Gray Television (GTN) 10-K 28 Feb 19 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Feb. 22, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	GRAY TELEVISION INC
Entity Central Index Key	43,196
Trading Symbol	gtn
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Public Float			$ 1,261,840,180
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Common Stock [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		94,131,367
Common Class A [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		6,892,233

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Assets:
Cash	$ 666,980,000	$ 462,399,000
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,346 and $4,606, respectively	183,592,000	171,230,000
Prepaid income taxes	0	13,791,000
Prepaid and other current assets	7,311,000	4,681,000
Total current assets	872,745,000	666,757,000
Property and equipment, net	363,142,000	350,658,000
Broadcast licenses	1,529,574,000	1,530,703,000
Goodwill	612,425,000	611,100,000
Other intangible assets, net	53,214,000	73,784,000
Investments in broadcasting and technology companies	16,599,000	16,599,000
Restricted cash	751,963,000
Other	13,783,000	11,256,000
Total assets	4,213,445,000	3,260,857,000
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Accounts payable	8,403,000	7,840,000
Employee compensation and benefits	34,771,000	30,144,000
Accrued interest	34,289,000	26,624,000
Other accrued expenses	17,384,000	11,970,000
Federal and state income taxes	14,330,000	8,753,000
Deferred revenue	3,703,000	4,004,000
Current portion of long-term debt		6,417,000
Total current liabilities	150,396,000	131,305,000
Long-term debt, less current portion and deferred financing costs	2,549,224,000	1,831,011,000
Program broadcast obligations, less current portion	5,182,000	4,277,000
Deferred income taxes	284,890,000	261,690,000
Accrued pension costs	33,239,000	37,838,000
Other	3,325,000	1,839,000
Total liabilities	3,026,256,000	2,267,960,000
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock	907,137,000	902,518,000
Retained earnings	372,497,000	161,694,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income tax benefit	(21,377,000)	(22,165,000)
Stockholders' equity before treasury stock	1,284,943,000	1,066,691,000
Treasury stock at cost	(72,270,000)	(49,562,000)
Total stockholders’ equity	1,187,189,000	992,897,000
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	4,213,445,000	3,260,857,000
Common Class A [Member]
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock	26,686,000	24,644,000
Treasury stock at cost	(25,484,000)	(24,232,000)
Network Programming Obligations, Current [Member]
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Accrued network programming fees	22,328,000	20,317,000
Syndicated Program Film Rights, Current [Member]
Assets:
Current portion of program broadcast rights, net	14,862,000	14,656,000
Syndicated Program Film Obliagtions, Current [Member]
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Accrued network programming fees	$ 15,188,000	$ 15,236,000

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ / shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 5,346	$ 4,606
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	200,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	89,298,943	88,788,664
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	82,022,500	83,253,588
Treasury stock (in shares)	7,276,443	5,535,076
Common Class A [Member]
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	25,000,000	15,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	8,569,149	8,349,069
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	6,729,035	6,598,377
Treasury stock (in shares)	1,840,114	1,750,692

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenue (less agency commissions)	$ 1,084,132	$ 882,728	$ 812,465
Operating expenses before depreciation, amortization, and (gain) loss on disposals of assets, net:
Broadcast	596,403	557,563	474,994
Corporate and administrative	40,910	31,589	40,319
Depreciation	53,883	51,973	45,923
Amortization of intangible assets	20,570	25,072	16,596
(Gain) loss on disposals of assets, net	(16,405)	(74,200)	329
Operating expenses	695,361	591,997	578,161
Operating income	388,771	290,731	234,304
Other income (expense):
Miscellaneous income, net	5,507	657	610
Interest expense	(106,628)	(95,259)	(97,236)
Loss from early extinguishment of debt		(2,851)	(31,987)
Income before income taxes	287,650	193,278	105,691
Income tax expense (benefit)	76,847	(68,674)	43,418
Net income	$ 210,803	$ 261,952	$ 62,273
Basic per share information:
Net income (in dollars per share)	$ 2.39	$ 3.59	$ 0.87
Weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	88,084	73,061	71,848
Diluted per share information:
Net income (in dollars per share)	$ 2.37	$ 3.55	$ 0.86
Weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	88,778	73,836	72,764
Dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Net income	$ 210,803	$ 261,952	$ 62,273
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Adjustment to pension liability	1,056	(7,410)	(592)
Income tax expense (benefit)	268	(2,890)	(231)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	788	(4,520)	(361)
Comprehensive income	$ 211,591	$ 257,432	$ 61,912

Consolidated Statement of Stock

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]Common Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]Common Stock [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]Retained Earnings [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]Treasury Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]Treasury Stock [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	2007 Incentive Plan [Member]	The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]Common Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]Common Stock [Member]	The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]Treasury Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]Treasury Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]Common Class A [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Total
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015												7,855,381	70,989,426		(1,611,371)	(4,882,705)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015												$ 19,325	$ 655,446	$ (163,638)	$ (22,685)	$ (41,890)	$ (17,284)	$ 429,274
Net income														62,273				62,273
Adjustment to pension liability, net of income tax																	(361)	(361)
401(k) plan (in shares)													2,571
401(k) plan													$ 29					29
Restricted stock awards (in shares)	218,612	237,500		(57,760)	(60,518)
Restricted stock awards				$ (655)	$ (798)		$ (1,453)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)																(192,183)
Repurchase of common stock																$ (2,000)		(2,000)
Share-based compensation (in shares)
Share-based compensation												$ 2,439	$ 2,660					5,099
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016												8,073,993	71,229,497		(1,669,131)	(5,135,406)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016												$ 21,764	$ 658,135	(101,365)	$ (23,340)	$ (44,688)	(17,645)	492,861
Net income														261,952				261,952
Adjustment to pension liability, net of income tax																	(4,520)	(4,520)
401(k) plan (in shares)													1,224
401(k) plan													$ 15					15
Restricted stock awards (in shares)	198,220	307,943		(81,561)	(77,632)			76,856
Restricted stock awards				$ (892)	$ (874)		$ (1,766)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)																(322,038)
Repurchase of common stock																$ (4,000)		(4,000)
Share-based compensation												2,880	5,423					8,303
Adoption of ASU 2016-09 excess tax benefit for stock-based compensation														1,107				1,107
Underwritten public offering (in shares)													17,250,000
Underwritten public offering													$ 238,945					238,945
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017												8,349,069	88,788,664		(1,750,692)	(5,535,076)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2017												$ 24,644	$ 902,518	161,694	$ (24,232)	$ (49,562)	(22,165)	992,897
Net income														210,803				210,803
Adjustment to pension liability, net of income tax																	788	788
Restricted stock awards (in shares)												220,080	391,836		(89,422)	(107,456)
Restricted stock awards															$ (1,252)	$ (1,757)		(3,009)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)																(1,551,710)
Repurchase of common stock																$ (19,607)		(19,607)
Share-based compensation (in shares)
Share-based compensation												$ 2,042	$ 5,147					7,189
Restricted stock unit awards (in shares)													209,500			(82,201)
Restricted stock unit awards																$ (1,344)		(1,344)
Forefiture of restricted stock awards (in shares)													(91,057)
Forefiture of restricted stock awards													$ (528)					(528)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018												8,569,149	89,298,943		(1,840,114)	(7,276,443)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2018												$ 26,686	$ 907,137	$ 372,497	$ (25,484)	$ (72,270)	$ (21,377)	$ 1,187,189

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Operating activities
Net income	$ 210,803	$ 261,952	$ 62,273
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	53,883	51,973	45,923
Amortization of intangible assets	20,570	25,072	16,596
Amortization of deferred loan costs	4,630	4,624	4,884
Accretion of original issue discount and premium related to long-term debt, net	(610)	(610)	(779)
Amortization of restricted stock and stock option awards	6,661	8,303	5,099
Amortization of program broadcast rights	21,416	21,033	19,001
Payments on program broadcast obligations	(21,789)	(21,055)	(18,786)
Deferred income taxes	22,932	(77,325)	41,386
(Gain) loss on disposals of assets, net	(16,405)	(74,200)	329
Loss from early extinguishment of debt		2,851	31,987
Other	(2,888)	(3,343)	(1,788)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(12,362)	(23,744)	(6,107)
Prepaid income taxes	13,791	851	(14,642)
Other current assets	(2,901)	806	2,032
Accounts payable	563	2,116	518
Employee compensation, benefits and pension costs	4,636	(1,899)	871
Accrued network fees and other expenses	7,444	3,306	(1,723)
Accrued interest	7,665	(5,829)	19,736
Income taxes payable	5,578	5,836	2,145
Deferred revenue	(301)	(703)	1,130
Net cash provided by operating activities	323,316	180,015	210,085
Investing activities
Acquisitions of television businesses and licenses	(425)	(416,018)	(431,846)
Proceeds from sale of television station	8,500		11,200
Proceeds from FCC spectrum auction		90,824
Purchases of property and equipment	(69,975)	(34,516)	(43,604)
Proceeds from Repack (Note 1)	14,217	84
Proceeds from other asset sales	467	103	2,979
Net (increase) decrease in acquisition prepayments and other	(161)	9,724	(18,063)
Net cash used in investing activities	(47,377)	(349,799)	(479,334)
Financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings on long-term debt	750,000	641,438	1,656,000
Repayments of borrowings on long-term debt	(40,208)	(562,641)	(1,100,000)
Payments for the repurchase of common stock	(19,607)	(4,000)	(2,000)
Tender and redemption premiums for 2020 Notes			(27,502)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		238,945
Deferred and other loan costs	(5,227)	(4,981)	(27,926)
Payments for taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards	(4,353)	(1,767)	(1,452)
Net cash provided by financing activities	680,605	306,994	497,120
Net increase in cash	204,581	137,210	227,871
Net increase in restricted cash, included in non-current assets	751,963
Cash and restricted cash at beginning of period	462,399	325,189	97,318
Cash and restricted cash at end of period	$ 1,418,943	$ 462,399	$ 325,189

Note 1 - Description of Busines

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]	1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business. January 2, 2019, one 91 400 150 first second 86 91 December 2017 November 2018. 24% Restricted Cash. December 31, 2018 2027 January 2, 2019, Investments in Broadcasting and Technology Companies. two June 30, 2018, 32.4% 67.9% no In 2016, $3.0 not not Each of these equity investments do not 2016 01 Financial Instruments - Overall 825 10 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Trade and Barter Transactions . December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Trade revenue $ 2,897 $ 1,832 $ 2,069 Trade expense (3,012 ) (1,863 ) (1,997 ) Net trade (loss) income $ (115 ) $ (31 ) $ 72 We do not not not Advertising Expense. $1.2 $1.6 $1.5 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, Use of Estimates. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. 120 may 120 $2.2 $2.4 $1.9 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, Program Broadcast Rights. two first Wheel of Fortune Seinfeld not first first not The total license fee payable under a program license agreement allowing us to broadcast programs is recorded at the beginning of the license period and is charged to operating expense over the period that the programs are broadcast. The portion of the unamortized balance expected to be charged to operating expense in the succeeding year is classified as a current asset, with the remainder classified as a non-current asset. The liability for license fees payable under program license agreements is classified as current or long-term, in accordance with the payment terms of the various license agreements. Property and Equipment. Estimated December 31, Useful Lives 2018 2017 (in years) Property and equipment: Land $ 52,511 $ 50,458 Buildings and improvements 166,200 156,924 7 to 40 Equipment 547,707 511,878 3 to 20 766,418 719,260 Accumulated depreciation (403,276 ) (368,602 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 363,142 $ 350,658 Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged to operations as incurred; major replacements and betterments are capitalized. The cost of any assets divested, sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts at the time of disposition, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in income or expense for the period. In April 2017, $1.75 March 2018 $1.0 $750.0 may December 31, 2018, 26 36 2017 three The following tables provide additional information related to gain on disposal of assets, net included in our consolidated statements of operations and purchases of property and equipment included in our consolidated statements of cash flows (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Gain (loss) on disposal of assets, net: Proceeds from sale of assets $ 8,967 $ 90,927 $ 44,234 Proceeds from Repack 14,217 84 - Net book value of assets disposed (6,779 ) (16,811 ) (44,563 ) Total $ 16,405 $ 74,200 $ (329 ) Purchase of property and equipment: Recurring purchases - operations $ 40,983 $ 31,692 $ 43,604 Repack 27,081 2,824 - Repack related 1,911 - - Total $ 69,975 $ 34,516 $ 43,604 Deferred Loan Costs. Asset Retirement Obligations. 2062. $1.0 $1.1 December 31, 2018 2017, December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, $54,000, $71,000 $15,000, Concentration of Credit Risk . not Excluding political advertising revenue, which is cyclical based on election cycles, our most significant category of customer is automotive. During the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 25%, 25% 22%, no one 5% E arnings Per Share . not not The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic 88,084 73,061 71,848 Weighted-average shares underlying stock options and restricted shares 694 775 916 Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted 88,778 73,836 72,764 Valuation of Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets . For broadcast licenses acquired prior to January 1, 2002, For broadcast licenses acquired after December 31, 2001, December 31, 2001, When renewing broadcast licenses, we incur regulatory filing fees and legal fees. We expense these fees as they are incurred. Other intangible assets that we have acquired include network affiliation agreements, retransmission agreements, advertising contracts, client lists, talent contracts and leases. Although each of our stations is affiliated with at least one Impairment Testing of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. December 31. For purposes of testing goodwill for impairment, each of our individual television markets is considered a separate reporting unit. In the performance of our annual assessment of goodwill for impairment, we have the option to qualitatively assess whether it is more likely than not If we conclude that it is more likely than not not not To estimate the fair value of our reporting units for a quantitative assessment, we utilize a discounted cash flow model supported by a market multiple approach. We believe that a discounted cash flow analysis is the most appropriate methodology to test the recorded value of long-term assets with a demonstrated long-lived/enduring franchise value. We believe the results of the discounted cash flow and market multiple approaches provide reasonable estimates of the fair value of our reporting units because these approaches are based on our actual results and reasonable estimates of future performance, and also take into consideration a number of other factors deemed relevant by us including, but not one In the performance of our annual assessment of broadcast licenses for impairment we have the option to qualitatively assess whether it is more likely than not not one no not For further discussion of our goodwill, broadcast licenses and other intangible assets, see Note 11 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. December 31, 2018 2017 December 31, 2018 2017 Accumulated balances of items included in accumulated other comprehensive loss: Increase in pension liability $ (35,280 ) $ (36,336 ) Income tax benefit (13,903 ) (14,171 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (21,377 ) $ (22,165 ) Recent Accounting Pronouncements. February 2018, 2018 02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income 220 Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 2018 02 2017 not December 15, 2018, not In January 2017, 2017 04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other 350 Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment 2017 04 2 2 not December 15, 2019, not not Adoption of Accounting Standards and Reclassifications . January 2016, 2016 01 Financial Instruments - Overall 825 10 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities 2016 01 2016 01 may February 2018, 2018 03 Technical Corrections and Improvements to Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825 10 2018 03 2016 01. 2018 03 June 15, 2018. first 2018. not not In February 2016, 2016 02 Leases 842 2016 02 July 2018, 2018 11, Leases (Topic 842 no January 1, 2019, $19.9

