Lee Enterprises (LEE) 10-Q 9 Aug 19 2019 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2019
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	LEE ENTERPRISES, INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000058361
Trading Symbol	lee
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-29
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		57,823,272
Entity Shell Company	false
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Cu

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 13,516,000	$ 5,380,000
Accounts receivable and contract assets, net	47,772,000	43,711,000
Inventories	3,258,000	5,684,000
Other	6,706,000	4,567,000
Total current assets	71,252,000	59,342,000
Investments:
Associated companies	28,926,000	29,216,000
Other	10,905,000	10,958,000
Total investments	39,831,000	40,174,000
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	16,947,000	17,432,000
Buildings and improvements	149,494,000	150,376,000
Equipment	271,121,000	276,332,000
Construction in process	2,771,000	1,710,000
	440,333,000	445,850,000
Less accumulated depreciation	354,784,000	353,522,000
Property and equipment, net	85,549,000	92,328,000
Goodwill	249,727,000	246,176,000
Other intangible assets, net	110,806,000	119,819,000
Medical plan assets, net	15,766,000	16,157,000
Other	1,470,000	1,415,000
Total assets	574,401,000	575,411,000
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	3,931,000	7,027,000
Accounts payable	13,747,000	12,747,000
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	17,492,000	19,641,000
Accrued interest	11,010,000	2,031,000
Unearned revenue	22,970,000	23,895,000
Total current liabilities	69,150,000	65,341,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	442,026,000	460,777,000
Pension obligations	24,951,000	26,745,000
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	2,526,000	2,580,000
Deferred income taxes	39,238,000	39,108,000
Income taxes payable	7,430,000	6,559,000
Warrants and other	10,620,000	10,561,000
Total liabilities	595,941,000	611,671,000
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Serial convertible preferred stock, no par value; authorized 500 shares; none issued
Additional paid-in capital	254,727,000	253,511,000
Accumulated deficit	(266,242,000)	(279,691,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(12,112,000)	(11,746,000)
Total stockholders' deficit	(23,049,000)	(37,354,000)
Non-controlling interests	1,509,000	1,094,000
Total deficit	(21,540,000)	(36,260,000)
Total liabilities and deficit	574,401,000	575,411,000
Common Class A [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	578,000	572,000
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock

Consolidated Balance Sheets (_2

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited) (Parentheticals) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred stock, shares authoritzed (in shares)	500	500
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Common Class A [Member]
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	120,000	120,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	58,823	57,141
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	58,823	57,141
Common Class B [Member]
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 2	$ 2
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	30,000	30,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Operating revenue:
Operating revenue	$ 127,284,000	$ 132,618,000	$ 386,189,000	$ 404,208,000
Operating expenses:
Compensation	45,373,000	48,570,000	140,197,000	149,551,000
Newsprint and ink	5,230,000	6,442,000	17,394,000	17,920,000
Other operating expenses	48,157,000	49,159,000	145,915,000	148,830,000
Depreciation and amortization	7,347,000	7,904,000	22,263,000	23,973,000
Assets loss (gain) on sales, impairments and other, net	(195,000)	101,000	(212,000)	(1,197,000)
Restructuring costs and other	2,792,000	1,865,000	5,612,000	4,150,000
Total operating expenses	108,704,000	114,041,000	331,169,000	343,227,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	1,451,000	1,578,000	5,298,000	5,569,000
Operating income	20,031,000	20,155,000	60,318,000	66,550,000
Non-operating income (expense):
Interest expense	(11,860,000)	(12,913,000)	(36,256,000)	(39,837,000)
Debt financing and administrative costs	(4,196,000)	(1,747,000)	(6,053,000)	(4,061,000)
Other, net	3,702,000	1,227,000	2,730,000	3,168,000
Total non-operating expense, net	(12,354,000)	(13,433,000)	(39,579,000)	(40,730,000)
Income before income taxes	7,677,000	6,722,000	20,739,000	25,820,000
Income tax expense (benefit)	1,505,000	1,972,000	6,175,000	(16,791,000)
Net income	6,172,000	4,750,000	14,564,000	42,611,000
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(406,000)	(292,000)	(1,115,000)	(911,000)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	5,766,000	4,458,000	13,449,000	41,700,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(122,000)	27,000	(365,000)	18,000
Comprehensive income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 5,644,000	$ 4,485,000	$ 13,084,000	$ 41,718,000
Earnings per common share:
Basic: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.08	$ 0.24	$ 0.76
Diluted: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.08	$ 0.24	$ 0.75
Advertising and Marketing Services [Member]
Operating revenue:
Operating revenue	$ 65,754,000	$ 73,538,000	$ 204,651,000	$ 229,751,000
Subscription and Circulation [Member]
Operating revenue:
Operating revenue	46,620,000	48,165,000	137,965,000	142,405,000
Product and Service, Other [Member]
Operating revenue:
Operating revenue	$ 14,910,000	$ 10,915,000	$ 43,573,000	$ 32,052,000

