhibit `A' is a copy of said Order.
6. Petitioner Turner again renews his Motion to Strike the Lis Pendens and, consistent
with the Court's directive at the end of the December 11, 2008 hearing and Petitioner requests the
Court to Strike the Lis Pendens in the above action based upon the failure of any appeal being filed
in the Federal action.
WHEREFORE, Danny L. Turner requests your Honorable Court Strike the lis pendens filed
in the above action.
Respectfully Submitted,
MARTSON FICES
(;x
Hubert X. Gil oy, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 29943
Katie J. Maxwell, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 206018
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
Date: February 0, 2009 Attorneys for Petitioner Danny L. Turner
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 179 Filed 02/10/2009 Page 1 of 5
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, and
SUSAN MUMMA Civil No. 98-cv-0087
Movants,
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Judge John E. Jones III
Respondent,
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Respondent.
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER
February 10, 2009
THE BACKGROUND OF THIS ORDER IS AS FOLLOWS:
On November 19, 2008, we entered an Order granting in part and denying in
part the Motion of Movant Robert M. Mumma ("Mumma") to enforce a 1998
I
EXHIBIT
D
a
a
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 179 Filed 02/10/2009 Page 2 of 5
settlement agreement he entered into with Respondent Pennsy Supply, Inc.`
("Pennsy"). (Rec. Doc. 162). In short, the settlement agreement provided for, in r
the sale of the Carlisle Property to Pennsy and vested in Mumma a first right
of refusal should Pennsy choose to sell the property in the future. In our Order of
November 19, 2008, we determined that Pennsy breached the settlement
agreement by selling the Carlisle Property to Danny L. Turner, a good faith
purchaser, without honoring Mumma's first right of refusal.2 At that time, we
declined to pass judgment regarding the amount of damages flowing from Pennsy
to Mumma; rather, we ordered briefing on that subject, which has been received.
On January 14, 2009, Pennsy filed a self-styled "Motion to Amend Order of
November 19, 2008 to Certify Final Judgment for Appeal Pursuant to Federal Rule
of Civil Procedure 54(b) (the "Motion"). (Rec. Doc. 173). Having been briefed,
this Motion is ripe for disposition.
DISCUSSION:
Essentially, Pennsy implores us to employ the dictates of Federal Rule of
' The settlement agreement involved the present and future disposition of a piece of land
in Carlisle (the "Carlisle property" or "Property") that was used for manufacturing concrete.
2 We determined that, as a good faith purchaser for value, Turner was entitled to retain
possession of the Carlisle Property under the terms of the Pennsy-Turner contract, which
included a restrictive covenant prohibiting the operation of a cement plant on said the Carlisle
Property. We further held that Pennsy would be liable to Mumma for breaching the 1998
settlement agreement, but as noted left the precise measure of damages for another day.
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 179 Filed 02/10/2009 Page 3 of 5
Civil Procedure 54(b) ("Rule 54") to certify our November 19, 2008 Order as final
as to Turner, thereby validating the restrictive covenant, and leave remaining any
possible appeal by Pennsy or Mumma as to damages after that portion of the
proceedings has been completed. While Pennsy's Motion is creative and perhaps
facially alluring, for the reasons that follow, it will be denied.
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 54(b) provides that when an action presents
more than one claim for relief or when multiple parties are involved, the court may
direct entry of a final judgment as to one or more, but fewer than all claims or
parties "only if the court expressly determines that there is no just reason for
delay." Fed. R. Civ. P. 54(b). Thus, to certify an order pursuant to Rule 54(b),
"the judgment must be final and there must be no just reason for delay in entering
the final judgment." Waldorf v. Shuta, 142 F. 3d 601 (3d Cir. 1998).
The Third Circuit Court of Appeals has held that "[a] district court may
direct the entry of a final judgment pursuant to Rule 54 only when a distinct claim
is fully adjudicated." DeJohn v. Tempe University, 537 F.3d 301, 307 (3d Cir.
2008) (holding that claims are not fully adjudicated when the request for damages
is not yet determined). Indeed, "[W]here liability has been decided but the extent
of damages remains undetermined, there is no final order." Sun Shipbuilding &
Dry Dock Co. v. Benefits Review Bd, 535 F.2d 758, 760 (3d Cir. 1976).
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 179 Filed 02/10/2009 Page 4 of 5
In light of the foregoing appellate precedent, we will deny the instant
Motion since our Order of November 19, 2009 did not determine the amount of
damages, meaning that it cannot constitute a "final judgment."' Having disposed
of the Motion, we will now proceed to the damages portion of the litigation.
Mumma has indicated that discovery would aid in the precise determination of
damages and therefore, we will schedule a telephonic conference to discuss this
issue, as well as to generally chart a firm course that will lead to an orderly
conclusion to this matter.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. Pennsy's Motion for Certification Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil
Procedure 54(b) (Rec. Doc. 173) is DENIED.
2. A telephonic conference between the Court and all counsel shall be
held on February 24, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Counsel should be prepared to
discuss the opening of discovery in aid of determining damages and all
other issues relative to the commencement of a hearing regarding
same. Counsel for Mumma shall initiate the call. The Court's phone
3 Since we have determined that our Order of November 19, 2008 was not a "final
judgment," thereby resolving the instant Motion on that basis, we decline to consider the factors
enunciated in Waldorf v. Shuta, 142 F.3d 601, 609 (3d Cir. 1998) for determining whether there
is a "just reason" for delaying certification.
4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 179 Filed 02/10/2009 Page 5 of 5
number is 717-221-3986.
J n .J es I
U ' Sta istrict Judge
F:\FILES\Clients\7436 Turner Hydraulics\7436.43, CertOfserv3
Created: 9/20/04 0.06PM
Revised 2/17/09 1036AM
7436 43
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
PA I.D. 29943
MARTSON DEARDORFF WILLIAMS OTTO GILROY & FALLER
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-3341
h ilroykmartsonlaw.com
Attorneys for Danny L. Turner
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II and
SUSAN MUMMA,
NO. 2008- 7187 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, IN.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I served a true and correct copy of a Hearing Memorandum of Danny L.
Turner upon the following by electronic mail as follows on January 27, 2009:
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street, P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108
tscott(ci)killian?ephart.com
Counsel for Movants
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew M. Haar, Esquire
SAUL EWING, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7,h Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
mfinioL&saul.com
mhaark)saul.com
Counsel for Pennsy Supply, Inc.
MARTSON LAW OFFICES
A *1
Hubert X. Gilroy,
10 East High Stre
Carlisle, PA 170
(717) 243-33470
re
Dated: February 0, 2009
C
C?
'
,
.o
A
r p
-cs
?A
n
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEARF? 20896 ?
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST,
and :
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II,
and
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH,
Defendant
NO. 98 - 950 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW this day of , 2009, upon review of the attached Motion to
Strike the Lis Pendens issued in the above matter and after consideration of the record in this case,
it is directed that the Lis Pendens filed in the above matter by Robert M. Mumma, II, et al is hereby
STRICKEN.
x bert X. Gilroy, Esquire
cc: omas W. Scott, Esquire
?
-'Michael A. Finio, Esquire
C'oP 1£S eyla I LVICL
alas
f :6 y' Se 93j 6DjZ
Vic,
r01A1 A.ft/AE. C40`4/0
,_ ? ?
?. ?,
?
..:
-
Y-3
?? ?'?
? n ,?.
?? ,
_. ..,.x. _
? t? .7
?""
?.,)
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
PA I.D. 15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
PA I. D. 92858
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
lolsennakilliangephart.com
tscott@killian¢enhart.com
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY : CUMBERLAND COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II AND :
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs : NO. 08-7187 CIVIL TERM
V. and
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH NO. 98-950 CIVIL
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
PLAINTIFFS' MOTION FOR POST-TRIAL RELIEF
NOW COMES, the Robert M. Mumma II Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, Robert M.