Note 2 - Revenue

Note 2 - Revenue	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]	2. Revenue Adoption of New Accounting Standard: ASC Topic 606, January 1, 2018, 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, as amended not not Revenue Recognition. Seasonality and Cyclicality. second fourth two fourth Disaggregation of Revenue. Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Market and service type: Advertising: Local $ 442,728 $ 451,261 $ 403,336 National 114,192 118,817 98,351 Political 155,074 16,498 90,095 Total advertising 711,994 586,576 591,782 Retransmission consent 355,423 276,603 200,879 Other 16,715 19,549 19,804 Total revenue $ 1,084,132 $ 882,728 $ 812,465 Sales channel: Direct $ 551,883 $ 473,649 $ 373,363 Advertising agency intermediary 532,249 409,079 439,102 Total revenue $ 1,084,132 $ 882,728 $ 812,465 Advertising Revenue. 30 We broadcast the customer’s advertisement either preceding or following a television station’s network programming and within local and syndicated programming. Broadcast advertising is sold in time increments and is priced primarily on the basis of a program’s popularity among the specific audience an advertiser desires to reach. In addition, broadcast advertising rates are affected by the number of advertisers competing for the available time, the size and demographic makeup of the market served by the station and the availability of alternative advertising media in the market area. Broadcast advertising rates are generally the highest during the most desirable viewing hours, with corresponding reductions during other hours. The ratings of a local station affiliated with a major network can be affected by ratings of network programming. Internet advertising is placed on our stations’ websites and mobile applications. These advertisements may We generate advertising revenue either by the efforts of our direct sales employees or through third Retransmission Consent Revenue. three 30 Subscriber data necessary to calculate the amount of retransmission consent revenue to be recognized for the current month is not not not Other Revenues. one Accounts Receivable and Deposit Liability. $3.8 January 1, 2018 2018. $3.4 December 31, 2018 2019. Expedients. one one The nature of our contracts with advertising customers is such that our performance obligations arise and are satisfied concurrent with the broadcast or web placement of the advertisement. We did not

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispo

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]	3 . Acquisitions and Dispositions On December 31, 2018, 154 $8.5 $4.8 During 2017 2016, third 2017 Acquisitions . January 13, 2017, 202 $8.0 On January 17, 2017, two 69 102 $269.9 May 30, 2017, August 7, 2017, During the period that GME held those broadcast licenses we believe we were the primary beneficiary of GME because, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, we had the power to direct the activities that significantly impact the economic performance of GME through the services we provided, and our obligation to absorb losses and right to earn returns that would be considered significant to GME. As a result, we included the assets, liabilities and results of operations of GME in our consolidated financial statements beginning on January 17, 2017 August 7, 2017, no On May 1, 2017, 169 $26.5 May 13, 2016, June 1, 2016, $16.5 On May 1, 2017, 156 159 $85.0 April 1, 2017, On August 1, 2017, 97 $29.0 June 1, 2017, $23.2 $5.8 We refer to the eight 2016 2017 “2017 2017 Acquisition Fairbanks Media General Clarksburg Diversified Vermont Total Current assets $ 122 $ 666 $ 462 $ 361 $ 312 $ 1,923 Property and equipment 2,650 20,181 4,133 12,329 9,513 48,806 Goodwill 471 86,287 3,222 35,486 3,393 128,859 Broadcast licenses 2,228 149,846 17,003 26,219 7,592 202,888 Other intangible assets 2,702 13,398 2,234 11,051 5,191 34,576 Other non-current assets 71 282 51 27 3,310 3,741 Current liabilities (140 ) (695 ) (554 ) (423 ) (311 ) (2,123 ) Other long-term liabilities (84 ) - (51 ) (50 ) - (185 ) Total $ 8,020 $ 269,965 $ 26,500 $ 85,000 $ 29,000 $ 418,485 These amounts are based upon management’s determination of the fair values using valuation techniques including income, cost and market approaches. In determining the preliminary fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities, the fair values were determined based on, among other factors, expected future revenue and cash flows, expected future growth rates, and estimated discount rates. Property and equipment are recorded at their fair value and are being depreciated over their estimated useful lives ranging from three 40 Amounts related to other intangible assets represent primarily the estimated fair values of retransmission agreements of $27.9 $5.3 $3.0 5.1 10.7 11.9 Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not $128.9 2017. The Company’s consolidated results of operations for year ended December 31, 2017 2017 December 31, 2017 $79.8 December 31, 2017 $33.7 In connection with acquiring the 2017 $1.1 December 31, 2017, 2016 . February 16, 2016, $443.1 To facilitate regulatory approval for the Schurz Acquistion, on February 1, 2016, $11.2 $2.0 To further faciliate regulatory approvals for the Schurz Acquisition, on February 16, 2016, $16.0 three third not The Schurz Acquisition, the WBXX Acquisition, the WLUC Acquisition, and the sale of the Schurz Radio Stations are referred to collectively as the “Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions.” We used borrowings of $425.0 “2016 “2014 4 The net consideration to complete the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions was as follows (in thousands): Acquisition and the Divestiture Acquisition Acquisition of KAKE-TV of WBXX-TV of WLUC-TV Total Base purchase price $ - $ 30,000 $ 442,500 $ 472,500 Purchase price adjustment - - 574 574 Adjusted purchase price - 30,000 443,074 473,074 Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations - - (16,000 ) (16,000 ) Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed - 30,000 427,074 457,074 Non-cash consideration received (30,000 ) - - (30,000 ) Cash consideration received (11,200 ) - - (11,200 ) Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions $ (41,200 ) $ 30,000 $ 427,074 $ 415,874 On June 27, 2016, $0.5 We refer to the stations acquired and retained in 2016, June 2016, “2016 2016 Schurz Acquisition and the Acquisition Acquisition Acquisition of KYES-TV of WBXX-TV of WLUC-TV Total Accounts receivable $ - $ - $ 19,226 $ 19,226 Other current assets - 429 4,606 5,035 Property and equipment 176 1,633 97,814 99,623 Goodwill 28 10,288 61,981 72,297 Broadcast licenses 254 18,199 231,391 249,844 Other intangible assets 42 - 19,523 19,565 Other non-current assets - 408 3,028 3,436 Current liabilities - (460 ) (8,903 ) (9,363 ) Other long-term liabilities - (497 ) (1,592 ) (2,089 ) Total $ 500 $ 30,000 $ 427,074 $ 457,574 These amounts are based upon management’s determination of the fair values using valuation techniques including income, cost and market approaches. In determining the fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities, the fair values were determined based on, among other factors, expected future revenue and cash flows, expected future growth rates, and estimated discount rates. Accounts receivable are recorded at their fair value representing the amount we expect to collect. Gross contractual amounts receivable are approximately $0.2 Property and equipment are recorded at their fair value and are being depreciated over their estimated useful lives ranging from three 40 Amounts related to other intangible assets represent primarily the estimated fair values of retransmission agreements of $14.9 $1.6 $2.6 4.9 5.5 9.5 Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not $72.3 2016. The Company’s consolidated results of operations for year ended December 31, 2016 2016 December 31, 2016 $130.4 December 31, 2016 $55.8 In connection with acquiring the 2016 $7.4 December 31, 2016, Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information. Pro Forma Data – Acquisitions Completed in 2017. December 31, 2017 2016 2017 January 1, 2016 Years Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 895,081 $ 926,799 Net income $ 260,909 $ 88,679 Basic net income per share $ 3.57 $ 1.23 Diluted net income per share $ 3.53 $ 1.22 This pro forma financial information is based on Gray’s historical results of operations and the historical results of operations of the acquisitions completed in 2017, not 2017 January 1, 2016 December 31, 2017 2016 Pro Forma Data – Acquisitions Completed in 2016. December 31, 2016 2016 January 1, 2016 Years Ended December 31, 2016 Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 825,787 Net income $ 57,795 Basic net income per share $ 0.80 Diluted net income per share $ 0.79 This pro forma financial information is based on Gray’s historical results of operations and the historical results of operations of the stations acquired in 2016, not 2016 January 1, 2016 December 31, 2016

Note 4 - Long-term Debt

Note 4 - Long-term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	4. Long-term Debt As of December 31, 2018 2017, 2017 5.125% 2024 “2024 5.875% 2026 “2026 7.0% 2027 “2027 December 31, 2018 2017 Long-term debt including current portion: 2017 Senior Credit Facility $ 595,026 $ 635,234 2024 Notes 525,000 525,000 2026 Notes 700,000 700,000 2027 Notes 750,000 - Total outstanding principal 2,570,026 1,860,234 Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2017 Senior Credit Facility (9,261 ) (11,777 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2024 Notes (5,744 ) (6,743 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2026 Notes (8,359 ) (9,473 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2027 Notes (2,014 ) - Unamortized premium - 2026 Notes 4,576 5,187 Less current portion - (6,417 ) Net carrying value $ 2,549,224 $ 1,831,011 Borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility $ 100,000 $ 100,000 On February 7, 2017, “2017 $556.4 “2017 $100.0 “2017 2017 “2014 April 3, 2017, $85.0 “2017 2017 “2017 2017 December 31, 2018, 2017 $695.0 $595.0 2017 $100.0 2017 July 2018 2017 2017 February 7, 2024. Borrowings under the 2017 December 31, 2018, 2.25% 1.25% 2017 5.25 1.00, 2.25% 1.25% 5.25 1.00, 2.5% 1.5% December 31, 2018, 2017 4.6%. Borrowings under the 2017 1.50% 0.50%, first 2017 0.50% 1.00%. 2017 may 0.375% 0.50% 2017 February 7, 2024. 13 2019 As a result of entering into the 2017 $2.9 December 31, 2017, $5.0 2017 As of December 31, 2018 2017, $525.0 2024 2024 5.125% 2024 October 15, 2024. April 15 October 15 As of December 31, 2018 2017, $700.0 2026 June 14, 2016, $500.0 2026 2026 September 14, 2016, $200.0 2026 2026 2026 103.0%, $206.0 June 14, 2016. 2026 5.875%. 2026 5.875% 5.398%, 2026 2026 2026 July 15, 2026. January 15 July 15 On November 16, 2018, $750.0 2027 100.0% 2027 7.0%. 2027 May 15, 2027. May 15 November 15 2027 13 Collateral, Covenants and Restrictions . 2017 2017 no December 31, 2018, 2024 2026 not 2024 2026 December 31, 2018, no The 2017 2024 2026 2027 December 31, 2018 2017, Maturities Aggregate minimum principal maturities on long-term debt as of December 31, 2018 Minimum Principal Maturities 2017 Senior 2024 2026 2027 Year Credit Facility Notes Notes Notes Total 2019 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - 2020 - - - - - 2021 - - - - - 2022 - - - - - 2023 - - - - - Thereafter 595,026 525,000 700,000 750,000 2,570,026 Total $ 595,026 $ 525,000 $ 700,000 $ 750,000 $ 2,570,026 Interest Payments . $94.5 $97.0 $76.2 2018, 2017 2016, not December 31, 2018, 2017 2016. Financing Transactions related to the Raycom Merger 13 January 2, 2019.

Note 5 - Fair Value Measurement

Note 5 - Fair Value Measurement	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	5. Fair Value Measurement For purposes of determining a fair value measurement, we utilize market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated or generally unobservable. We utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. These inputs are prioritized into a hierarchy that gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (“Level 1” 3” 2 1 2” Fair Value of Financial Instruments . not The carrying amounts of the following instruments approximate fair value due to their short term to maturity: (i) accounts receivable, (ii) prepaid and other current assets, (iii) accounts payable, (iv) accrued employee compensation and benefits, (v) accrued interest, (vi) other accrued expenses and (vii) deferred revenue. As of December 31, 2018, $2.5 $2.4 December 31, 2017 $1.8 $1.9 third 2

Note 6 - Stockholders' Equity

Note 6 - Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	6. Stockholders’ Equity We are authorized to issue 245 25 200 20 10 one December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, not In December 2017, 17.25 $14.50 $238.9 $10.6 $0.6 In each of March November 2004, 2.0 March 2006, 5.0 “2004 2006 December 31, 2018, 279,200 no On November 6, 2016, $75.0 December 31, 2019 ( “2016 2016 “401k December 31, 2018, 1,551,710 $12.64 2016 $19.6 December 31, 2018, $49.5 2016 The extent to which the Company repurchases any of its shares, the number of shares and the timing of any repurchases will depend on general market conditions, regulatory requirements, alternative investment opportunities and other considerations. The Company is not may Under our various employee benefit plans, we may, December 31, 2018, 7,078,916 1,703,064 December 31, 2017, 7,422,965 1,923,144 Financing Transactions related to the Raycom Merger 13 January 2, 2019.