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Retained Earnings [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Total
Balance at Sep. 24, 2017	$ 251,790	$ (328,524)	$ (16,068)	$ 567	$ (92,235)
Shares issued (redeemed)		4	(465)		(461)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	35,003				35,003
Stock compensation			519		519
Other comprehensive loss				36	36
Deferred income taxes, net				(9)	(9)
Balance at Dec. 24, 2017	(293,521)	571	251,844	(16,041)	(57,147)
Balance at Sep. 24, 2017	251,790	(328,524)	(16,068)	567	(92,235)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated					41,700
Balance at Jun. 24, 2018	(286,824)	571	252,963	(16,050)	(49,340)
Balance at Dec. 24, 2017	(293,521)	571	251,844	(16,041)	(57,147)
Shares issued (redeemed)		(1)	19		18
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	2,239				2,239
Stock compensation			439		439
Other comprehensive loss				(71)	(71)
Deferred income taxes, net				35	35
Balance at Mar. 25, 2018	(291,282)	570	252,302	(16,077)	(54,487)
Shares issued (redeemed)		1	88		89
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	4,458				4,458
Stock compensation			573		573
Other comprehensive loss				36	36
Deferred income taxes, net				(9)	(9)
Balance at Jun. 24, 2018	(286,824)	571	252,963	(16,050)	(49,340)
Balance at Sep. 30, 2018	(279,691)	572	253,511	(11,746)	(37,354)
Shares issued (redeemed)		5	(453)		(448)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	10,361				10,361
Stock compensation			385		385
Other comprehensive loss				(163)	(163)
Deferred income taxes, net				41	41
Balance at Dec. 30, 2018	(269,330)	577	253,443	(11,868)	(27,178)
Balance at Sep. 30, 2018	(279,691)	572	253,511	(11,746)	(37,354)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated					13,449
Balance at Jun. 30, 2019	(266,242)	578	254,727	(12,112)	(23,049)
Balance at Dec. 30, 2018	(269,330)	577	253,443	(11,868)	(27,178)
Shares issued (redeemed)			317		317
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(2,678)				(2,678)
Stock compensation			425		425
Other comprehensive loss				(163)	(163)
Deferred income taxes, net				41	41
Balance at Mar. 31, 2019	(272,008)	577	254,185	(11,990)	(29,236)
Shares issued (redeemed)		1	221		222
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	5,766				5,766
Stock compensation			321		321
Other comprehensive loss				(163)	(163)
Deferred income taxes, net				41	41
Balance at Jun. 30, 2019	$ (266,242)	$ 578	$ 254,727	$ (12,112)	$ (23,049)

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities:
Net income	$ 14,564	$ 42,611
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	22,263	23,973
Curtailment gains		(2,031)
Stock compensation expense	1,131	1,441
Distributions greater than earnings of MNI	648	477
Deferred income taxes	253	(17,834)
Debt financing and administrative costs	6,053	4,060
Pension contributions	(650)	(780)
Other, net	(745)	162
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables and contract assets	(3,435)	3,509
Decrease (increase) in inventories and other	2,383	(2,584)
Decrease in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	2,666	5,983
Decrease in pension and other postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	(782)	(1,590)
Change in income taxes payable	(419)	614
Other, including warrants	(144)	(978)
Net cash provided by operating activities	43,786	57,033
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(3,753)	(4,281)
Proceeds from sales of assets	1,477	3,117
Acquisitions	(5,274)	(1,738)
Distributions greater (less) than earnings of TNI	(358)	829
Other, net	(3)	(3)
Net cash required for investing activities	(7,911)	(2,076)
Cash required for financing activities:
Payments on long-term debt	(26,301)	(48,573)
Debt financing and administrative costs paid	(1,149)	(432)
Common stock transactions, net	(289)	(544)
Net cash required for financing activities	(27,739)	(49,549)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	8,136	5,408
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of period	5,380	10,621
End of period	$ 13,516	$ 16,029