Mumma, II and Susan Mumma (hereinafter "Mumma"), by and through counsel, Killian &
Gephart, LLP, and files the following motion for post trial relief pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 227.1 and
in support thereof sets forth the following:
1. A Praecipe for Lis Pendens was originally filed in this matter on February 19,
1998 to civil docket number 98-0950 regarding a dispute over the ownership of property located
at 1607 Industrial Drive, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, which was and continues
to be the subject of an action pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District
of Pennsylvania, docketed at Civil Action No. 98-CV-0087..
2. A second Praecipe for Lis Pendens was filed in this matter on December 9, 2008
regarding the ongoing dispute over the ownership of the property located at 1607 Industrial
Drive, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, which is currently the subject of an action
pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, docketed at
Civil Action No. 98-CV-0087.
3. A hearing was held before Judge Guido on December 11, 2008.
4. On January 14, 2009 Pennsy Supply, Inc. filed a Motion to Amend the Order of
November 19, 2008 to Certify a Final Judgment as provided in Rule 54(b) in the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
5. On January 26, 2009, Plaintiffs filed a Status Report and Request to Hold Lis
Pendens in Abeyance. A copy of Penny's Rule 54(b) motion was attached to that Status Report
as Appendix "A."
6. On January 29, 2009, the Honorable Judge Guido issued an Order directing
Plaintiffs to file a supplemental status report within ten days of the entry of an Order by Judge
Jones disposing of Pennsy's Rule 54(b) Motion.
7. On February 10, 2009, Judge Jones issued a Memorandum and Order denying
Penny's request to certify his November 19, 2009 Order as final and scheduling a telephone
conference call between Judge Jones and all counsel on February 24, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. A copy
of the aforesaid Order is attached hereto as Exhibit "A."
2
8. On February 17, 2009, counsel for Danny L. Tumer filed renewed Motions to
Strike Lis Pendens in docket No. 98-950 and also in docket No. 2008-7187.
8. On February 20, 2009, counsel for Mumma timely filed a Response to the
renewed Motions to Strike Lis Pendens and also filed a status report as directed by this Court's
January 29, 2009 Order.
9. On February 24, 2009, the Honorable Edward E. Guido, following a conference
call with all counsel of record, issued Orders striking the Lis Pendens filed to civil docket
Nos. 98-950 and 2008-7187.
10. The February 24, 2009 Order decreed that "upon review of the attached Motion to
Strike the Lis Pendens issued in the above matter and after consideration of the record in this
case, it is directed that the Lis Pendens filed in the above matter by Robert M. Mumma, II, et al is
hereby STRICKEN."
11. No transcript of the aforesaid hearing is available because there was no court
reporter present in the courtroom at the time of the December 11, 2008 hearing.
12. Plaintiffs' grounds for post-trial relief were all preserved by virtue of having been
raised by objections at the hearing and also as set forth in Plaintiffs' Response to Turner's
Motion to Strike Lis Pendens.
13. Mumma requests post-trial relief based on the Court's errors of law and abuse of
discretion.
3
I. Judge Guido's verbal directive to Mumma to file an appeal in the federal
litigation within 45 days following the December 11, 2048 hearing was an
error of law and an abuse of discretion.
14. This Court committed an egregious error of law and abuse of discretion when it
directed Mumma to file an untimely appeal in the case before the United States District Court for
the Middle District of Pennsylvania within forty-five (45) days following the December 11, 2008
hearing before Judge Guido.
II. The Lis Pendens should not be stricken because the underlying federal
litigation is still pending and there has been no final order issued.
A. The November 19, 2008 Order of the Honorable John E Jones III is
not a final order and, therefore, is not appealable.
15. Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Penny") filed a Motion for certification of the
November 19, 2008 Order as final pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 54(b) in the federal action before
Judge Jones.
16. This Court properly continued further action on Turner's Motions to Strike Lis
Pendens pending action by Judge Jones on the Motion to Certify his November 19, 2008 Order
as final.
17. By Order of February 10, 2009, the Honorable John E Jones III denied Penny's
Motion to Certify the November 19, 2008 Order as final.
18. As a result of Judge Jones' February 10, 2009 Order, the case before the U.S.
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania is still pending; there is no final order; and
the same is, therefore, not appealable.
4
B. Judge Jones refused to certify the November 19, 2008 Order as final,
which would have triggered the period for appeal by any party.
19. Judge Jones found that certification of his November 19, 2008 Order as final was
improper under Fed. R. Civ. P. 54(b) because the action presents more than one claim for relief,
multiple parties are involved, and the claims of Mumma had not been fully adjudicated.
20. Judge Jones held that "we will deny the instant Motion since our Order of
November 19, 2008 did not determine the amount of damages, meaning that it cannot constitute
a `final judgment."' (Order at p. 4).
21. Judge Jones based his decision on several Third Circuit cases holding that claims
are not fully adjudicated when the request for damages is not yet determined. See DeJohn v.
Temple Universitv, 537 F.3d 301, 307 (3d Cir. 2008); Sun Shipbuilding Dry Dock Co. v.
Benefits Review Bd.. 535 F.2d 758, 670 (3d Cir. 1976).
22. Judge Jones further "declined to consider the factors enunciated in Waldorf v.
Shuta.142 F.3d 601, 609 (3d Cir. 1998) for determining whether there is a `just reason' for
delaying certification" based upon his determination that the November 19, 2008 Order was not
final until the issue of damages had been resolved. (Order at p. 4, n.3).
C. A Lis Pendens is appropriate and should remain of record until such
time as there is no pending litigation affecting the property against
which the lis pendens was filed.
23. Lis Pendens means, literally, pending lawsuit. Black's Law Dicjtionary, 7th Ed.
p. 942-43.
5
24. As a result of Judge Jones' February 10, 2009 Order, the lawsuit in the United
States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, docketed at Civil Action No. 98-
CV-0087 affects the property acquired by Turner and is still pending.
25. This Court committed an egregious error of law and abuse of discretion when it
struck both the Lis Pendens regarding the Industrial Drive property while a lawsuit is still
pending in the federal court.
D. Striking a Lis Pendens makes it appear to anyone searching the title to
a property that there is no pending litigation affecting the property
when, in fact, exactly the opposite is true in this case.
26. The purpose for recording a Lis Pendens is to put the world on notice that there is
a pending lawsuit that might affect a property and "that any interests acquired during the
pendency of the suit are subject to its outcome." Black's Law Dictionary. 7th Ed. p. 943.
27. Striking the Lis Pendens means that were Turner to attempt to sell or encumber
the property during the pendency of the federal litigation, a title searcher would see that the Lis
Pendens had been stricken and would have no reason to look further with respect to the status of
the federal court litigation.
28. Striking the Lis Pendens has the potential to cause future title litigation that could
be avoided by leaving the Lis Pendens in place pending a final order in the federal litigation and
any subsequent appeal by any party to that action.
29. This Court committed an egregious error of law and abuse of discretion when it
struck both the Lis Pendens affecting the Turner property while a lawsuit is still pending in the
6
federal court, and such action should be overturned, allowing the Lis Pendens to remain of record
in Cumberland County.
WHEREFORE, Mumma requests that the Lis Pendens docketed to Cumberland County
Civil No. 98-950 and No. 08-7187 remain of record and that the striking of the same be held in
abeyance pending the issuance of a Final Order by Judge Jones in the Middle District litigation
docketed to No. 98-CV-0087 and any appeal by any party following the issuance of the Final
Order.
III. Motion for new hearing and argument before the Court en banc.
30. Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 227.2, it is requested that a new hearing be scheduled and
that the Motion for Post-Trial Relief be heard and decided by the court en banc.
31. Judges Edward E. Guido and Edgar B. Bayley have previously ruled upon issues
in this matter.
WHEREFORE, Mumma requests that this matter be heard and decided by the Court, en
banc.