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensati

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	7 . Stock-Based Compensation We recognize compensation expense for share-based payment awards made to our employees, consultants and directors. Our active stock-based compensation plans include our 2017 “2017 2007 “2007 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Stock-based compensation expense, gross $ 6,661 $ 8,303 $ 5,099 Income tax benefit at our statutory rate associated with stock-based compensation (1,692 ) (3,238 ) (1,989 ) Stock-based compensation expense, net $ 4,969 $ 5,065 $ 3,110 Currently, the 2017 2007 10,000 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, not 2017 2007 During 2018, ● 110,040 $12.65 36,680 February 28, 2019, 36,680 February 28, 2020 2021; ● 110,040 $12.65 February 28, 2021; ● 318,196 $15.25 131,106 February 28, 2019; 69,651 February 28, 2020; 69,652 February 28, 2021; ● 73,640 May 31, 2019. During 2017, ● Under the 2007 307,943 102,648 January 31, 2018; 102,648 January 31, 2019; 102,647 January 31, 2020; ● Under the 2007 198,220 66,073 January 31, 2018; 66,073 January 31, 2019; 66,074 January 31, 2020; ● Under the 2017 76,856 January 31, 2018; ● Under the 2017 215,500 209,500 January 31, 2018. During 2016, 2007 ● 218,452 72,816 January 31, 2017 2018; 72,820 January 31, 2019; ● 166,677 55,559 January 31, 2017 2018; 55,559 January 31, 2019; ● 19,048 51,935 January 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018, 4.4 1.7 2017 As of December 31, 2018 2017, 274,746 2007 $1.99 $3.5 December 31, 2018. no As of December 31, 2018, 770,000 As of December 31, 2018, $4.2 1.5 A summary of activity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average Number Grant Date Number Grant Date Number Grant Date of Fair Value of Fair Value of Fair Value Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Restricted stock - common: Outstanding - beginning of period 503,685 $ 11.14 396,033 $ 12.06 337,506 $ 9.57 Granted 391,836 14.63 307,943 10.40 237,500 12.88 Vested (225,570 ) 11.21 (200,291 ) 11.82 (178,973 ) 8.46 Forfeited (91,057 ) 13.27 - - - - Outstanding - end of period 578,894 $ 13.14 503,685 $ 11.14 396,033 $ 12.06 Restricted stock - Class A common: Outstanding - beginning of period 462,632 $ 10.63 415,082 $ 10.15 374,693 $ 9.46 Granted 220,080 12.65 275,076 10.84 218,612 11.25 Vested (274,926 ) 10.48 (227,526 ) 10.00 (178,223 ) 10.04 Outstanding - end of period 407,786 $ 11.82 462,632 $ 10.63 415,082 $ 10.15 Restricted stock units - common: Outstanding - beginning of period 209,500 $ 15.70 - $ - Granted - - 215,500 15.70 Vested (209,500 ) $ 15.70 - - Forfeited - - (6,000 ) 15.70 Outstanding - end of period - $ - 209,500 $ 15.70 Subsequent Event. January 2, 2019, 2017 340,993 $5.1 January 2, 2021. February 1, 2019, 2017 199,810 $3.1 336,609 $5.6 January 31, 2020, 2021, 2022.

Note 8 - Income Taxes

Note 8 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	8 . Income Taxes We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between our financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. We recognize the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities resulting from a change in tax rates in income in the period that includes the date of the change. Under certain circumstances, we recognize liabilities in our financial statements for positions taken on uncertain tax issues. may not not not 50 Federal and state and local income tax expense (benefit) is summarized as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Current: Federal $ 42,531 $ 4,633 $ - State and local 11,447 3,261 2,730 State and local - reserve for uncertain tax positions (63 ) 757 (698 ) Current income tax expense 53,915 8,651 2,032 Deferred: Federal (1) 17,385 (81,666 ) 38,214 State and local 5,547 4,341 3,172 Deferred income tax expense (benefit) 22,932 (77,325 ) 41,386 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 76,847 $ (68,674 ) $ 43,418 ( 1 Includes a federal tax benefit of $146.0 2017 Significant components of our deferred tax liabilities and assets are as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred tax liabilities: Net book value of property and equipment $ 21,097 $ 18,131 Broadcast licenses, goodwill and other intangibles 286,299 272,330 Total deferred tax liabilities 307,396 290,461 Deferred tax assets: Liability for accrued vacation 1,461 1,438 Liability for accrued bonus 3,993 2,391 Allowance for doubtful accounts 1,358 1,170 Liability under health and welfare plan 639 608 Liability for pension plan 8,437 9,611 State and local operating loss carryforwards 2,358 4,719 Alternative minimum tax carryforwards - 3,925 Acquisition costs 1,946 2,104 Restricted stock 2,083 2,636 Other 231 244 Total deferred tax assets 22,506 28,846 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets - (75 ) Net deferred tax assets 22,506 28,771 Deferred tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets $ 284,890 $ 261,690 We have an aggregate of approximately $51.9 not A reconciliation of income tax expense at the statutory federal income tax rate and income taxes as reflected in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Statutory federal rate applied to income before income tax expense $ 60,406 $ 67,647 $ 36,992 Current year permanent items 3,065 2,408 1,830 State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit 14,004 7,889 5,056 Change in valuation allowance (75 ) (1,457 ) (151 ) Reserve for uncertain tax positions (63 ) 757 (698 ) Rate change due to enactment of tax reform - (145,997 ) - Other items, net (490 ) 79 389 Income tax expense (benefit) as recorded $ 76,847 $ (68,674 ) $ 43,418 Effective income tax rate 26.7% 35.5% 41.1% As of each year end, we are required to adjust our pension liability to an amount equal to the funded status of our pension plans with a corresponding adjustment to other comprehensive income on a net of tax basis. During 2018, $1.1 $0.8 $0.3 2017, $7.4 $4.5 $2.9 2016, $0.6 $0.4 $0.2 In 2018, 2017 2016, $34.2 $2.0 $14.6 December 31, 2018 2017, $0.0 $13.8 We prescribe a recognition threshold and measurement attribution for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. For benefits to be recognized, a tax position must be more likely than not We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal and multiple state jurisdictions. With few exceptions, we are no 2011. 2009 2011

Note 9 - Retirement Plans

Note 9 - Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	9. Retirement Plans We sponsor and contribute to defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans. Our defined benefit pension plan is the Gray Television, Inc. Retirement Plan (the “Gray Pension Plan”). Monthly plan benefits under the Gray Pension Plan are frozen and can no no The Gray Pension Plan’s funding policy is consistent with the funding requirements of existing federal laws and regulations under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. December 31, 2018 2017, December 31, 2018 2017, December 31, 2018 2017 Change in projected benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 126,086 $ 114,976 Interest cost 4,424 4,669 Actuarial gains (10,940 ) - Benefits paid (2,916 ) (3,529 ) Merger of assumed plans - 9,970 Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 116,654 $ 126,086 Change in plan assets: Fair value of pension plan assets at beginning of year $ 88,248 $ 80,929 Actual return on plan assets (4,417 ) 7,724 Company contributions 2,500 3,124 Benefits paid (2,916 ) (3,529 ) Fair value of pension plan assets at end of year 83,415 88,248 Funded status of pension plan $ (33,239 ) $ (37,838 ) Amounts recognized on our balance sheets consist of: Accrued benefit cost $ 2,041 $ (1,502 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (35,280 ) (36,336 ) Net liability recognized $ (33,239 ) $ (37,838 ) Because the Gray Pension Plan is a frozen plan, the projected benefit obligation and the accumulated benefit obligation are the same. The accumulated benefit obligation was $116.7 $126.1 December 31, 2018 2017, not Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the Gray Pension Plan: Discount rate 3.55 % 4.11 % Expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % Estimated rate of increase in compensation levels N/A N/A As of December 31, 2018 2017 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: Discount rate 4.16 % 3.55 % Pension expense is computed using the projected unit credit actuarial cost method. The net periodic pension cost for the Gray Pension Plan includes the following components (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Components of net periodic pension cost: Service cost $ - $ - $ - Interest cost 4,424 4,670 4,398 Expected return on plan assets (6,145 ) (5,648 ) (4,836 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 678 484 406 Net periodic pension benefit $ (1,043 ) $ (494 ) $ (32 ) For the Gray Pension Plan, the estimated future benefit payments are as follows (in thousands): Years Amount 2019 $ 3,371 2020 3,845 2021 4,102 2022 4,383 2023 4,648 2024 - 2028 28,479 The Gray Pension Plan’s weighted-average asset allocations by asset category were as follows: As of December 31, 2018 2017 Asset category: Insurance general account 19 % 19 % Cash management accounts 1 % 4 % Equity accounts 47 % 42 % Fixed income accounts 31 % 31 % Real estate accounts 2 % 4 % Total 100 % 100 % The investment objective is to achieve a consistent total rate of return (income, appreciation, and reinvested funds) that will equal or exceed the actuarial assumption with aversion to significant volatility. The following is the target asset allocation: Target Range Asset class: Strategic Allocation Lower Limit Upper Limit Equities: Large cap value 5% 0% 50% Large cap blend 5% 0% 50% Large cap growth 5% 0% 50% Mid cap blend 15% 0% 40% Small cap core 5% 0% 25% Foreign large blend 10% 0% 40% Emerging markets 10% 0% 25% Real estate 5% 0% 20% Fixed Income: U.S. Treasury inflation protected 5% 0% 25% Intermediate term bond 10% 0% 50% Long term government bond 5% 0% 40% High yield bond 10% 0% 25% Emerging markets bond 10% 0% 20% Money market taxable 0% 0% 100% Our equity portfolio contains securities of companies necessary to build a diversified portfolio, and that we believe are financially sound. Our fixed income portfolio contains obligations generally rated A or better with no Fair Value of Gray Pension Plan Assets . 820, 5 The following table presents the fair value of the Gray Pension Plan’s assets and classifies them by level within the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2018 2017, Gray Pension Plan Fair Value Measurements As of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets: Insurance general account $ - $ 16,458 $ - $ 16,458 Cash management accounts 721 - - 721 Equity accounts 39,047 - - 39,047 Fixed income accounts 25,878 - - 25,878 Real estate accounts 1,311 - - 1,311 Total $ 66,957 $ 16,458 $ - $ 83,415 As of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets: Insurance general account $ - $ 16,873 $ - $ 16,873 Cash management accounts 3,229 - - 3,229 Equity accounts 37,536 - - 37,536 Fixed income account 27,146 - - 27,146 Real estate accounts 3,464 - - 3,464 Total $ 71,375 $ 16,873 $ - $ 88,248 Expected Pension Contributions. $2.5 December 31, 2019. Capital Accumulation Plan. 401 100% first 3% 50% 2% December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, $6.4 $6.6 $5.4 December 31, 2019 $12.5 In addition, the Company, at its discretion, may December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, $4.3 $4.1 $3.4 We may December 31, 2018, 1,587,719

Note 10 - Commitments and Conti

Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	10. Commitments and Contingencies From time to time we may may December 31, 2018, Property Service and Syndicated Network and Other Operating Television Affiliation Year Equipment Agreements Leases Programming Agreements Total 2019 $ 1,375 $ 1,324 $ 3,343 $ 6,241 $ 129,485 $ 141,768 2020 - 573 3,039 13,034 140,627 157,273 2021 - - 2,851 1,157 130,424 134,432 2022 - - 2,618 163 3,026 5,807 2023 - - 2,540 111 67 2,718 Thereafter - - 11,588 - - 11,588 Total $ 1,375 $ 1,897 $ 25,979 $ 20,706 $ 403,629 $ 453,586 Leases. no December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 $4.2 $4.0 $3.5 January 1, 2019 842 Leases Legal Proceedings and Claims . not