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	1 BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited, interim, Consolidated Financial Statements included herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission for quarterly reports. In the opinion of management, these financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring items) necessary to present fairly the financial position of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of June 30, 2019 and our results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in the Company's 2018 Annual Report on Form 10 -K. Because of seasonal and other factors, the results of operations for the 13 weeks and 39 weeks ended June 30, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. References to “we”, “our”, “us” and the like throughout the Consolidated Financial Statements refer to the Company. References to “2019”, “2018” and the like refer to the fiscal years ended the last Sunday in September. The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. ("TownNews.com"), 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”) and 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”). 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. On June 26, 2018, we entered into an agreement with BH Media Group, Inc. ("BH Media") to manage Berkshire Hathaway's newspaper and digital operations in 30 markets (the "Management Agreement"). The Company operates BH Media consistent with how it manages its own newspaper and digital operations. Among other decisions, Berkshire Hathaway is responsible for approving operating and capital budgets. The Management Agreement extends for a term of five years and may be extended thereafter for successive one -year terms on such terms as may be mutually agreed to by the Company and Berkshire Hathaway. The Company is paid a fixed annual fee of $5 million, payable quarterly in arrears, and a variable fee based on the financial performance of BH Media. The variable fees are payable annually in arrears. As of June 30, 2019, the end of the first year of the management agreement, we earned fees of $ 11,320,000 . Use of Estimates The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("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. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis. 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. New accounting pronouncements Between 2014 and 2017, the FASB issued several new standards related to revenue recognition ("the New Revenue Standard"). The New Revenue Standard supersedes existing revenue recognition requirements and is effective in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The New Revenue Standard provides a five -step model in determining when and how revenue is recognized and requires revenue recognition to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration a company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The New Revenue Standard also requires new disclosures about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. We adopted the New Revenue Standard on October 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts which were not completed as of that date. We completed our assessment and did not identify any significant changes to our revenue recognition policies. We identified similar performance obligations under the New Revenue Standard as compared with the deliverables and separate units of accounting previously identified under existing guidance. As a result, the timing and amount of our revenue recognition were not impacted and we did not make any adjustments under the modified retrospective adoption method. We have also assessed the new accounting principles related to the deferral and amortization of contract acquisition costs and due to the short-term nature of such costs, we will utilize the practical expedient to continue to expense these costs as incurred. See Note 2 for more information on our revenues and the application of the New Revenue Standard. In August 2016, the FASB issued a new standard to conform the presentation in the statement of cash flows for certain transactions, including cash distributions from equity method investments, among others. There was no change to the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as a result of the adoption of this standard for the quarter ended December 30, 2018. Specifically, distributions received from equity method investees continue to be presented on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows utilizing the cumulative earnings approach. In March 2017, the FASB issued a new standard to improve the presentation of pension and postretirement benefit expense. As a result of the new standard the service cost component of pension and postretirement benefits expense is recognized as compensation expense, while the remaining components of the expense (benefit) are presented as non-operating income in other, net. This new standard was adopted for the quarter ended December 30, 2018 and has been retrospectively applied to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for all comparative periods presented. We recorded benefits of $ 712,000 and $ 2,135,000 in other, net in non-operating income (expense) for the 13 and the 39 weeks ended June 30, 2019 , respectively. We reclassified benefits of $ 708,000 and $ 2,123,000 from compensation to other, net in non-operating income (expense) for the 13 weeks and the 39 weeks ended June 24, 2018 , respectively. In February 2018, the FASB issued new guidance to allow a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from what is commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "2017 Tax Act"). In the first quarter of fiscal year 2018, we remeasured our deferred taxes related to unrealized gains on our investment balances using the reduced tax rate. As required by GAAP, we recognized the net tax benefit in the provision for income taxes in our consolidated operations statements, and we reclassified a $3,067,000 net tax benefit from AOCL to retained earnings in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Adoption of the standard had no impact to our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income or Cash Flows. In February 2016, the FASB issued a new standard for the accounting treatment of leases. The new standard is based on the principle that entities should recognize assets and liabilities arising from leases. The new standard does not significantly change the lessees’ recognition, measurement and presentation of expenses and cash flows from the previous accounting standard. Leases are classified as finance or operating. The new standard's primary change is the requirement for entities to recognize a lease liability for payments and a right of use asset representing the right to use the leased asset during the term on most operating lease arrangements. Lessees are permitted to make an accounting policy election to not recognize the asset and liability for leases with a term of twelve months or less. In addition, the new standard expands the disclosure requirements of lease arrangements. Lessees have the option to use a modified retrospective transition approach, which includes a number of practical expedients. In July 2018, the FASB issued a new standard which provides for an optional transition method that allows issuers to initially apply the new lease standard to all leases that exist as of the adoption date, with the cumulative effect of initially applying the new lease standard recognized as an adjustment to retained earnings as of the adoption date. We intend to adopt the optional transition method on September 30, 2019, the first calendar day of fiscal year 2020. To date we have made progress in our assessment of the new lease standard. Specifically, we have identified the population of leases and key financial metrics associated with each lease for scoping purposes. Additionally, we have selected a software solution that is compatible with our current financial reporting and control environment. Implementation of the software solution and reporting capabilities will occur during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2019. Based on our progress to date, we anticipate adopting the standard will have a material impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a result of the recognition of the corresponding lease assets and liabilities. However, we do not believe the adoption will have a material impact on our Consolidated Statements of Income or Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Note 2 - Revenue

