Document_and_Entity_Informatio
Document and Entity Information Document (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | |
Sep. 30, 2012 | Mar. 25, 2012 | |
Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
Entity Registrant Name | Lee Enterprises, Inc. | |
Entity Central Index Key | 58361 | |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | -21 | |
Entity Filer Category | Accelerated Filer | |
Document Type | 10-K | |
Document Period End Date | 30-Sep-12 | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2012 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | |
Amendment Flag | FALSE | |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 51,791,241 | |
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | No | |
Entity Voluntary Filers | No | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |
Entity Public Float | $57,507,000 |
Consolidated_Balance_Sheet
Consolidated Balance Sheet (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 |
Current assets: | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | $13,920,000 | $23,555,000 |
Accounts receivable, net | 68,190,000 | 69,307,000 |
Income taxes receivable | 7,887,000 | 1,335,000 |
Inventories | 7,454,000 | 7,060,000 |
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current | 789,000 | 967,000 |
Deferred income taxes | 967,000 | |
Other | 6,261,000 | 16,102,000 |
Assets of discontinued operations | 9,171,000 | 17,415,000 |
Total current assets | 113,672,000 | 135,741,000 |
Investments: | ||
Associated companies | 42,201,000 | 44,057,000 |
Restricted cash and investments | 0 | 4,972,000 |
Other | 10,033,000 | 9,199,000 |
Total investments | 52,234,000 | 58,228,000 |
Property and equipment: | ||
Land and improvements | 24,535,000 | 24,547,000 |
Buildings and improvements | 188,743,000 | 187,039,000 |
Equipment | 299,905,000 | 301,281,000 |
Construction in process | 2,567,000 | 2,852,000 |
Property, plant and equipment, gross | 515,750,000 | 515,719,000 |
Less accumulated depreciation | 330,531,000 | 313,678,000 |
Property and equipment, net | 185,219,000 | 202,041,000 |
Goodwill | 247,271,000 | 247,271,000 |
Other intangible assets, net | 451,292,000 | 493,589,000 |
Postretirement assets, net | 7,551,000 | 14,934,000 |
Other | 3,897,000 | 6,444,000 |
Total assets | 1,061,136,000 | 1,158,248,000 |
Current liabilities: | ||
Current maturities of long-term debt | 11,982,000 | 994,550,000 |
Accounts payable | 22,978,000 | 26,796,000 |
Compensation and other accrued liabilities | 38,559,000 | 33,991,000 |
Unearned revenue | 35,078,000 | 35,365,000 |
Liabilities of discontinued operations | 1,714,000 | 3,537,000 |
Total current liabilities | 110,311,000 | 1,094,239,000 |
Long-term debt, net of current maturities | 914,244,000 | 0 |
Pension obligations | 68,636,000 | 73,518,000 |
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations | 7,160,000 | 6,104,000 |
Deferred income taxes | 60,140,000 | 66,204,000 |
Income taxes payable | 6,062,000 | 8,588,000 |
Other | 8,639,000 | 10,489,000 |
Total liabilities | 1,175,192,000 | 1,259,142,000 |
Stockholders' equity (deficit): | ||
Serial convertible preferred stock, no par value; authorized 500 shares; none issued | 0 | 0 |
Additional paid-in capital | 241,039,000 | 140,887,000 |
Accumulated deficit | -342,760,000 | -326,062,000 |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | -13,435,000 | -6,086,000 |
Total stockholders' deficit | -114,056,000 | -100,894,000 |
Non-controlling interests | 577,000 | 452,000 |
Total deficit | -114,633,000 | -101,346,000 |
Total liabilities and deficit | 1,061,136,000 | 1,158,248,000 |
Common Stock [Member] | ||
Stockholders' equity (deficit): | ||
Common Stock | 523,000 | 89,915,000 |
Common Class B [Member] | ||
Stockholders' equity (deficit): | ||
Common Stock | $0 | $0 |
Consolidated_Balance_Sheet_Par
Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (Parentheticals) (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 |
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified | ||
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable | $4,890 | $5,387 |
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $0 | $0 |
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized | 500,000 | 500,000 |
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued | 0 | 0 |
Common Class A [Member] | ||
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $0.01 | $2 |
Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 120,000,000 | 120,000,000 |
Common Stock, Shares, Issued | 51,791,000 | 44,958,000 |
Common Class B [Member] | ||
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $2 | $2 |
Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 30,000,000 | 30,000,000 |
Common Stock, Shares, Issued | 0 | 0 |
Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Operating revenue: | |||
Advertising | $495,872,000 | $517,348,000 | $537,223,000 |
Circulation | 174,747,000 | 172,245,000 | 171,155,000 |
Other | 39,867,000 | 37,726,000 | 40,066,000 |
Total operating revenue | 710,486,000 | 727,319,000 | 748,444,000 |
Operating expenses: | |||
Compensation | 276,379,000 | 283,527,000 | 298,873,000 |
Newsprint and ink | 52,003,000 | 56,191,000 | 51,707,000 |
Other operating expenses | 214,570,000 | 220,656,000 | 227,603,000 |
Depreciation | 23,620,000 | 25,833,000 | 26,716,000 |
Amortization of intangible assets | 42,297,000 | 44,473,000 | 45,208,000 |
Impairment of goodwill and other assets | 1,388,000 | 204,439,000 | 899,000 |
Workforce adjustments | 4,640,000 | 3,922,000 | 1,199,000 |
Total operating expenses | 614,897,000 | 839,041,000 | 652,205,000 |
Curtailment gains | 0 | 16,137,000 | 45,012,000 |
Equity in earnings of associated companies | 7,231,000 | 6,151,000 | 7,746,000 |
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | 0 | 11,900,000 | 0 |
Operating income (loss) | 102,820,000 | -101,334,000 | 148,997,000 |
Non-operating income (expense): | |||
Financial income | 236,000 | 296,000 | 411,000 |
Financial expense | -83,078,000 | -52,696,000 | -63,117,000 |
Debt financing costs | -2,823,000 | -12,612,000 | -8,514,000 |
Other, net | -2,533,000 | 595,000 | -1,172,000 |
Total non-operating expense, net | -88,198,000 | -64,417,000 | -72,392,000 |
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes | 14,622,000 | -165,751,000 | 76,605,000 |
Reorganization costs | 37,765,000 | 0 | 0 |
Loss before income taxes | -23,143,000 | -165,751,000 | 76,605,000 |
Income tax benefit | -9,371,000 | -20,316,000 | 29,308,000 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | -13,772,000 | -145,435,000 | 47,297,000 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | -2,527,000 | -1,246,000 | -1,119,000 |
Net loss | -16,299,000 | -146,681,000 | 46,178,000 |
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests | -399,000 | -187,000 | -73,000 |
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | -16,698,000 | -146,868,000 | 46,105,000 |
Other comprehensive income, net | -7,348,000 | -12,737,000 | -14,704,000 |
Comprehensive loss | -24,046,000 | -159,605,000 | 31,401,000 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent | ($14,171,000) | ($145,622,000) | $47,224,000 |
Loss per common share: | |||
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.06 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.03) |
Basic | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.05 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.02) |
Diluted | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |
Statement_of_Cash_Flows
Statement of Cash Flows (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | ($13,772,000) | ($145,435,000) | $47,297,000 |
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities: | |||
Net loss | -16,299,000 | -146,681,000 | 46,178,000 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | -2,527,000 | -1,246,000 | -1,119,000 |
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||
Depreciation and amortization | 65,917,000 | 70,306,000 | 71,924,000 |
Impairment of goodwill and other assets | 1,388,000 | 204,439,000 | 899,000 |
Curtailment gains | 0 | -16,137,000 | -45,012,000 |
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | 0 | 11,900,000 | 0 |
Amortization (accretion) of debt present value adjustment | 3,919,000 | -547,000 | -621,000 |
Stock compensation expense | 1,080,000 | 1,287,000 | 1,974,000 |
Distributions greater than current earnings of MNI | 700,000 | 347,000 | 334,000 |
Deferred income tax benefit | -779,000 | -25,910,000 | 18,943,000 |
Debt financing costs | 2,857,000 | 12,612,000 | 8,480,000 |
Reorganization costs | 37,765,000 | 0 | 0 |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||
Decrease in receivables | 1,117,000 | 5,984,000 | 7,798,000 |
Decrease in inventories and other | 1,981,000 | 4,583,000 | 3,190,000 |
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and unearned revenue | 423,000 | -6,752,000 | -6,553,000 |
Decrease in pension, postretirement and post employment benefits | -8,898,000 | -5,690,000 | -3,261,000 |
Change in income taxes receivable or payable | -9,078,000 | -5,748,000 | 162,000 |
Other, net | -4,100,000 | -3,697,000 | -1,454,000 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations | 80,520,000 | 101,542,000 | 104,100,000 |
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities: | |||
Purchases of property and equipment | -8,040,000 | -7,479,000 | -8,835,000 |
Decrease in restricted cash | 4,972,000 | 4,651,000 | -862,000 |
Proceeds from sales of assets | 1,353,000 | 1,811,000 | 2,324,000 |
Distributions greater than current earnings of TNI | 1,156,000 | 1,818,000 | -383,000 |
Other, net | -422,000 | 104,000 | 118,000 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations | -981,000 | 905,000 | -7,638,000 |
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities: | |||
Proceeds from long-term debt | 1,004,795,000 | 50,000,000 | 83,800,000 |
Payments on long-term debt | -1,065,455,000 | -137,330,000 | -170,545,000 |
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid | -32,408,000 | -11,601,000 | -453,000 |
Common stock transactions net | 0 | -205,000 | -166,000 |
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents | -9,635,000 | 4,133,000 | 11,517,000 |
Cash and cash equivalents: | |||
End of period | 13,920,000 | 23,555,000 | 19,422,000 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations | -93,068,000 | -99,136,000 | -87,364,000 |
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations | 178,000 | 1,062,000 | 3,034,000 |
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations | $3,716,000 | ($240,000) | ($615,000) |
Statement_of_Stockholders_Equi
Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 27, 2009 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 27, 2009 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 |
Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] | ||||||
Beginning balance | ($101,346,000) | $56,823,000 | $89,915,000 | $78,554,000 | $78,278,000 | $523,000 | $0 | $11,352,000 | $11,552,000 | $0 | $140,887,000 | $139,460,000 | $137,713,000 | $241,039,000 | ($326,062,000) | ($179,194,000) | ($225,299,000) | ($342,760,000) | ($6,086,000) | $6,651,000 | $21,354,000 | ($13,435,000) | |||||||||||
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding | 52,291 | 44,958 | 52,291 | 44,958 | 44,953 | 52,291 | 44,958 | 39,277 | 39,139 | 0 | 0 | 5,676 | 5,776 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Par Value Change- Common Stock Shares | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities | 0 | 11,352,000 | 200,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted | 0 | -11,352,000 | -200,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted | 0 | -5,676 | -100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax | 0 | 0 | 2,334,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax | -12,455,000 | -21,518,000 | -26,179,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax | 5,106,000 | 8,781,000 | 9,142,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | -3,027,000 | -8,733,000 | -16,299,000 | -146,681,000 | 46,178,000 | -16,299,000 | 46,178,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | 399,000 | 187,000 | 73,000 | -399,000 | -187,000 | -73,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Change In Par Value | -89,466,000 | 0 | 0 | 89,466,000 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Share-based Compensation | 1,080,000 | 1,502,000 | 1,911,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of Stock, Shares Issued | 0 | 5,676 | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues | 74,000 | 209,000 | 190,000 | 9,606,000 | -75,000 | -164,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues | 7,333 | 105 | 95 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value | $0 | ($200,000) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares | 0 | -100 | -57 |
Discontinued_Operations
Discontinued Operations | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Discontinues Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] | DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS | ||||||||
In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000, before income taxes. The transaction resulted in a gain of approximately $2,000,000, after income taxes, which was recorded in October 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented. | |||||||||
Results of discontinued operations consist of the following: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 27,852 | 28,785 | 32,203 | ||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes | (4,076 | ) | (2,011 | ) | (1,805 | ) | |||
Income tax benefit | (1,549 | ) | (765 | ) | (686 | ) | |||
Net loss | (2,527 | ) | (1,246 | ) | (1,119 | ) |
Investments_in_Associated_Comp
Investments in Associated Companies | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||||||
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] | INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES | ||||||||
TNI Partners | |||||||||
In Tucson, Arizona, TNI, acting as agent for our subsidiary, Star Publishing Company (“Star Publishing”), and Citizen Publishing Company (“Citizen”), a subsidiary of Gannett Co. Inc., is responsible for printing, delivery, advertising and circulation of the Arizona Daily Star as well as the related digital platforms and specialty publications. TNI collects all receipts and income and pays substantially all operating expenses incident to the partnership's operations and publication of the newspaper and other media. | |||||||||
Income or loss of TNI (before income taxes) is allocated equally to Star Publishing and Citizen. | |||||||||
Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||
Current assets | 8,029 | 7,857 | |||||||
Investments and other assets | 13 | 32 | |||||||
Total assets | 8,042 | 7,889 | |||||||
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY | |||||||||
Current liabilities | 5,601 | 6,136 | |||||||
Members' equity | 2,441 | 1,753 | |||||||
Total liabilities and members' equity | 8,042 | 7,889 | |||||||
Summarized results of TNI are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 59,043 | 62,452 | 64,379 | ||||||
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization | 49,568 | 52,882 | 52,923 | ||||||
Workforce adjustments | (31 | ) | 1,190 | 784 | |||||
Operating income | 9,506 | 8,380 | 10,672 | ||||||
Company's 50% share | 4,753 | 4,190 | 5,336 | ||||||
Less amortization of intangible assets | 723 | 1,092 | 1,156 | ||||||
Equity in earnings of TNI | 4,030 | 3,098 | 4,180 | ||||||
Star Publishing's 50% share of TNI depreciation and certain general and administrative expenses associated with its share of the operation and administration of TNI are reported as operating expenses (benefit) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). These amounts totaled $(522,000), $76,000, and $291,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Fees for editorial services provided to TNI by Star Publishing totaled $5,994,000, $7,043,000, and $7,510,000 in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. | |||||||||
Our impairment analysis resulted in pretax reductions in the carrying value of TNI totaling $11,900,000 in 2011. See Note 4. | |||||||||
At September 30, 2012, the carrying value of the Company's 50% investment in TNI is $19,450,000. The difference between our carrying value and our 50% share of the members' equity of TNI relates principally to goodwill of$12,366,000 and other identified intangible assets of $6,430,000, certain of which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives through 2020. See Note 4. | |||||||||
Annual amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be $620,000 in 2013 and $418,000 in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. | |||||||||
Madison Newspapers, Inc. | |||||||||
We have a 50% ownership interest in MNI, which publishes daily and Sunday newspapers, and other publications in Madison, Wisconsin, and other Wisconsin locations, and operates their related digital sites. Net income or loss of MNI (after income taxes) is allocated equally to us and The Capital Times Company (“TCT”). MNI conducts its business under the trade name Capital Newspapers. | |||||||||
Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||
Current assets | 24,613 | 22,287 | |||||||
Investments and other assets | 29,986 | 30,484 | |||||||
Property and equipment, net | 7,707 | 8,519 | |||||||
Total assets | 62,306 | 61,290 | |||||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | |||||||||
Current liabilities | 10,015 | 8,428 | |||||||
Other liabilities | 6,720 | 5,960 | |||||||
Stockholders' equity | 45,571 | 46,902 | |||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | 62,306 | 61,290 | |||||||
Summarized results of MNI are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 70,158 | 73,011 | 75,137 | ||||||
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization | 57,981 | 60,982 | 61,467 | ||||||
Workforce adjustments | 546 | 530 | 296 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 1,689 | 2,227 | 2,372 | ||||||
Operating income | 9,942 | 9,272 | 11,002 | ||||||
Net income | 6,469 | 6,106 | 7,132 | ||||||
Equity in earnings of MNI | 3,201 | 3,053 | 3,566 | ||||||
Fees for editorial services provided to MNI by us are included in other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and totaled $8,098,000, $8,201,000 and $8,318,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. |
Goodwill_and_other_Intangible_
Goodwill and other Intangible Assets | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] | |||||||||
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] | GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS | ||||||||
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill related to continuing operations are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Goodwill, gross amount | 1,536,000 | 1,536,000 | |||||||
Accumulated impairment losses | (1,288,729 | ) | (1,102,448 | ) | |||||
Goodwill, beginning of year | 247,271 | 433,552 | |||||||
Impairment | — | (186,281 | ) | ||||||
Goodwill, end of year | 247,271 | 247,271 | |||||||
Identified intangible assets related to continuing operations consist of the following: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: | |||||||||
Mastheads | 28,875 | 28,875 | |||||||
Amortizable intangible assets: | |||||||||
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists | 864,184 | 864,184 | |||||||
Less accumulated amortization | 441,772 | 399,477 | |||||||
422,412 | 464,707 | ||||||||
Noncompete and consulting agreements | 28,524 | 28,524 | |||||||
Less accumulated amortization | 28,519 | 28,517 | |||||||
5 | 7 | ||||||||
451,292 | 493,589 | ||||||||
Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analyses. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. | |||||||||
As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill, nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2010, 2011 and 2012. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges. | |||||||||
A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Continuing operations: | |||||||||
Goodwill | — | 186,281 | — | ||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets | — | 13,259 | — | ||||||
Amortizable intangible assets | — | 4,199 | — | ||||||
Property and equipment | 1,388 | 700 | 899 | ||||||
1,388 | 204,439 | 899 | |||||||
Reduction in investment in TNI | — | 11,900 | — | ||||||
1,388 | 216,339 | 899 | |||||||
Discontinued operations | 3,606 | 700 | 2,391 | ||||||
Future decreases in our market value, or significant differences in revenue, expenses or cash flows from estimates used to determine fair value, could result in additional impairment charges in the future. | |||||||||
Annual amortization of intangible assets for the five years ending September 2017 is estimated to be $38,716,000, $38,564,000, $38,131,000, $36,979,000, and $35,898,000, respectively. |
Debt
Debt | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Debt [Abstract] | ||||||
Debt Disclosure [Text Block] | DEBT | |||||
As discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), in January 2012, in conjunction with the effectiveness of the Plan, we refinanced all of our debt. The Plan refinanced our then-existing credit agreement and extended the April 2012 maturity in a structure of first and second lien debt with the existing lenders. We also amended the Pulitzer Notes, and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders. | ||||||
1st Lien Agreement | ||||||
In January 2012, we entered into a credit agreement (the “1st Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “1st Lien Lenders”). The 1st Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $689,510,000, and a new $40,000,000 revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility also supports issuance of letters of credit. | ||||||
Interest Payments | ||||||
Debt under the 1st Lien Agreement bears interest, at our option, at either a base rate or an adjusted Eurodollar rate (“LIBOR”), plus an applicable margin. The base rate for the facility is the greater of (a) the prime lending rate of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at such time; (b) 0.5% in excess of the overnight federal funds rate at such time; or (c) 30 day LIBOR plus 1.0%. LIBOR loans are subject to a minimum rate of 1.25%. The applicable margin for term loan base rate loans is 5.25%, and 6.25% for LIBOR loans. The applicable margin for revolving credit facility base rate loans is 4.5%, and is 5.5% for LIBOR loans. At September 30, 2012, all borrowing under the 1st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%. | ||||||
Principal Payments | ||||||
At September 30, 2012, the balance outstanding under the term loan is $661,850,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1st Lien Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. | ||||||
We are required to repay principal amounts, on a quarterly basis until maturity, under the 1st Lien Agreement. Principal payments are required quarterly beginning in June 2012, and total $11,000,000 in 2013, $12,750,000 in 2014, $13,500,000 in 2015 and $3,375,000 in 2016, prior to the final maturity. | ||||||