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangib

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	1 1 . Goodwill and Intangible Assets During the years ended December 31, 2018 2017, 3 December 31, 2018 2017 Net Balance at Acquisitions Net Balance at December 31, And December 31, 2017 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment Amortization 2018 Goodwill $ 611,100 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ - $ 612,425 Broadcast licenses 1,530,703 $ 425 (1,554 ) - - 1,529,574 Finite-lived intangible assets 73,784 - - - (20,570 ) 53,214 Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization $ 2,215,587 $ 3,502 $ (3,306 ) $ - $ (20,570 ) $ 2,195,213 Net Balance at Acquisitions Net Balance at December 31, And December 31, 2016 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment Amortization 2017 Goodwill $ 485,318 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ - $ 611,100 Broadcast licenses 1,340,305 203,503 (13,105 ) - - 1,530,703 Finite-lived intangible assets 56,250 42,606 - - (25,072 ) 73,784 Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization $ 1,881,873 $ 371,891 $ (13,105 ) $ - $ (25,072 ) $ 2,215,587 A summary of changes in our goodwill, on a gross basis, for the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 As of Acquisitions As of December 31, And December 31, 2017 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment 2018 Goodwill, gross $ 709,696 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ 711,021 Accumulated goodwill impairment (98,596 ) - - - (98,596 ) Goodwill, net $ 611,100 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ 612,425 As of Acquisitions As of December 31, And December 31, 2016 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment 2017 Goodwill, gross $ 583,914 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ 709,696 Accumulated goodwill impairment (98,596 ) - - - (98,596 ) Goodwill, net $ 485,318 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ 611,100 As of December 31, 2018 2017, As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Accumulated Accumulated Gross Amortization Net Gross Amortization Net Intangible assets not currently subject to amortization: Broadcast licenses $ 1,583,273 $ (53,699 ) $ 1,529,574 $ 1,584,402 $ (53,699 ) $ 1,530,703 Goodwill 612,425 - 612,425 611,100 - 611,100 $ 2,195,698 $ (53,699 ) $ 2,141,999 $ 2,195,502 $ (53,699 ) $ 2,141,803 Intangible assets subject to amortization: Network affiliation agreements $ 6,134 $ (6,134 ) $ - $ 6,134 $ (3,551 ) $ 2,583 Other finite-lived intangible assets 143,419 (90,205 ) 53,214 143,446 (72,245 ) 71,201 $ 149,553 $ (96,339 ) $ 53,214 $ 149,580 $ (75,796 ) $ 73,784 Total intangibles $ 2,345,251 $ (150,038 ) $ 2,195,213 $ 2,345,082 $ (129,495 ) $ 2,215,587 Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 $20.6 $25.1 $16.6 December 31, 2018, five 2019, $15.4 2020, $12.4 2021, $8.3 2022, $4.8 2023, $2.9 may Impairment of goodwill and broadcast license . December 31, 2018 2017, not 2018, 2017 2016. Completion of FCC Spectrum Auction. August 7, 2017, $90.8 two two $13.1 See Note 1

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly Fi

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	1 2 . Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Fiscal Quarter First Second Third Fourth (In thousands, except for per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2018: Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 226,258 $ 250,344 $ 279,310 $ 328,220 Operating income 50,035 79,690 108,402 150,644 Net income 19,945 40,705 61,886 88,267 Basic net income per share $ 0.22 $ 0.46 $ 0.71 $ 1.01 Diluted net income per share $ 0.22 $ 0.46 $ 0.70 $ 1.00 Year Ended December 31, 2017: Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 203,461 $ 226,681 $ 218,977 $ 233,609 Operating income 43,472 142,394 49,900 54,965 Net income (loss) 10,505 70,561 15,316 165,570 Basic net income (loss) per share $ 0.15 $ 0.98 $ 0.21 $ 2.15 Diluted net income (loss) per share $ 0.14 $ 0.97 $ 0.21 $ 2.13 Because of the method used in calculating per share data, the sum of the quarterly per share data will not

Note 13 - Subsequent Events

Note 13 - Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	1 3 . Subsequent Events Raycom Merger Stations acquired and divested January 2, 2019, $3.66 34 As described in Note 3 December 31, 2018, 154 January 2, 2019, eight Total Cash Television Purchaser Consideration Station Location DMA Lockwood Broadcasting, Inc. $ 67.0 WTNZ-TV Knoxville, TN 61 WFXG-TV Augusta, GA 112 WPGX-TV Panama City, FL 151 WDFX-TV Dothan, AL 173 Scripps Media, Inc. $ 55.0 KXXV-TV Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX 86 KRHD-CD Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX 86 WTXL-TV Tallahassee, FL 108 TEGNA, Inc. $ 105.0 WTOL-TV Toledo, OH 78 KWES-TV Odessa - Midland, TX 144 Total $ 227.0 The net consideration to complete the Raycom Merger consisted of $2.84 11.5 $169.5 $650.0 $3.66 Due to the proximity of the closing dates of the Raycom Merger to the the filing date of this annual report, we are unable to present a preliminary purchase price allocation for the acquired businesses. Fair value estimates of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and resulting goodwill will be based upon management’s estimate of the fair values using valuation techniques including income, cost and market approaches. In estimating the fair value of the acquired assets and liabilities assumed, the fair value estimates will be based on, among other factors, expected future revenue and cash flows, expected future growth rates, and estimated discount rates. Debt Financing Transactions . January 2, 2019, “2019 2019 $2.2 $1.4 “2019 $595.0 2017 $200.0 “2019 Borrowings under the 2019 2.5% 1.5% February 22, 2019, 2019 5.0%. Borrowings under the 2019 2.50% 1.50%, first 2019 0.50% 1.00%. 2019 may 0.375% 0.50% 2019 January 2, 2024, 2019 January 2, 2026. December 31, 2018 $3.2 2019 December 31, 2018 2019 2019 4 2027 Effective upon the completion of these debt transactions, the aggregate minimum principal maturities of our long-term debt were as follows (in thousands): Minimum Principal Maturities 2019 Senior 2024 2026 2027 Year Credit Facility Notes Notes Notes Total 2019 $ 14,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 14,000 2020 14,000 - - - 14,000 2021 14,000 - - - 14,000 2022 14,000 - - - 14,000 2023 14,000 - - - 14,000 Thereafter 1,925,026 525,000 700,000 750,000 3,900,026 Total $ 1,995,026 $ 525,000 $ 700,000 $ 750,000 $ 3,970,026 Our obligations under the 2019 2019 The 2019 2019 Gray Television, Inc. is a holding company, and has no 2024 2026 2027 not 2024 2026 2027 February 22, 2019, no 2024 2026 2027 Equity Financing Transactions January 2, 2019, 11.5 $14.74 Effective on January 2, 2019, 650,000 $1,000 not 8% 8.5% January 15, April 15, July 15 October 15 not $1,000 United Communications Acquisition On February 8, 2019, 178 199 $45.0 second 2019.

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	GRAY TELEVISION, INC. SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (in thousands) Col. A Col. B Col. C Col. D Col. E Additions (1) (2) Balance at Charged to Charged to Balance at Beginning Costs and Other Deductions End of Description of Period Expenses Accounts (a) (b) Period Year Ended December 31, 2018: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,606 $ 2,171 $ - $ (1,431 ) $ 5,346 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 75 $ (75 ) $ - $ - $ - Year Ended December 31, 2017: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 3,163 $ 2,400 $ - $ (957 ) $ 4,606 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 1,532 $ (1,457 ) $ - $ - $ 75 Year Ended December 31, 2016: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 1,794 $ 1,917 $ 167 $ (715 ) $ 3,163 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 1,683 $ - $ - $ (151 ) $ 1,532 (a) In 2016, 3 (b) Deductions from allowance for doubtful accounts represent write-offs of receivable balances not

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Restricted Cash. December 31, 2018 2027 January 2, 2019,
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Investments in Broadcasting and Technology Companies. two June 30, 2018, 32.4% 67.9% no In 2016, $3.0 not not Each of these equity investments do not 2016 01 Financial Instruments - Overall 825 10 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities
Trade and Barter Transactions, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Trade and Barter Transactions . December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Trade revenue $ 2,897 $ 1,832 $ 2,069 Trade expense (3,012 ) (1,863 ) (1,997 ) Net trade (loss) income $ (115 ) $ (31 ) $ 72 We do not not not
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Advertising Expense. $1.2 $1.6 $1.5 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016,
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates.
Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. 120 may 120 $2.2 $2.4 $1.9 December 31, 2018, 2017 2016,
Program Broadcast Rights [Policy Text Block]	Program Broadcast Rights. two first Wheel of Fortune Seinfeld not first first not The total license fee payable under a program license agreement allowing us to broadcast programs is recorded at the beginning of the license period and is charged to operating expense over the period that the programs are broadcast. The portion of the unamortized balance expected to be charged to operating expense in the succeeding year is classified as a current asset, with the remainder classified as a non-current asset. The liability for license fees payable under program license agreements is classified as current or long-term, in accordance with the payment terms of the various license agreements.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property and Equipment. Estimated December 31, Useful Lives 2018 2017 (in years) Property and equipment: Land $ 52,511 $ 50,458 Buildings and improvements 166,200 156,924 7 to 40 Equipment 547,707 511,878 3 to 20 766,418 719,260 Accumulated depreciation (403,276 ) (368,602 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 363,142 $ 350,658 Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged to operations as incurred; major replacements and betterments are capitalized. The cost of any assets divested, sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts at the time of disposition, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in income or expense for the period. In April 2017, $1.75 March 2018 $1.0 $750.0 may December 31, 2018, 26 36 2017 three The following tables provide additional information related to gain on disposal of assets, net included in our consolidated statements of operations and purchases of property and equipment included in our consolidated statements of cash flows (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Gain (loss) on disposal of assets, net: Proceeds from sale of assets $ 8,967 $ 90,927 $ 44,234 Proceeds from Repack 14,217 84 - Net book value of assets disposed (6,779 ) (16,811 ) (44,563 ) Total $ 16,405 $ 74,200 $ (329 ) Purchase of property and equipment: Recurring purchases - operations $ 40,983 $ 31,692 $ 43,604 Repack 27,081 2,824 - Repack related 1,911 - - Total $ 69,975 $ 34,516 $ 43,604
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Deferred Loan Costs.
Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block]	Asset Retirement Obligations. 2062. $1.0 $1.1 December 31, 2018 2017, December 31, 2018, 2017 2016, $54,000, $71,000 $15,000,
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Concentration of Credit Risk . not Excluding political advertising revenue, which is cyclical based on election cycles, our most significant category of customer is automotive. During the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 25%, 25% 22%, no one 5%
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	E arnings Per Share . not not The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic 88,084 73,061 71,848 Weighted-average shares underlying stock options and restricted shares 694 775 916 Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted 88,778 73,836 72,764
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Valuation of Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets . For broadcast licenses acquired prior to January 1, 2002, For broadcast licenses acquired after December 31, 2001, December 31, 2001, When renewing broadcast licenses, we incur regulatory filing fees and legal fees. We expense these fees as they are incurred. Other intangible assets that we have acquired include network affiliation agreements, retransmission agreements, advertising contracts, client lists, talent contracts and leases. Although each of our stations is affiliated with at least one
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Including Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Impairment Testing of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. December 31. For purposes of testing goodwill for impairment, each of our individual television markets is considered a separate reporting unit. In the performance of our annual assessment of goodwill for impairment, we have the option to qualitatively assess whether it is more likely than not If we conclude that it is more likely than not not not To estimate the fair value of our reporting units for a quantitative assessment, we utilize a discounted cash flow model supported by a market multiple approach. We believe that a discounted cash flow analysis is the most appropriate methodology to test the recorded value of long-term assets with a demonstrated long-lived/enduring franchise value. We believe the results of the discounted cash flow and market multiple approaches provide reasonable estimates of the fair value of our reporting units because these approaches are based on our actual results and reasonable estimates of future performance, and also take into consideration a number of other factors deemed relevant by us including, but not one In the performance of our annual assessment of broadcast licenses for impairment we have the option to qualitatively assess whether it is more likely than not not one no not For further discussion of our goodwill, broadcast licenses and other intangible assets, see Note 11
Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. December 31, 2018 2017 December 31, 2018 2017 Accumulated balances of items included in accumulated other comprehensive loss: Increase in pension liability $ (35,280 ) $ (36,336 ) Income tax benefit (13,903 ) (14,171 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (21,377 ) $ (22,165 )
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Recent Accounting Pronouncements. February 2018, 2018 02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income 220 Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 2018 02 2017 not December 15, 2018, not In January 2017, 2017 04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other 350 Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment 2017 04 2 2 not December 15, 2019, not not Adoption of Accounting Standards and Reclassifications . January 2016, 2016 01 Financial Instruments - Overall 825 10 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities 2016 01 2016 01 may February 2018, 2018 03 Technical Corrections and Improvements to Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825 10 2018 03 2016 01. 2018 03 June 15, 2018. first 2018. not not In February 2016, 2016 02 Leases 842 2016 02 July 2018, 2018 11, Leases (Topic 842 no January 1, 2019, $19.9

Note 1 - Description of Busin_2

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Principal Transactions Revenue [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Trade revenue $ 2,897 $ 1,832 $ 2,069 Trade expense (3,012 ) (1,863 ) (1,997 ) Net trade (loss) income $ (115 ) $ (31 ) $ 72
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	Estimated December 31, Useful Lives 2018 2017 (in years) Property and equipment: Land $ 52,511 $ 50,458 Buildings and improvements 166,200 156,924 7 to 40 Equipment 547,707 511,878 3 to 20 766,418 719,260 Accumulated depreciation (403,276 ) (368,602 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 363,142 $ 350,658
Schedule of Disposal of Assets and Purchase of Property and Equipment [Table Text Block]	Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Gain (loss) on disposal of assets, net: Proceeds from sale of assets $ 8,967 $ 90,927 $ 44,234 Proceeds from Repack 14,217 84 - Net book value of assets disposed (6,779 ) (16,811 ) (44,563 ) Total $ 16,405 $ 74,200 $ (329 ) Purchase of property and equipment: Recurring purchases - operations $ 40,983 $ 31,692 $ 43,604 Repack 27,081 2,824 - Repack related 1,911 - - Total $ 69,975 $ 34,516 $ 43,604
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic 88,084 73,061 71,848 Weighted-average shares underlying stock options and restricted shares 694 775 916 Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted 88,778 73,836 72,764
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2018 2017 Accumulated balances of items included in accumulated other comprehensive loss: Increase in pension liability $ (35,280 ) $ (36,336 ) Income tax benefit (13,903 ) (14,171 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (21,377 ) $ (22,165 )

Note 2 - Revenue (Tables)