Note 2 - Revenue	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]	2 REVENUE On October 1, 2018, not October 1, 2018 not not October 1, 2018 The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by source: 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Advertising and marketing services revenue 65,754 73,538 204,651 229,751 Subscription Revenue 46,620 48,165 137,965 142,405 TownNews and other digital services revenue 5,087 3,826 14,507 11,302 Other revenue 9,823 7,089 29,066 20,750 Total operating revenue 127,284 132,618 386,189 404,208 Recognition principles: Advertising and marketing services revenue: • Print advertising revenue is recognized at the point in time the associated publication has been delivered. • Digital advertising revenue is recognized at the point in time that impressions are delivered. • Digital marketing services revenue is recognized over the period of time which the service is performed. Advertising and marketing services contract transaction prices consist of fixed consideration. We recognize revenue when control of the related performance obligation transfers to the customer. Payments for advertising revenue is due upon completion of our performance obligations at previously agreed upon rates. In instances where the timing of revenue recognition differs from the timing of invoicing, such timing differences are not not Subscription revenue: one Other revenue: third not Arrangements with multiple performance obligations: Contract Assets and Liabilities: twelve 22,970,000 June 30, 2019 23,895,000 September 30, 2018. 13 39 June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018 $2,262,000 $22,475,000, Contract asset balances relate to our Management Agreement revenue and were $ 5,506,000 as of June 30, 2019 and $ 0 as of September 30, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 30, 2019. July 2019. no 47,909,000 48,517,000 June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018, 5,643,000 4,806,000 June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018, Practical expedients: one one

Note 3 - Investments in Associa

Note 3 - Investments in Associated Companies	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]	3 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 subscription activities of the Arizona Daily Star Income or loss of TNI (before income taxes) is allocated equally to Star Publishing and Citizen. Summarized results of TNI are as follows: 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Operating revenue 10,465 11,013 34,109 36,094 Operating expenses 8,363 9,039 26,291 28,376 Operating income 2,102 1,974 7,818 7,718 Company's 50% share of operating income 1,051 987 3,909 3,860 Less amortization of intangible assets 105 105 313 314 Equity in earnings of TNI 946 882 3,596 3,546 TNI makes weekly distributions of its earnings and for the 13 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 731,000 1,177,000 39 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 3,238,000 4,375,000 Madison Newspapers, Inc. We have a 50% Summarized results of MNI are as follows: 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Operating revenue 13,709 14,518 41,627 44,421 Operating expenses, excluding restructuring costs, depreciation and amortization 12,132 12,054 36,338 37,002 Restructuring costs 67 61 134 270 Depreciation and amortization 280 280 839 838 Operating income 1,230 2,123 4,316 6,311 Net income 1,010 1,391 3,405 4,047 Equity in earnings of MNI 505 696 1,702 2,023 MNI makes quarterly distributions of its earnings and in the 13 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 850,000 500,000 39 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 2,350,000 2,500,000