In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the 1st Lien Agreement under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The 1st Lien Agreement also requires us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other 1st Lien Agreement payments prior to the December 2015 maturity. | ||||||
2012 payments made under the 1st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows: | ||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | |||||
Mandatory | 5,000 | |||||
Voluntary | 19,450 | |||||
Asset sales | 3,210 | |||||
Excess cash flow | — | |||||
27,660 | ||||||
There were no net principal payments made in 2012 under the previous credit agreement. Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the 1st Lien Agreement total $17,750,000. | ||||||
Security | ||||||
The 1st Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by all of our existing and future, direct and indirect subsidiaries in which we hold a direct or indirect interest of more than 50% (the “Credit Parties”); provided however, that our wholly-owned subsidiary Pulitzer Inc. (“Pulitzer”) and its subsidiaries are not Credit Parties. The 1st Lien Agreement is secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the Credit Parties in their respective subsidiaries. | ||||||
The Credit Parties have also granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted mortgages covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 1st Lien Agreement. Assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below. | ||||||
The revolving credit facility has a super-priority security interest over all of the collateral securing the term loan under the 1st Lien Agreement, superior to that of the term loan lenders. | ||||||
Covenants and Other Matters | ||||||
The 1st Lien Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for financing of its type. These financial covenants include a maximum total leverage ratio, as defined. The total leverage ratio is designed to assess the leverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall leverage position due to the lower leverage of Pulitzer. It is based primarily on the sum of the principal amount of debt under the 1st Lien Agreement, plus debt under the 2nd Lien Agreement, as discussed more fully below, which totals $836,850,000 at September 30, 2012, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer. | ||||||
Our actual total leverage ratio at September 30, 2012 under the 1st Lien Agreement was 6.7:1 Our maximum total leverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 10.0:1 at September 30, 2012 to 9.1:1 in December 2015. On a consolidated basis, using the definitions in the 1st Lien Agreement, our leverage ratio is 5.7:1 at September 30, 2012. This consolidated measure is not the subject of a covenant in any of our debt agreements. | ||||||
The 1st Lien Agreement also includes a minimum interest expense coverage ratio, as defined, which is based on the sum of interest expense, as defined, incurred under the 1st Lien Agreement and 2nd Lien Agreement, divided by the same measure of trailing 12 month operating results discussed above. The interest expense coverage ratio is similarly designed to assess the interest coverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall interest coverage position. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio at September 30, 2012 was 1.93:1. Our minimum interest expense coverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 1.25:1 at September 30, 2012 to 1.1:1 in December 2015. | ||||||
The 1st Lien Agreement requires us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015. The 1st Lien Agreement also limits capital expenditures to $20,000,000 per year, with a provision for carryover of unused amounts from the prior year. Further, the 1st Lien Agreement restricts our ability to make additional investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers without the consent of the 1st Lien Lenders and limits our ability to incur additional debt. Such covenants require that substantially all of our future cash flows are required to be directed toward debt reduction or accumulation of cash collateral and that the cash flows of the Credit Parties are largely segregated from those of Pulitzer. | ||||||
2nd Lien Agreement | ||||||
In January 2012, we entered into a second lien term loan (the “2nd Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “2nd Lien Lenders”). The 2nd Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $175,000,000. | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Agreement bears interest at 15.0%, payable quarterly. | ||||||
Principal Payments and Redemption | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Agreement requires no principal amortization, except in March 2017 if required for income tax purposes. | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Agreement may not be redeemed prior to January 30, 2013. From that date until January 30, 2014, the 2nd Lien Agreement may be redeemed at 102% of the principal amount, at 101% thereafter until January 30, 2015 and at 100% thereafter until the April 2017 final maturity. Terms of the 1st Lien Agreement also restrict principal payments under the 2nd Lien Agreement. | ||||||
Security | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Credit Parties and by Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, other than TNI (collectively, the "2nd Lien Credit Parties"). The 2nd Lien Agreement is secured by second priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the 2nd Lien Credit Parties. | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Credit Parties have also granted a second priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted second lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 2nd Lien Agreement. Assets of TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. | ||||||
Covenants and Other Matters | ||||||
The 2nd Lien Agreement has no affirmative financial covenants. Restrictions on capital expenditures, permitted investments, indebtedness and other provisions are similar to, but generally less restrictive than, those provisions under the 1st Lien Agreement. | ||||||
2nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock valued at $9,576,000, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. 2nd Lien Lenders also received $8,750,000 in the form of non-cash fees, which were added to and included in the principal amount of the second lien term loan. | ||||||
Pulitzer Notes | ||||||
In conjunction with its formation in 2000, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC ("PD LLC") borrowed $306,000,000 (the “Pulitzer Notes”) from a group of institutional lenders (the “Noteholders”). The Pulitzer Notes were guaranteed by Pulitzer pursuant to a Guaranty Agreement with the Noteholders. The aggregate principal amount of the Pulitzer Notes was payable in April 2009. | ||||||
In February 2009, the Pulitzer Notes and the Guaranty Agreement were amended (the “Notes Amendment”). Under the Notes Amendment, PD LLC repaid $120,000,000 of the principal amount of the debt obligation. The remaining debt balance of $186,000,000 was refinanced by the Noteholders until April 2012. | ||||||
In January 2012, in connection with the Plan, we entered into an amended Note Agreement and Guaranty Agreement, which amended the Pulitzer Notes and extended the maturity with the Noteholders. After consideration of unscheduled principal payments totaling $15,145,000 ($10,145,000 in December 2011 and $5,000,000 in January 2012), offset by $3,500,000 of non-cash fees paid to the Noteholders in the form of additional Pulitzer Notes debt, the amended Pulitzer Notes had a balance of $126,355,000 in January 2012. | ||||||
The Pulitzer Notes bear interest at 10.55%, increasing 0.75% in January 2013 and in January of each year thereafter. Due to the increasing interest rate, interest on the Pulitzer Notes is charged to expense using a calculated effective interest rate during the period. This method increased 2012 financial expense $871,000 from the amount actually payable to the Noteholders during this period. | ||||||
Principal Payments | ||||||
At September 30, 2012, the balance of the Pulitzer Notes is $109,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled annual prepayments totaling $1,400,000 in 2012 and $6,400,000 annually thereafter. | ||||||
In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the Pulitzer Notes under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The Pulitzer Notes also require us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other Pulitzer Notes payments prior to the final maturity in December 2015. | ||||||
2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows: | ||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | |||||
Prior to refinancing | 500 | |||||
Pursuant to the Plan, net | 11,645 | |||||
Mandatory | 1,400 | |||||
Voluntary | 15,955 | |||||
Asset sales | — | |||||
Excess cash flow | — | |||||
29,500 | ||||||
Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the Pulitzer Notes total $9,000,000. | ||||||
Security | ||||||
The Guaranty Agreement provides that obligations under the Pulitzer Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Pulitzer's existing and future subsidiaries other than TNI. The Pulitzer Notes are also secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by Pulitzer in its subsidiaries other than TNI. Also, Pulitzer and each of its subsidiaries granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of its tangible and intangible assets, and granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the Pulitzer Notes. Our ownership interest in TNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below. | ||||||
Covenants and Other Matters | ||||||
The Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $25,600,000 at September 30, 2012), as defined in the Guaranty Agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt. | ||||||
Further, the Pulitzer Notes have limitations or restrictions on distributions, loans, advances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers. Such covenants require that substantially all future cash flows of Pulitzer are required to be directed first toward repayment of the Pulitzer Notes or accumulation of cash collateral and that cash flows of Pulitzer are largely segregated from those of the Credit Parties. | ||||||
Intercreditor Agreements | ||||||
The 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes contain cross-default provisions tied to each of the various agreements. Intercreditor agreements and an intercompany subordination agreement are in effect. | ||||||
Other | ||||||
Cash payments to the Lenders, Noteholders and legal and professional fees related to the Plan totaled $38,628,000, of which $6,273,000 was paid in 2011, and the remainder of which was paid in 2012. $721,000 of such costs were charged to expense in 2011. In addition, previously capitalized financing costs of $4,514,000 at September 25, 2011 were charged to expense in 2012 as debt financing costs prior to consummation of the Plan, with the remainder classified as reorganization costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon consummation of the Plan. | ||||||
Debt under the Plan was considered compromised. As a result, the 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes were recorded at their respective present values, which resulted in a discount to the stated principal amount totaling $23,709,000. This amount is being amortized as a non-cash component of financial expense over the terms of the related debt. Such amounts totaled $4,085,000 in 2012 and are estimated to total $5,418,000 in 2013, $5,359,000 in 2014, $5,293,000 in 2015, $2,429,000 in 2016 and $1,125,000 in 2017. | ||||||
Debt is summarized as follows: | ||||||
Amount | Interest Rates (%) | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | September 25 | September 30 | |||
2012 | 2011 | 2012 | ||||
1st Lien Agreement | 661,850 | — | 7.5 | |||
2nd Lien Agreement | 175,000 | — | 15 | |||
Previous credit agreement: | ||||||
Term loan | — | 569,335 | ||||
Revolving credit facility | — | 286,425 | ||||
Pulitzer Notes | 109,000 | 138,500 | 10.55 | |||
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment | (19,624 | ) | 290 | |||
926,226 | 994,550 | |||||
Less current maturities of debt | 17,400 | 994,550 | ||||
Current amount of present value adjustment | (5,418 | ) | — | |||
Total long term debt | 914,244 | — | ||||
At September 30, 2012, our weighted average cost of debt is 9.2%. | ||||||
Aggregate maturities of debt total $17,400,000 in 2013, $19,150,000 in 2014, $19,900,000 in 2015, $714,400,000 in 2016 and $175,000,000 in 2017. | ||||||
Liquidity | ||||||
At September 30, 2012, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $29,942,000 available for future use under our revolving credit facility. Including cash, our liquidity at September 30, 2012 totals $43,862,000. This liquidity amount excludes any future cash flows. We expect all interest and principal payments due in the next twelve months will be satisfied by our continuing cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity. | ||||||
There are numerous potential consequences under the 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements related to the Pulitzer Notes, if an event of default, as defined, occurs and is not remedied. Many of those consequences are beyond our control. The occurrence of one or more events of default would give rise to the right of the 1st Lien Lenders, 2nd Lien Lenders and/or the Noteholders, to exercise their remedies under the 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements, respectively, including, without limitation, the right to accelerate all outstanding debt and take actions authorized in such circumstances under applicable collateral security documents. | ||||||
Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012. | ||||||
At December 14, 2012, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $919,100,000. This amount is already less than the $938,700,000 amount projected in the Plan in September 2013. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan. | ||||||
In 2010, we filed a Form S-3 shelf registration statement ("Shelf") with the SEC, which has been declared effective. The Shelf gives us the flexibility to issue and publicly distribute various types of securities, including preferred stock, common stock, secured or unsecured debt securities, purchase contracts and units consisting of any combination of such securities, from time to time, in one or more offerings, up to an aggregate amount of $750,000,000. In July 2011, the SEC announced changes to the issuer eligibility rules which will require us to have a public float of at least $75,000,000 in order to use the Shelf. Subject to maintenance of the minimum level of equity market float and the conditions of our existing debt agreements, the Shelf may enable us to sell securities quickly and efficiently when market conditions are favorable or financing needs arise. Net proceeds from the sale of any securities must be used generally to reduce debt. |
Income_Taxes
Income Taxes | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] | INCOME TAXES | ||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Current: | |||||||||
Federal | (8,244 | ) | 4,604 | 8,673 | |||||
State | (2,210 | ) | (55 | ) | 833 | ||||
Deferred | (466 | ) | (25,630 | ) | 19,116 | ||||
(10,920 | ) | (21,081 | ) | 28,622 | |||||
Continuing operations | (9,371 | ) | (20,316 | ) | 29,308 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (1,549 | ) | (765 | ) | (686 | ) | |||
(10,920 | ) | (21,081 | ) | 28,622 | |||||
Income tax expense (benefit) related to continuing operations differs from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes. The reasons for these differences are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit) | (35.0 | ) | (35.0 | ) | 35 | ||||
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax expense (benefit) | (1.9 | ) | (2.3 | ) | 4.3 | ||||
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates | (6.2 | ) | (0.5 | ) | (1.4 | ) | |||
Domestic production deduction | 2.1 | (0.5 | ) | (0.8 | ) | ||||
Resolution of tax matters | (3.9 | ) | 0.5 | (3.5 | ) | ||||
Impairment of goodwill and other assets | — | 23.9 | — | ||||||
Valuation allowance | 1.8 | 1 | (0.1 | ) | |||||
Tax law change | — | — | 4.1 | ||||||
Non deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings | 9.3 | — | — | ||||||
Changes in tax basis | (5.6 | ) | — | — | |||||
Other | (1.1 | ) | 0.6 | 0.6 | |||||
(40.5 | ) | (12.3 | ) | 38.2 | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Deferred income tax liabilities: | |||||||||
Property and equipment | (40,684 | ) | (29,170 | ) | |||||
Investments | (11,651 | ) | (6,576 | ) | |||||
Identified intangible assets | (50,472 | ) | (45,472 | ) | |||||
Long-term debt and interest rate exchange agreements | — | (997 | ) | ||||||
Other | (1,155 | ) | — | ||||||
(103,962 | ) | (82,215 | ) | ||||||
Deferred income tax assets: | |||||||||
Long-term debt | 33,682 | — | |||||||
Accrued compensation | 5,540 | 7,067 | |||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans | 817 | 1,570 | |||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits | 5,569 | 5,305 | |||||||
State operating loss carryforwards | 24,613 | 23,515 | |||||||
Accrued expenses | 2,508 | 5,024 | |||||||
Other | — | 2,063 | |||||||
72,729 | 44,544 | ||||||||
Valuation allowance | (28,118 | ) | (27,566 | ) | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities | (59,351 | ) | (65,237 | ) | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Current assets | 789 | 967 | |||||||
Non-current liabilities | (60,140 | ) | (66,204 | ) | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities | (59,351 | ) | (65,237 | ) | |||||
A reconciliation of 2012 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | ||||||||
Balance, beginning of year | 6,752 | ||||||||
Decreases in tax positions for prior years | (163 | ) | |||||||
Decreases in tax positions for the current year | (360 | ) | |||||||
Lapse in statute of limitations | (1,312 | ) | |||||||
Balance, end of year | 4,917 | ||||||||
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was $3,264,000 at September 30, 2012. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The amount of accrued interest related to unrecognized tax benefits was, net of tax, $710,000 at September 30, 2012 and $1,139,000 at September 25, 2011. There were no amounts provided for penalties at September 30, 2012 or September 25, 2011. | |||||||||
At September 30, 2012, we had approximately $796,814,000 of net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for state tax purposes that expire between 2014 and 2032. Such NOLs result in a deferred income tax asset of $24,613,000 at September 30, 2012, substantially all of which is offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance not related to NOLs is $ 3,613,000 at September 30, 2012 and $4,068,000 at September 25, 2011. | |||||||||
In connection with the refinancing of debt under the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we realized substantial cancellation of debt income (“CODI”) for income tax purposes. However, this income was not immediately taxable for U.S. income tax purposes because the CODI resulted from our reorganization under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. For U.S. income tax reporting purposes, we are required to reduce certain tax attributes, including any net operating loss carryforwards, capital losses, certain tax credit carryforwards, and the tax basis in certain assets and liabilities, including debt, in a total amount equal to the tax gain on the extinguishment of debt. As a result, in February 2012 we began recognizing additional interest expense deductions for income tax purposes. The reduction in the basis of certain assets will result in reduced depreciation and amortization expense for income tax purposes beginning in 2013. |
Earnings_per_Common_Share
Earnings per Common Share | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Earnings Loss Per Common Share [Abstract] | |||||||||
Earnings Per Share [Text Block] | EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE | ||||||||
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (14,171 | ) | (145,622 | ) | 47,224 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (2,527 | ) | (1,246 | ) | (1,119 | ) | |||
(16,698 | ) | (146,868 | ) | 46,105 | |||||
Weighted average Common Shares | 49,357 | 44,912 | 44,902 | ||||||
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock | (96 | ) | (65 | ) | (347 | ) | |||
Basic average Common Shares | 49,261 | 44,847 | 44,555 | ||||||
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock | — | — | 400 | ||||||
Diluted average Common Shares | 49,261 | 44,847 | 44,955 | ||||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | |||||||||
Basic: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (0.29 | ) | (3.25 | ) | 1.06 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (0.05 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.03 | ) | |||
(0.34 | ) | (3.27 | ) | 1.03 | |||||
Diluted: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (0.29 | ) | (3.25 | ) | 1.05 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (0.05 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||
(0.34 | ) | (3.27 | ) | 1.03 | |||||
For 2012, 2011 and 2010, we had 2,334,000, 1,944,000, and 942,000 weighted average shares, respectively, subject to issuance under our stock option and employee stock purchase plans that have no intrinsic value. No stock options were considered in the computation of loss per common share in 2012 or 2011. |
Stock_Ownership_Plans
Stock Ownership Plans | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||||||
Stock Ownership Plans [Abstract] | |||||||||||||
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] | STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS | ||||||||||||
Total non-cash stock compensation expense is $1,080,000, $1,287,000 and $1,974,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. | |||||||||||||
At September 30, 2012, we have reserved 4,539,716 shares of Common Stock for issuance to employees under an incentive and nonstatutory stock option and restricted stock plan approved by stockholders. At September 30, 2012, 1,437,270 shares are available for granting of non-qualified stock options or issuance of restricted Common Stock. | |||||||||||||
Stock Options | |||||||||||||
Options are granted at a price equal to the fair market value on the date of the grant and are exercisable, upon vesting, over a ten-year period. | |||||||||||||
A summary of stock option activity is as follows: | |||||||||||||
(Thousands of Shares) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Under option, beginning of year | 1,812 | 940 | 1,009 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1,520 | 1,105 | — | ||||||||||