Respectfully submitted
Thom . Scott, 904pire
Attorney I.D. #15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Tel: (717) 232-1851
Dated: March 5, 2009
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date, a copy of the foregoing
document has been served on counsel of record addressed as follows and in the manner
indicated:
By U.S. Mail and Hand Delivery
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
By First Class Mail, Postage Prepaid
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Linda J. lsen, E uire
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
Dated: March 5, 2009
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H GRANTOR IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST; OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H AND PENNSYLVANIA
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs, NO. 08-7187 CIVIL TERM
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH and
V. NO. 98-950 CIVIL
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant,
V. :
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant.
ORDER OF COURT
A
AND NOW, thi4A_ d
ay of "CA 2009, upon consideration of the Motion
for Post-Trial Relief filed by Plaintiffs, it is ORDERED that:
(b) A new hearing and argument before the Court+w haw will be held on the
day of 2009 in Courtroom No. 3 , at A M.;
41Q) Mae _W _R_-4_-- .11.1 UgMLSL IM r1upoty R5 SM ftd, W! &ITY"22179ek"'44e 98-
ge
c Court or the Middle t f /
.4
Pmnysv-?'rmm DIM urner No. 98-0087, . . Pa. an ap eals
THE
Edward E. Mido, Judge
LDistribution:
/'Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian & Gephart, LLP, 218 Pine Street, PO Box 886, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
,4Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices, 10 East High Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
,Xi hael A, Finio, Esquire
tthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP, Penn National Insurance Tower, 2 No. Second St., 7`h Fl., Harrisburg, PA 17101
nn ?
00P 1 ex en a-t
3/lal v?
d
80 ?d 01
381
uw??.
ROBERT M. MUM A, II,
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II,:
AND SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH .
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 14th day of April, 2009, after
having heard the argument of counsel, the motion for Post-Trial
Relief/Reconsideration of Plaintiffs is DENIED.
By the Court,
Edward E. Guido, J.
omas W. Scott, Esquire
illian & Gephart
ubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
X ,4?ichael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP v
srs
1 9 =6 WV S 18AV 60OZ
kXIQNvt-ti. v` 'd ?HI JO
6
ROBERT M. MUMMA, H
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II AND
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, NC 27858
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL
NOTICE OF APPEAL
Notice is hereby given that Robert M. Mumma, II, Trustee of the Robert M. Mumma, II
Grantor Retained Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II, and Susan Mumma, Plaintiffs above-
named, hereby appeal to the Superior Court of Pennsylvania from the Order entered in this matter
on the 14th day of April, 2009, which is attached hereto. The Order has been entered in the
docket as evidenced by the attached copy of the docket entry.
No verbatim record of the proceedings was made in the above-captioned matters.
Respectfully
Dated: May 14, 2009
_omas W. Scott, Esquire
T _F
Attorney I. D. #15681
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 232-1851
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date, a copy of the foregoing Notice of
Appeal has been served on counsel of record addressed as follows and in the manner indicated:
By First Class Mail, Postage Prepaid
Benedict B. Randolph
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, NC 27858
with courtesy copy to:
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Counsel for Pennsy Supply, Inc.
By Hand Delivery
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Counsel for Danny L. Turner
I hereby certify that I served the foregoing document on the following by hand delivery of
a true and correct copy to the Office of the Prothonotary of Cumberland County:
The Honorable Judge Edward E. Guido
Cumberland County Courthouse
One Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013-3387
Taryn N. Dixon, Court Administrator
Cumberland County Courthouse
One Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013-3387
Dated: May 14, 2009
Joan C. ady, !,,p al Assistant t
T as W. Scott, Esquire
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street, P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
APR 1 6 2009
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II,
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II,:
AND SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 98-950 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 14th day of April, 2009, after
having heard the argument of counsel, the Motion for Post-Trial
Relief/Reconsideration of Plaintiffs is DENIED.
By the Court,
L I
100
Edward E. Guido, J.
Thomas W. Scott, Esquire
Killian & Gephart
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
srs
iYS511 Cumberland County Prothonotary's Office Page 1
Civil Case Print
1998-00950 MUMMA ROBERT M II ET AL (vs) RANDOLPH BENEDICT B
Reference No..: Filed........: 2/19/1998
Case Ty e.....: LIS PENDENS Time.........: 10:04
Execution Date 0/00/0000
Judgmen ..... .00
Judge Assigned: GUIDO EDWARD E Jury Trial....
Disposed Desc.: Disposed Date. 0/00/0000
------------ Case Comments ------------- Higher Crt 1.:
Higher Crt 2.:
General Index Attorney Info
MUMMA ROBERT M II PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
P 0 BOX 2255
614 N FRONT ST
HARRISBURG PA 17105
MUMMA ROBERT M II PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
BOX 508
MCCORMICK RD
BOWMANSDALE PA 17008
MUMMA SUSAN PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
BOX 508
MCCORMICK RD
BOWMANSDALE PA 17008
RANDOLPH BENEDICT B DEFENDANT
132 RIVERCREST DR
GREENVILLE NC
********************************************************************************
Judgment Index Amount Date Desc
RANDOLPH BENEDICT B 2/19/1998 LIS PENDENS
********************************************************************************
* Date Entries
********************************************************************************
- - - - - - - - - - - - - FIRST ENTRY - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
2/19/1998 PRAECIPE FOR LIS PENDENS AND LIS PENDENS ENTERED
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/10/2007 AMENDMENT AND PETITON TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - HUBERT X GILROY ATTY
FOR PETITIONER DANNY L TURNER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/14/2007 RULE TO SHOW CAUSE - 12/14/07 IN RE: PETITIONER'S MOTION TO STRIKE
LIS PENDENS - RULE IS HEREBY ISSUED UPON ROBERT MUMMA II GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST ROBERT M MUMMA II AND SUSAN MUMMA TO SHOW
CAUSE IF ANY THEY HAVE WHY THE MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS SHOULD
NOT BE GRANTED - THIS RULE IS RETURNABLE AT A HEARING SCHEDULED IN
THE
COURTHOTTER USE INBYCREDWARD3 ON
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/20/2007 PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS IN THE NATURE OF AN OBJECTION TO
JURISTICTION BASED ON PENDENCY OF A PRIOR ACTION AND THE NATURE OF
A DEMRRER - BY THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR PLFF
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1/10/2008 ORDER OF COURT - 1-09-08 - IN RE: PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS
SCHEDULED 1-10-08 IS CONTINUED GENERALLY - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J -
COPIES MAILED 1-11-08
-------------------------------------------------------------------
2/14/2008 AFFIDAVIT - BY DANNY L TURNER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
11/24/2008 SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY HUBERT X GILROY
ATTY FOR PETITIONER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
11/26/2008 ORDER OF COURT - 11/25/08 IN RE: SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE
LIS PENDENS - A RULE IS HEREBY ISSUED UPON ROBERT M MUMMA II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST ROBERT M MUMMA II AND SUSAN MUMMA
TO SHOW CAUSE IF ANY THEY HAVE WHY THE SUPPLEMENTAL MOTION TO
STRIKE LIS PENDENS SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED - THIS RULE IS RETURNABLE
AT A HEARING SCHEDULED IN THE MATTER IN CR3 CUMBERLNAD COUNTY
COURTHOUSE ON 12/11/18 AT 3:00 PM - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES
'PYS511 Cumberland County Prothonotary's Office Page 2
Civil Case Print
1998-00950 MUMMA ROBERT M II ET AL (vs) RANDOLPH BENEDICT B
Reference No... Filed......... 2/19/1998
Case Typpe..... . LIS PENDENS Time. ... ...: 10.04
Judgment......: .00 Execution Date 0/00/0000
Judge Assigned: GUIDO EDWARD E Jury Trial....