Note 2 - Revenue (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Market and service type: Advertising: Local $ 442,728 $ 451,261 $ 403,336 National 114,192 118,817 98,351 Political 155,074 16,498 90,095 Total advertising 711,994 586,576 591,782 Retransmission consent 355,423 276,603 200,879 Other 16,715 19,549 19,804 Total revenue $ 1,084,132 $ 882,728 $ 812,465 Sales channel: Direct $ 551,883 $ 473,649 $ 373,363 Advertising agency intermediary 532,249 409,079 439,102 Total revenue $ 1,084,132 $ 882,728 $ 812,465

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_2

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table Text Block]	Acquisition and the Divestiture Acquisition Acquisition of KAKE-TV of WBXX-TV of WLUC-TV Total Base purchase price $ - $ 30,000 $ 442,500 $ 472,500 Purchase price adjustment - - 574 574 Adjusted purchase price - 30,000 443,074 473,074 Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations - - (16,000 ) (16,000 ) Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed - 30,000 427,074 457,074 Non-cash consideration received (30,000 ) - - (30,000 ) Cash consideration received (11,200 ) - - (11,200 ) Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions $ (41,200 ) $ 30,000 $ 427,074 $ 415,874
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	Years Ended December 31, 2017 2016 Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 895,081 $ 926,799 Net income $ 260,909 $ 88,679 Basic net income per share $ 3.57 $ 1.23 Diluted net income per share $ 3.53 $ 1.22 Years Ended December 31, 2016 Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 825,787 Net income $ 57,795 Basic net income per share $ 0.80 Diluted net income per share $ 0.79
The 2016 Acquisitions [Member]
Notes Tables
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	Schurz Acquisition and the Acquisition Acquisition Acquisition of KYES-TV of WBXX-TV of WLUC-TV Total Accounts receivable $ - $ - $ 19,226 $ 19,226 Other current assets - 429 4,606 5,035 Property and equipment 176 1,633 97,814 99,623 Goodwill 28 10,288 61,981 72,297 Broadcast licenses 254 18,199 231,391 249,844 Other intangible assets 42 - 19,523 19,565 Other non-current assets - 408 3,028 3,436 Current liabilities - (460 ) (8,903 ) (9,363 ) Other long-term liabilities - (497 ) (1,592 ) (2,089 ) Total $ 500 $ 30,000 $ 427,074 $ 457,574
2017 Acquisitions [Member]
Notes Tables
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	Acquisition Fairbanks Media General Clarksburg Diversified Vermont Total Current assets $ 122 $ 666 $ 462 $ 361 $ 312 $ 1,923 Property and equipment 2,650 20,181 4,133 12,329 9,513 48,806 Goodwill 471 86,287 3,222 35,486 3,393 128,859 Broadcast licenses 2,228 149,846 17,003 26,219 7,592 202,888 Other intangible assets 2,702 13,398 2,234 11,051 5,191 34,576 Other non-current assets 71 282 51 27 3,310 3,741 Current liabilities (140 ) (695 ) (554 ) (423 ) (311 ) (2,123 ) Other long-term liabilities (84 ) - (51 ) (50 ) - (185 ) Total $ 8,020 $ 269,965 $ 26,500 $ 85,000 $ 29,000 $ 418,485

Note 4 - Long-term Debt (Tables

Note 4 - Long-term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2018 2017 Long-term debt including current portion: 2017 Senior Credit Facility $ 595,026 $ 635,234 2024 Notes 525,000 525,000 2026 Notes 700,000 700,000 2027 Notes 750,000 - Total outstanding principal 2,570,026 1,860,234 Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2017 Senior Credit Facility (9,261 ) (11,777 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2024 Notes (5,744 ) (6,743 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2026 Notes (8,359 ) (9,473 ) Unamortized deferred loan costs - 2027 Notes (2,014 ) - Unamortized premium - 2026 Notes 4,576 5,187 Less current portion - (6,417 ) Net carrying value $ 2,549,224 $ 1,831,011 Borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility $ 100,000 $ 100,000
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	Minimum Principal Maturities 2017 Senior 2024 2026 2027 Year Credit Facility Notes Notes Notes Total 2019 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - 2020 - - - - - 2021 - - - - - 2022 - - - - - 2023 - - - - - Thereafter 595,026 525,000 700,000 750,000 2,570,026 Total $ 595,026 $ 525,000 $ 700,000 $ 750,000 $ 2,570,026

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensa_2

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Stock-based compensation expense, gross $ 6,661 $ 8,303 $ 5,099 Income tax benefit at our statutory rate associated with stock-based compensation (1,692 ) (3,238 ) (1,989 ) Stock-based compensation expense, net $ 4,969 $ 5,065 $ 3,110
Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average Number Grant Date Number Grant Date Number Grant Date of Fair Value of Fair Value of Fair Value Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Restricted stock - common: Outstanding - beginning of period 503,685 $ 11.14 396,033 $ 12.06 337,506 $ 9.57 Granted 391,836 14.63 307,943 10.40 237,500 12.88 Vested (225,570 ) 11.21 (200,291 ) 11.82 (178,973 ) 8.46 Forfeited (91,057 ) 13.27 - - - - Outstanding - end of period 578,894 $ 13.14 503,685 $ 11.14 396,033 $ 12.06 Restricted stock - Class A common: Outstanding - beginning of period 462,632 $ 10.63 415,082 $ 10.15 374,693 $ 9.46 Granted 220,080 12.65 275,076 10.84 218,612 11.25 Vested (274,926 ) 10.48 (227,526 ) 10.00 (178,223 ) 10.04 Outstanding - end of period 407,786 $ 11.82 462,632 $ 10.63 415,082 $ 10.15 Restricted stock units - common: Outstanding - beginning of period 209,500 $ 15.70 - $ - Granted - - 215,500 15.70 Vested (209,500 ) $ 15.70 - - Forfeited - - (6,000 ) 15.70 Outstanding - end of period - $ - 209,500 $ 15.70

Note 8 - Income Taxes (Tables)

Note 8 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Current: Federal $ 42,531 $ 4,633 $ - State and local 11,447 3,261 2,730 State and local - reserve for uncertain tax positions (63 ) 757 (698 ) Current income tax expense 53,915 8,651 2,032 Deferred: Federal (1) 17,385 (81,666 ) 38,214 State and local 5,547 4,341 3,172 Deferred income tax expense (benefit) 22,932 (77,325 ) 41,386 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 76,847 $ (68,674 ) $ 43,418
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred tax liabilities: Net book value of property and equipment $ 21,097 $ 18,131 Broadcast licenses, goodwill and other intangibles 286,299 272,330 Total deferred tax liabilities 307,396 290,461 Deferred tax assets: Liability for accrued vacation 1,461 1,438 Liability for accrued bonus 3,993 2,391 Allowance for doubtful accounts 1,358 1,170 Liability under health and welfare plan 639 608 Liability for pension plan 8,437 9,611 State and local operating loss carryforwards 2,358 4,719 Alternative minimum tax carryforwards - 3,925 Acquisition costs 1,946 2,104 Restricted stock 2,083 2,636 Other 231 244 Total deferred tax assets 22,506 28,846 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets - (75 ) Net deferred tax assets 22,506 28,771 Deferred tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets $ 284,890 $ 261,690
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Statutory federal rate applied to income before income tax expense $ 60,406 $ 67,647 $ 36,992 Current year permanent items 3,065 2,408 1,830 State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit 14,004 7,889 5,056 Change in valuation allowance (75 ) (1,457 ) (151 ) Reserve for uncertain tax positions (63 ) 757 (698 ) Rate change due to enactment of tax reform - (145,997 ) - Other items, net (490 ) 79 389 Income tax expense (benefit) as recorded $ 76,847 $ (68,674 ) $ 43,418 Effective income tax rate 26.7% 35.5% 41.1%

Note 9 - Retirement Plans (Tabl

Note 9 - Retirement Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2018 2017 Change in projected benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 126,086 $ 114,976 Interest cost 4,424 4,669 Actuarial gains (10,940 ) - Benefits paid (2,916 ) (3,529 ) Merger of assumed plans - 9,970 Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 116,654 $ 126,086 Change in plan assets: Fair value of pension plan assets at beginning of year $ 88,248 $ 80,929 Actual return on plan assets (4,417 ) 7,724 Company contributions 2,500 3,124 Benefits paid (2,916 ) (3,529 ) Fair value of pension plan assets at end of year 83,415 88,248 Funded status of pension plan $ (33,239 ) $ (37,838 ) Amounts recognized on our balance sheets consist of: Accrued benefit cost $ 2,041 $ (1,502 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (35,280 ) (36,336 ) Net liability recognized $ (33,239 ) $ (37,838 )
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the Gray Pension Plan: Discount rate 3.55 % 4.11 % Expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % Estimated rate of increase in compensation levels N/A N/A As of December 31, 2018 2017 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: Discount rate 4.16 % 3.55 %
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Components of net periodic pension cost: Service cost $ - $ - $ - Interest cost 4,424 4,670 4,398 Expected return on plan assets (6,145 ) (5,648 ) (4,836 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 678 484 406 Net periodic pension benefit $ (1,043 ) $ (494 ) $ (32 )
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]	Years Amount 2019 $ 3,371 2020 3,845 2021 4,102 2022 4,383 2023 4,648 2024 - 2028 28,479
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets by Asset Category [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2018 2017 Asset category: Insurance general account 19 % 19 % Cash management accounts 1 % 4 % Equity accounts 47 % 42 % Fixed income accounts 31 % 31 % Real estate accounts 2 % 4 % Total 100 % 100 %
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	Target Range Asset class: Strategic Allocation Lower Limit Upper Limit Equities: Large cap value 5% 0% 50% Large cap blend 5% 0% 50% Large cap growth 5% 0% 50% Mid cap blend 15% 0% 40% Small cap core 5% 0% 25% Foreign large blend 10% 0% 40% Emerging markets 10% 0% 25% Real estate 5% 0% 20% Fixed Income: U.S. Treasury inflation protected 5% 0% 25% Intermediate term bond 10% 0% 50% Long term government bond 5% 0% 40% High yield bond 10% 0% 25% Emerging markets bond 10% 0% 20% Money market taxable 0% 0% 100%
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets: Insurance general account $ - $ 16,458 $ - $ 16,458 Cash management accounts 721 - - 721 Equity accounts 39,047 - - 39,047 Fixed income accounts 25,878 - - 25,878 Real estate accounts 1,311 - - 1,311 Total $ 66,957 $ 16,458 $ - $ 83,415 As of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets: Insurance general account $ - $ 16,873 $ - $ 16,873 Cash management accounts 3,229 - - 3,229 Equity accounts 37,536 - - 37,536 Fixed income account 27,146 - - 27,146 Real estate accounts 3,464 - - 3,464 Total $ 71,375 $ 16,873 $ - $ 88,248

Note 10 - Commitments and Con_2

Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block]	Property Service and Syndicated Network and Other Operating Television Affiliation Year Equipment Agreements Leases Programming Agreements Total 2019 $ 1,375 $ 1,324 $ 3,343 $ 6,241 $ 129,485 $ 141,768 2020 - 573 3,039 13,034 140,627 157,273 2021 - - 2,851 1,157 130,424 134,432 2022 - - 2,618 163 3,026 5,807 2023 - - 2,540 111 67 2,718 Thereafter - - 11,588 - - 11,588 Total $ 1,375 $ 1,897 $ 25,979 $ 20,706 $ 403,629 $ 453,586

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intang_2

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	Net Balance at Acquisitions Net Balance at December 31, And December 31, 2017 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment Amortization 2018 Goodwill $ 611,100 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ - $ 612,425 Broadcast licenses 1,530,703 $ 425 (1,554 ) - - 1,529,574 Finite-lived intangible assets 73,784 - - - (20,570 ) 53,214 Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization $ 2,215,587 $ 3,502 $ (3,306 ) $ - $ (20,570 ) $ 2,195,213 Net Balance at Acquisitions Net Balance at December 31, And December 31, 2016 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment Amortization 2017 Goodwill $ 485,318 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ - $ 611,100 Broadcast licenses 1,340,305 203,503 (13,105 ) - - 1,530,703 Finite-lived intangible assets 56,250 42,606 - - (25,072 ) 73,784 Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization $ 1,881,873 $ 371,891 $ (13,105 ) $ - $ (25,072 ) $ 2,215,587
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	As of Acquisitions As of December 31, And December 31, 2017 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment 2018 Goodwill, gross $ 709,696 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ 711,021 Accumulated goodwill impairment (98,596 ) - - - (98,596 ) Goodwill, net $ 611,100 $ 3,077 $ (1,752 ) $ - $ 612,425 As of Acquisitions As of December 31, And December 31, 2016 Adjustments Dispositions Impairment 2017 Goodwill, gross $ 583,914 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ 709,696 Accumulated goodwill impairment (98,596 ) - - - (98,596 ) Goodwill, net $ 485,318 $ 125,782 $ - $ - $ 611,100
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Accumulated Accumulated Gross Amortization Net Gross Amortization Net Intangible assets not currently subject to amortization: Broadcast licenses $ 1,583,273 $ (53,699 ) $ 1,529,574 $ 1,584,402 $ (53,699 ) $ 1,530,703 Goodwill 612,425 - 612,425 611,100 - 611,100 $ 2,195,698 $ (53,699 ) $ 2,141,999 $ 2,195,502 $ (53,699 ) $ 2,141,803 Intangible assets subject to amortization: Network affiliation agreements $ 6,134 $ (6,134 ) $ - $ 6,134 $ (3,551 ) $ 2,583 Other finite-lived intangible assets 143,419 (90,205 ) 53,214 143,446 (72,245 ) 71,201 $ 149,553 $ (96,339 ) $ 53,214 $ 149,580 $ (75,796 ) $ 73,784 Total intangibles $ 2,345,251 $ (150,038 ) $ 2,195,213 $ 2,345,082 $ (129,495 ) $ 2,215,587