Exercised | — | (15 | ) | — | |||||||||
Canceled | (230 | ) | (218 | ) | (69 | ) | |||||||
Under option, end of year | 3,102 | 1,812 | 940 | ||||||||||
Exercisable, end of year | 1,298 | 552 | 423 | ||||||||||
Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows: | |||||||||||||
(Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1.16 | 2.57 | — | ||||||||||
Under option, end of year | 3.18 | 5.07 | 8.77 | ||||||||||
The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2012 and 2011 option awards: | |||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||||
Volatility (Percent) | 122 | 111 | |||||||||||
Risk-free interest rate (Percent) | 0.76 | 1.01 | |||||||||||
Expected term (Years) | 4.7 | 4.7 | |||||||||||
Estimated fair value (Dollars) | 0.95 | 2 | |||||||||||
A summary of stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | |||||||||||||
(Dollars) | Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | |||||||||||
Range of | Number | Weighted Average | Weighted | Number | Weighted | ||||||||
Exercise | Outstanding | Remaining Contractual | Average | Exercisable | Average | ||||||||
Prices | Life (Years) | Exercise Price | Exercise Price | ||||||||||
1 - 5 | 2,971,125 | 8.5 | 1.79 | 1,166,890 | 2.31 | ||||||||
May-50 | 131,321 | 2.9 | 34.59 | 131,321 | 34.59 | ||||||||
3,102,446 | 8.2 | 3.18 | 1,298,211 | 5.58 | |||||||||
Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested stock options at September 30, 2012 is $1,990,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.3 years. | |||||||||||||
The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is $457,000. | |||||||||||||
Restricted Common Stock | |||||||||||||
A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows: | |||||||||||||
(Thousands of Shares) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning of year | — | 299 | 453 | ||||||||||
Granted | 500 | — | — | ||||||||||
Vested | — | (297 | ) | (143 | ) | ||||||||
Forfeited | — | (2 | ) | (11 | ) | ||||||||
Outstanding, end of year | 500 | — | 299 | ||||||||||
Weighted average grant date fair values of restricted Common Stock are as follows: | |||||||||||||
(Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning of year | — | 15.02 | 19.35 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1.31 | — | — | ||||||||||
Vested | — | 15.02 | 28.73 | ||||||||||
Forfeited | — | 15.02 | 15.02 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, end of year | 1.31 | — | 15.02 | ||||||||||
The fair value of restricted Common Stock vested in 2011 and 2010, is $723,000 and $554,000, respectively. | |||||||||||||
Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at September 30, 2012 is $613,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.8 years. | |||||||||||||
Stock Purchase Plans | |||||||||||||
We have 270,000 shares of Common Stock available for issuance pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan. We also have 8,700 shares of Common Stock available for issuance under our Supplemental Employee Stock Purchase Plan. There has been no activity under these plans in 2012, 2011 or 2010. |
Fair_Value_Measurements
Fair Value Measurements | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] | ||||||
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] | FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS | |||||
The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate value. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The carrying value of other investments, consisting of debt and equity securities in a deferred compensation trust, is carried at fair value based upon quoted market prices. Investments totaling $8,640,000, consisting primarily of our 17% ownership of the nonvoting common stock of TCT, are carried at cost. The fair value of floating rate debt cannot be determined as an active market for such debt does not exist. Our fixed rate debt consists of the 2nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes, which are not traded on an active market and are held by small groups of investors. We are unable, as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, to determine the fair value of such debt. The value, if determined, may be less than the carrying amount. The determination of the amount of the Herald Value, as discussed more fully in Note 16, is based on an estimate of fair value using both market and income-based approaches. | ||||||
The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011: | ||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | 25-Sep | ||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||
Level 1 | — | — | ||||
Level 2 | — | — | ||||
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability | 300 | 300 | ||||
In 2011, we reduced the Herald Value from $2,300,000 as of September 26, 2010 to $300,000 based on the most recent estimate of fair value. There were no realized or unrealized gains or losses, purchases, sales, or transfers related to the Herald Value in 2012 or 2010. | ||||||
In 2012, 2011 and 2010, we reduced the carrying value of equipment no longer in use by $1,388,000, $700,000 and $899,000, respectively, based on estimates of the related fair value in the current market. Based on age, condition and marketability we estimated the equipment had no value. |
Commitments_and_Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
Commitments And Contingent Liabilities [Abstract] | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES |
Operating Leases | |
We have operating lease commitments for certain of our office, production and distribution facilities. Management expects that in the normal course of business, existing leases will be renewed or replaced. Minimum lease payments during the five years ending September 2017 and thereafter are $3,534,000, $1,897,000, $1,647,000, $1,557,000, $1,246,000 and $4,302,000, respectively. Total operating lease expense is $4,135,000, $4,527,000 and $4,549,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. | |
Capital Expenditures | |
At September 30, 2012, we had construction and equipment purchase commitments totaling approximately $900,000. | |
Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest | |
In 2000, Pulitzer and The Herald Company Inc. (“Herald Inc.”) completed the transfer of their respective interests in the assets and operations of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and certain related businesses to a new joint venture, known as PD LLC. Pulitzer is the managing member of PD LLC. Under the terms of the related PD LLC Operating Agreement (the "Operating Agreement"), Pulitzer and another subsidiary held a 95% interest in the results of operations of PD LLC and The Herald Publishing Company, LLC (“Herald”), as successor to Herald Inc., held a 5% interest. Until February 2009, Herald's 5% interest was reported as minority interest in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) at historical cost, plus accumulated earnings since the acquisition of Pulitzer. | |
The Operating Agreement provided Herald a one-time right to require PD LLC to redeem its interest in PD LLC, together with its interest, if any, in STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") (the “2010 Redemption”). We recorded the present value of the remaining amount of this potential liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheet in 2008, with the offset primarily to goodwill in the amount of $55,594,000, and the remainder recorded as a reduction of retained earnings. The present value of the 2010 Redemption in February 2009 was approximately $73,602,000. | |
In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and DS LLC owned by Herald pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) will be settled, at a date determined by Herald between April 2013 and April 2015, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. The actual amount of the Herald Value will depend on such variables as future cash flows and indebtedness of PD LLC and DS LLC, market valuations of newspaper properties and the timing of the request for redemption. Cash settlement of the Herald Value is limited by the terms of our debt agreements. | |
The Redemption Agreement also terminated Herald's right to exercise its rights under the 2010 Redemption. As a result, we reversed substantially all of our liability for the 2010 Redemption in 2009. The reversal reduced liabilities by $71,302,000 and increased comprehensive income by $58,521,000 and stockholders' equity by $68,824,000. | |
The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000. | |
Pursuant to an Indemnity Agreement dated May 1, 2000 (the “Indemnity Agreement”) between Herald Inc. and Pulitzer, Herald agreed to indemnify Pulitzer for any payments that Pulitzer may make under the Guaranty Agreement. The Indemnity Agreement and related obligations of Herald to indemnify Pulitzer were also terminated pursuant to the Redemption Agreement. | |
Income Taxes | |
Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. We are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities for such matters. See Note 11. | |
We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies, and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows. | |
We have various income tax examinations ongoing and at various stages of completion, but generally our income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through 2007. | |
Legal Proceedings | |
In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class certification ruling. This motion is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole. | |
We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole. |
Common_Stock_and_Class_B_Commo
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
Common Stock And Class B Common Stock [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Stock by Class [Text Block] | COMMON STOCK, CLASS B COMMON STOCK AND PREFERRED SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS |
Common Stock | |
Under the Plan, the par value of our Common Stock was changed from $2.00 per share to $0.01 per share effective January 30, 2012. 2nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. | |
As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules. | |
Class B Common Stock | |
In 1986, one share of Class B Common Stock was issued as a dividend for each share of Common Stock held by stockholders of record at the time. The transfer of Class B Common Stock was restricted. As originally anticipated, the number of outstanding Class B shares has decreased over time through trading and reached the sunset level of 5,600,000 shares in March 2011. In March 2011, in accordance with the sunset provisions established in 1986, we effected conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock to Common Stock. As a result, all stockholders have one vote per share on all future matters. Class B shares formerly had ten votes per share. | |
Preferred Share Purchase Rights | |
In 1998, the Board of Directors adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the “Rights Plan”). Under the Rights Plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of one Preferred Share Purchase Right (“Right”) for each outstanding share of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (collectively “Common Shares”) of the Company. Rights are attached to, and automatically trade with, the Company's Common Shares. In 2008, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the Rights Plan. The amendment increased the beneficial ownership threshold to 25% from 20% for stockholders purchasing Common Stock for passive investment only and decreased the threshold to 15% for all other investors. In addition, the amendment extended the expiration of the Rights Plan to May 31, 2018 from May 31, 2008. | |
Rights become exercisable only in the event that any person or group of affiliated persons other than a passive investor becomes a holder of 15% or more of our outstanding Common Shares, or commences a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, would result in that person or group of affiliated persons owning at least 15% of our outstanding Common Shares. Once the Rights become exercisable, they entitle all other stockholders to purchase, by payment of a $150 exercise price, one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock, subject to adjustment, with a value of twice the exercise price. In addition, at any time after a 15% position is acquired and prior to the acquisition of a 50% position, the Board of Directors may require, in whole or in part, each outstanding Right (other than Rights held by the acquiring person or group of affiliated persons) to be exchanged for one share of Common Stock or one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock. The Rights may be redeemed at a price of $0.001 per Right at any time prior to their expiration. |
Significant_Accounting_Policie
Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ||||||
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | |||||
Basis of Presentation | ||||||
The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“INN”). | ||||||
Fiscal Year | ||||||
All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 and 2010 include 52 weeks. | ||||||
Subsequent Events | ||||||
We have evaluated subsequent events through December 14, 2012. No events have occurred subsequent to September 30, 2012 that require disclosure or recognition in these financial statements, except as included herein. | ||||||
Accounting Estimates | ||||||
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying | ||||||
values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. | ||||||
Principles of Consolidation | ||||||
All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. | ||||||
Investments in TNI and MNI are accounted for using the equity method and are reported at cost, plus our share of undistributed earnings since acquisition less, for TNI, amortization of intangible assets. | ||||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||||
We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. | ||||||
Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in accounts payable and are classified as financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. | ||||||
Accounts Receivable | ||||||
We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical credit experience, payment trends and other economic factors. Delinquency is determined based on timing of payments in relation to billing dates. Accounts considered to be uncollectible are written off. | ||||||
Inventories | ||||||
Newsprint inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out methods. Newsprint inventories at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 are less than replacement cost by $3,556,000 and $3,895,000, respectively. | ||||||
The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows: | ||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 2012 | September 25 2011 | ||||
First-in, first-out | 2,848 | 2,595 | ||||
Last-in, first-out | 2,723 | 2,719 | ||||
5,571 | 5,314 | |||||
Other inventories consisting of ink, plates and film are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out method. | ||||||
Other Investments | ||||||
Other investments primarily consist of marketable securities held in trust under a deferred compensation arrangement and investments for which no established market exists. Marketable securities are classified as trading securities and carried at fair value with gains and losses reported in earnings. Non-marketable securities are carried at cost. | ||||||
Property and Equipment | ||||||
Property and equipment are carried at cost. Equipment, except for printing presses and preprint insertion equipment, is depreciated primarily by declining-balance methods. The straight-line method is used for all other assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows: | ||||||
Years | ||||||
Buildings and improvements | 5 - 54 | |||||
Printing presses and insertion equipment | 3 - 28 | |||||
Other | 3 - 20 | |||||
We capitalize interest as a component of the cost of constructing major facilities. At September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, capitalized interest was not significant. | ||||||
We recognize the fair value of a liability for a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity when such activity is a condition of a future event and the fair value of the liability can be estimated. | ||||||
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | ||||||
Intangible assets include covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, customer lists, newspaper subscriber lists and mastheads. Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows: | ||||||
Years | ||||||
Customer lists | 23-Jul | |||||
Newspaper subscriber lists | 7 - 33 | |||||
Noncompete and consulting agreements | 15 | |||||
In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year. | ||||||
We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating or cash flow losses related to such assets. | ||||||
Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value. | ||||||
Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset. | ||||||
The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results. | ||||||
We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets. | ||||||
We also periodically evaluate the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share. See Note 4. | ||||||
Minority Interest | ||||||
Minority interest in earnings of INN is recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. | ||||||
Revenue Recognition | ||||||
Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising. | ||||||
Advertising Costs | ||||||
A substantial amount of our advertising and promotion expense consists of ads placed in our own publications and digital products using available space. The incremental cost of such advertising is not significant and is not measured separately by us. External advertising costs are not significant and are expensed as incurred. | ||||||
Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans | ||||||
We evaluate our liabilities for pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit plans based upon computations made by consulting actuaries, incorporating estimates and actuarial assumptions of future plan service costs, future interest costs on projected benefit obligations, rates of compensation increases, employee turnover rates, anticipated mortality rates, expected investment returns on plan assets, asset allocation assumptions of plan assets and other factors. If we used different estimates and assumptions regarding these plans, the funded status of the plans could vary significantly, resulting in recognition of different amounts of expense over future periods. | ||||||
We use a fiscal year end measurement date for all our pension and postretirement obligations in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 715, Retirement Plans. | ||||||
Income Taxes | ||||||
Deferred income taxes are provided using the liability method, whereby deferred income tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and loss carryforwards and deferred income tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the difference between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in our opinion, it is more likely than not some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. | ||||||
We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. | ||||||
Fair Value of Financial Instruments | ||||||
We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to measure and report fair value. FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FASB ASC Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable, which consists of the following levels: | ||||||
Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. | ||||||
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets. | ||||||
Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable. | ||||||
Valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement assets measured at fair value are as follows: | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents consist of short term deposits valued based on quoted prices in active markets. Such investments are classified as Level 1. | ||||||
Equity securities are valued based on the closing market price in an active market and are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2. | ||||||
Debt securities consist of corporate bonds and government securities that are valued based upon quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2. | ||||||
Stock Compensation | ||||||
We have four stock-based compensation plans. We account for grants under those plans under the fair value expense recognition provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. Key inputs to this formula include expected term, expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate. | ||||||
The expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding, and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The volatility factor is calculated using historical market data for our Common Stock. The time frame used is equal to the expected term. We base the risk-free interest rate on the yield to maturity at the time of the stock option grant on zero-coupon U.S. government bonds having a remaining term equal to the option's expected term. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behavior as well as actual option forfeitures. | ||||||
We amortize as compensation expense the value of stock options and restricted Common Stock using the straight-line method over the vesting or restriction period, which is generally one to three years. | ||||||
Uninsured Risks | ||||||
We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts. Letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $6,256,000 at September 30, 2012 are outstanding in support of our insurance program. | ||||||
Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry. | ||||||
Discontinued Operations | ||||||
In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Land and Equipment, the operations and related losses on businesses sold, or identified as held for sale, have been presented as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all years presented. Gains are recognized when realized. |
Pensions
Pensions | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Pension Disclosure [Abstract] | |||||||||
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] | PENSION PLANS | ||||||||
We have several noncontributory defined benefit pension plans that together cover selected employees. Benefits under the plans were generally based on salary and years of service. Effective in 2012 all benefits are frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. Plan funding strategies are influenced by government regulations. Plan assets consist primarily of domestic and foreign corporate equity securities, government and corporate bonds, and cash. | |||||||||