Disposed Desc.: Disposed Date. 0/00/0000
------------ Case Comments ------------- Higher Crt 1.:
MAILED 11/26/08 Higher Crt 2.:
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/09/2008 RESPONSE TO SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY
THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR PLFFS
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1/26/2009 STATUS REPORT AND REQUEST TO CONTINUE HOLDING PETITION TO STRIKE
LIS PENDENS IN ABEYANCE - BY THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR PLFFS
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1/29/2009 ORDER OF COURT - 1/29/09 IN RE: STATUS REPORT AND REQUEST TO
CONTINUE HOLDING PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS IN ABEYANCE - BY
EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES MAILED 1/29/09
-------------------------------------------------------------------
2/17/2009 MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY HUBERT X GILROY ATTY FOR
PETITIONER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
2/25/2009 ORDER OF COURT 2/24/09 IN RE MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS THE LIS
PENDENS FILED BY ROBET M MUMMA II IS HEREBY STRICKEN EDWARD E
GUIDO JUDGE COPIES MAILED 2/25/09
-------------------------------------------------------------------
3/05/2009 PLAINTIFF'S MOTION FOR POST TRIAL RELIEF - BY LINDA J OLSEN ATTY
FOR PLFFS
-------------------------------------------------------------------
3/10/2009 - ORD AENEWF //COURT - HEARIING ANDI R
AGUMENTRWILLLBESHELLDION 4/R14/09TATR11:0R0EALIMEF
IN CR3 CUMBERLAND COUNTY COURTHOUSE - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES
MAILED 3/10/09
-------------------------------------------------------------------
4/15/2009 ORDER OF COURT - 4/14/09 - IN RE: MOTION FOR POST-TRIAL
ROPIF/RMAOLEDD4R15/09 OF PLFFS IS DENIED - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J -
CES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST ENTRY - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
********************************************************************************
* Escrow Information
* Fees & Debits Bw*Bal***PImts/Ad End Bal
*********************************** ****** *******************************
JDMT/MISC 9.00 9.00 .00
TAX JDMT/MISC .50 .50 .00
SATISFACTION 5.00 5.00 .00
------------------------ ------------
14.50 14.50 .00
********************************************************************************
* End of Case Information
********************************************************************************
iia TOW*" w1wed, I Mrs unto MR my h"
t" sea d "W COW At On". PL
G'Aax, / a ?
OF THE FILED-
PR
209 MAY 14 cof y t a.f W- 4z, Supee-jar CdJ of
t
Mr. Curtis R. Long
Prothonotary
Cumberland County Courthouse
1 Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013
c
3014 - 10/99 10/1/99
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Karen Reid Bramblett, Esq.
Prothonotary
Milan K. Mrkobrad, Esq.
Deputy Prothonotary
Superior Court of Pennsylvania
Middle District
May 19, 2009
100 Pine Street. Suite 400
Hasrisburr. PA 17101
717-772-1294
www..ruperior.court.state pa.us
Re: 843 MDA 2009
Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II and Susan
Mumma, Appellants
V.
Benedict B. Randolph
Dear :
Enclosed please find a copy of the docket for the above appeal that was recently filed in the
Superior Court. Kindly review the information on this docket and notify this office in writing if
you believe any corrections are required.
Appellant's counsel is also being sent a Docketing Statement, pursuant to Pa.R.A.P. 3517,
for completion and filing. Please note that Superior Court Dockets are available on the Internet
at the Web site address printed at the top of this page. Thank you.
Very truly yours,
Karen Reid Bramblett, Esq.
Prothonotary
ALV
cc: Hubert Xavier Gilroy, Esq.
Mr. Benedict B. Randolph
Court Reporter
Court Reporter
The Honorable Edward E. Guido
Judge
Mr. Curtis R. Long
Prothonotary
Carbon Copy Recipient List
Addressed To: Thomas W. Scott, Esq.
Killian & Gephart, L.L.P.
218 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Carbon Copied: Mr. Benedict B. Randolph
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, NC 27858-9300
Mr. Curtis R. Long
Prothonotary
Cumberland County Courthouse
1 Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013
Hubert Xavier Gilroy, Esq.
Martson Deardorff Williams Otto Gilroy & Faller
10 E High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Court Reporter
Court Reporter
Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County
Courthouse, One Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013
The Honorable Edward E. Guido
Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County
Cumberland County Courthouse, One Courthouse Sq
Carlisle, PA 17013
3014 - 10/99 10/1/99
10:13 A.M.
Appeal Docket Sheet
Docket Number:
Page 1 of 3
May 19, 2009
Superior Court of Pennsylvania
843 MDA 2009
Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, 11 and Susan Mumma, Appellants
V.
Benedict B. Randolph
Initiating Document: Notice of Appeal
Case Status: Active
Case Processing Status: May 15, 2009 Awaiting Original Record
Journal Number:
Case Category: Civil
Consolidated Docket Nos.:
CaseType: Civil Action Law
Related Docket Nos.:
842 MDA 2009 Same Issue(s)
SCHEDULED EVENT
Next Event Type: Receive Docketing Statement Next Event Due Date: June 2, 2009
Next Event Type: Original Record Received Next Event Due Date: July 13, 2009
5/19/2009
3023
10:13 A.M.
Appeal Docket Sheet Superior Court of Pennsylvania
Docket Number: 843 MDA 2009
Paqe 2 of 3
May 19, 2009
COUNSEL INFORMATION
Appellant Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
Pro Se: Appoint Counsel Status:
IFP Status: No
Appellant Attorney Information:
Attorney: Scott, Thomas W.
Bar No.: 15681 Law Firm: Killian & Gephart, L.L.P.
Appellee
Pro Se:
IFP Status:
Appellee
Pro Se:
IFP Status
Fee Date
5/14/09
5/19/2009
Address: 218 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone No.: (717)232-1851 Fax No.: (717)238-0592
Receive Mail: Yes
E-Mail Address:
Receive E-Mail: No
Randolph, Benedict B.
Appoint Counsel Status:
No
Appellee Attorney Information:
Attorney: Randolph, Benedict B.
Bar No.: Law Firm:
Address: 132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, NC 27858-9300
Phone No.: Fax No.:
Receive Mail: Yes
E-Mail Address:
Receive E-Mail: No
Turner, Danny L.
Appoint Counsel Status:
No
Appellee Attorney Information:
Attorney: Gilroy, Hubert Xavier
Bar No.: 29943
Address: 10 E High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone No.: (717)243-3341
Receive Mail: Yes
E-Mail Address:
Receive E-Mail: No
Fee Name
Notice of Appeal
Law Firm: Martson Deardorff Williams Otto Gilroy & Faller
Fax No.: (717)243-1850
FEE INFORMATION
Paid
Fee Amt Amount
60.00 60.00
Receipt Number
2009SPRMD000425
3023
10:13 A.M.
Appeal Docket Sheet
Docket Number:
Paqe 3 of 3
May 19, 2009
843 MDA 2009
&9&
TRIAL COURT/AGENCY INFORMATION
Court Below: Cumberland County Court of Common Pleas
County: Cumberland Division: Civil
Date of Order Appealed From: April 14, 2009 Judicial District: 9
Date Documents Received: May 15, 2009 Date Notice of Appeal Filed: May 14, 2009
Order Type: Order Entered OTN:
Judge: Guido, Edward E. Lower Court Docket No.: 98-950 Civil
Judge
ORIGINAL RECORD CONTENTS
Original Record Item Filed Date Content/Description
Date of Remand of Record:
BRIEFS
DOCKET ENTRIES
Filed Date Docket Entry/Document Name Party Type Filed By
May 15, 2009 Notice of Appeal Filed
Appellant Robert M. Mumma, II, Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust
May 19, 2009 Docketing Statement Exited (Civil)
Middle District Filing Office
Superior Court of Pennsylvania
5/19/2009 3023
;;7T!