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Int

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	4 GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows: 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 Goodwill, gross amount 1,535,155 Accumulated impairment losses (1,288,979 ) Goodwill, beginning of period 246,176 Goodwill acquired in business combinations 3,551 Goodwill, end of period 249,727 Identified intangible assets consist of the following: (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018 Nonamortized intangible assets: Mastheads 21,883 21,883 Amortizable intangible assets: Customer and newspaper subscriber lists 696,632 692,886 Less accumulated amortization 607,709 594,950 88,923 97,936 Other intangible assets, net 110,806 119,819 In January 2019, February 2019, 3,551,000 3,650,000 3,650,000 10 Annual amortization of intangible assets for the years ending June 2020 June 2024 16,060,000 15,634,000 12,744,000 12,263,000 11,237,000

Note 5 - Debt

Note 5 - Debt	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	5 DEBT On March 31, 2014, "2014 • $400,000,000 9.5% March 31, 2014 • $250,000,000 first "1 st $40,000,000 March 31, 2014 “1 st • $150,000,000 second March 31, 2014 “2 nd In November 2018, 1 st In December 2018, 1 st 1 st twelve $40,000,000 27,200,000 15% 1 st July 31, 2019. Debt is summarized as follows: Interest Rates (%) (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018 June 30, 2019 Revolving Facility — — 6.1 1 st — 6,303 8.5 Notes 374,420 385,000 9.5 2nd Lien Term Loan 84,138 93,556 12.0 458,558 484,859 Unamortized debt issue costs (12,601 ) (17,055 ) Less current maturities of long-term debt 3,931 7,027 Total long-term debt 442,026 460,777 Our weighted average cost of debt, excluding amortization of debt financing costs at June 30, 2019 10.0 At June 30, 2019 3,931,000 2019, 0 2020, 0 2021, 374,420,000 2022 80,207,000 2023. Notes The Notes are senior secured obligations of the Company and mature on March 15, 2022. June 30, 2019 374,420,000 Interest The Notes require payment of interest semiannually on March 15 September 15 9.5%. Redemption We may Period Beginning Percentage of Principal Amount March 15, 2019 102.38 March 15, 2020 100.00 If we sell certain of our assets or experience specific kinds of changes of control, we must, subject to certain exceptions, offer to purchase the Notes at 101% We may 13 and 39 weeks ended June 30, 2019 we purchased $ 10,580,000 principal amount of Notes in privately negotiated transactions. The transactions resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt totaling $ 238,000 in the 13 and 39 weeks ended June 30, 2019 which is recorded in Other,net in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. Covenants and Other Matters The Indenture and the 1 st no 1 st Lien Credit Facility The 1 st November 2018 no June 30, 2019 The 1 st 27,200,000 December 28, 2019. 1 st 1 st may June 30, 2019 21,685,000 On July 31, 2019, 23,120,000 . Interest Interest on the Revolving Facility, which is undrawn at June 30, 2019 5.5%, 4.5% 0.5%, one 1.0%. Covenants and Other Matters The 1 st The 1 st no 3.25x 4.47 x June 30, 2019 1 st 1 st may 1 st 2 nd 2 nd Lien Term Loan The 2 nd 84,138,000 June 30, 2019 12.0%, December 2022. Principal Payments Excluding excess cash flow payments, there are no 2 nd Quarterly, we are required to prepare a calculation of excess cash flow of the Pulitzer Subsidiaries ("Pulitzer Excess Cash Flow"). Pulitzer Excess Cash Flow is generally determined as the cash earnings of the Pulitzer Subsidiaries including adjustments for changes in working capital, capital spending, pension contributions, debt principal payments and income tax payments. Pulitzer Excess Cash Flow also includes a deduction for interest costs incurred under the 2 nd Pulitzer Excess Cash Flow is used to prepay the 2nd 45 Payments will also be made on the 2 nd not During the 13 39 June 30, 2019 2 nd 7,318,000 9,418,000 13 June 30, 2019 3,931,000 2 nd August 2019, Beginning June 30, 2019 2 nd no 2 nd Covenants and Other Matters The 2 nd 1 st 2 nd may 2 nd 1 st In connection with the 2 nd March 31, 2014 ( 2 nd March 31, 2014 6,000,000 10.4% March 30, 2014 4.19 The Warrant Agreement contains provisions requiring the Warrants to be measured at fair value and included in other liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We re-measure the fair value of the liability each reporting period, with changes reported in other, net non-operating income (expense). The initial fair value of the Warrants was $ 16,930,000 10. In connection with the issuance of the Warrants, we entered into a Registration Rights Agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 Security The Notes and the 1 st first first March 31, 2014 ( "1 st The Notes, the 1 st first Also, the Notes and the 1 st first 1 st March 31, 2014. The Notes, the 1 st second June 2015 1 st second Also, the Notes and the 1 st second The 2 nd first March 31, 2014 “2 nd 2 nd Under the 2 nd first first 2 nd Also, under the 2 nd second second 2 nd The rights of each of the collateral agents with respect to the Lee Legacy Collateral and the Pulitzer Collateral are subject to customary intercreditor and intercompany agreements. Other In connection with the 2014 $37,819,000 2,928,000 39 June 30, 2019 1,029,000 2019, 4,205,000 2020, 4,388,000 2021, 2,747,000 2022, 232,000 2023. June 30, 2019 12,601,000 During the 13 39 June 30, 2019, $1,309,000 $1,145,000 $1,309,000 $1,145,000 13 39 June 30, 2019 $ 1,309,000 not 52 September 29, 2019. not Liquidity At June 30, 2019 21,685,000 December 28, 2019. June 30, 2019 35,201,000 twelve 25,140,000 may 1 st Excluding our Revolving Facility, which is undrawn as of June 2019, March 2022 December 2022. There are numerous potential consequences under the Notes, 1 st 2 nd not one 1 st 2 nd Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to repay, refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due. The Notes, 1 st 2 nd June 30, 2019