The net periodic cost components of our pension plans are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Service cost for benefits earned during the year | 30 | 169 | 792 | ||||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 7,975 | 8,354 | 8,888 | ||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (8,891 | ) | (9,733 | ) | (9,568 | ) | |||
Amortization of net loss | 2,370 | 812 | 453 | ||||||
Amortization of prior service benefit | (136 | ) | (137 | ) | (136 | ) | |||
Curtailment gains | — | — | (2,004 | ) | |||||
Net periodic pension cost (benefit) | 1,348 | (535 | ) | (1,575 | ) | ||||
Net periodic pension benefit of $56,000, $56,000 and $122,000 is allocated to TNI in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. | |||||||||
Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, beginning of year | 186,826 | 178,179 | |||||||
Service cost | 30 | 169 | |||||||
Interest cost | 7,975 | 8,354 | |||||||
Actuarial loss | 17,268 | 12,299 | |||||||
Benefits paid | (10,880 | ) | (11,584 | ) | |||||
Curtailment gain | — | (591 | ) | ||||||
Benefit obligation, end of year | 201,219 | 186,826 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year: | 115,596 | 125,464 | |||||||
Actual return on plan assets | 24,849 | 1,007 | |||||||
Benefits paid | (10,880 | ) | (11,584 | ) | |||||
Administrative expenses paid | (1,472 | ) | (1,428 | ) | |||||
Employer contributions | 6,807 | 2,137 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, end of year | 134,900 | 115,596 | |||||||
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets | 66,319 | 71,230 | |||||||
Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Pension obligations | 66,319 | 71,230 | |||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes) | (50,945 | ) | (50,396 | ) | |||||
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Unrecognized net actuarial loss | (51,871 | ) | (51,459 | ) | |||||
Unrecognized prior service benefit | 926 | 1,063 | |||||||
(50,945 | ) | (50,396 | ) | ||||||
We expect to recognize $2,287,000 and $137,000 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic pension cost in 2013. | |||||||||
The accumulated benefit obligation for the plans total $201,219,000 at September 30, 2012 and $186,672,000 at September 25, 2011. The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are $201,219,000, $201,219,000, and $134,900,000, respectively, at September 30, 2012. | |||||||||
Assumptions | |||||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 3.85 | 4.4 | |||||||
Rate of compensation increase | NA | 3.5 | |||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Discount rate | 4.4 | 4.8 | 5.5 | ||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 7.9 | 8 | 8 | ||||||
Rate of compensation increase | NA | 3.5 | 3.5 | ||||||
For 2013, the expected long-term return on plan assets is 7.5%. The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions. | |||||||||
Plan Assets | |||||||||
The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our pension obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds. | |||||||||
An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation. | |||||||||
The weighted-average asset allocation of our pension assets is as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | Actual Allocation | ||||||||
Asset Class | Current Policy Allocation | September 30 | September 25 | ||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Equity securities | 50-75 | 63 | 66 | ||||||
Debt securities | 25-35 | 29 | 33 | ||||||
Private equity investments | 0-12 | — | — | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | — | 2 | 1 | ||||||
Receivables, net | — | 6 | — | ||||||
Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines. At September 30, 2012, certain plan assets were in process of reallocation. These assets were invested in equity securities in October 2012. In 2012, the policy allocation was amended to allow private equity investments. | |||||||||
New collective bargaining agreements in 2011 and 2010 resulted in the freezing of certain defined pension benefits in 2011 and 2010 and non-cash curtailment gains in 2010. See Note 7. | |||||||||
Fair Value Measurements | |||||||||
The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 2,029 | — | — | ||||||
Receivables, net | 8,117 | — | — | ||||||
Domestic equity securities | 27,499 | 47,714 | — | ||||||
International equity securities | — | 9,613 | — | ||||||
Debt securities | 32,169 | 7,759 | — | ||||||
There were no purchases, sales or transfer of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010. | |||||||||
Cash Flows | |||||||||
Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we expect to make contributions totaling $2,733,000 to our pension trust in 2013. | |||||||||
We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid from the pension trust as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | |||||||||
2013 | 11,421 | ||||||||
2014 | 11,263 | ||||||||
2015 | 11,277 | ||||||||
2016 | 11,356 | ||||||||
2017 | 11,430 | ||||||||
2018-2022 | 57,603 | ||||||||
Other Plans | |||||||||
We are obligated under an unfunded plan to provide fixed retirement payments to certain former employees. The plan is frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. The accrued liability under the plan is $2,595,000 and $2,654,000 at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, respectively, of which $279,000 is included in compensation and other accrued liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2012. | |||||||||
Certain of our current and former employees participate in multi-employer retirement plans sponsored by their respective bargaining units. The amount charged to operating expense, representing our required contributions to these plans, is $398,000 in 2012, $488,000 in 2011 and $497,000 in 2010. At September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, we have accrued multi-employer plan withdrawal liabilities of $1,426,000 and $1,319,000, respectively. |
Postretirement_Obligations
Postretirement Obligations (Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] | POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS | ||||||||
We provide retiree medical and life insurance benefits under postretirement plans at several of our operating locations. The level and adjustment of participant contributions vary depending on the specific plan. In addition, PD LLC provides postemployment disability benefits to certain employee groups prior to retirement. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the postretirement plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. We accrue postemployment disability benefits when it becomes probable that such benefits will be paid and when sufficient information exists to make reasonable estimates of the amounts to be paid. In 2011 the trust was amended to allow benefits for certain active employees to be paid from plan assets. | |||||||||
The net periodic postretirement benefit cost components for our postretirement plans are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Service cost for benefits earned during the year | 728 | 927 | 361 | ||||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 1,109 | 1,600 | 2,971 | ||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (2,129 | ) | (2,248 | ) | (2,274 | ) | |||
Amortization of net actuarial gain | (2,451 | ) | (2,467 | ) | (2,447 | ) | |||
Amortization of prior service benefit | (1,459 | ) | (1,455 | ) | (1,994 | ) | |||
Curtailment gains | — | (16,137 | ) | (43,008 | ) | ||||
Net periodic postretirement benefit | (4,202 | ) | (19,780 | ) | (46,391 | ) | |||
Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, beginning of year | 26,472 | 50,482 | |||||||
Service cost | 728 | 927 | |||||||
Interest cost | 1,109 | 1,600 | |||||||
Actuarial (gain) loss | 5,269 | (2,311 | ) | ||||||
Benefits paid, net of premiums received | (2,965 | ) | (2,922 | ) | |||||
Changes in plan provisions | — | (5,931 | ) | ||||||
Curtailment gains | — | (15,535 | ) | ||||||
Medicare Part D subsidies | 115 | 162 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, end of year | 30,728 | 26,472 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year | 38,529 | 41,447 | |||||||
Actual return on plan assets | 2,127 | 19 | |||||||
Employer contributions (reimbursements) | (690 | ) | 1,347 | ||||||
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received | (2,851 | ) | (2,760 | ) | |||||
Benefits paid for active employees | (2,852 | ) | (1,524 | ) | |||||
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date | 34,263 | 38,529 | |||||||
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets | (3,535 | ) | (12,057 | ) | |||||
The accumulated benefit obligation for plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets was $4,016,000 at September 30, 2012. There are no plan assets related to this plan. | |||||||||
Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Noncurrent assets | 7,551 | 14,934 | |||||||
Postretirement benefit obligations | 4,016 | 2,877 | |||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit) | 30,344 | 42,379 | |||||||
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Unrecognized net actuarial gain | 16,570 | 27,145 | |||||||
Unrecognized prior service benefit | 13,774 | 15,234 | |||||||
30,344 | 42,379 | ||||||||
We expect to recognize $1,324,000 and $1,459,000 of unrecognized net actuarial gain and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic postretirement benefit cost in 2013. | |||||||||
Assumptions | |||||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 3.85 | 4.4 | |||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 4.5 | 5.75 | |||||||
The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions. | |||||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Discount rate | 4.4 | 4.8 | 5.5 | ||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 5.75 | 5.75 | 5.75 | ||||||
Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Health care cost trend rates | 9 | 9 | |||||||
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the “Ultimate Trend Rate”) | 5 | 5 | |||||||
Year in which the rate reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
Administrative costs related to indemnity plans are assumed to increase at the health care cost trend rates noted above. | |||||||||
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement plans. A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following annualized effects on reported amounts for 2012: | |||||||||
One Percentage Point | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Increase | Decrease | |||||||
Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit | 53 | (48 | ) | ||||||
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation | 1,452 | (1,306 | ) | ||||||
Plan Assets | |||||||||
The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our postretirement obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds. | |||||||||
An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions, and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation. | |||||||||
The weighted-average asset allocation of our postretirement assets is as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | Actual Allocation | ||||||||
Asset Class | Current Policy Allocation | September 30 | September 25 | ||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Equity securities | 30-Oct | 21 | 8 | ||||||
Debt securities | 70-90 | 75 | 85 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | — | 2 | 7 | ||||||
Receivables, net | — | 2 | — | ||||||
Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines. | |||||||||
Fair Value Measurements | |||||||||
The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 692 | — | — | ||||||
Receivables, net | 803 | — | — | ||||||
Domestic equity securities | 4,385 | 2,069 | — | ||||||
International equity securities | — | 671 | — | ||||||
Debt securities | — | 25,643 | — | ||||||
There were no purchases, sales or transfers of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010. | |||||||||
Cash Flows | |||||||||
Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we do not expect to contribute to our postretirement plans in 2013. | |||||||||
In December 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the “Modernization Act”) was signed into law. The Modernization Act introduced a prescription drug benefit under Medicare (“Medicare Part D”) and a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans (“Subsidy”) that provide a benefit at least actuarially equivalent (as that term is defined in the Act) to Medicare Part D. We concluded we qualify for the Subsidy under the Modernization Act since the prescription drug benefits provided under our postretirement health care plans generally require lower premiums from covered retirees and have lower deductibles than the benefits provided in Medicare Part D and, accordingly, are actuarially equivalent to or better than, the benefits provided under the Modernization Act. | |||||||||
We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid either with future contributions to the plan or directly from plan assets, as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Gross | Less | Net | ||||||
Payments | Medicare | Payments | |||||||
Part D | |||||||||
Subsidy | |||||||||
2013 | 3,280 | (220 | ) | 3,060 | |||||
2014 | 3,080 | (230 | ) | 2,850 | |||||
2015 | 2,980 | (230 | ) | 2,750 | |||||
2016 | 2,960 | (230 | ) | 2,730 | |||||
2017 | 2,900 | (230 | ) | 2,670 | |||||
2018-2022 | 13,280 | (1,100 | ) | 12,180 | |||||
2011 Changes to Plans | |||||||||
In May 2011, a new bargaining unit contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for affected active employees and froze defined pension benefits. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $3,974,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical expense by $82,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $3,371,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits reduced 2011 net periodic pension expenses by $188,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $592,000. | |||||||||
In March 2011, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $1,991,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 27, 2011 by $3,030,000. | |||||||||
In November 2010, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $10,172,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $769,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 26, 2010 by $15,065,000. | |||||||||
2010 Changes to Plans | |||||||||
In March 2010, members of the United Media Guild voted to approve a new 5.5 year contract, effective in April 2010. The new contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for active employees and defined pension benefits were frozen. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $11,878,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $6,576,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $2,004,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, reduced 2010 net periodic pension expenses by $668,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $2,004,000. | |||||||||
In December 2009, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $31,130,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2009, reduced 2010 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $1,460,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 27, 2009 by $28,750,000. | |||||||||
Litigation | |||||||||
Several of the plan changes noted above were the subject of litigation, or arbitration claims, under the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. In 2012, we settled all such claims with payments to plan participants totaling $2,802,000. These payments are classified as other, net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). | |||||||||
Postemployment Plan | |||||||||
Our postemployment benefit obligation, representing certain disability benefits, is $3,143,000 at September 30, 2012 and $3,227,000 at September 25, 2011. |
Other_Retirement_Plans
Other Retirement Plans | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Other Retirement Plans [Text Block] | OTHER RETIREMENT PLANS |
Substantially all of our employees are eligible to participate in a qualified defined contribution retirement plan. We also have other retirement and compensation plans for executives and others. Company contributions under such plans were substantially reduced or eliminated in 2010. In 2011 certain of those contributions were reinstated. | |
Retirement and compensation plan costs, including interest on deferred compensation costs, charged to continuing operations are $3,533,000 in 2012, $2,666,000 in 2011 and $1,894,000 in 2010. |
Allowance_For_Doubtful_Account
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Receivables [Abstract] | |||||||||
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] | ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS | ||||||||
Valuation and qualifying account information related to the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable related to continuing operations is as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Balance, beginning of year | 5,387 | 5,262 | 5,853 | ||||||
Additions charged to expense | 1,448 | 2,497 | 2,903 | ||||||
Deductions from reserves | (1,945 | ) | (2,372 | ) | (3,494 | ) | |||
Balance, end of year | 4,890 | 5,387 | 5,262 | ||||||
Other_Information
Other Information | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Payables and Accruals [Abstract] | |||||||||
Other Information [Text Block] | OTHER INFORMATION | ||||||||
Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | 25-Sep | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Compensation | 12,556 | 10,207 | |||||||
Retirement plans | 4,215 | 4,442 | |||||||
Interest | 10,507 | 4,352 | |||||||
Other | 11,281 | 14,990 | |||||||
38,559 | 33,991 | ||||||||
Cash payments are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Interest | 72,131 | 53,133 | 65,791 | ||||||
Debt financing and reorganization costs | 32,408 | 11,601 | 453 | ||||||
Income taxes, net of refunds | 1,140 | 10,462 | 3,753 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 is related to pension and postretirement benefits. |
Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] | QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) | |||||||||||
Quarter Ended | ||||||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data) | December | March | June | September | ||||||||
2012 | ||||||||||||
Operating revenue | 192,042 | 165,461 | 172,640 | 180,343 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 14,406 | (26,373 | ) | (1,045 | ) | (761 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes | 218 | (169 | ) | (309 | ) | (2,266 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | 14,624 | (26,542 | ) | (1,354 | ) | (3,027 | ) | |||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | 14,554 | (26,625 | ) | (1,473 | ) | (3,154 | ) | |||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | ||||||||||||
Basic: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | — | — | (0.01 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||
0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||
Diluted: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | — | — | (0.01 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||
0.32 | (0.54 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||
2011 | ||||||||||||
Operating revenue | 199,485 | 171,562 | 180,457 | 175,815 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 18,747 | (1,106 | ) | (155,067 | ) | (8,009 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes | 230 | (343 | ) | (409 | ) | (724 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | 18,977 | (1,449 | ) | (155,476 | ) | (8,733 | ) | |||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | 18,941 | (1,472 | ) | (155,553 | ) | (8,784 | ) | |||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | ||||||||||||
Basic: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.42 | (0.02 | ) | (3.45 | ) | (0.18 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | 0.01 | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
0.42 | (0.03 | ) | (3.46 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||
Diluted: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.42 | (0.02 | ) | (3.45 | ) | (0.18 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | 0.01 | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
0.42 | (0.03 | ) | (3.46 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||
Results of operations for the December and March quarters of 2012 include reorganization costs of $1,241,000 and $36,626,000, respectively. Results of operations for the December, March and June quarters of 2011 include non-cash curtailment gains of $10,172,000, $1,991,000 and $3,974,000, respectively. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the September quarter of 2012 include non-cash impairment charges of $4,994,000. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the June and September quarters of 2011 include non-cash impairment charges, net of deferred income tax benefit, of $199,325,000 and $17,714,000, respectively. |
Significant_Accounting_Policie1
Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ||||||
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] | Basis of Presentation | |||||
The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“INN”). | ||||||
Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Fiscal Year | |||||
All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 and 2010 include 52 weeks. | ||||||
Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Subsequent Events | |||||
We have evaluated subsequent events through December 14, 2012. No events have occurred subsequent to September 30, 2012 that require disclosure or recognition in these financial statements, except as included herein. | ||||||
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Accounting Estimates | |||||
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying | ||||||
values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. | ||||||
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Principles of Consolidation | |||||
All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. | ||||||
Investments in TNI and MNI are accounted for using the equity method and are reported at cost, plus our share of undistributed earnings since acquisition less, for TNI, amortization of intangible assets. | ||||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Cash and Cash Equivalents | |||||
We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. | ||||||
Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in accounts payable and are classified as financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. | ||||||
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Accounts Receivable | |||||
We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical credit experience, payment trends and other economic factors. Delinquency is determined based on timing of payments in relation to billing dates. Accounts considered to be uncollectible are written off. | ||||||