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly _2

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Quarter First Second Third Fourth (In thousands, except for per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2018: Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 226,258 $ 250,344 $ 279,310 $ 328,220 Operating income 50,035 79,690 108,402 150,644 Net income 19,945 40,705 61,886 88,267 Basic net income per share $ 0.22 $ 0.46 $ 0.71 $ 1.01 Diluted net income per share $ 0.22 $ 0.46 $ 0.70 $ 1.00 Year Ended December 31, 2017: Revenue (less agency commissions) $ 203,461 $ 226,681 $ 218,977 $ 233,609 Operating income 43,472 142,394 49,900 54,965 Net income (loss) 10,505 70,561 15,316 165,570 Basic net income (loss) per share $ 0.15 $ 0.98 $ 0.21 $ 2.15 Diluted net income (loss) per share $ 0.14 $ 0.97 $ 0.21 $ 2.13

Note 13 - Subsequent Events (Ta

Note 13 - Subsequent Events (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]	Total Cash Television Purchaser Consideration Station Location DMA Lockwood Broadcasting, Inc. $ 67.0 WTNZ-TV Knoxville, TN 61 WFXG-TV Augusta, GA 112 WPGX-TV Panama City, FL 151 WDFX-TV Dothan, AL 173 Scripps Media, Inc. $ 55.0 KXXV-TV Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX 86 KRHD-CD Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX 86 WTXL-TV Tallahassee, FL 108 TEGNA, Inc. $ 105.0 WTOL-TV Toledo, OH 78 KWES-TV Odessa - Midland, TX 144 Total $ 227.0
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	Minimum Principal Maturities 2017 Senior 2024 2026 2027 Year Credit Facility Notes Notes Notes Total 2019 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - 2020 - - - - - 2021 - - - - - 2022 - - - - - 2023 - - - - - Thereafter 595,026 525,000 700,000 750,000 2,570,026 Total $ 595,026 $ 525,000 $ 700,000 $ 750,000 $ 2,570,026
The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Notes Tables
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	Minimum Principal Maturities 2019 Senior 2024 2026 2027 Year Credit Facility Notes Notes Notes Total 2019 $ 14,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 14,000 2020 14,000 - - - 14,000 2021 14,000 - - - 14,000 2022 14,000 - - - 14,000 2023 14,000 - - - 14,000 Thereafter 1,925,026 525,000 700,000 750,000 3,900,026 Total $ 1,995,026 $ 525,000 $ 700,000 $ 750,000 $ 3,970,026

Schedule II - Valuation and Q_2

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Notes Tables
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	Col. A Col. B Col. C Col. D Col. E Additions (1) (2) Balance at Charged to Charged to Balance at Beginning Costs and Other Deductions End of Description of Period Expenses Accounts (a) (b) Period Year Ended December 31, 2018: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,606 $ 2,171 $ - $ (1,431 ) $ 5,346 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 75 $ (75 ) $ - $ - $ - Year Ended December 31, 2017: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 3,163 $ 2,400 $ - $ (957 ) $ 4,606 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 1,532 $ (1,457 ) $ - $ - $ 75 Year Ended December 31, 2016: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 1,794 $ 1,917 $ 167 $ (715 ) $ 3,163 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 1,683 $ - $ - $ (151 ) $ 1,532

Note 1 - Description of Busin_3

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Advertising Expense	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,600,000	$ 1,500,000
Period for Creating Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	120 days
Provision for Doubtful Accounts	$ 2,200,000	2,400,000	1,900,000
Asset Retirement Obligation, Ending Balance	1,000,000	1,100,000
Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense	$ 54,000	$ 71,000	$ 15,000
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset				$ 19,900,000
Operating Lease, Liability, Total				$ 19,900,000
Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member] | Automotive [Member]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	25.00%	25.00%	22.00%
Tarzian [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Cost Method Investments, Ownership Percentage					32.40%
Tarzian [Member] | Dividends Liquidation Dissolution [Member]
Cost Method Investments, Ownership Percentage					67.90%
Syncbak [Member]
Cost Method Investments, Original Cost			$ 3,000,000

Note 1 - Description of Busin_4

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Trade Revenue and Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Trade revenue	$ 2,897	$ 1,832	$ 2,069
Trade expense	(3,012)	(1,863)	(1,997)
Net trade (loss) income	$ (115)	$ (31)	$ 72

Note 1 - Description of Busin_5

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Property and equipment, gross	$ 766,418	$ 719,260
Accumulated depreciation	(403,276)	(368,602)
Total property and equipment, net	363,142	350,658
Land [Member]
Property and equipment, gross	52,511	50,458
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 166,200	156,924
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Estimated Useful Lives (Year)	7 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Estimated Useful Lives (Year)	40 years
Equipment [Member]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 547,707	$ 511,878
Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Estimated Useful Lives (Year)	3 years
Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Estimated Useful Lives (Year)	20 years

Note 1 - Description of Busin_6

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Disposal of Assets and Purchase of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Proceeds from sale of assets	$ 8,967	$ 90,927	$ 44,234
Proceeds from Repack (Note 1)	14,217	84
Net book value of assets disposed	(6,779)	(16,811)	(44,563)
Total	16,405	74,200	(329)
Recurring purchases - operations	40,983	31,692	43,604
Repack	27,081	2,824
Repack related	1,911
Total	$ 69,975	$ 34,516	$ 43,604

Note 1 - Description of Busin_7

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Reconciliation of Basic to Diluted Weighted-average Shares Outstanding (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic (in shares)	88,084	73,061	71,848
Weighted-average shares underlying stock options and restricted shares (in shares)	694	775	916
Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted (in shares)	88,778	73,836	72,764

Note 1 - Description of Busin_8

Note 1 - Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated balances of items included in accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Increase in pension liability	$ (35,280)	$ (36,336)
Income tax benefit	(13,903)	(14,171)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (21,377)	$ (22,165)

Note 2 - Revenue (Details Textu

Note 2 - Revenue (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2018
Deferred Revenue [Member]
Deposit Liability, Current	$ 3.4	$ 3.8

Note 2 - Revenue - Disaggregati

Note 2 - Revenue - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenue	$ 328,220	$ 279,310	$ 250,344	$ 226,258	$ 233,609	$ 218,977	$ 226,681	$ 203,461	$ 1,084,132	$ 882,728	$ 812,465
Sales Channel, Directly to Consumer [Member]
Revenue									551,883	473,649	373,363
Sales Channel, Through Intermediary [Member]
Revenue									532,249	409,079	439,102
Local Advertising [Member]
Revenue									442,728	451,261	403,336
National Advertising [Member]
Revenue									114,192	118,817	98,351
Political Advertising [Member]
Revenue									155,074	16,498	90,095
Advertising [Member]
Revenue									711,994	586,576	591,782
Retransmission Consent [Member]
Revenue									355,423	276,603	200,879
Service, Other [Member]
Revenue									$ 16,715	$ 19,549	$ 19,804

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_3

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Aug. 01, 2017

Jun. 01, 2017

May 01, 2017

Jan. 17, 2017

Jan. 13, 2017

Jun. 27, 2016

Jun. 01, 2016

Feb. 16, 2016

Feb. 01, 2016

Dec. 31, 2018

Dec. 31, 2017

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 30, 2016

Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses

$ 8,500

$ 11,200

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

473,074

Goodwill, Ending Balance

612,425

611,100

485,318

$ 485,318

Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

79,800

130,400

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax

33,700

55,800

Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs

1,100

7,400

Long-term Debt, Total

2,500,000

1,800,000

Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired

0

42,606

Goodwill, Acquired During Period

$ 3,077

125,782

72,300

2016 Term Loan [Member]

Long-term Debt, Total

$ 425,000

Fairbanks Acquistion [Member]

Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross

$ 8,000

Goodwill, Ending Balance

471

Green Bay Acquisition and Davenport Acquisition [Member]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

$ 269,900

Clarksburg Acquisition [Member]

Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross

$ 16,500

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

$ 26,500

Goodwill, Ending Balance

3,222

Bangor Acquisition and Gainesville Acquisition [Member]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

$ 85,000

Burlington and Plattsburg Acquisition [Member]

Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross

$ 5,800

$ 23,200

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

$ 29,000

2017 Acquisitions [Member]

Goodwill, Ending Balance

128,859

2017 Acquisitions [Member] | Retransmission Agreements [Member]

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross, Total

$ 27,900

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

5 years 36 days

2017 Acquisitions [Member] | Advertising Relationships [Member]

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross, Total

$ 5,300

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

10 years 255 days

2017 Acquisitions [Member] | Income Leases [Member]

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross, Total

$ 3,000

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

11 years 328 days

2017 Acquisitions [Member] | Minimum [Member]

Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life

3 years

2017 Acquisitions [Member] | Maximum [Member]

Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life

40 years

Schurz Acquisition [Member]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

443,100

KYES-TV Acquisition [Member]

Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross

$ 500

Goodwill, Ending Balance

28

WBXX Acquisition [Member]

Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses

0

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

30,000

Goodwill, Ending Balance

10,288

Accounts Receivable Contractual Amounts in Excess of Fair Value

$ 200

Schurz Acquisition and Related Transaction [Member] | Retransmission Agreements [Member]

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

4 years 328 days

Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired

$ 14,900

Schurz Acquisition and Related Transaction [Member] | Advertising Relationships [Member]

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

5 years 182 days

Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired

$ 1,600

Schurz Acquisition and Related Transaction [Member] | Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member]

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

9 years 182 days

Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired

$ 2,600

Schurz Acquisition and Related Transaction [Member] | Minimum [Member]

Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life

3 years

Schurz Acquisition and Related Transaction [Member] | Maximum [Member]

Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life

40 years

WSWG-TV [Member]

Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses

$ 8,500

Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business

$ 4,800

KAKE-TV [Member]

Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses

$ 11,200

11,200

Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business

$ 2,000

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total

$ 0

Schurz Radio Stations [Member]

Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses

$ 16,000

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_4

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions - Fair Value of Assets Acquired, Liabilities Assumed, and Goodwill from Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 30, 2016
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 612,425	$ 611,100	$ 485,318	$ 485,318
Fairbanks Acquistion [Member]
Current assets		122
Property and equipment		2,650
Goodwill, Ending Balance		471
Broadcast licenses		2,228
Other intangible assets		2,702
Other non-current assets		71
Current liabilities		(140)
Other long-term liabilities		(84)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		8,020
Media General Acquisition [Member]
Current assets		666
Property and equipment		20,181
Goodwill, Ending Balance		86,287
Broadcast licenses		149,846
Other intangible assets		13,398
Other non-current assets		282
Current liabilities		(695)
Other long-term liabilities		0
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		269,965
Clarksburg Acquisition [Member]
Current assets		462
Property and equipment		4,133
Goodwill, Ending Balance		3,222
Broadcast licenses		17,003
Other intangible assets		2,234
Other non-current assets		51
Current liabilities		(554)
Other long-term liabilities		(51)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		26,500
Diversified Acquisition [Member]
Current assets		361
Property and equipment		12,329
Goodwill, Ending Balance		35,486
Broadcast licenses		26,219
Other intangible assets		11,051
Other non-current assets		27
Current liabilities		(423)
Other long-term liabilities		(50)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		85,000
Vermont Acquisition [Member]
Current assets		312
Property and equipment		9,513
Goodwill, Ending Balance		3,393
Broadcast licenses		7,592
Other intangible assets		5,191
Other non-current assets		3,310
Current liabilities		(311)
Other long-term liabilities		0
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		29,000
2017 Acquisitions [Member]
Current assets		1,923
Property and equipment		48,806
Goodwill, Ending Balance		128,859
Broadcast licenses		202,888
Other intangible assets		34,576
Other non-current assets		3,741
Current liabilities		(2,123)
Other long-term liabilities		(185)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed		$ 418,485

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_5

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions - Purchase Consideration in Acquisition (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Base purchase price				$ 472,500
Purchase price adjustment				574
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total				473,074
Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations				(16,000)
Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed				457,074
Non-cash consideration received				(30,000)
Cash consideration received		$ (8,500)		(11,200)
Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions				415,874
WBXX Acquisition [Member]
Base purchase price				30,000
Purchase price adjustment				0
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total				30,000
Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations				0
Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed				30,000
Non-cash consideration received				0
Cash consideration received				0
Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions				30,000
Schurz Acquisition and the Acquisition of WLUC-TV [Member]
Base purchase price				442,500
Purchase price adjustment				574
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total				443,074
Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations				(16,000)
Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed				427,074
Non-cash consideration received				0
Cash consideration received				0
Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions				427,074
KAKE-TV [Member]
Base purchase price				0
Purchase price adjustment				0
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total				0
Cash consideration received from sale of Schurz Radio Stations				0
Net adjusted purchase price allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed				0
Non-cash consideration received				(30,000)
Cash consideration received	$ (11,200)			(11,200)
Net consideration - the Schurz Acquisition and Related Transactions				$ (41,200)