Note 6 - Pension, Postretiremen

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	6 PENSION, POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT DEFINED BENEFIT 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, In addition, 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, St. Louis Post-Dispatch 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. We use a fiscal year end measurement date for all of our pension and postretirement medical plan obligations. The net periodic postretirement cost (benefit) components for our postretirement plans are as follows: PENSION PLANS 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Service cost for benefits earned during the period 9 12 27 36 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 1,641 1,438 4,923 4,314 Expected return on plan assets (2,018 ) (1,983 ) (6,055 ) (5,949 ) Amortization of net loss 284 506 851 1,518 Amortization of prior service benefit (25 ) (34 ) (75 ) (102 ) Pension benefit (109 ) (61 ) (329 ) (183 ) POSTRETIREMENT MEDICAL PLANS 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 103 90 309 271 Expected return on plan assets (270 ) (270 ) (811 ) (810 ) Amortization of net gain (244 ) (246 ) (732 ) (738 ) Amortization of prior service benefit (181 ) (196 ) (543 ) (588 ) Curtailment gains — — — (2,031 ) Postretirement medical benefit (592 ) (622 ) (1,777 ) (3,896 ) At the beginning of fiscal year 2019, In the 39 June 30, 2019 650,000 June 30, 2019 not 2019. In March 2017, one December 2017 2,031,000 39 June 24, 2018

Note 7 - Income Taxes

Note 7 - Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	7 INCOME TAXES We recorded income tax expense of $ 1,505,000 7,677,000 13 June 30, 2019 6,175,000 20,739,000 39 June 30, 2019 1,972,000 6,722,000 13 June 24, 2018 16,791,000 25,820,000 39 June 24, 2018 The effective income tax rate for the 13 39 June 30, 2019 19.6% 29.8% 13 39 June 24, 2018 29.3% 65.0% The primary differences between these rates and the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% We file a consolidated federal tax return, as well as combined and separate tax returns in approximately 27 not 2014. 11 At September 30, 2018, $63,048,000 September 30, 2018.

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common Sh

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common Share	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	8 EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share: 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated: 5,766 4,458 13,449 41,700 Weighted average common shares 57,731 57,064 57,578 56,971 Less weighted average restricted Common Stock (2,088 ) (2,286 ) (2,094 ) (2,373 ) Basic average common shares 55,643 54,778 55,484 54,598 Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock 1,227 1,302 1,038 1,305 Diluted average common shares 56,870 56,080 56,522 55,903 Earnings per common share: Basic 0.10 0.08 0.24 0.76 Diluted 0.10 0.08 0.24 0.75 For the 13 39 June 30, 2019 6,000,000 not 13 39 June 24, 2018 6,484,300 6,701,300 not