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Inventories | |||||
Newsprint inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out methods. Newsprint inventories at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 are less than replacement cost by $3,556,000 and $3,895,000, respectively. | ||||||
The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows: | ||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 2012 | September 25 2011 | ||||
First-in, first-out | 2,848 | 2,595 | ||||
Last-in, first-out | 2,723 | 2,719 | ||||
5,571 | 5,314 | |||||
Other inventories consisting of ink, plates and film are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out method. | ||||||
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Other Investments | |||||
Other investments primarily consist of marketable securities held in trust under a deferred compensation arrangement and investments for which no established market exists. Marketable securities are classified as trading securities and carried at fair value with gains and losses reported in earnings. Non-marketable securities are carried at cost. | ||||||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Property and Equipment | |||||
Property and equipment are carried at cost. Equipment, except for printing presses and preprint insertion equipment, is depreciated primarily by declining-balance methods. The straight-line method is used for all other assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows: | ||||||
Years | ||||||
Buildings and improvements | 5 - 54 | |||||
Printing presses and insertion equipment | 3 - 28 | |||||
Other | 3 - 20 | |||||
We capitalize interest as a component of the cost of constructing major facilities. At September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, capitalized interest was not significant. | ||||||
We recognize the fair value of a liability for a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity when such activity is a condition of a future event and the fair value of the liability can be estimated. | ||||||
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | |||||
Intangible assets include covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, customer lists, newspaper subscriber lists and mastheads. Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows: | ||||||
Years | ||||||
Customer lists | 23-Jul | |||||
Newspaper subscriber lists | 7 - 33 | |||||
Noncompete and consulting agreements | 15 | |||||
In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year. | ||||||
We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating or cash flow losses related to such assets. | ||||||
Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value. | ||||||
Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset. | ||||||
The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results. | ||||||
We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets. | ||||||
We also periodically evaluate the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share. See Note 4. | ||||||
Minority Interest Policy [Policy Text Block] | Minority Interest | |||||
Minority interest in earnings of INN is recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. | ||||||
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Revenue Recognition | |||||
Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising. | ||||||
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Advertising Costs | |||||
A substantial amount of our advertising and promotion expense consists of ads placed in our own publications and digital products using available space. The incremental cost of such advertising is not significant and is not measured separately by us. External advertising costs are not significant and are expensed as incurred. | ||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans | |||||
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Income Taxes | |||||
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Fair Value of Financial Instruments | |||||
We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to measure and report fair value. FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FASB ASC Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable, which consists of the following levels: | ||||||
Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. | ||||||
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets. | ||||||
Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable. | ||||||
Valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement assets measured at fair value are as follows: | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents consist of short term deposits valued based on quoted prices in active markets. Such investments are classified as Level 1. | ||||||
Equity securities are valued based on the closing market price in an active market and are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2. | ||||||
Debt securities consist of corporate bonds and government securities that are valued based upon quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2. | ||||||
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] | Stock Compensation | |||||
We have four stock-based compensation plans. We account for grants under those plans under the fair value expense recognition provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. Key inputs to this formula include expected term, expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate. | ||||||
The expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding, and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The volatility factor is calculated using historical market data for our Common Stock. The time frame used is equal to the expected term. We base the risk-free interest rate on the yield to maturity at the time of the stock option grant on zero-coupon U.S. government bonds having a remaining term equal to the option's expected term. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behavior as well as actual option forfeitures. | ||||||
We amortize as compensation expense the value of stock options and restricted Common Stock using the straight-line method over the vesting or restriction period, which is generally one to three years. | ||||||
Uninsured Risks Policy [Policy Text Block] | Uninsured Risks | |||||
We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts. Letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $6,256,000 at September 30, 2012 are outstanding in support of our insurance program. | ||||||
Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry. | ||||||
Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Discontinued Operations | |||||
In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Land and Equipment, the operations and related losses on businesses sold, or identified as held for sale, have been presented as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all years presented. Gains are recognized when realized. | ||||||
Discontinued_Operations_Tables
Discontinued Operations (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Discontinues Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] | Results of discontinued operations consist of the following: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 27,852 | 28,785 | 32,203 | ||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes | (4,076 | ) | (2,011 | ) | (1,805 | ) | |||
Income tax benefit | (1,549 | ) | (765 | ) | (686 | ) | |||
Net loss | (2,527 | ) | (1,246 | ) | (1,119 | ) |
Investments_in_Associated_Comp1
Investments in Associated Companies (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||||||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||||||
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] | Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||
Current assets | 8,029 | 7,857 | |||||||
Investments and other assets | 13 | 32 | |||||||
Total assets | 8,042 | 7,889 | |||||||
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY | |||||||||
Current liabilities | 5,601 | 6,136 | |||||||
Members' equity | 2,441 | 1,753 | |||||||
Total liabilities and members' equity | 8,042 | 7,889 | |||||||
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block] | Summarized results of TNI are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 59,043 | 62,452 | 64,379 | ||||||
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization | 49,568 | 52,882 | 52,923 | ||||||
Workforce adjustments | (31 | ) | 1,190 | 784 | |||||
Operating income | 9,506 | 8,380 | 10,672 | ||||||
Company's 50% share | 4,753 | 4,190 | 5,336 | ||||||
Less amortization of intangible assets | 723 | 1,092 | 1,156 | ||||||
Equity in earnings of TNI | 4,030 | 3,098 | 4,180 | ||||||
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member] | |||||||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||||||
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] | Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||
Current assets | 24,613 | 22,287 | |||||||
Investments and other assets | 29,986 | 30,484 | |||||||
Property and equipment, net | 7,707 | 8,519 | |||||||
Total assets | 62,306 | 61,290 | |||||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | |||||||||
Current liabilities | 10,015 | 8,428 | |||||||
Other liabilities | 6,720 | 5,960 | |||||||
Stockholders' equity | 45,571 | 46,902 | |||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | 62,306 | 61,290 | |||||||
Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block] | Summarized results of MNI are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Operating revenue | 70,158 | 73,011 | 75,137 | ||||||
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization | 57,981 | 60,982 | 61,467 | ||||||
Workforce adjustments | 546 | 530 | 296 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 1,689 | 2,227 | 2,372 | ||||||
Operating income | 9,942 | 9,272 | 11,002 | ||||||
Net income | 6,469 | 6,106 | 7,132 | ||||||
Equity in earnings of MNI | 3,201 | 3,053 | 3,566 | ||||||
Goodwill_and_other_Intangible_1
Goodwill and other Intangible Assets (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Goodwill [Line Items] | |||||||||
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] | Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill related to continuing operations are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Goodwill, gross amount | 1,536,000 | 1,536,000 | |||||||
Accumulated impairment losses | (1,288,729 | ) | (1,102,448 | ) | |||||
Goodwill, beginning of year | 247,271 | 433,552 | |||||||
Impairment | — | (186,281 | ) | ||||||
Goodwill, end of year | 247,271 | 247,271 | |||||||
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] | Identified intangible assets related to continuing operations consist of the following: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets: | |||||||||
Mastheads | 28,875 | 28,875 | |||||||
Amortizable intangible assets: | |||||||||
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists | 864,184 | 864,184 | |||||||
Less accumulated amortization | 441,772 | 399,477 | |||||||
422,412 | 464,707 | ||||||||
Noncompete and consulting agreements | 28,524 | 28,524 | |||||||
Less accumulated amortization | 28,519 | 28,517 | |||||||
5 | 7 | ||||||||
451,292 | 493,589 | ||||||||
Asset Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] | A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Continuing operations: | |||||||||
Goodwill | — | 186,281 | — | ||||||
Nonamortized intangible assets | — | 13,259 | — | ||||||
Amortizable intangible assets | — | 4,199 | — | ||||||
Property and equipment | 1,388 | 700 | 899 | ||||||
1,388 | 204,439 | 899 | |||||||
Reduction in investment in TNI | — | 11,900 | — | ||||||
1,388 | 216,339 | 899 | |||||||
Discontinued operations | 3,606 | 700 | 2,391 | ||||||
Debt_Schedule_Of_Debt_Payments
Debt Schedule Of Debt Payments (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Schedule of Payments [Line Items] | ||||||
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] | Debt is summarized as follows: | |||||
Amount | Interest Rates (%) | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | September 25 | September 30 | |||
2012 | 2011 | 2012 | ||||
1st Lien Agreement | 661,850 | — | 7.5 | |||
2nd Lien Agreement | 175,000 | — | 15 | |||
Previous credit agreement: | ||||||
Term loan | — | 569,335 | ||||
Revolving credit facility | — | 286,425 | ||||
Pulitzer Notes | 109,000 | 138,500 | 10.55 | |||
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment | (19,624 | ) | 290 | |||
926,226 | 994,550 | |||||
Less current maturities of debt | 17,400 | 994,550 | ||||
Current amount of present value adjustment | (5,418 | ) | — | |||
Total long term debt | 914,244 | — | ||||
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | ||||||
Schedule of Payments [Line Items] | ||||||
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block] | 2012 payments made under the 1st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows: | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | |||||
Mandatory | 5,000 | |||||
Voluntary | 19,450 | |||||
Asset sales | 3,210 | |||||
Excess cash flow | — | |||||
27,660 | ||||||
Pulitzer Notes [Member] | ||||||
Schedule of Payments [Line Items] | ||||||
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block] | 2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows: | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | |||||
Prior to refinancing | 500 | |||||
Pursuant to the Plan, net | 11,645 | |||||
Mandatory | 1,400 | |||||
Voluntary | 15,955 | |||||
Asset sales | — | |||||
Excess cash flow | — | |||||
29,500 | ||||||
Income_Taxes_Tables
Income Taxes (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] | Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Current: | |||||||||
Federal | (8,244 | ) | 4,604 | 8,673 | |||||
State | (2,210 | ) | (55 | ) | 833 | ||||
Deferred | (466 | ) | (25,630 | ) | 19,116 | ||||
(10,920 | ) | (21,081 | ) | 28,622 | |||||
Continuing operations | (9,371 | ) | (20,316 | ) | 29,308 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (1,549 | ) | (765 | ) | (686 | ) | |||
(10,920 | ) | (21,081 | ) | 28,622 | |||||
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] | The reasons for these differences are as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit) | (35.0 | ) | (35.0 | ) | 35 | ||||
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax expense (benefit) | (1.9 | ) | (2.3 | ) | 4.3 | ||||
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates | (6.2 | ) | (0.5 | ) | (1.4 | ) | |||
Domestic production deduction | 2.1 | (0.5 | ) | (0.8 | ) | ||||
Resolution of tax matters | (3.9 | ) | 0.5 | (3.5 | ) | ||||
Impairment of goodwill and other assets | — | 23.9 | — | ||||||
Valuation allowance | 1.8 | 1 | (0.1 | ) | |||||
Tax law change | — | — | 4.1 | ||||||
Non deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings | 9.3 | — | — | ||||||
Changes in tax basis | (5.6 | ) | — | — | |||||
Other | (1.1 | ) | 0.6 | 0.6 | |||||
(40.5 | ) | (12.3 | ) | 38.2 | |||||
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] | Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Deferred income tax liabilities: | |||||||||
Property and equipment | (40,684 | ) | (29,170 | ) | |||||
Investments | (11,651 | ) | (6,576 | ) | |||||
Identified intangible assets | (50,472 | ) | (45,472 | ) | |||||
Long-term debt and interest rate exchange agreements | — | (997 | ) | ||||||
Other | (1,155 | ) | — | ||||||
(103,962 | ) | (82,215 | ) | ||||||
Deferred income tax assets: | |||||||||
Long-term debt | 33,682 | — | |||||||
Accrued compensation | 5,540 | 7,067 | |||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans | 817 | 1,570 | |||||||
Pension and postretirement benefits | 5,569 | 5,305 | |||||||
State operating loss carryforwards | 24,613 | 23,515 | |||||||
Accrued expenses | 2,508 | 5,024 | |||||||
Other | — | 2,063 | |||||||
72,729 | 44,544 | ||||||||
Valuation allowance | (28,118 | ) | (27,566 | ) | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities | (59,351 | ) | (65,237 | ) | |||||
Deferred Tax Asset/Liability Classification [Table Text Block] | Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Current assets | 789 | 967 | |||||||
Non-current liabilities | (60,140 | ) | (66,204 | ) | |||||
Net deferred income tax liabilities | (59,351 | ) | (65,237 | ) | |||||
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] | A reconciliation of 2012 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | ||||||||
Balance, beginning of year | 6,752 | ||||||||
Decreases in tax positions for prior years | (163 | ) | |||||||
Decreases in tax positions for the current year | (360 | ) | |||||||
Lapse in statute of limitations | (1,312 | ) | |||||||
Balance, end of year | 4,917 | ||||||||
Earnings_per_Common_Share_Tabl
Earnings per Common Share (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||||||||
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] | The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (14,171 | ) | (145,622 | ) | 47,224 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (2,527 | ) | (1,246 | ) | (1,119 | ) | |||
(16,698 | ) | (146,868 | ) | 46,105 | |||||
Weighted average Common Shares | 49,357 | 44,912 | 44,902 | ||||||
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock | (96 | ) | (65 | ) | (347 | ) | |||
Basic average Common Shares | 49,261 | 44,847 | 44,555 | ||||||
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock | — | — | 400 | ||||||
Diluted average Common Shares | 49,261 | 44,847 | 44,955 | ||||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | |||||||||
Basic: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (0.29 | ) | (3.25 | ) | 1.06 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (0.05 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.03 | ) | |||
(0.34 | ) | (3.27 | ) | 1.03 | |||||
Diluted: | |||||||||
Continuing operations | (0.29 | ) | (3.25 | ) | 1.05 | ||||
Discontinued operations | (0.05 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||
(0.34 | ) | (3.27 | ) | 1.03 | |||||
Stock_Ownership_Plans_Tables
Stock Ownership Plans (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||||||
Stock Options [Member] | |||||||||||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] | A summary of stock option activity is as follows: | ||||||||||||
(Thousands of Shares) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Under option, beginning of year | 1,812 | 940 | 1,009 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1,520 | 1,105 | — | ||||||||||
Exercised | — | (15 | ) | — | |||||||||
Canceled | (230 | ) | (218 | ) | (69 | ) | |||||||
Under option, end of year | 3,102 | 1,812 | 940 | ||||||||||
Exercisable, end of year | 1,298 | 552 | 423 | ||||||||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block] | Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows: | ||||||||||||
(Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1.16 | 2.57 | — | ||||||||||
Under option, end of year | 3.18 | 5.07 | 8.77 | ||||||||||
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] | The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2012 and 2011 option awards: | ||||||||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||||||
Volatility (Percent) | 122 | 111 | |||||||||||
Risk-free interest rate (Percent) | 0.76 | 1.01 | |||||||||||
Expected term (Years) | 4.7 | 4.7 | |||||||||||
Estimated fair value (Dollars) | 0.95 | 2 | |||||||||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block] | A summary of stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | ||||||||||||
(Dollars) | Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | |||||||||||
Range of | Number | Weighted Average | Weighted | Number | Weighted | ||||||||
Exercise | Outstanding | Remaining Contractual | Average | Exercisable | Average | ||||||||
Prices | Life (Years) | Exercise Price | Exercise Price | ||||||||||
1 - 5 | 2,971,125 | 8.5 | 1.79 | 1,166,890 | 2.31 | ||||||||
May-50 | 131,321 | 2.9 | 34.59 | 131,321 | 34.59 | ||||||||
3,102,446 | 8.2 | 3.18 | 1,298,211 | 5.58 | |||||||||
Restricted Stock [Member] | |||||||||||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] | A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows: | ||||||||||||
(Thousands of Shares) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning of year | — | 299 | 453 | ||||||||||
Granted | 500 | — | — | ||||||||||
Vested | — | (297 | ) | (143 | ) | ||||||||
Forfeited | — | (2 | ) | (11 | ) | ||||||||
Outstanding, end of year | 500 | — | 299 | ||||||||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block] | Weighted average grant date fair values of restricted Common Stock are as follows: | ||||||||||||
(Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, beginning of year | — | 15.02 | 19.35 | ||||||||||
Granted | 1.31 | — | — | ||||||||||
Vested | — | 15.02 | 28.73 | ||||||||||
Forfeited | — | 15.02 | 15.02 | ||||||||||
Outstanding, end of year | 1.31 | — | 15.02 | ||||||||||
Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables
Fair Value Measurements (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] | ||||||
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] | The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011: | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | 25-Sep | ||||
2012 | 2011 | |||||
Level 1 | — | — | ||||
Level 2 | — | — | ||||
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability | 300 | 300 | ||||
Significant_Accounting_Policie2
Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ||||||
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] | The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows: | |||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 2012 | September 25 2011 | ||||
First-in, first-out | 2,848 | 2,595 | ||||
Last-in, first-out | 2,723 | 2,719 | ||||
5,571 | 5,314 | |||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] | The estimated useful lives are as follows: | |||||
Years | ||||||
Buildings and improvements | 5 - 54 | |||||
Printing presses and insertion equipment | 3 - 28 | |||||
Other | 3 - 20 | |||||
Intangible Asset Useful Life Table [Table Text Block] | Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows: | |||||
Years | ||||||
Customer lists | 23-Jul | |||||
Newspaper subscriber lists | 7 - 33 | |||||
Noncompete and consulting agreements | 15 | |||||
Pensions_Tables
Pensions (Tables) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] | We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid from the pension trust as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | |||||||||
2013 | 11,421 | ||||||||
2014 | 11,263 | ||||||||
2015 | 11,277 | ||||||||
2016 | 11,356 | ||||||||
2017 | 11,430 | ||||||||
2018-2022 | 57,603 | ||||||||
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | The weighted-average asset allocation of our pension assets is as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent) | Actual Allocation | ||||||||