21kJ7 tiF I rail Fit 3
a
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA,
II, AND SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH : NO. 1998 - 0950 CIVIL TERM
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER, : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Additional Defendant :
IN RE: OPINION PURSUANT TO PA R.A.P. 1925
Guido, J., August .4 7 , 2009
Plaintiffs have filed this timely appeal from our order of April 14, 2009, wherein
we denied reconsideration of our earlier order striking a lis pendens against property
owned by additional Defendant Turner. Those same orders also applied to a companion
matter filed at docket number 2008 - 7187 Civil.
On July 31, 2009, we filed a R.A.P. 1925 Opinion (copy attached) in response to
the appeal at docket number 2008 - 7187 Civil and for the same reasons stated therein we
denied reconsideration at the above captioned docket number.
az 0S
DATE Edward E. Guido, J.
i
to l'omas W. Scott, Esquire
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, Pa. 17108
ubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
10 East High Street
Carlisle, Pa. 17013
ichael A. Finio, Esquire
atthew Haar, Esquire
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7TH Floor
Harrisburg, Pa. 17101
sld
OF Tr
2009 A? ,, 28 P' I;. 0, l;
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Hed 11/19/2008 Page 1 of 13
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II, GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST;
ROBERT M. MUMMA, If, and
SUSAN MUMMA : Civil No. 98-cv-0087
Movants,
V. ,
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Judge John E. Jones III
Respondent,
V. .
DANNY L. TURNER, .
Additional Respondent.
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER
November 19, 2008
THE BACKGROUND OF THIS ORDER IS AS FOLLOWS:
Pending before this Court is a self-styled "First Motion to Enforce
Settlement Agreement and Stipulation of Dismissal, to Join Additional Respondent
and to Impose Sanctions filed by the Movant" ("Movant's Motion" or "Motion'),
which was filed on December 19, 2007. (Rec. Doc. 121). For the reasons that
Y
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 2 of 13
follow, we will grant in part and deny in part the Movant's Motion.
FACTUAL BACKGROUND:
In 1998, litigation was commenced to the above caption between Robert M.
Mumma ("Mumma") and Pennsy Supply, Inc. ("Pennsy") regarding a piece of land
in Carlisle (the "Carlisle property" or "Property") that was used for manufacturing
concrete. Mumma recorded a lis pendens on the Property in Cumberland County
while it was the subject of litigation, which was ultimately resolved through a
settlement agreement that was memorialized by a court order. That agreement
gave Pennsy ownership of the Property but also granted Mumma a first right of
refusal if Pennsy ever chose to sell the Property. Unlike the lis pendens, the right
of fast refusal was not placed on the public record in Cumberland County.
A few years later, Danny L. Turner ("Turner') expressed interest in the
Property. He retained counsel who conducted a title search and discovered the
aforementioned lis pendens on the Carlisle Property. According to Turner's
counsel, the following steps were taken to ensure the Property was not
encumbered: (i)Turner received verbal assurances from Pennsy's attorneys at Saul
Ewing that the matter involving the lis pendens had been settled and dismissed; (ii)
he obtained a copy of the docket report' showing that the underlying case in federal
1 The docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details."
2
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19!2008 Page 3 of 13
court that formed the basis of the !is pendens had been dismissed with prejudice;
and (iii) received an executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were
no agreements affecting the premises.
Upon receiving these assurances, Turner made an offer for the Property.
Pennsy did not inform Turner of Mumma's first right of refusal nor did Pennsy
notify Mumma that it had a potential purchaser for the Property. Instead, Pennsy
ignored Mumma's fast right of refusal and sold the Property in 2007 to Turner
under a deed restriction that operated in perpetuity, prohibiting Turner, and all
future grantees, from using the premises to manufacture concrete.
When Mumma later learned of this transaction, he filed a motion to compel
Pennsy to comply with the settlement agreement and honor the fast right of refusal
(the aforementioned "Movant's Motion"). At that time, the case was before our
colleague, the Honorable Sylvia Rambo, who, in addition to allowing the joinder of
Turner, scheduled a hearing for April 3, 2008 (the "Hearing') to take testimony
thereon. (Rec. Doc. .134).
PROCEDURAL HISTORY:
At the Hearing, Judge Rambo appropriately bifurcated the Movant's Motion
into discrete portions, the first concerning the merits of the motion ("merits
portion') and the second relating to the nature and extent of relief, if any should be
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 4 of 13
afforded {"relief portion"}. Judge Rambo conducted the Hearing and entered an
Order directing the parties to address three distinct legal issues.' (Rec. Doc. 139).
These issues were fully briefed when Judge Rambo entered an Order of Recusal on
August 1, 2008. (Rec. Doc. 150). The case was then assigned to Chief Judge
Yvette Kane, who, on August 6, 2008, also entered an Order of Recusal that, in
turn, resulted in the reassignment of the case to us. (Rec. Doc. 140).
Oral argument regarding the briefed legal issues commenced before us on
November 13, 2008. After digesting the substance of the arguments at that
proceeding, and upon a review of the submissions made prior thereto by all parties,
we are now prepared to resolve the merits portion of the Movant's Motion.
Accordingly, the following discussion will focus exclusively on the merits portion
of the motion; issues of relief will be addressed at a later time.
DISCUSSION:
At bottom, the dispute presents the Court with two overarching issues, which
we will address separately below.
A. DID PENNSY BREACH THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
WHEN IT FAILED TO HONOR MUMMA'S FIRST RIGHT
Z These issues were: (i) Was the restrictive use covenant in the Pennsy-Turner deed valid
and enforceable?; (ii) May the first right of refusal be recorded and if so, must it in order to be
enforceable? (iii) Did the lis pendens impart constructive notice to Turner such that he had a
duty to investigate the outcome of the1998 Mumma-Pennsy litigation?
4
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 5 of 13
REFUSAL AND, IF SO, WHAT WAS THE CONSEQUENCE
OF !HAT BREACH?
Despite the somewhat contrived controversy regarding this issue set forth in
the briefs filed by Pennsy, at oral argument Pennsy freely admitted that it had in
fact breached the settlement agreement when it failed to notify Mumma that it had
a potential purchaser for the Carlisle property. Implicit in this concession is
Penny's admission that Mumma's first right of refusal was valid and enforceable '
despite Mumma's failure to record it.' After all, if the first right of refusal was
void as a result of the failure to record, Pennsy's failure to notify Mumma of a
potential purchaser for the Carlisle property would not have resulted in a breach.
The consequence of this breach was, unquestionably, that Pennsy sold the Carlisle
property, encumbered by a perpetual use restriction prohibiting concrete
manufacturing on it, to 'burner. These conclusions lead us to focus on the second
and more complex issue that follows.
B. WAS TURNER A GOOD FAITH PURCHASER?
When a seller (in this case Pennsy) transfers a parcel of land, in which a
' Indeed, we believe this implicit admission to be in line with Pennsylvania law, which
has held, "the purpose of the recording statutes is to protect subsequent bona fide purchasers
from injuries caused by secret pledges of property." Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Game
Comm'n v. Ulrich, 565 A.2d 859,861 (Pa. Commw. CG 1989). Therefore, "Pennsylvania
recording laws ... do not render invalid an unrecorded interest in land." Id at 862 (citing and
v. Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. 515 A.2d 1024 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 1986).
5
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 6 of 13
third party (in this case Mumma) has an interest or right, to a buyer (in this case
Turner), the buyer can retain possession of the property unencumbered by the third
party's interest or right if the buyer is a "bona fide purchaser." ee Wurtzel v. Park
Towne Place Apartments Ltd. P'ship, 2001 WL 1807405 (Pa. Com. Pl. 2001);
Semenko v. Campbell, 28 Pa. D&C 618, 620 (Pa. Com. Pl. 1982). A "bona fide"
or "good faith" purchaser is a party who "pay[s] valuable consideration, ha[s] no
notice of the outstanding rights of others,4 and act[s] in good faith." Poffenberger
v. Goldstein, 776 A.2d 1037, 1042 (Pa. Commw. Ct. 2001) (citations omitted).