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Text Block]	9 STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS A summary of stock option activity during the 39 June 30, 2019 (Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data) Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term ( Years Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding, September 30, 2018 1,100 1.88 Exercised (83 ) 2.11 Cancelled (58 ) 2.01 Outstanding, June 30, 2019 959 1.86 1.9 497 Exercisable, June 30, 2019 959 1.86 1.9 497 Restricted Common Stock The table below summarizes restricted Common Stock activity during the 39 June 30, 2019 (Thousands of Shares, Except Per Share Data) Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, September 30, 2018 2,059 2.31 Vested (737 ) 1.54 Granted 788 2.18 Cancelled (34 ) 2.13 Outstanding, June 30, 2019 2,076 2.53 Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at June 30, 2019 2,258,011 1.4

Note 10 - Fair Value Measuremen

Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	10 FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures 820 820 three Level 1 Level 2 not Level 3 one 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. Investments totaling $ 6,068,000 17% June 30, 2019 10,201,717 3 Our fixed rate debt consists of $ 374,420,000 84,138,000 2 nd June 30, 2019 381,440,375 83,927,867 2 nd 2 As discussed more fully in Note 5, $16,930,000. June 2019 March 2019 $ 1,417,000 $ 4,479,000 2

Note 11 - Commitments and Conti

Note 11 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes to Financial Statements
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	11 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Income Taxes Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes 7. 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 may not 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 2014. Legal Proceedings We are involved in a variety of legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not Multiemployer Pension Plans The Company contributes to three June 2017, one 2017, $2,600,000. twenty In the second 2019, $500,000,

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited, interim, Consolidated Financial Statements included herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission for quarterly reports. In the opinion of management, these financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring items) necessary to present fairly the financial position of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of June 30, 2019 2018 10 Because of seasonal and other factors, the results of operations for the 13 39 June 30, 2019 not References to “we”, “our”, “us” and the like throughout the Consolidated Financial Statements refer to the Company. References to “2019”, “2018” September. The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 82.5% 50% 50% 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. On June 26, 2018, 30 five may one may $5 The variable fees are payable annually in arrears. As of June 30, 2019, first 11,320,000 .
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("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. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis. 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 may
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	New accounting pronouncements Between 2014 2017, December 15, 2017. five We adopted the New Revenue Standard on October 1, 2018, not not not not We have also assessed the new accounting principles related to the deferral and amortization of contract acquisition costs and due to the short-term nature of such costs, we will utilize the practical expedient to continue to expense these costs as incurred. See Note 2 In August 2016, no December 30, 2018. In March 2017, December 30, 2018 712,000 2,135,000 13 39 June 30, 2019 708,000 2,123,000 13 39 June 24, 2018 In February 2018, "2017 first 2018, $3,067,000 no In February 2016, not not twelve In July 2018, September 30, 2019, first 2020. To date we have made progress in our assessment of the new lease standard. Specifically, we have identified the population of leases and key financial metrics associated with each lease for scoping purposes. Additionally, we have selected a software solution that is compatible with our current financial reporting and control environment. Implementation of the software solution and reporting capabilities will occur during the fourth 2019. Based on our progress to date, we anticipate adopting the standard will have a material impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a result of the recognition of the corresponding lease assets and liabilities. However, we do not

Note 2 - Revenue (Tables)

Note 2 - Revenue (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Advertising and marketing services revenue 65,754 73,538 204,651 229,751 Subscription Revenue 46,620 48,165 137,965 142,405 TownNews and other digital services revenue 5,087 3,826 14,507 11,302 Other revenue 9,823 7,089 29,066 20,750 Total operating revenue 127,284 132,618 386,189 404,208

Note 3 - Investments in Assoc_2

Note 3 - Investments in Associated Companies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Operating revenue 10,465 11,013 34,109 36,094 Operating expenses 8,363 9,039 26,291 28,376 Operating income 2,102 1,974 7,818 7,718 Company's 50% share of operating income 1,051 987 3,909 3,860 Less amortization of intangible assets 105 105 313 314 Equity in earnings of TNI 946 882 3,596 3,546 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Operating revenue 13,709 14,518 41,627 44,421 Operating expenses, excluding restructuring costs, depreciation and amortization 12,132 12,054 36,338 37,002 Restructuring costs 67 61 134 270 Depreciation and amortization 280 280 839 838 Operating income 1,230 2,123 4,316 6,311 Net income 1,010 1,391 3,405 4,047 Equity in earnings of MNI 505 696 1,702 2,023