Asset Class | Current Policy Allocation | September 30 | September 25 | ||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Equity securities | 50-75 | 63 | 66 | ||||||
Debt securities | 25-35 | 29 | 33 | ||||||
Private equity investments | 0-12 | — | — | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | — | 2 | 1 | ||||||
Receivables, net | — | 6 | — | ||||||
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] | Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 3.85 | 4.4 | |||||||
Rate of compensation increase | NA | 3.5 | |||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Discount rate | 4.4 | 4.8 | 5.5 | ||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 7.9 | 8 | 8 | ||||||
Rate of compensation increase | NA | 3.5 | 3.5 | ||||||
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] | The net periodic cost components of our pension plans are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Service cost for benefits earned during the year | 30 | 169 | 792 | ||||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 7,975 | 8,354 | 8,888 | ||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (8,891 | ) | (9,733 | ) | (9,568 | ) | |||
Amortization of net loss | 2,370 | 812 | 453 | ||||||
Amortization of prior service benefit | (136 | ) | (137 | ) | (136 | ) | |||
Curtailment gains | — | — | (2,004 | ) | |||||
Net periodic pension cost (benefit) | 1,348 | (535 | ) | (1,575 | ) | ||||
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, beginning of year | 186,826 | 178,179 | |||||||
Service cost | 30 | 169 | |||||||
Interest cost | 7,975 | 8,354 | |||||||
Actuarial loss | 17,268 | 12,299 | |||||||
Benefits paid | (10,880 | ) | (11,584 | ) | |||||
Curtailment gain | — | (591 | ) | ||||||
Benefit obligation, end of year | 201,219 | 186,826 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year: | 115,596 | 125,464 | |||||||
Actual return on plan assets | 24,849 | 1,007 | |||||||
Benefits paid | (10,880 | ) | (11,584 | ) | |||||
Administrative expenses paid | (1,472 | ) | (1,428 | ) | |||||
Employer contributions | 6,807 | 2,137 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, end of year | 134,900 | 115,596 | |||||||
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets | 66,319 | 71,230 | |||||||
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] | Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Pension obligations | 66,319 | 71,230 | |||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes) | (50,945 | ) | (50,396 | ) | |||||
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] | Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Unrecognized net actuarial loss | (51,871 | ) | (51,459 | ) | |||||
Unrecognized prior service benefit | 926 | 1,063 | |||||||
(50,945 | ) | (50,396 | ) | ||||||
Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 2,029 | — | — | ||||||
Receivables, net | 8,117 | — | — | ||||||
Domestic equity securities | 27,499 | 47,714 | — | ||||||
International equity securities | — | 9,613 | — | ||||||
Debt securities | 32,169 | 7,759 | — | ||||||
Postretirement_Obligations_Tab
Postretirement Obligations (Tables) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] | |||||||||
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] | The net periodic postretirement benefit cost components for our postretirement plans are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Service cost for benefits earned during the year | 728 | 927 | 361 | ||||||
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 1,109 | 1,600 | 2,971 | ||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (2,129 | ) | (2,248 | ) | (2,274 | ) | |||
Amortization of net actuarial gain | (2,451 | ) | (2,467 | ) | (2,447 | ) | |||
Amortization of prior service benefit | (1,459 | ) | (1,455 | ) | (1,994 | ) | |||
Curtailment gains | — | (16,137 | ) | (43,008 | ) | ||||
Net periodic postretirement benefit | (4,202 | ) | (19,780 | ) | (46,391 | ) | |||
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, beginning of year | 26,472 | 50,482 | |||||||
Service cost | 728 | 927 | |||||||
Interest cost | 1,109 | 1,600 | |||||||
Actuarial (gain) loss | 5,269 | (2,311 | ) | ||||||
Benefits paid, net of premiums received | (2,965 | ) | (2,922 | ) | |||||
Changes in plan provisions | — | (5,931 | ) | ||||||
Curtailment gains | — | (15,535 | ) | ||||||
Medicare Part D subsidies | 115 | 162 | |||||||
Benefit obligation, end of year | 30,728 | 26,472 | |||||||
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year | 38,529 | 41,447 | |||||||
Actual return on plan assets | 2,127 | 19 | |||||||
Employer contributions (reimbursements) | (690 | ) | 1,347 | ||||||
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received | (2,851 | ) | (2,760 | ) | |||||
Benefits paid for active employees | (2,852 | ) | (1,524 | ) | |||||
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date | 34,263 | 38,529 | |||||||
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets | (3,535 | ) | (12,057 | ) | |||||
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] | Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Noncurrent assets | 7,551 | 14,934 | |||||||
Postretirement benefit obligations | 4,016 | 2,877 | |||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit) | 30,344 | 42,379 | |||||||
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] | Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Unrecognized net actuarial gain | 16,570 | 27,145 | |||||||
Unrecognized prior service benefit | 13,774 | 15,234 | |||||||
30,344 | 42,379 | ||||||||
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] | Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Discount rate | 3.85 | 4.4 | |||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 4.5 | 5.75 | |||||||
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows: | |||||||||
(Percent) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Discount rate | 4.4 | 4.8 | 5.5 | ||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 5.75 | 5.75 | 5.75 | ||||||
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] | Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent) | September 30 | September 25 | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Health care cost trend rates | 9 | 9 | |||||||
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the “Ultimate Trend Rate”) | 5 | 5 | |||||||
Year in which the rate reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] | A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following annualized effects on reported amounts for 2012: | ||||||||
One Percentage Point | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Increase | Decrease | |||||||
Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit | 53 | (48 | ) | ||||||
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation | 1,452 | (1,306 | ) | ||||||
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | The weighted-average asset allocation of our postretirement assets is as follows: | ||||||||
(Percent) | Actual Allocation | ||||||||
Asset Class | Current Policy Allocation | September 30 | September 25 | ||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Equity securities | 30-Oct | 21 | 8 | ||||||
Debt securities | 70-90 | 75 | 85 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | — | 2 | 7 | ||||||
Receivables, net | — | 2 | — | ||||||
Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 692 | — | — | ||||||
Receivables, net | 803 | — | — | ||||||
Domestic equity securities | 4,385 | 2,069 | — | ||||||
International equity securities | — | 671 | — | ||||||
Debt securities | — | 25,643 | — | ||||||
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] | We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid either with future contributions to the plan or directly from plan assets, as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | Gross | Less | Net | ||||||
Payments | Medicare | Payments | |||||||
Part D | |||||||||
Subsidy | |||||||||
2013 | 3,280 | (220 | ) | 3,060 | |||||
2014 | 3,080 | (230 | ) | 2,850 | |||||
2015 | 2,980 | (230 | ) | 2,750 | |||||
2016 | 2,960 | (230 | ) | 2,730 | |||||
2017 | 2,900 | (230 | ) | 2,670 | |||||
2018-2022 | 13,280 | (1,100 | ) | 12,180 | |||||
Allowance_For_Doubtful_Account1
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Receivables [Abstract] | |||||||||
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] | Valuation and qualifying account information related to the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable related to continuing operations is as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Balance, beginning of year | 5,387 | 5,262 | 5,853 | ||||||
Additions charged to expense | 1,448 | 2,497 | 2,903 | ||||||
Deductions from reserves | (1,945 | ) | (2,372 | ) | (3,494 | ) | |||
Balance, end of year | 4,890 | 5,387 | 5,262 | ||||||
Other_Information_Tables
Other Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | |||||||||
Payables and Accruals [Abstract] | |||||||||
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] | Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 30-Sep | 25-Sep | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Compensation | 12,556 | 10,207 | |||||||
Retirement plans | 4,215 | 4,442 | |||||||
Interest | 10,507 | 4,352 | |||||||
Other | 11,281 | 14,990 | |||||||
38,559 | 33,991 | ||||||||
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] | Cash payments are as follows: | ||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Interest | 72,131 | 53,133 | 65,791 | ||||||
Debt financing and reorganization costs | 32,408 | 11,601 | 453 | ||||||
Income taxes, net of refunds | 1,140 | 10,462 | 3,753 | ||||||
Cash payments are as follows: | |||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars) | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | ||||||
Interest | 72,131 | 53,133 | 65,791 | ||||||
Debt financing and reorganization costs | 32,408 | 11,601 | 453 | ||||||
Income taxes, net of refunds | 1,140 | 10,462 | 3,753 | ||||||
Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud1
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||||
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] | ||||||||||||
Quarter Ended | ||||||||||||
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data) | December | March | June | September | ||||||||
2012 | ||||||||||||
Operating revenue | 192,042 | 165,461 | 172,640 | 180,343 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 14,406 | (26,373 | ) | (1,045 | ) | (761 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes | 218 | (169 | ) | (309 | ) | (2,266 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | 14,624 | (26,542 | ) | (1,354 | ) | (3,027 | ) | |||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | 14,554 | (26,625 | ) | (1,473 | ) | (3,154 | ) | |||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | ||||||||||||
Basic: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | — | — | (0.01 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||
0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||
Diluted: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.32 | (0.53 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | — | — | (0.01 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||
0.32 | (0.54 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||
2011 | ||||||||||||
Operating revenue | 199,485 | 171,562 | 180,457 | 175,815 | ||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 18,747 | (1,106 | ) | (155,067 | ) | (8,009 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes | 230 | (343 | ) | (409 | ) | (724 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | 18,977 | (1,449 | ) | (155,476 | ) | (8,733 | ) | |||||
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | 18,941 | (1,472 | ) | (155,553 | ) | (8,784 | ) | |||||
Earnings (loss) per common share: | ||||||||||||
Basic: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.42 | (0.02 | ) | (3.45 | ) | (0.18 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | 0.01 | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
0.42 | (0.03 | ) | (3.46 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||
Diluted: | ||||||||||||
Continuing operations | 0.42 | (0.02 | ) | (3.45 | ) | (0.18 | ) | |||||
Discontinued operations | 0.01 | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||
0.42 | (0.03 | ) | (3.46 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||
Basis_of_Presentation_Schedule
Basis of Presentation Schedule of Less than 100% Subsidiaries (Details) | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% |
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member] | |
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% |
INN Partners [Member] | |
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 83.00% |
Discontinued_Operations_Detail
Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Sep. 29, 2013 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Oct. 31, 2012 | |
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue | $27,852,000 | $28,785,000 | $32,203,000 | ||
Contract Price Of Disposal Group | 11,950,000 | ||||
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax | -4,076,000 | -2,011,000 | -1,805,000 | ||
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation | -1,549,000 | -765,000 | -686,000 | ||
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | -2,527,000 | -1,246,000 | -1,119,000 | ||
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax | $2,000,000 |
Investments_in_Associated_Comp2
Investments in Associated Companies Summarized Financial Information (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Equity in earnings of associated companies | $7,231,000 | $6,151,000 | $7,746,000 |
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | 0 | 11,900,000 | 0 |
Associated companies | 42,201,000 | 44,057,000 | |
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets | 8,029 | 7,857 | |
Share of TNI Operating Expenses | -522,000 | 76,000 | 291,000 |
Editorial Fees | 5,994,000 | 7,043,000 | 7,510,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue | 59,043,000 | 62,452,000 | 64,379,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments | 49,568,000 | 52,882,000 | 52,923,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments | -31,000 | 1,190,000 | 784,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income | 9,506,000 | 8,380,000 | 10,672,000 |
Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Before Amortization | 4,753,000 | 4,190,000 | 5,336,000 |
Amortization Of Intangible Assets- TNI | 723,000 | 1,092,000 | 1,156,000 |
Equity in earnings of associated companies | 4,030,000 | 3,098,000 | 4,180,000 |
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | 0 | 11,900,000 | 0 |
Associated companies | 19,450,000 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months | 620,000 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two | 418,000 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three | 418,000 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four | 418,000 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five | 418,000 | ||
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets | 13 | 32 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets | 8,042 | 7,889 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities | 5,601 | 6,136 | |
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity | 2,441 | 1,753 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity | 8,042 | 7,889 | |
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets | 25,000 | 22,000 | |
Editorial Fees | 8,098,000 | 8,201,000 | 8,318,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue | 70,158,000 | 73,011,000 | 75,137,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments | 57,981,000 | 60,982,000 | 61,467,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments | 546,000 | 530,000 | 296,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation And Amortization | 1,689,000 | 2,227,000 | 2,372,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income | 9,942,000 | 9,272,000 | 11,002,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) | 6,469,000 | 6,106,000 | 7,132,000 |
Equity in earnings of associated companies | 3,201,000 | 3,053,000 | 3,566,000 |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets | 30,000 | 30,000 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, PPE | 8,000 | 9,000 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets | 62,000 | 61,000 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities | 10,015,000 | 8,000 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities | 6,720,000 | 6,000 | |
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity | 45,571,000 | 47,000 | |
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity | 62,306,000 | 61,000 | |
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% | ||
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% | ||
Goodwill [Member] | Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity | 12,366,000 | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Member] | Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity | $6,430,000 |
Goodwill_and_other_Intangible_2
Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 |
Goodwill [Line Items] | |||
Goodwill, Gross | $1,536,000 | $1,536,000 | |
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss | -1,288,729 | -1,102,448 | |
Goodwill | 247,271 | 433,552 | |
Goodwill, Impairment Loss | 0 | -186,281 | 0 |
Goodwill | $247,271 | $247,271 | $433,552 |
Goodwill_and_other_Intangible_3
Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 |
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Mastheads | $28,875,000 | $28,875,000 |
Other intangible assets, net | 451,292,000 | 493,589,000 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months | 38,716,000 | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two | 38,564,000 | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three | 38,131,000 | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four | 36,979,000 | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five | 35,898,000 | |
Customer Lists [Member] | ||
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 864,184,000 | 864,184,000 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | 441,772,000 | 399,477,000 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | 422,412,000 | 464,707,000 |
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | ||
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 28,524,000 | 28,524,000 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | 28,519,000 | 28,517,000 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | $5,000 | $7,000 |
Goodwill_and_other_Intangible_4
Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Asset Impairment Charges (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 |
Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items] | |||
Goodwill, Impairment Loss | $0 | $186,281 | $0 |
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Impairment Losses | 0 | 13,259 | 0 |
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived | 0 | 4,199 | 0 |
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges | 1,388 | 700 | 899 |
Impairment of goodwill and other assets | 1,388 | 204,439 | 899 |
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | 0 | 11,900 | 0 |
Impairment Of Goodwill And Other Assets (Including Equity Method Investments) | 1,388 | 216,339 | 899 |
Asset Impairments- Discontinued Operations | 3,606 | 700 | 2,391 |
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |||
Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items] | |||
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners | $0 | $11,900 | $0 |
Debt_Schedule_of_LongTerm_Debt
Debt Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments (Details) (USD $) | Sep. 29, 2013 | Dec. 14, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Feb. 18, 2009 | Dec. 25, 2011 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | 1-May-00 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 |
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] | Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member] | Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member] | Previous Credit Agreement- Revolver [Member] | Previous Credit Agreement- Revolver [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Federal Funds Rate [Member] | Federal Funds Rate [Member] | Prime Lending Rate [Member] | Prime Lending Rate [Member] | 30 Day LIBOR [Member] | 30 Day LIBOR [Member] | January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] | Lee Legacy [Member] | |||||
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Leverage Ratio | 6.7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate | 9.20% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock, Shares, Issued in Refinancing | 6,743,640 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing | $9,576,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 689,510,000 | 40,000,000 | 175,000,000 | 186,000,000 | 306,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long Term Debt, Principal Payments | 5,000,000 | 120,000,000 | 10,145,000 | 15,145,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Base Interest Rate | 0.50% | 0.50% | 0.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Base Interest Rate- Minimum 30 Day LIBOR | 1.25% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest Rate Margin | 5.25% | 4.50% | 5.25% | 6.25% | 6.25% | 5.50% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End | 7.50% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Description of Collateral, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage | 50.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount | 926,226,000 | 995,000 | 661,850,000 | 0 | 175,000,000 | 0 | 0 | 569,000 | 0 | 286,000 | 126,355,000 | 126,355,000 | 109,000,000 | 139,000 | |||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two | 17,400,000 | 11,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three | 19,150,000 | 12,750,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four | 19,900,000 | 13,500,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five | 714,400,000 | 3,375,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 7.50% | 15.00% | 15.00% | 10.55% | 10.55% | 10.55% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unamortized Loan Commitment and Origination Fees and Unamortized Discounts or Premiums | -19,624,000 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long Term Debt, Annual Interest Rate Increase | 0.75% | 0.75% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effective Rate Interest Expense | 871,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Payment Terms | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage | 101.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis | 13.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount | 8,750,000 | 3,500,000 | 3,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities | 17,400,000 | 995,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unamortized Present Value Discount- Current Portion | -5,418,000 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt | 914,244,000 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five | 175,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity | 29,942,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidity | 43,862,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt, Principal Amount | 919,100,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Planned Principal Amount Of Debt | $939,000,000 |