In this instance, it is not contested that Turner paid valuable consideration
for the Carlisle property. However, Mumma does assert that Turner is not a bona
fide purchaser because Turner had notice of his fast right of refusal and therefore
did not pursue his course of conduct in good faith. Turner, obviously, denies this
assertion. Both parties use the same sequence of events to bolster their claims,
which is as follows.
After expressing an interest in purchasing the Property, Turner retained
counsel who conducted a title search and discovered that there was a lis pendens on
the Property. According to Turner's counsel, the following steps were taken to
` In claiming that one has no notice of the rights of another, the claimant must exercise
due diligence in attempting to discover said third party rights. Lyon v.Alley, 130 U.S. 177, 183
(1889).
6
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 7 of 13
ensure the Property was not encumbered: (i) he obtained a copy of the docket
reports showing that the underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of
the Us pendens had been dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal
assurances from Penny's attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the lis
pendens had been settled and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an
executed seller's affidavit from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements
affecting the premises.
Mumma argues that the lis pendens discovered by Turner's counsel, in
tandem with the docket report's direction to "see order for details," imparted
constructive notice to Turner that there was a potential cloud on the title to the
Carlisle property. Accordingly, Mumma posits that Turner's decision to proceed
with the transaction without discovering the nature of the encumbrance exhibits a
failure of due diligence constituting bad faith, which prevents Turner from
qualifying as a bona fide purchaser. Mumma avers that Turner could have done
any of a number of things, all within the range of due diligence, that would have
enabled him to discover the nature of encumbrance. For instance, Mumma argues
that Turner could have contacted Mumma himself, since Mumma was the party
' As previously noted, the docket entry directed the reader to "see order for details" At
the Hearing, Turner's counsel admitted, with great candor, that upon seeing the order he
attempted to access PACER to verify the contents of the order but was unsuccessful in doing so.
7
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 8 of 13
benefitted by the encumbrance, to inquire about the lis pendens. Additionally,
Mumma asserts that Turner could have checked the docket for the settlement order,
as was suggested by the docket report.
Conversely, Turner aptly notes that "lis pendens" literally means "a pending
suit." McCahill v.Roberts, 219 A.2d 306, 308 (Pa. 1996), and that a lis pendens
serves to give notice to third parties of one thing and one thing alone: that the
property is subject to litigation, Vintage Homes v. Leven. 554 A.2d 989 (Pa.
Super. 1989). Thus, Turner avers that when he discovered a Ifs pendens on the
Property, he was put on notice that it was the subject of litigation. With this
knowledge, Turner received two separate assurances from Pennsy's counsel that
the lis pendens was no longer on the Property and that the title to the Property was
free and clear of any encumbrances. Turner admits that he could have called
Mumma to verify the nature of the encumbrance. He also admits that he could
have expended additional energy in checking the settlement order. But, as Turner
notes, the proper question is not could he have done these things; rather, it is
should he have been required to do them. When taken in the context of Turner's
course of conduct, we believe that the answer to the latter question is a resounding
no.
"Due diligence" is defined as "[t]he diligence reasonably expected from, and
8
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162
Filed 11/19/2008 Page 9 of 13
ordinarily exercised by, a person who seeks to satisfy a legal requirement or to
discharge an obligation." BLACK'S LAW DICTIONARY (8th ed.). Therefore, in the
instant matter, "due diligence" would be the degree of diligence expected from an
ordinary purchaser of real property in attempting to discover encumbrances on the
sought-after property. Although we have already recounted Turner's actions
(through his counsel Mr. Otto) in this regard, we summarize them again to
emphasize our point. In attempting to discover if the Carlisle property was
encumbered, Turner (i) obtained a copy of the docket report showing that the
underlying case in federal court that formed the basis of the Us pendens had been
dismissed with prejudice; (ii) he received verbal assurances from Pennsy's
attorneys at Saul Ewing that the matter involving the lis pendens had been settled
and dismissed with prejudice; and (iii) he obtained an executed seller's affidavit
from Pennsy stating that there were no agreements affecting the premises. In our
considered view, after. completing these steps and receiving these assurances, an
ordinary purchaser could reasonably expect that the property was free from
encumbrances. Turner, through his counsel Mr. Otto, did just that."
6 Indeed, we are of the opinion that Turner's actions were entirely reasonable, and that his
inquiries justifiably led him to believe that the Carlisle property was unencumbered. Asa matter
of fact, our determination that Turner was a bona fide purchaser is buttressed by the actions of
both Pennsy and Mumma. First, the seemingly blatant misrepresentations made by Pennsy's
counsel to Tamer's counsel regarding the clarity of the title to the Carlisle property supports our
belief that Turner did not in fact have notice, constructive or otherwise, of Mumma's first right
9
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 10 of 13
Mumma would have us impose upon Turner a duty that would have required
him to obtain assurances from each party involved in the underlying litigation
regarding the details of its resolution, despite the fact that the docket showed it to
have been fully resolved. Surely, this would saddle Turner and title searchers
everywhere with an excessively onerous burden requiring verification of clear title
from each and every potential source of any type of encumbrance.' This
undoubtedly would hamper the free alienability of real property, a concept which is
supported by a strong public policy. Peters v. East Penn Tvc!n?ch. Dist., 126 A.2d
842, 802 (Pa. Super. 1957). We decline the invitation to impossibly complicate
property acquisition by imposing such a heavy burden. Accordingly, we find that
Turner was a bona fide purchaser for value. Therefore, Turner's interest is
superior to that of Mumma's, meaning that Turner shall retain the Property despite
Mumma's first right of refusal.
of refusal. Second, while Mumma certainly was not required to record the first right of refusal,
his failure to do so is another factor that militates in favor of the conclusion that Turner had no
notice of the first right of refusal and therefore acted in good faith when proceeding to
consummate the transaction for the Carlisle property.
The professional diligence required by counsel in real estate transactions is grindingly
difficult on a good day. Simply put, we believe that Mr. Otto did everything that could have
been reasonably expected of him in representing Mr. Turner. Having practiced in this same area,
we clearly would have followed the same course as Mr. Otto did in examining the title to the
Carlisle property. It could never have been within Mr. Otto's contemplation that Penny's
counsel's failure to reveal the right of first refusal would be followed by an affidavit from
Pennsy itself to the same effect.
10
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11119/2008 Page 11 of 13
CONCLUSION:
We now conclude yet another chapter in this ongoing legal saga between
Mumma and Pennsy, which has now effectively protracted itself over the span of a
decade. Regrettably for Turner, he was pulled into the vortex of this maelstrom as
a result of his purchase of the Carlisle property; however, our resolution will end
his participation in the case sub judice. He departs along with the Carlisle
property, largely due to Mumma's unfortunate decision, as aforestated, not to
record his right of first refusal.
The above having been said, we would be remiss in failing to note our
disquietude over the conduct by both Pennsy and its counsel. Clearly, absent their
acts, which were disingenuous to say the least, we would not be at this point.
While the facts and law will not allow us to provide Mumma with his fondest hope,
the denial of the property to Turner and effective reinstatement of the right of first
refusal, we will now move to a second phase that will allow Mumma to state a case
for alternative relief.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. The relief requested in the Movant's Motion (Rec. Doc. 121) is
GRANTED IN PART and DENIED IN PART to the following
11
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 12 of 13
extent:
a. The Motion is GRANTED insofar as the Movant asserts that
Pennsy breached the settlement agreement.
b. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to exercise his right of first refusal against Turner,
the bona fide purchaser for value.
C. The Motion is DENIED insofar as the Movant requests the
opportunity to purchase the Carlisle Property from Mumma on
terms similar or identical to those conditioned upon Turner.
2. Turner shall RETAIN possession of the Carlisle property subject to
the terms of his contract with Pennsy. Turner is furthermore
DISMISSED from the case.
3. Both Mumma and Pennsy shall submit initial briefs regarding the
measure of damages resulting from Pennsy's breach of the settlement
by December 2, 2008. The parties shall submit reply briefs, if any, by
December 16, 2008.