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_6

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions - Fair Value of Assets Acquired, Liabilities Assumed, and Goodwill from 2016 Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 30, 2016
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 612,425	$ 611,100	$ 485,318	$ 485,318
KYES-TV Acquisition [Member]
Accounts receivable			0
Other current assets			0
Property and equipment			176
Goodwill, Ending Balance			28
Broadcast licenses			254
Other intangible assets			42
Other non-current assets			0
Current liabilities			0
Other long-term liabilities			0
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed			500
WBXX Acquisition [Member]
Accounts receivable			0
Other current assets			429
Property and equipment			1,633
Goodwill, Ending Balance			10,288
Broadcast licenses			18,199
Other intangible assets			0
Other non-current assets			408
Current liabilities			(460)
Other long-term liabilities			(497)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed			30,000
Schurz Acquisition and the Acquisition of WLUC-TV [Member]
Accounts receivable			19,226
Other current assets			4,606
Property and equipment			97,814
Goodwill, Ending Balance			61,981
Broadcast licenses			231,391
Other intangible assets			19,523
Other non-current assets			3,028
Current liabilities			(8,903)
Other long-term liabilities			(1,592)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed			427,074
2016 Acquisitions [Member]
Accounts receivable			19,226
Other current assets			5,035
Property and equipment			99,623
Goodwill, Ending Balance			72,297
Broadcast licenses			249,844
Other intangible assets			19,565
Other non-current assets			3,436
Current liabilities			(9,363)
Other long-term liabilities			(2,089)
Total Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed			$ 457,574

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dis_7

Note 3 - Acquisitions and Dispositions - Unaudited Pro Forma Results (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Acquisitions Completed in 2017 [Member]
Revenue (less agency commissions)	$ 895,081	$ 926,799
Net income	$ 260,909	$ 88,679
Basic net income per share (in dollars per share)	$ 3.57	$ 1.23
Diluted net income per share (in dollars per share)	$ 3.53	$ 1.22
Acquisitions Completed in 2016 [Member]
Revenue (less agency commissions)		$ 825,787
Net income		$ 57,795
Basic net income per share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.80
Diluted net income per share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.79

Note 4 - Long-term Debt (Detail

Note 4 - Long-term Debt (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 03, 2017	Feb. 07, 2017	Sep. 14, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 16, 2018	Jun. 14, 2016
Long-term Debt, Gross				$ 2,570,026
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt, Total				750,000	$ 641,438	$ 1,656,000
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt, Total					(2,851)	(31,987)
Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities, Total				94,500	97,000	76,200
Interest Costs Capitalized				$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
2024 Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				5.125%	5.125%
Long-term Debt, Gross				$ 525,000
Unsecured Debt, Total				$ 525,000	$ 525,000
2026 Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				5.875%	5.875%
Long-term Debt, Gross				$ 700,000
Unsecured Debt, Total				$ 700,000	$ 700,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount								$ 500,000
2027 Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				7.00%			7.00%
Long-term Debt, Gross				$ 750,000
Unsecured Debt, Total				750,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount							$ 750,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross				595,026	635,234
Debt Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Capacity				695,000
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt, Total					2,900
Debt Issuance Costs, Gross					$ 5,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 100,000		$ 100,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.375%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate		1.00%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				4.60%
Long-term Debt, Gross		$ 556,400		$ 595,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt, Total	$ 85,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate				2.25%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate if Leverage Ratio is Less Than or Equal to 5.25		2.25%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Applicable Margin, If Leverage Ratio is Greater than 5.25		2.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate				1.25%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate if Leverage Ratio is Less Than or Equal to 5.25		1.25%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Applicable Margin, If Leverage Ratio is Greater than 5.25		1.50%
The Additional 2026 Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage				5.875%
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt, Total			$ 206,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			$ 200,000
Debt Instrument, Issueing Price, Percentage			103.00%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage				5.398%

Note 4 - Long-term Debt - Long-

Note 4 - Long-term Debt - Long-term Debt Summary (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 2,570,026
Total outstanding principal	2,570,026	$ 1,860,234
Less current portion		(6,417)
Net carrying value	2,549,224	1,831,011
Borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility	100,000	100,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	595,026	635,234
Unamortized deferred loan costs	(9,261)	(11,777)
2024 Notes [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	525,000
Unsecured Debt, Total	525,000	525,000
Unamortized deferred loan costs	(5,744)	(6,743)
2026 Notes [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	700,000
Unsecured Debt, Total	700,000	700,000
Unamortized deferred loan costs	(8,359)	(9,473)
Unamortized premium	4,576	5,187
2027 Notes [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	750,000
Unsecured Debt, Total	750,000
Unamortized deferred loan costs	$ (2,014)

Note 4 - Long-term Debt - Aggre

Note 4 - Long-term Debt - Aggregate Minimum Principal Maturities on Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	2,570,026
Total Debt	2,570,026
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	595,026
Total Debt	595,026	$ 635,234
2024 Notes [Member]
2,019	0
2,020	0
2,021	0
2,022	0
2,023
Thereafter	525,000
Total Debt	525,000
2026 Notes [Member]
2,019	0
2,020	0
2,021	0
2,022	0
2,023
Thereafter	700,000
Total Debt	700,000
2027 Notes [Member]
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	750,000
Total Debt	$ 750,000

Note 5 - Fair Value Measureme_2

Note 5 - Fair Value Measurement (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Long-term Debt, Total	$ 2.5	$ 1.8
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	$ 2.4	$ 1.9

Note 6 - Stockholders' Equity (

Note 6 - Stockholders' Equity (Details Textual) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Nov. 06, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2006shares	Nov. 30, 2004shares	Mar. 31, 2004shares
Capital Units, Authorized		245,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	100,000,000	200,000,000	100,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized		20,000,000
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Votes Per Share		1
Dividends, Common Stock, Total | $		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock | $			238,945
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method | $		$ 19,607	$ 4,000	$ 2,000
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	7,422,965	7,078,916	7,422,965
March 2004 Authorization [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased								2,000,000
The 2004-2006 Repurchase Authorization [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased						5,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased		279,200
The 2016 Repurchase Authorization [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $					$ 75,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired		1,551,710
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share | $ / shares		$ 12.64
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method | $		$ 19,600
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount | $		$ 49,500
November 2004 Authorization [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased							2,000,000
Underwritten Offering [Member]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues	17,250,000
Share Price | $ / shares	$ 14.50		$ 14.50
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock | $	$ 238,900
Issuance of Stock, Underwriting Discount | $	10,600
Issuance of Stock, Underwriting Expenses | $	$ 600
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	15,000,000	25,000,000	15,000,000
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Votes Per Share		10
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	1,923,144	1,703,064	1,923,144

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensa_3

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensation (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Feb. 01, 2019	Jan. 02, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Total				$ 4.2
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition				1 year 182 days
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				391,836	307,943	237,500
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				$ 14.63	$ 10.40	$ 12.88
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				318,196	307,943	218,452
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				$ 15.25
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	336,609	340,993
Stock Granted, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures, Total	$ 5.6	$ 5.1
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				131,106
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				69,651
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				69,652
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Vesting January 31, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					102,648
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two, Vesting January 31, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					102,648	72,820
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three, Vesting January 31, 2020 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					102,647
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Vesting January 31, 2017 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						72,816
Restricted Stock [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three, Vesting January 31, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						72,820
Restricted Stock [Member] | Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				73,640	76,856	19,048
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				220,080	275,076	218,612
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				$ 12.65	$ 10.84	$ 11.25
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					198,220	166,677
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	199,810
Stock Granted, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures, Total	$ 3.1
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Vesting January 31, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					66,073
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two, Vesting January 31, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					66,073
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three, Vesting January 31, 2020 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					66,074
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Vesting January 31, 2017 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						55,559
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three, Vesting January 31, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						55,559
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two, Vesting January 31, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						55,559
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period						51,935
Service Based Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				110,040
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				$ 12.65
Service Based Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				36,680
Service Based Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				36,680
Service Based Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period			36,680
Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member] | Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				110,040
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				$ 12.65
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					215,500	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value					$ 15.70	$ 0
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Vesting January 31, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period					209,500
Directors Restricted Stock Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Maximum Number of Restricted Shares Authorized Yearly Per Director				10,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant				770,000
Directors Restricted Stock Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period				0	0	0
The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant				4,400,000
The 2017 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant				1,700,000
2007 Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant				0	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number, Ending Balance				274,746	274,746
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance				$ 1.99	$ 1.99
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value				$ 3.5

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensa_4

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensation - Stock-based Compensation Expense and Related Income Tax Benefit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock-based compensation expense, gross	$ 6,661	$ 8,303	$ 5,099
Income tax benefit at our statutory rate associated with stock-based compensation	(1,692)	(3,238)	(1,989)
Stock-based compensation expense, net	$ 4,969	$ 5,065	$ 3,110

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensa_5

Note 7 - Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Restricted Common Stock Activity (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Restricted Stock [Member]
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)	503,685	396,033	337,506
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 11.14	$ 12.06	$ 9.57
Granted, Shares (in shares)	391,836	307,943	237,500
Granted, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 14.63	$ 10.40	$ 12.88
Vested, Shares (in shares)	(225,570)	(200,291)	(178,973)
Vested, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 11.21	$ 11.82	$ 8.46
Forfeited, Shares (in shares)	(91,057)	0	0
Forfeited, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 13.27	$ 0	$ 0
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)	578,894	503,685	396,033
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 13.14	$ 11.14	$ 12.06
Restricted Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)	462,632	415,082	374,693
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 10.63	$ 10.15	$ 9.46
Granted, Shares (in shares)	220,080	275,076	218,612
Granted, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 12.65	$ 10.84	$ 11.25
Vested, Shares (in shares)	(274,926)	(227,526)	(178,223)
Vested, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 10.48	$ 10	$ 10.04
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)	407,786	462,632	415,082
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 11.82	$ 10.63	$ 10.15
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)	209,500	0	0
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 15.70	$ 0	$ 0
Granted, Shares (in shares)		215,500	0
Granted, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)		$ 15.70	$ 0
Vested, Shares (in shares)	(209,500)	0	0
Vested, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 15.70	$ 0	$ 0
Forfeited, Shares (in shares)		(6,000)
Forfeited, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)		$ 15.70
Outstanding, Shares (in shares)		209,500	0
Outstanding, Weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)		$ 15.70	$ 0

Note 8 - Income Taxes (Details

Note 8 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability		$ 146,000,000
Increase (Decrease) in Obligation, Pension Benefits	$ (1,100,000)	7,400,000	$ (600,000)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax, Total	(788,000)	4,520,000	361,000
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax, Total	300,000	2,900,000	200,000
Income Taxes Paid, Net, Total	34,200,000	2,000,000	$ 14,600,000
Prepaid Taxes	0	$ 13,791,000
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration	$ 51,900,000

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Federal

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Federal and State Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Summary (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Federal		$ 42,531	$ 4,633	$ 0
State and local		11,447	3,261	2,730
State and local - reserve for uncertain tax positions		(63)	757	(698)
Current income tax expense		53,915	8,651	2,032
Federal1	[1]	17,385	(81,666)	38,214
State and local		5,547	4,341	3,172
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)		22,932	(77,325)	41,386
Income tax expense (benefit) as recorded		$ 76,847	$ (68,674)	$ 43,418
[1]	Includes a federal tax benefit of $146.0 million from the restatement of deferred taxes resulting from the reduction of the corporate tax rate due to the enactment of the TCJA.

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Signifi

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Significant Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities and Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Deferred tax liabilities:
Net book value of property and equipment	$ 21,097	$ 18,131
Broadcast licenses, goodwill and other intangibles	286,299	272,330
Total deferred tax liabilities	307,396	290,461
Deferred tax assets:
Liability for accrued vacation	1,461	1,438
Liability for accrued bonus	3,993	2,391
Allowance for doubtful accounts	1,358	1,170
Liability under health and welfare plan	639	608
Liability for pension plan	8,437	9,611
State and local operating loss carryforwards	2,358	4,719
Alternative minimum tax carryforwards		3,925
Acquisition costs	1,946	2,104
Restricted stock	2,083	2,636
Other	231	244
Total deferred tax assets	22,506	28,846
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets		(75)
Net deferred tax assets	22,506	28,771
Deferred tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets	$ 284,890	$ 261,690

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Reconci

Note 8 - Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statutory federal rate applied to income before income tax expense	$ 60,406	$ 67,647	$ 36,992
Current year permanent items	3,065	2,408	1,830
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit	14,004	7,889	5,056
Change in valuation allowance	(75)	(1,457)	(151)
Reserve for uncertain tax positions	(63)	757	(698)
Rate change due to enactment of tax reform		(145,997)	0
Other items, net	(490)	79	389
Income tax expense (benefit) as recorded	$ 76,847	$ (68,674)	$ 43,418
Effective income tax rate	26.70%	35.50%	41.10%

Note 9 - Retirement Plans (Deta

Note 9 - Retirement Plans (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	7,078,916	7,422,965
Pension Plan [Member] | Gray Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	$ 116.7	$ 126.1
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year	2.5
Capital Accumulation Plan [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount	6.4	6.6	$ 5.4
Defined Contribution Plan, Expected Contributions In Next Twelve Months	$ 12.5
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	1,587,719
Capital Accumulation Plan [Member] | First 3% of Each Employee's Salary Deferral [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match	100.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay	3.00%
Capital Accumulation Plan [Member] | Next 2% of Each Employee's Salary Deferral [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match	50.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay	2.00%
Profit Sharing Contribution [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount	$ 4.3	$ 4.1	$ 3.4

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Sum

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Summary of Funded Status and Amounts Recognized on Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	$ 126,086	$ 114,976
Interest cost	4,424	4,669	$ 4,398
Actuarial gains	(10,940)
Benefits paid	(2,916)	(3,529)
Merger of assumed plans		9,970
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	116,654	126,086	114,976
Fair value of pension plan assets at beginning of year	88,248	80,929
Actual return on plan assets	(4,417)	7,724
Company contributions	2,500	3,124
Benefits paid	(2,916)	(3,529)
Fair value of pension plan assets at end of year	83,415	88,248	$ 80,929
Funded status of pension plan	(33,239)	(37,838)
Accrued benefit cost	2,041
Accrued benefit cost		(1,502)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(35,280)	(36,336)
Net liability recognized	$ (33,239)	$ (37,838)

