The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option Plan of National Penn Ranchers, Inc. is a comprehensive employee benefit program designed to attract and retain talented professionals. This plan offers employees the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, thereby benefiting from any future stock price appreciation. It serves as a valuable tool to incentivize employees, aligning their interests with the company's success. Under the Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option Plan, employees are granted stock options, which give them the right to purchase a specific number of shares of National Penn Ranchers, Inc. stock at a discounted exercise price. These options typically have a vesting period, during which the employee needs to satisfy certain qualifications to exercise the options and successfully acquire the stock. There are several types of stock option plans available through National Penn Ranchers, Inc. The first is Non-Qualified Stock Options (Nests), which are typically offered to executives and management-level employees. Nests offer flexibility in terms of exercise price and tax treatment but may be subject to higher taxes upon exercise. Another type is Incentive Stock Options (SOS), which are usually granted to a wider range of employees. SOS have specific tax benefits but come with additional restrictions, such as limits on the exercise price and holding periods. Restricted Stock Units (RSS) are another form of equity compensation offered by National Penn Ranchers, Inc. Under this plan, employees are granted a specific number of RSS, which represent the right to receive company shares at a future date or upon meeting certain performance milestones. RSS typically vest over time and are settled in company stock. The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option Plan, in all its variations, is an important component of National Penn Ranchers, Inc.'s overall compensation package. It encourages employee loyalty, enhances motivation, and strengthens the alignment between employee and shareholder interests. By offering employees an opportunity to share in the company's success, this plan plays a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and rewarding top talent within the organization.