Debt_Schedule_of_Payments_Deta
Debt Schedule of Payments (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Dec. 14, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Dec. 14, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | |
Previous Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Previous Credit Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Debt Payments Under Reorganization Plan [Member] | Mandatory Payment [Member] | Mandatory Payment [Member] | Voluntary Payment [Member] | Voluntary Payment [Member] | Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] | Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] | Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] | Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] | January 30, 2013 to January 29, 2014 [Member] | January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] | January 30, 2015 to April 2017 [Member] | 2012 Member [Member] | After 2012 [Member] | ||||
Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer Notes [Member] | ||||||||||
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Annual Principal Payment | $1,400,000 | $6,400,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage | 102.00% | 101.00% | 100.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||
Repayments of Long-term Debt | $1,065,455,000 | $137,330,000 | $170,545,000 | $1,000 | $17,750,000 | $27,660,000 | $0 | $9,000,000 | $30,000 | $12,000 | $5,000,000 | $1,000 | $19,450,000 | $16,000 | $3,210,000 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Debt_Schedule_of_Debt_Covenant
Debt Schedule of Debt Covenants (Details) (USD $) | Dec. 27, 2015 | Sep. 30, 2012 |
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | ||
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items] | ||
Debt Covenants, Maximum Capital Expenditures | 20,000,000 | |
Lee Legacy [Member] | ||
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items] | ||
Debt Covenants, Total Debt | 836,850,000 | |
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Lee Legacy [Member] | ||
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items] | ||
Leverage Ratio | 6.7 | |
Covenant Limitation, Leverage Ratio | 9.1 | 10 |
Consolidated Leverage Ratio | 5.7 | |
Interest Coverage Ratio | 1.93 | |
Covenant Limitation, Interest Coverage Ratio | 1.1 | 1.25 |
Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer [Member] | ||
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items] | ||
Minimum EBITDA Covenant Limitation | 25,600,000 | |
January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | ||
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items] | ||
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage | 101.00% |
Debt_Schedule_Of_Financing_Fee
Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | |||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Jan. 30, 2012 | |
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items] | ||||
Estimated Costs To Refinance | $38,628,000 | |||
Payments of Financing Costs | 32,408,000 | 11,601,000 | 453,000 | |
Chapter 11 Expenses | 721,000 | |||
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense | 4,514,000 | |||
Present Value Discount | 23,709,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Current Fiscal Year | 4,085,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Next Fiscal Year | 5,418,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 3 | 5,359,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 4 | 5,293,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 5 | 2,429,000 | |||
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 6 | 1,125,000 | |||
2011 Refinancing [Member] | ||||
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items] | ||||
Payments of Financing Costs | $6,273,000 |
Debt_S3_Filing_Details
Debt S-3 Filing (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
S-3 Filing [Line Items] | |
Registration Statement- Maximum Amount | $750,000,000 |
Registration Statement- Minimum Public Float | $75,000,000 |
Pension_Postretirement_and_Pos
Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Jun. 26, 2011 | Mar. 27, 2011 | Dec. 26, 2010 | Mar. 28, 2010 | Dec. 27, 2009 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] | |||||||||
Curtailment gains | $3,974,000 | $1,991,000 | $10,172,000 | $0 | $16,137,000 | $45,012,000 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] | |||||||||
Curtailment gains | 2,004,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 188,000 | 668,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 592,000 | 2,004,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | -30,000 | 30,000 | 169,000 | 792,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | 7,975,000 | -7,975,000 | 8,354,000 | 8,888,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | 8,891,000 | 9,733,000 | 9,568,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | 201,219,000 | -2,370,000 | 812,000 | 453,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | 136,000 | 137,000 | 136,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | 0 | 2,004,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 1,348,000 | -535,000 | -1,575,000 | ||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] | |||||||||
Curtailment gains | 3,974,000 | 1,991,000 | 10,172,000 | 11,878,000 | 31,130,000 | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 82,000 | 769,000 | 1,460,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 3,371,000 | 3,030,000 | 15,065,000 | 6,576,000 | 28,750,000 | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | -728,000 | 728,000 | 927,000 | 361,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | 1,109,000 | -1,109,000 | 1,600,000 | 2,971,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | 2,129,000 | 2,248,000 | 2,274,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | 2,451,000 | -2,467,000 | -2,447,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | 1,459,000 | 1,455,000 | 1,994,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | 16,137,000 | 43,008,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | ($4,202,000) | ($19,780,000) | ($46,391,000) |
Income_Taxes_Details
Income Taxes (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate | $3,264,000 | ||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits | 4,917,000 | 6,752,000 | |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions | -163,000 | ||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions | -360,000 | ||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations | -1,312,000 | ||
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current | 789,000 | 967,000 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment | -40,684,000 | -29,170,000 | |
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) | -8,244,000 | 4,604,000 | 8,673,000 |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate | -35.00% | -35.00% | 35.00% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes | -1.90% | -2.30% | 4.30% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses | 0.00% | 23.90% | 0.00% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance | 1.80% | 1.00% | -0.10% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments | -1.10% | 0.60% | 0.60% |
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations | -40.50% | -12.30% | 38.20% |
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) | -2,210,000 | -55,000 | 833,000 |
Deferred Tax Expense, Continuing and Discontinued Operations | -466,000 | -25,630,000 | 19,116,000 |
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Continuing and Discontinued Operations | -10,920,000 | -21,081,000 | 28,622,000 |
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations | -9,371,000 | -20,316,000 | 29,308,000 |
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation | -1,549,000 | -765,000 | -686,000 |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Unconsolidated Subsidiary | -6.20% | -0.50% | -1.40% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities | 2.10% | -0.50% | -0.80% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements | -3.90% | 0.50% | -3.50% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate | 0.00% | 0.00% | 4.10% |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Chapter 11 Proceedings | 9.30% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments | -11,651,000 | -6,576,000 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets | -50,472,000 | -45,472,000 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Debt | 0 | -997,000 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other | -1,155,000 | 0 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross | -103,962,000 | -82,215,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Debt | 33,682,000 | 0 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation | 5,540,000 | 7,067,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Allowance For Doubtful Accounts | 817,000 | 1,570,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits | 5,569,000 | 5,305,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local | 24,613,000 | 23,515,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other | 2,508,000 | 5,024,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Other | 0 | 2,063,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross | 72,729,000 | 44,544,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance | -28,118,000 | -27,566,000 | |
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net | -59,351,000 | -65,237,000 | |
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent | -60,140,000 | -66,204,000 | |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued | 710,000 | ||
Operating Loss Carryforwards | 796,814,000 | ||
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards | 24,613,000 | ||
Valuation Allowance Not Related To Operating Loss Carryforwards | $3,613,000 | $4,068,000 |
Earnings_per_Common_Share_Deta
Earnings per Common Share (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Jun. 24, 2012 | Mar. 25, 2012 | Dec. 25, 2011 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Jun. 26, 2011 | Mar. 27, 2011 | Dec. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent | ($14,171,000) | ($145,622,000) | $47,224,000 | ||||||||
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | -2,266,000 | -309,000 | -169,000 | 218,000 | -724,000 | -409,000 | -343,000 | 230,000 | -2,527,000 | -1,246,000 | -1,119,000 |
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | ($3,154,000) | ($1,473,000) | ($26,625,000) | $14,554,000 | ($8,784,000) | ($155,553,000) | ($1,472,000) | $18,941,000 | ($16,698,000) | ($146,868,000) | $46,105,000 |
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] | |||||||||||
Weighted Average Common Shares | 49,357,000 | 44,912,000 | 44,902,000 | ||||||||
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock | -96,000 | -65,000 | -347,000 | ||||||||
Basic average common shares | 49,261,000 | 44,847,000 | 44,555,000 | ||||||||
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] | |||||||||||
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment | 0 | 0 | 400,000 | ||||||||
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted | 49,261,000 | 44,847,000 | 44,955,000 | ||||||||
Basic | ($0.06) | ($0.03) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.20) | ($3.46) | ($0.03) | $0.42 | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |
Diluted | ($0.06) | ($0.03) | ($0.54) | $0.32 | ($0.20) | ($3.46) | ($0.03) | $0.42 | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount | 2,334,000 | 1,944,000 | 942,000 | ||||||||
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share | ($0.02) | ($0.02) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.18) | ($3.45) | ($0.02) | $0.42 | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.06 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share | ($0.04) | ($0.01) | $0 | $0 | ($0.02) | ($0.01) | ($0.01) | $0.01 | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.03) |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share | ($0.02) | ($0.02) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.18) | ($3.45) | ($0.02) | $0.42 | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.05 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share | ($0.04) | ($0.01) | $0 | $0 | ($0.02) | ($0.01) | ($0.01) | $0.01 | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.02) |
Stock_Ownership_Plans_Details
Stock Ownership Plans (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Dec. 27, 2009 | Sep. 27, 2009 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Stock compensation expense | $1,080,000 | $1,287,000 | $1,974,000 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number | 4,539,716 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant | 1,437,270 | ||||
Restricted Stock [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $1,310 | $0 | $0 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period | 0 | -2,000 | -11,000 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number | 500,000 | 0 | 299,000 | 453,000 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 500,000 | 0 | 0 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | 0 | -297,000 | -143,000 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $0 | $15,020 | $19,350 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $1,310 | $0 | $15,020 | $19,350 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value | 723,000,000 | 554,000,000 | |||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options | 613,000,000 | ||||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition | 2 years 3 months 18 days | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Share Increase (Decrease) in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $0 | $15,020 | $28,730 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $0 | $15,020 | $15,020 | ||
Stock Options [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $1.16 | $2.57 | $0 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate | 0.00% | 0.00% | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period | -230,000 | -218,000 | -69,000 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number | 3,102,000 | 1,812,000 | 940,000 | 1,009,000 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 1,520,000 | 1,105,000 | 0 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | 0 | -15,000 | 0 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number | 1,298,000 | 552,000 | 423,000 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $5.07 | $8.77 | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $3.18 | $5.07 | $8.77 | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $5.58 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value | 457,000 | ||||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options | $1,990,000 | ||||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition | 1 year 3 months 18 days | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate | 0.00% | 0.00% | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $0.95 | $2 | |||
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP | 270,000 | ||||
Supplemental Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP | 8,700 | ||||
Exercise Price Range 1-5 [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number | 2,971,125 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number | 1,167,000 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $1.79 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $2.31 | ||||
Exercise Price Range- 5-50 [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number | 131,321 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number | 131,000 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $34.59 | ||||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $34.59 |
Stock_Ownership_Plans_Stock_Op
Stock Ownership Plans Stock Option Valuation Assumption (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | |
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | |
Stock Options [Member] | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition | 1 year 3 months 18 days | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term | 4 years 8 months 12 days | 4 years 8 months 12 days |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $0.95 | $2 |
Restricted Stock [Member] | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition | 2 years 3 months 18 days | |
Exercise Price Range 1-5 [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ||
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit | $1 | |
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit | $5 | |
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term | 8 years 6 months 0 days | |
Exercise Price Range- 5-50 [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ||
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit | $5 | |
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit | $50 | |
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term | 2 years 10 months 24 days |
Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Feb. 18, 2009 | |
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments | $8,640,000 | ||||||||||
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 300,000 | 300,000 | 2,300,000 | 2,300,000 | |||
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges | $1,388,000 | $700,000 | $899,000 |
Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V1
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements Not Practicable (Details) (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jan. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 |
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | |||
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments | $8,640,000 | ||
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount | 926,226,000 | 995,000 | |
Pulitzer Notes [Member] | |||
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | |||
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount | $109,000,000 | $126,355,000 | $139,000 |
Commitments_and_Contingencies_
Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||
Mar. 29, 2009 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Feb. 18, 2009 | Sep. 28, 2008 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | Feb. 18, 2009 | |
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 95.00% | |||||||
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed | 5.00% | |||||||
Goodwill- Herald Value | $55,594,000 | |||||||
Herald Value- Present Value | 73,602,000 | |||||||
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input | 10.00% | |||||||
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure | 300,000 | 300,000 | 2,300,000 | 2,300,000 | ||||
Herald Value Redemption- Liability Effect | 71,302,000 | |||||||
Redemption Agreement- Comprehensive Income Effect | 58,521,000 | |||||||
Redemption Agreement- Equity Effect | 68,824,000 | |||||||
Hearld Value- Increase in Amortizable Tax Basis | $258,000,000 |
Commitments_and_Contingencies_1
Commitments and Contingencies Operating Lease (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] | |||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months | $4,000,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years | 1,897,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years | 1,647,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years | 1,557,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years | 1,246,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter | 4,000,000 | ||
Operating Leases, Rent Expense | 4,135,000 | 4,527,000 | 4,549,000 |
Contractual Obligation | $900,000 |
Common_Stock_and_Class_B_Commo1
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (Details) (USD $) | Jan. 30, 2012 |
Before January 30, 2012 Refinancing [Member] | |
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items] | |
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $2 |
After January 30, 2012 Refinancing [Member] | |
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items] | |
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $0.01 |
2nd Lien Agreement [Member] | |
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items] | |
Common Stock, Shares, Issued in Refinancing | 6,743,640 |
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis | 13.00% |
Common_Stock_and_Class_B_Commo2
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock NYSE Requirements (Details) (USD $) | Jun. 24, 2012 |
NYSE Listing Requirements [Line Items] | |
Price Per Share- NYSE Listing Requirement | $1 |
Minimum Market Capitalization- NYSE Listing | $50,000,000 |
Common_Stock_and_Class_B_Commo3
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock Preferred Share Purchase Rights (Details) (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 |
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] | |
Preferred Share Purchase Rights- Exercise Price | $150 |
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Per Share | $0.00 |
2008 And After [Member] | |
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] | |
Beneficial OwnershipThreshold | 25.00% |
Beneficial Ownership Threshold | 15.00% |
Beneficial Ownership Percentage- Upper Limit | 50.00% |
Prior To 2008 [Member] | |
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] | |
Beneficial OwnershipThreshold | 20.00% |
Significant_Accounting_Policie3
Significant Accounting Policies (Details) | 12 Months Ended |
Sep. 30, 2012 | |
INN Partners [Member] | |
Basis of Presentation [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 83.00% |
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | |
Basis of Presentation [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% |
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member] | |
Basis of Presentation [Line Items] | |
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned | 50.00% |
Significant_Accounting_Policie4
Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |
Mar. 29, 2009 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | |
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||
Subsequent Event, Date | 14-Dec-12 | ||
Inventory, LIFO Reserve | $3,556,000 | $3,895,000 | |
FIFO Inventory Amount | 2,848,000 | 2,595,000 | |
LIFO Inventory Amount | 2,723,000 | 2,719,000 | |
Newsprint Inventory | $5,571,000 | $5,314,000 | |
Buildings Useful Life- Low End of Range | 5 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Building Useful Life- High End of Range | 54 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Press Equipment Useful Life- Low End of Range | 3 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Press Equipment Useful Life- High End of Range | 28 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Other PPE Useful Life- Low End Of Range | 3 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Other PPE Useful Life- High End Of Range | 20 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed | 5.00% | ||