4. The Court will schedule additional proceedings as necessary after a
review of the requested submissions.
12
Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 162 Filed 11/19/2008 Page 13 of 13
s/ John E. Jones III
John E. Jones III
United States District Judge
13
CERTIFICATE AND TRANSMITTAL OF RECORDS UNDER
PENNSYLVANIA RULE OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE 1931 (C)
To the Prothonotary of the Apellate Court to which the within matter has been appealed:
Superior Court of PA
The undersigned, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County,
the said court being a court of record, do hereby certify that annexed hereto is a true and
correct copy of the whole and entire record, including an opinion of the court as required
by PA R.A.P. 1925, the original papers and exhibits, if any on file, the transcript of the
proceedings, if any, and the docket entries in the following matter:
Robert M. Mumm II
Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
and Robert M. Mumma 11
and Susan Mumma
vs
Benedict B. Randolph
1998-950 Civil
843 MDA 2009
The documents comprising the record have been numbered from No.1 to 238, and
attached hereto as Exhibit A is a list of the documents correspondingly numbered and
identified with reasonable definiteness, including with respect to each document, the
number of pages comprising the document.
The date on which the record has been transmitted to the Appellate Court is 09/ 03/2009
Curtis . ong, t
Regina Lebo
An additional copy of this certificate is enclosed. Please sign and date copy, thereby
acknowledging receipt of this record.
Date
Signature & Title
Among the Records and Proceedings enrolled in the court of Common Pleas in and for the
county of 3 Cu nberland in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
to No. 8199F°95308ivil Term, 19 is contained the following:
COPY OF Appearance DOCKET ENTRY
Robert M. Mmma, II
Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
and
Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma
Plaintiffs
VS.
Benedict B. Randolph
**SEE CERTIFED COPY OF DOCKET ENTRIES**
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
County of Cumberland ss:
I, Curtis R. long , Prothonotary
of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said
County, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a
full, true and correct copy of the whole record of the
case therein stated, wherein
Robert M. Mtmma, I T Pt- . a 1 .
Plaintiff, and Benalict R_ Rarvlnlpb
Defendant , as the same remains of record
before the said Court at No. 9A-950 of
C'i vi 1 Term, A. D. 19 .
In TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court
this 3rd day, A. D.,-.
Prothonotary
I, Edgar '-Bayley President Judge of the Na 4b
Judicial District, composed of the County of Cumberland, do certify that
C 13::ti=-R. L=g , by whom the annexed record, certificate and
attestation were made and given, and who, in his own proper handwriting, thereunto subscribed his name
and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, was, at the time of so doing, and now is
Prothonotary in and for said County of 0rnherlanfl in
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, duly commissioned and qualified to all of whose acts as such full faith
and credit are and ought to be given as well in Courts of judicature°°as else here that the said record,
certificate and attestation are in due form of law and made y the prop offic
Fi ..
PrAident Ju ge
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
County of Cumberland ss:
I, Curtis R. Lug , Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in
and for the said County, do certify that the Honorable Edge-6- $.I?l
by whom the foregoing attestation was made, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was, at the time
of making thereof, and still is President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Orphan' Court and Court of
Quarter Sessions of the Peace in and for said County, duly Commissioned and qualified; to all whose acts
as such full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of judicature as elsewhere.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, 1 have hereunto
set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this
3rd of A. D. Uk2044
7rotbonotary
0
0
K
rn
0
CD
a
m
.h
a
73
y
N
o cv
O
rn
?rJ
ro
rn
d
7d
n
o
n
0
c
o
z
Q
rt
bq
O
L? H
F-I
H
i
z
PYS511 Cumberland County Prothonotary's Office Page 1
Civ il Case Print
1998-00950 MUMMA ROBERT M II ET AL (vs).RANDOLPH BENEDICT B
Reference No... Filed.. ...
? 2/19/1998
Case Type...... LIS PENDENS
J
d Time. 10.04
u
gment .... 00 Execution Date 0/00/0000
Judge Assigned: GUIDO EDWARD E Jury Trial....
Disposed Desc.:
------------ Case Comments ----
--------- Disposed Date.
i 0/00/0000
H
gher Crt 1.: 843 MDA 2009
Higher Crt 2.:
********************************************************************************
General Index Attorney Info
MUMMA ROBERT M II PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST
P 0 BOX 2255
614 N FRONT ST
HARRISBURG PA 17105
MUMMA ROBERT M II PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
BOX 508
MCCORMICK RD
BOWMANS.DALE PA 17008
MUMMA SUSAN PLAINTIFF DORET DAVID M
BOX 508
MCCORMICK RD
BOWMANSDALE PA 17008
RANDOLPH BENEDICT B DEFENDANT
132 RIVERCREST DR
GREENVILLE NC
Judgment Index Amount Date Desc
RANDOLPH BENEDICT B 2/19/1998 LIS PENDENS
********************************************************************************
* Date Entries
********************************************************************************
2/19/1998 PRAECIPE FOR LIS PENDENS ANDILIS PENDENS ENTERED
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/10/2007 AMENDMENT AND PETITON TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - HUBERT X-GILROY ATTY
FOR PETITIONER DANNY L TURNER
-?? 12/14/2007 RULE TO SHOW CAUSE - 12/14/07 IN RE: PETITIONER'S MOTION TO STRIKE
-------------------------------------------------------------------
LIS PENDENS - RULE IS HEREBY ISSUED UPON ROBERT MUMMA II GRANTOR
RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST ROBERT M MUMMA II AND SUSAN MUMMA TO SHOW
CAUSE IF ANY THEY HAVE WHY THE MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS SHOULD
NOT BE GRANTED - THIS RUL IS RETURNABLE AT A HEARING SCHEDULED IN
THE MATTER IN CR3 ON 1/10/07 AT 2:30 PM IN CUMBERLAND OUNTY
COURTHOUSE - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES MAILED 12/1407
-------------------------------------------------------------------
12/20/2007 PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS IN THE NATURE OF AN OBJECTION TO
JURISTICTION BASED ON PENDENCY OF A PRIOR ACTION AND THE NATURE OF
A DEMRRER - BY THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR PLFF
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1/10/2008 ORDER OF COURT - 1-09-08 IN RE: PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS
SCHEDULED 1-10-08 IS CONTINUED GENERALLY - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J -
COPIES MAILED 1-11-08
-------------------------------------------------------------------
2/14/2008 AFFIDAVIT - BY DANNY L TURNER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
9 11/24/2008 SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY HUBERT X GILROY
ATTY FOR PETITIONER
-------------------------------------------------------------------
9S 11/26/2008 ORDER OF COURT - 11/25/08 IN RE: SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION TO STRIKE
LIS PENDENS - A RULE IS HEREBY ISSUED UPON ROBERT M MUMMA II
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY TRUST ROBERT M MUMMA II AND SUSAN MUMMA
TO SHOW CAUSE IF ANY THEY HAVE WHY THE SUPPLEMENTAL MOTION TO
STRIKE LIS PENDENS SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED - THIS RULE IS RETURNABLE
AT A HEARING SCH D ED IN THE MATTER IN CR3 CUMBERLNAD COUNTY
COURTHOUSE ON 12?11?18 AT 3:00 PM - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES
PYS511 Cumberland County Protnonotary's Urrice Page 1
Civil Case Print
1998-00950 MUMMA ROBERT M II ET AL (vs) RANDOLPH BENEDICT B
Reference No... Filed......... 2/19/1998
Case Type...... LIS PENDENS Time. .... . 10.04
Judgment......: 00 Execution Date 0/00/0000
Judge Assigned: GUIDO EDWARD E Jury Trial....