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Est

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Estimated Rate of Increase in Compensation Levels (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the Gray Pension Plan:
Discount rate	3.55%	4.11%
Expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets	7.00%	7.00%
Estimated rate of increase in compensation levels
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:
Discount rate	4.16%	3.55%

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Com

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost for Pension Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of net periodic pension cost:
Service cost	$ 0	$ 0
Interest cost	4,424	4,669	4,398
Expected return on plan assets	(6,145)	(5,648)	(4,836)
Recognized net actuarial loss	678	484	406
Net periodic pension benefit	$ (1,043)	$ (494)	$ (32)

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - E_2

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Estimated Future Benefit Payments for Subsequent Years (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
2,019	$ 3,371
2,020	3,845
2,021	4,102
2,022	4,383
2,023	4,648
2024-2028	$ 28,479

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - All

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Allocation of Plan Assets (Details)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	100.00%	100.00%
Insurance General Account [Member]
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	19.00%	19.00%
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	1.00%	4.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	47.00%	42.00%
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	31.00%	31.00%
Real Estate [Member]
Asset category:
Plan assets, percent	2.00%	4.00%

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Tar

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Target Asset Allocation (Details)	Dec. 31, 2018
Large Cap Value [Member]
Target range	5.00%
Large Cap Value [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Large Cap Value [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	50.00%
Large Cap Blend [Member]
Target range	5.00%
Large Cap Blend [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Large Cap Blend [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	50.00%
Large Cap Growth [Member]
Target range	5.00%
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	50.00%
Mid-cap Blend [Member]
Target range	15.00%
Mid-cap Blend [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Mid-cap Blend [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	40.00%
Small Cap Core [Member]
Target range	5.00%
Small Cap Core [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Small Cap Core [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	25.00%
Foreign Large Blend [Member]
Target range	10.00%
Foreign Large Blend [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Foreign Large Blend [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	40.00%
Emerging Markets [Member]
Target range	10.00%
Emerging Markets [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Emerging Markets [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	25.00%
Real Estate [Member]
Target range	5.00%
Real Estate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Real Estate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	20.00%
US Treasury Securities [Member]
Target range	5.00%
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	25.00%
Intermediate Term Bond [Member]
Target range	10.00%
Intermediate Term Bond [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Intermediate Term Bond [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	50.00%
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Target range	5.00%
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	40.00%
High Yield Bond [Member]
Target range	10.00%
High Yield Bond [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
High Yield Bond [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	25.00%
Emerging Markets Bond [Member]
Target range	10.00%
Emerging Markets Bond [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Emerging Markets Bond [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	20.00%
Money Market Funds [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Money Market Funds [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Target range	0.00%
Money Market Funds [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Target range	100.00%

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Pen

Note 9 - Retirement Plans - Pension Plan Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	$ 83,415	$ 88,248	$ 80,929
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	66,957	71,375
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	16,458	16,873
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Insurance General Account [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	16,458	16,873
Insurance General Account [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Insurance General Account [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	16,458	16,873
Insurance General Account [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	721	3,229
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	721	3,229
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	39,047	37,536
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	39,047	37,536
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	25,878	27,146
Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	25,878	27,146
Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Real Estate [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	1,311	3,464
Real Estate [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	1,311	3,464
Real Estate [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	0	0
Real Estate [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	$ 0	$ 0

Note 10 - Commitments and Con_3

Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Total	$ 4.2	$ 4	$ 3.5

Note 10 - Commitments and Con_4

Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies - Commitments Summary (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Purchase obligations	$ 3,343
Contractual obligations	141,768
Year 2,020	3,039
Contractual obligations	157,273
Purchase obligations	134,432
Year 2,021	2,851
Year 2,022	2,618
Contractual obligations	5,807
Year 2,023	2,540
Contractual obligations	2,718
Year Thereafter	11,588
Contractual obligations	11,588
Year Total	25,979
Contractual obligations	453,586
Service and Other Agreements [Member]
Purchase obligations	1,324
Purchase obligations	573
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	1,897
Equipment [Member]
Purchase obligations	1,375
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	1,375
Syndicated Television Programming [Member]
Year 2,019	6,241
Purchase obligations	13,034
Purchase obligations	1,157
Purchase obligations	163
Purchase obligations	111
Purchase obligations	20,706
Network Affiliation Agreements [Member]
Purchase obligations	129,485
Purchase obligations	140,627
Purchase obligations	130,424
Purchase obligations	3,026
Purchase obligations	67
Purchase obligations	0
Purchase obligations	$ 403,629

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intang_3

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 07, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018
Amortization of Intangible Assets, Total		$ 20,570	$ 25,072	$ 16,596
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months					$ 15,400
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two					12,400
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three					8,300
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four					4,800
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five					$ 2,900
Goodwill, Impairment Loss		0	0	0
Proceeds from Spectrum Auction			$ 90,824
FCC [Member]
Proceeds from Spectrum Auction	$ 90,800
FCC [Member] | Broadcast Licenses [Member]
Intangible Asset Dispositions from Spectrum Auction	$ 13,100

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intang_4

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill beginning of year	$ 611,100	$ 485,318
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	3,077	125,782	$ 72,300
Goodwill	(1,752)	0
Goodwill end of year	612,425	611,100	485,318
Broadcast licenses	1,530,703
Broadcast licenses	0	0
Broadcast licenses	1,529,574	1,530,703
Finite-lived intangible assets	73,784	56,250
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired	0	42,606
Finite-lived intangible assets	(20,570)	(25,072)	(16,596)
Finite-lived intangible assets	53,214	73,784	56,250
Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization	2,215,587	1,881,873
Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization	3,502	371,891
Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization	(3,306)	(13,105)
Total intangible assets net of accumulated amortization	2,195,213	2,215,587	1,881,873
Broadcast Licenses [Member]
Broadcast licenses	1,530,703	1,340,305
Broadcast licenses	425	203,503
Broadcast licenses	(1,554)	(13,105)
Broadcast licenses	$ 1,529,574	$ 1,530,703	$ 1,340,305

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intang_5

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Summary of Changes in Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 30, 2016
Goodwill, gross beginning of year	$ 709,696	$ 583,914
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	3,077	125,782	$ 72,300
Goodwill	(1,752)	0
Goodwill, gross end of year	711,021	709,696	583,914
Accumulated goodwill impairment	(98,596)	(98,596)
Goodwill	$ 612,425	$ 611,100	$ 485,318	$ 485,318

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intang_6

Note 11 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 30, 2016
Goodwill, Gross	$ 711,021	$ 709,696	$ 583,914
Goodwill	612,425	611,100	485,318	$ 485,318
Other intangible assets, net	53,214	73,784	56,250
Intangible Assets Gross (Including Goodwill)	2,345,251	2,345,082
Accumulated Amortization Intangible Assets	(150,038)	(129,495)
Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill)	2,195,213	2,215,587	$ 1,881,873
Network Affiliate [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	6,134	6,134
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(6,134)	(3,551)
Other intangible assets, net		2,583
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	6,134	3,551
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	143,419	143,446
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	90,205	72,245
Other intangible assets, net	53,214	71,201
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(90,205)	(72,245)
Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	149,553	149,580
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(96,339)	(75,796)
Other intangible assets, net	53,214	73,784
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	96,339	75,796
Broadcast Licenses [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Gross	1,583,273	1,584,402
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Accumulated Amortization	(53,699)	(53,699)
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	1,529,574	1,530,703
Goodwill Not Amortizable [Member]
Goodwill, Gross	612,425	611,100
Goodwill	612,425	611,100
Intangible Assets Not Subject to Amortization [Member]
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	2,195,698	2,195,502
Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(53,699)	(53,699)
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Assets, Net	$ 2,141,999	$ 2,141,803

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly _3

Note 12 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Schedule of Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenue (less agency commissions)	$ 328,220	$ 279,310	$ 250,344	$ 226,258	$ 233,609	$ 218,977	$ 226,681	$ 203,461	$ 1,084,132	$ 882,728	$ 812,465
Operating income	150,644	108,402	79,690	50,035	54,965	49,900	142,394	43,472	388,771	290,731	234,304
Net income	$ 88,267	$ 61,886	$ 40,705	$ 19,945	$ 165,570	$ 15,316	$ 70,561	$ 10,505	$ 210,803	$ 261,952	$ 62,273
Net income (in dollars per share)	$ 1.01	$ 0.71	$ 0.46	$ 0.22	$ 2.15	$ 0.21	$ 0.98	$ 0.15	$ 2.39	$ 3.59	$ 0.87
Diluted net income per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 0.70	$ 0.46	$ 0.22	$ 2.13	$ 0.21	$ 0.97	$ 0.14	$ 2.37	$ 3.55	$ 0.86

Note 13 - Subsequent Events (De

Note 13 - Subsequent Events (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jan. 02, 2019	Feb. 07, 2017	Jun. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 22, 2019	Dec. 31, 2017
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total					$ 473,074
Long-term Debt, Gross				$ 2,570,026
The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Issuance Costs, Net, Total				3,200
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Capacity				695,000
Long-term Debt, Gross				595,026			$ 635,234
Debt Issuance Costs, Net, Total				9,261			$ 11,777
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 100,000		100,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.375%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate		1.00%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate		0.50%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross		$ 556,400		$ 595,000
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate				2.25%
The 2017 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2017 Term Loan [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate				1.25%
Subsequent Event [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 3,970,026
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	2,200,000
Long-term Debt, Gross	1,995,026
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 200,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.375%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.50%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.50%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate	1.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.50%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread Used to Define Base Rate	0.50%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2019 Term Loan [Member]
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 1,400,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage						5.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2019 Term Loan [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.50%
Subsequent Event [Member] | The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | The 2019 Term Loan [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.50%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$ 1,000
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Cash, Percentage	8.00%
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Additional Preferred Stock, Percentage	8.50%
Raycom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Total	$ 3,660,000
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$ 2,840,000
Raycom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares	11,500,000
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable	$ 169,500
Business Acquisition, Share Price	$ 14.74
Raycom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | New Preferred Stock [Member]
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable	$ 650,000
Raycom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock [Member]
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares	650,000
The WWNY-TV and WNYF-CD [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross			$ 45,000

Note 13 - Subsequent Events - A

Note 13 - Subsequent Events - Assets Sold from the Raycom Merger (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 02, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Proceeds from sale of television station		$ 8,500		$ 11,200
Subsequent Event [Member] | WTNZ-TV, WFXG-TV, WPGX-TV, and WDFX-TV [Member] | Lockwood Broadcasting, Inc. [Member]
Proceeds from sale of television station	$ 67,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | KXXV-TV, KRHD-CD, and WTXL-TV [Member] | Scripps Media, Inc. [Member]
Proceeds from sale of television station	55,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | WTOL-TV and KWES-TV [Member] | TEGNA, Inc. [Member]
Proceeds from sale of television station	105,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | WTNZ-TV, WFXG-TV, WPGX-TV, WDFX-TV, KXXV-TV, KRHD-CD, WTXL-TV, WTOL-TV and KWES-TV [Member]
Proceeds from sale of television station	$ 227,000

Note 13 - Subsequent Events -_2

Note 13 - Subsequent Events - Aggregate Minimum Principal Maturities on Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 02, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter		2,570,026
Total		2,570,026
Subsequent Event [Member]
2,019	$ 14,000
2,020	14,000
2,021	14,000
2,022	14,000
2,023	14,000
Thereafter	3,900,026
Total	3,970,026
The 2019 Senior Credit Facility [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
2,019	14,000
2,020	14,000
2,021	14,000
2,022	14,000
2,023	14,000
Thereafter	1,925,026
Total	1,995,026
2024 Notes [Member]
2,020		0
2,021		0
2,022		0
2,023
Thereafter		525,000
Total		525,000
2024 Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	525,000
Total	525,000
2026 Notes [Member]
2,020		0
2,021		0
2,022		0
2,023
Thereafter		700,000
Total		700,000
2026 Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	700,000
Total	700,000
2027 Notes [Member]
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter		750,000
Total		$ 750,000
2027 Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
2,019
2,020
2,021
2,022
2,023
Thereafter	750,000
Total	$ 750,000

Schedule II - Valuation and Q_3

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts - Summary of Valuation Allowance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member]
Allowance for doubtful accounts		$ 4,606	$ 3,163	$ 1,794
Allowance for doubtful accounts		2,171	2,400	1,917
Allowance for doubtful accounts	[1]	0		167
Allowance for doubtful accounts	[2]	(1,431)	(957)	(715)
Allowance for doubtful accounts		5,346	4,606	3,163
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset [Member]
Allowance for doubtful accounts		75	1,532	1,683
Allowance for doubtful accounts		(75)	(1,457)	0
Allowance for doubtful accounts	[1]	0	0	0
Allowance for doubtful accounts	[2]	0		(151)
Allowance for doubtful accounts			$ 75	$ 1,532
[1]	In 2016, the change in the allowance for doubtful accounts represents the fair value of balances assumed in acquisition transactions. See Note 3 Acquisitions and Dispositions of the notes to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein for further information.
[2]	Deductions from allowance for doubtful accounts represent write-offs of receivable balances not considered collectible. The deduction from the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets represents changes in estimates of our future taxable income and our estimated future usage of certain net operating loss carryforwards, as well as expiration of certain net operating loss carryforwards.