Allstate 2008 Annual Report Download - page 38

●Special meetings of stockholders should be called only after the Chairman or the Board of Directors, duly
elected by stockholders each year, has carefully considered the best interests of Allstate and its stockholders.
●The annual stockholders’ meeting is the best setting for considering important issues facing Allstate.
●While it is possible that an important issue could arise in the 12 months between meetings, the analysis
and evaluation of any such issue should be done deliberately and thoughtfully and be subject to a
thorough review by the Board. After the Board has carefully considered the issue and determined a
recommended course of action for stockholder consideration, it may be appropriate to have an interim
stockholder meeting, but that is best determined by the Chairman. In any event, there is a required
meeting of stockholders every year.
●Stockholders elect directors to supervise management. In order to serve the stockholders who have elected
them, directors must have the opportunity to study issues, to evaluate alternatives, and to consider
solutions. It often requires time to determine the results of their decisions. Their performance in
representing stockholders should be and is evaluated annually, which is appropriate given the size and
nature of Allstate’s business.
●The annual stockholders’ meeting is held every year after the financial statements for the prior year have
been audited and provided to stockholders. Issues that are important to stockholders should be considered
in light of Allstate’s performance as reflected in the financial statements.
●Allstate has strong governance practices which have been recognized by prominent and respected governance
rating organizations.
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Proxy Statement