Disposed Desc.: Disposed Date. 0/00/0000
------------ Case Comments ------------- Higher Crt 1.: 843 MD 2009
Higher Crt 2.:
MAILED 11/26/08
-------------------------------------------------------------------
jjq_/4,/p 12/09/2008 RESPONSE TOO SUPPLEMENTAL PPETITION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY
THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR
------ ------ ------------ ------------- -------- --------- -------------
16f-1gjf' 1/26/2009 STATUS-REPORT AND REQUEST TO CONTINUE HOLDING PETITION TO STRIKE
LIS PENDENS IN ABEYANCE - BY THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR PLFFS
-----------------------------------------------------=-------------
?? 1/29/•2009 ORDER OF COURT - 1/29L09 IN RE: STATUS REPORT AND REQUEST TO
CONTINUE HOLDING PEETITTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS IN ABEYANCE - BY
EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES MAILED 1/29/09
------ -------- ----------- ------- ---------------------------------_--
g`_ /g92/17/2009 MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS - BY HUBERT X GILROY ATTY FOR
PETITIONER
---------- =--------------------------------------------------------
?9f 2/25/2009 ORDER OF COURT 2/24/09 IN RE MOTION TO STRIKE LIS PENDENS THE LIS
PENDENS FILED BY ROBET M MUMMA II IS HEREBY STRICKEN EDWARD E
GUIDO JUDGE COPIES MAILED 2/25/09
-----------------------------------------------------------,--------
jba-ao93/05/2009 PLAINTIFF'S MOTION FOR POST TRIAL RELIEF - BY LINDA J OLSEN ATTY
FOR PLFFS
-------------------------------------------------------------------
-/l?-,;2Q/3/10/2009 ORDER OF COURT -_3/10/09 IN RE: PLFFS MOTION FOR POST TRIAL RELIEF
- A NEW HEARING AND ARGUMENT WILL BE HELD ON 4/14/09 AT 11:00 AM
IN CR3 CUMBERLAND COUNTY COURTHOUSE - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J - COPIES
MAILED 3/10/09
-------------------------------------------------------------------
a?D 4/15/2009 ORDER OF COURT 4/14/09 - IN RE: MOTION FOR POST-TRIAL
RELIF/RECONSIDE T ON OF PLFFS IS DENIED - BY EDWARD E GUIDO J -
P/ ) COPIES MAILED 4 15 09
-------------------------------------------------------------------
5/14/2009 NOTICE OF APPEAL TO SUPERIOR COURT - BY THOMAS W SCOTT ATTY FOR
PLFFS
-------------------------------------------------------------------
7d.) 5/20/2009 SUPERIOR COURT OF PA NOTICE OF APPEAL DOCKETING TO #843 MDA 2009
-------------------------------------------------------------------
aa?-,;3 78/28/2009 OPINION PURSUANT TO PA RAP 1925 - BY THE COURT EDWARD E GUIDO J.-
COPIES MAILED 08-28-2009
-------------------------------------------------------------------
9/03/2009 NOTICE OF DOCKET ENTRIES MAILED TO MICHAEL A FINIO ES MATTHEW
HAAR ESQ THOMAS W SCOTT ESQ HUBERT X GILROY ESQ AND B?NEDICT B
RANDOLPH
- - - LAST ENTRY - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
* Escrow Information
* Fees & Debits Beg Bal Pymt.s/Adj End Bal
JDMT/MISC 9.00 9.00 .00
TAX JDMT/MISC .50 .50 .00
SATISFACTION 5.00 5.00 .00
APPEAL HIGH CT 48.00 48.00
--
-- .00
--------
--------------
62.50 -------
-
-
62.50 -
.00
********************************************************************************
* End of Case Information
********************************************************************************
TRUE COPY zN`
In Testimony whereof, I h, _-,re un`^ ' ray hand
and the seal of said Court at Carlisle, Pa.
This .....3......^ day ..., .
........... .........:-,,..
Prothonotary
r
ROBERT M. MUMMA, II IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
GRANTOR RETAINED ANNUITY CUMBERLAND COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA
TRUST; ROBERT M. MUMMA, II AND
SUSAN MUMMA,
Plaintiffs
V.
BENEDICT B. RANDOLPH
V.
PENNSY SUPPLY, INC.,
Defendant
V.
DANNY L. TURNER,
Additional Defendant
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
NO. 98-950 CIVIL TERM
PRAECIPE
Please file of record the Order issued by Judge John E. Jones, III of the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania attached hereto as Exhibit "A",
granting the removal of deceased party, Benedict B. Randolph, from the Distribution List.
Said Order further reflects that the name of Benedict B. Randolph shall remain in the
caption for the purposes of convenience and continuity.
Respectfully submitted
Thomds W. Sc(W, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #15681
Linda J. Olsen, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #92858
KILLIAN & GEPHART, LLP
218 Pine Street
P.O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Dated: November 5, 2009
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I do certify that I served a true and correct copy of the within document upon the following
by depositing a copy of same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
Hubert X. Gilroy, Esquire
Martson Law Offices
10 East High Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
h ilroy&martsonlaw.com
Michael A. Finio, Esquire
Matthew Haar, Esquire
Saul Ewing, LLP
Penn National Insurance Tower
2 North Second Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
mfinionasaul.com
mhaarnsaul.com
Estate of Benedict B. Randolph
132 Rivercrest Drive
Greenville, NC 27858-9300
Steven J. Fishman, Esquire
Commonwealth Keystone Building
400 North Street, 4th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0001
Killian & Gephart, LLP
218 Pine Street
P. O. Box 886
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0886
(717) 232-1851
Dated: November 5, 2009
?- Pennsylvania Middle District Version 3.2.3 -Pennsylvania Middle D... https://ecf pamd.uscourts.gov/docl/155026525837magic num=850...
#*. Case 1:98-cv-00087-JEJ Document 182-5 Filed 10/13/2009 Page 1 of 1
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Robert M. Mumma, II Grantor Retained
Annuity Trust; Robert M. Mumma, II
and Susan Mumma,
Movants
v.
13enedlet B. Randolph
V. :
Pennsy Supply, Inc.,
Respondent
v. :
Danny L. Turner, :
Additional Respondent :
Civil No. 1:98-CV-0087
Judge John E. Jones III
FILED ELECTRONICALLY
VIA ECF
_:_.,_,AND NOW, this (44k day of eRn;t peg, , 2009, upon
consideration of the Motion to Remove Party of Record from Distribution List, IT
IS HEREBY ORDERED that the said Motion is GRANTED, as follows:
A. Benedict B. Randolph is hereby permanently removed from the
Distribution List; and
B. Benedict B. Randolph's name shall remain in the caption of the
instant case for purposes of convenience and continuity.
I of 1 IMMIT 0.1ve 10/14/200912:42 PM
BY THE COURT:
F?LEt?t?; ?s ;?:;
OF THE PR
2009110V -6 P.`1 I : k, 8
a
CERTIFICATE AND TRANSMITTAL OF RECORDS UNDER
PENNSYLVANIA RULE OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE 1931 (C)
To the Prothonotary of the Apellate Court to which the within matter has been appealed:
Superior Court of PA
The undersigned, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County,
the said court being a court of record, do hereby certify that annexed hereto is a true and
correct copy of the whole and entire record, including an opinion of the court as required
by PA R.A.P. 1925, the original papers and exhibits, if any on file, the transcript of the
proceedings, if any, and the docket entries in the following matter:
Robert M. Mumm II
Grantor Retained Annuity Trust
and Robert M. Mumma II
and Susan Mumma
vs
Benedict B. Randolph
• 1998-950 Civil
843 MDA 2009
The documents comprising the record have been numbered from No.l to 238, and
attached hereto as Exhibit A is a list of the documents correspondingly numbered and
identified with reasonable definiteness, including with respect to each document, the
number of pages comprising the document.
The date on which the record has been transmitted to the Appellate Court is 09103 /2009
Received in Superior Court
SEP 0 4 LU(19
M~a~~~
An additional copy of this certificate is enclosed. Please sign and date couv, thereby
acknowled~in~ receipt of this record.
Date
Signature & Title