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input | 10.00% | ||
Customer Lists [Member] | |||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range | 7 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range | 23 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Subscriber Lists [Member] | |||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range | 7 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range | 33 years 0 months 0 days | ||
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | |||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 15 years 0 months 0 days |
Pensions_Details
Pensions (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 29, 2013 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions | $398,000 | $488,000 | $497,000 | ||
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation | 1,426,000 | 1,426,000 | 1,319,000 | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months | 11,000 | 11,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 5.00% | 6.00% | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax | 2,287,000 | -51,871,000 | -51,459,000 | ||
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent | 66,319,000 | 66,319,000 | 71,230,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation | 201,219,000 | 201,219,000 | 186,826,000 | 178,179,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 186,672,000 | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | -30,000 | 30,000 | 169,000 | 792,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | 7,975,000 | -7,975,000 | 8,354,000 | 8,888,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) | 17,268,000 | 12,299,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid | -10,880,000 | -11,584,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses | -1,472,000 | -1,428,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer | 2,733,000 | 6,807,000 | 2,137,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments | 0 | -591,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | -8,891,000 | -9,733,000 | -9,568,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | 201,219,000 | -2,370,000 | 812,000 | 453,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | -136,000 | -137,000 | -136,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | 0 | -2,004,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 1,348,000 | -535,000 | -1,575,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 134,900,000 | 134,900,000 | 115,596,000 | 125,464,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets | 24,849,000 | 1,007,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | 66,319,000 | 66,319,000 | 71,230,000 | ||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax | -50,945,000 | -50,945,000 | -50,396,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax | -137,000 | 926,000 | 1,063,000 | ||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax | -50,945,000 | -50,396,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase | 4.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets | 0.00% | 8.00% | 8.00% | 8.00% | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase | 4.00% | 4.00% | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two | 11,000 | 11,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three | 11,000 | 11,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four | 11,000 | 11,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five | 11,000 | 11,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter | 58,000 | 58,000 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 50.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 75.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 63.00% | 63.00% | 66.00% | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 25.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 35.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 29.00% | 29.00% | 33.00% | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 32,169,494 | 32,169,494 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 7,759,444 | 7,759,444 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investments [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 0.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 12.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 1.00% | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 2,028,505 | 2,028,505 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 6.00% | 6.00% | 0.00% | ||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 8,117,459 | 8,117,459 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months | 3,280,000 | 3,280,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 5.00% | 6.00% | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax | 16,570,000 | 27,000 | |||
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent | 4,016,000 | 4,016,000 | 3,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation | 30,728,000 | 30,728,000 | 26,472,000 | 50,482,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | -728,000 | 728,000 | 927,000 | 361,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | 1,109,000 | -1,109,000 | 1,600,000 | 2,971,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) | 5,269,000 | -2,311,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid | -2,965,000 | -2,922,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer | -690,000 | 1,347,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments | 0 | -15,535,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | -2,129,000 | -2,248,000 | -2,274,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | 2,451,000 | -2,467,000 | -2,447,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | -1,459,000 | -1,455,000 | -1,994,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | -16,137,000 | -43,008,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | -4,202,000 | -19,780,000 | -46,391,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 34,263,000 | 34,263,000 | 38,529,000 | 41,447,000 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets | 2,127,000 | 19,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | -3,535,000 | -3,535,000 | -12,057,000 | ||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax | 30,344,000 | 30,344,000 | 42,000 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax | 13,774,000 | 15,000 | |||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax | 30,344,000 | 42,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets | 6.00% | 6.00% | 6.00% | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two | 3,080,000 | 3,080,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three | 2,980,000 | 2,980,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four | 2,960,000 | 2,960,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five | 2,900,000 | 2,900,000 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter | 13,280,000 | 13,280,000 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 10.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 30.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 21.00% | 21.00% | 8.00% | ||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 70.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 90.00% | ||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 75.00% | 75.00% | 85.00% | ||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 25,642,660 | 25,642,660 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 7.00% | ||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 691,905 | 691,905 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 0.00% | ||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 802,801 | 802,801 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Other Plans [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | 2,595,000 | 2,595,000 | 2,654,000 | ||
Funded Status of Other Plans Recognized In Other Liabilities | 279,000 | 279,000 | |||
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 56,000 | 56,000 | 122,000 | ||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 27,499,395 | 27,499,395 | |||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 47,713,917 | 47,713,917 | |||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 4,384,746 | 4,384,746 | |||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 2,068,890 | 2,068,890 | |||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 9,612,986 | 9,612,986 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 671,069 | 671,069 | |||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | $0 | $0 |
Postretirement_Obligations_Det
Postretirement Obligations (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Jun. 26, 2011 | Mar. 27, 2011 | Dec. 26, 2010 | Mar. 28, 2010 | Dec. 27, 2009 | Sep. 29, 2013 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Curtailment gains | $3,974,000 | $1,991,000 | $10,172,000 | $0 | $16,137,000 | $45,012,000 | ||||
Postretirement assets, net | 7,551,000 | 7,551,000 | 14,934,000 | |||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Curtailment gains | 3,974,000 | 1,991,000 | 10,172,000 | 11,878,000 | 31,130,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 82,000 | 769,000 | 1,460,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months | 3,280,000 | 3,280,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Next Twelve Months | -220,000 | -220,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Next Twelve Months | 3,060,000 | 3,060,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components | 53,000 | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year | 9.00% | 9.00% | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 5.00% | 6.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax | 16,570,000 | 27,000 | ||||||||
Postretirement assets, net | 7,551,000 | 7,551,000 | 15,000 | |||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent | 4,016,000 | 4,016,000 | 3,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation | 30,728,000 | 30,728,000 | 26,472,000 | 50,482,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | 728,000 | -728,000 | -927,000 | -361,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | -1,109,000 | 1,109,000 | -1,600,000 | -2,971,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | -2,129,000 | -2,248,000 | -2,274,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | -2,451,000 | 2,467,000 | 2,447,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | -1,459,000 | -1,455,000 | -1,994,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | -16,137,000 | -43,008,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | -4,202,000 | -19,780,000 | -46,391,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) | 5,269,000 | -2,311,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid | -2,965,000 | -2,922,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid For Non-Participants | -2,852,000 | -1,524,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments | 0 | -5,931,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments | 0 | -15,535,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Benefit, Effect of Subsidy on Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost | 115,000 | 162,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 34,263,000 | 34,263,000 | 38,529,000 | 41,447,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets | 2,127,000 | 19,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer | -690,000 | 1,347,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Net Of Subsidy | -2,851,000 | -2,760,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | -3,535,000 | -3,535,000 | -12,057,000 | |||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax | 30,344,000 | 30,344,000 | 42,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax | 13,774,000 | 15,000 | ||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax | 30,344,000 | 42,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Expected Long-term Return on Assets | 4.50% | 4.50% | 5.75% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets | 6.00% | 6.00% | 6.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate | 5.00% | 5.00% | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate | 2020 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components | -48,000 | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation | 1,452,000 | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation | -1,306,000 | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two | 3,080,000 | 3,080,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Two | -230,000 | -230,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 2 | 2,850,000 | 2,850,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three | 2,980,000 | 2,980,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Three | -230,000 | -230,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 3 | 2,750,000 | 2,750,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four | 2,960,000 | 2,960,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Four | -230,000 | -230,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 4 | 2,730,000 | 2,730,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five | 2,900,000 | 2,900,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Five | -230,000 | -230,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 5 | 2,670,000 | 2,670,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter | 13,280,000 | 13,280,000 | ||||||||
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, after Year Five | -1,100,000 | -1,100,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, After Year 5 | 12,180,000 | 12,180,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 3,371,000 | 3,030,000 | 15,065,000 | 6,576,000 | 28,750,000 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Litigation Settlement | 3,000,000 | |||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 21.00% | 21.00% | 8.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 10.00% | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 30.00% | |||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 75.00% | 75.00% | 85.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 70.00% | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 90.00% | |||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 25,642,660 | 25,642,660 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 7.00% | |||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 691,905 | 691,905 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 0.00% | |||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 802,801 | 802,801 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Curtailment gains | 2,004,000 | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 188,000 | 668,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months | 11,000 | 11,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 5.00% | 6.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax | 2,287,000 | -51,871,000 | -51,459,000 | |||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent | 66,319,000 | 66,319,000 | 71,230,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation | 201,219,000 | 201,219,000 | 186,826,000 | 178,179,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost | 30,000 | -30,000 | -169,000 | -792,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost | -7,975,000 | 7,975,000 | -8,354,000 | -8,888,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets | -8,891,000 | -9,733,000 | -9,568,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) | -201,219,000 | 2,370,000 | -812,000 | -453,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) | -136,000 | -137,000 | -136,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments | 0 | 0 | -2,004,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost | 1,348,000 | -535,000 | -1,575,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) | 17,268,000 | 12,299,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid | -10,880,000 | -11,584,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments | 0 | -591,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 134,900,000 | 134,900,000 | 115,596,000 | 125,464,000 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets | 24,849,000 | 1,007,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer | 2,733,000 | 6,807,000 | 2,137,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | 66,319,000 | 66,319,000 | 71,230,000 | |||||||
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax | -50,945,000 | -50,945,000 | -50,396,000 | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax | -137,000 | 926,000 | 1,063,000 | |||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax | -50,945,000 | -50,396,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets | 0.00% | 8.00% | 8.00% | 8.00% | ||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two | 11,000 | 11,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three | 11,000 | 11,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four | 11,000 | 11,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five | 11,000 | 11,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter | 58,000 | 58,000 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation | 592,000 | 2,004,000 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 63.00% | 63.00% | 66.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 50.00% | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 75.00% | |||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 29.00% | 29.00% | 33.00% | |||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum | 25.00% | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum | 35.00% | |||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 32,169,494 | 32,169,494 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 7,759,444 | 7,759,444 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 2.00% | 2.00% | 1.00% | |||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 2,028,505 | 2,028,505 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations | 6.00% | 6.00% | 0.00% | |||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 8,117,459 | 8,117,459 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
LTD Plan [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan | 3,143,000 | 3,143,000 | 3,227,000 | |||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 4,384,746 | 4,384,746 | ||||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 2,068,890 | 2,068,890 | ||||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 27,499,395 | 27,499,395 | ||||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 47,713,917 | 47,713,917 | ||||||||
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 671,069 | 671,069 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 0 | 0 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | 9,612,986 | 9,612,986 | ||||||||
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets | $0 | $0 |
Other_Retirement_Plans_Details
Other Retirement Plans (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items] | |||
Cost Related to Other Retirement Plans | $3,533,000 | $2,666,000 | $1,894,000 |
Allowance_For_Doubtful_Account2
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 |
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | |||
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable | $5,387 | $5,262 | $5,853 |
Provision for Doubtful Accounts | 1,448 | 2,497 | 2,903 |
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Recoveries | -1,945 | -2,372 | -3,494 |
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable | $4,890 | $5,387 | $5,262 |
Other_Information_Details
Other Information (Details) (USD $) | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | ||
Payables and Accruals [Abstract] | ||
Accrued Salaries, Current | $12,556 | $10,207 |
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current | 4,215 | 4,442 |
Interest Payable, Current | 10,507 | 4,352 |
Other Liabilities | 11,281 | 14,990 |
Compensation and other accrued liabilities | $38,559 | $33,991 |
Other_Information_Supplemental
Other Information Supplemental Cash Payment (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] | |||
Interest Paid | $72,131 | $53,133 | $65,791 |
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid | 32,408 | 11,601 | 453 |
Income Taxes Paid, Net | $1,140 | $10,462 | $3,753 |
Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud2
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
Sep. 30, 2012 | Jun. 24, 2012 | Mar. 25, 2012 | Dec. 25, 2011 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Jun. 26, 2011 | Mar. 27, 2011 | Dec. 26, 2010 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Sep. 25, 2011 | Sep. 26, 2010 | |
Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Reorganization costs | $36,626,000 | $1,241,000 | $37,765,000 | $0 | $0 | ||||||
Curtailment gains | 3,974,000 | 1,991,000 | 10,172,000 | 0 | 16,137,000 | 45,012,000 | |||||
Asset Impairment Charges, Net Of Tax Benefit | 4,994,000 | 17,714,000 | 199,325,000 | ||||||||
Revenues | 180,343,000 | 172,640,000 | 165,461,000 | 192,042,000 | 175,815,000 | 180,457,000 | 171,562,000 | 199,485,000 | 710,486,000 | 727,319,000 | 748,444,000 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | -761,000 | -1,045,000 | -26,373,000 | 14,406,000 | -8,009,000 | -155,067,000 | -1,106,000 | 18,747,000 | -13,772,000 | -145,435,000 | 47,297,000 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | -2,266,000 | -309,000 | -169,000 | 218,000 | -724,000 | -409,000 | -343,000 | 230,000 | -2,527,000 | -1,246,000 | -1,119,000 |
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | -3,027,000 | -1,354,000 | -26,542,000 | 14,624,000 | -8,733,000 | -155,476,000 | -1,449,000 | 18,977,000 | -16,299,000 | -146,681,000 | 46,178,000 |
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated | ($3,154,000) | ($1,473,000) | ($26,625,000) | $14,554,000 | ($8,784,000) | ($155,553,000) | ($1,472,000) | $18,941,000 | ($16,698,000) | ($146,868,000) | $46,105,000 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share | ($0.02) | ($0.02) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.18) | ($3.45) | ($0.02) | $0.42 | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.06 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share | ($0.04) | ($0.01) | $0 | $0 | ($0.02) | ($0.01) | ($0.01) | $0.01 | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.03) |
Basic | ($0.06) | ($0.03) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.20) | ($3.46) | ($0.03) | $0.42 | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share | ($0.02) | ($0.02) | ($0.53) | $0.32 | ($0.18) | ($3.45) | ($0.02) | $0.42 | ($0.29) | ($3.25) | $1.05 |
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share | ($0.04) | ($0.01) | $0 | $0 | ($0.02) | ($0.01) | ($0.01) | $0.01 | ($0.05) | ($0.03) | ($0.02) |
Diluted | ($0.06) | ($0.03) | ($0.54) | $0.32 | ($0.20) | ($3.46) | ($0.03) | $0.42 | ($0.34) | ($3.27) | $1.03 |