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other I_2

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 Goodwill, gross amount 1,535,155 Accumulated impairment losses (1,288,979 ) Goodwill, beginning of period 246,176 Goodwill acquired in business combinations 3,551 Goodwill, end of period 249,727
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	(Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018 Nonamortized intangible assets: Mastheads 21,883 21,883 Amortizable intangible assets: Customer and newspaper subscriber lists 696,632 692,886 Less accumulated amortization 607,709 594,950 88,923 97,936 Other intangible assets, net 110,806 119,819

Note 5 - Debt (Tables)

Note 5 - Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	Interest Rates (%) (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 September 30, 2018 June 30, 2019 Revolving Facility — — 6.1 1 st — 6,303 8.5 Notes 374,420 385,000 9.5 2nd Lien Term Loan 84,138 93,556 12.0 458,558 484,859 Unamortized debt issue costs (12,601 ) (17,055 ) Less current maturities of long-term debt 3,931 7,027 Total long-term debt 442,026 460,777
Debt Instrument Redemption [Table Text Block]	Period Beginning Percentage of Principal Amount March 15, 2019 102.38 March 15, 2020 100.00

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirem_2

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]	PENSION PLANS 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Service cost for benefits earned during the period 9 12 27 36 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 1,641 1,438 4,923 4,314 Expected return on plan assets (2,018 ) (1,983 ) (6,055 ) (5,949 ) Amortization of net loss 284 506 851 1,518 Amortization of prior service benefit (25 ) (34 ) (75 ) (102 ) Pension benefit (109 ) (61 ) (329 ) (183 ) POSTRETIREMENT MEDICAL PLANS 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 103 90 309 271 Expected return on plan assets (270 ) (270 ) (811 ) (810 ) Amortization of net gain (244 ) (246 ) (732 ) (738 ) Amortization of prior service benefit (181 ) (196 ) (543 ) (588 ) Curtailment gains — — — (2,031 ) Postretirement medical benefit (592 ) (622 ) (1,777 ) (3,896 )

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common _2

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended (Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data) June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 June 30, 2019 June 24, 2018 Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated: 5,766 4,458 13,449 41,700 Weighted average common shares 57,731 57,064 57,578 56,971 Less weighted average restricted Common Stock (2,088 ) (2,286 ) (2,094 ) (2,373 ) Basic average common shares 55,643 54,778 55,484 54,598 Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock 1,227 1,302 1,038 1,305 Diluted average common shares 56,870 56,080 56,522 55,903 Earnings per common share: Basic 0.10 0.08 0.24 0.76 Diluted 0.10 0.08 0.24 0.75

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019
Notes Tables
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Activity [Table Text Block]	(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data) Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term ( Years Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding, September 30, 2018 1,100 1.88 Exercised (83 ) 2.11 Cancelled (58 ) 2.01 Outstanding, June 30, 2019 959 1.86 1.9 497 Exercisable, June 30, 2019 959 1.86 1.9 497
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock Unit, Activity [Table Text Block]	(Thousands of Shares, Except Per Share Data) Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, September 30, 2018 2,059 2.31 Vested (737 ) 1.54 Granted 788 2.18 Cancelled (34 ) 2.13 Outstanding, June 30, 2019 2,076 2.53

Note 1 - Basis of Presentatio_2

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual)	Jun. 26, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 24, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 24, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 24, 2017USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax		$ 127,284,000	$ 132,618,000	$ 386,189,000	$ 404,208,000
Labor and Related Expense		45,373,000	48,570,000	140,197,000	149,551,000
Other Cost and Expense, Operating, Total		48,157,000	49,159,000	145,915,000	148,830,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Total		(12,112,000)		(12,112,000)		$ (11,746,000)
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Ending Balance		(266,242,000)		(266,242,000)		(279,691,000)
Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets, Net		47,772,000		47,772,000		$ 43,711,000
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member]
Labor and Related Expense			(708,000)
Other Cost and Expense, Operating, Total			$ 708,000		$ 2,123,000
Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Total							$ (3,067,000)
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Ending Balance							$ 3,067,000
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Cost (Reversal of Cost), Total		712,000		2,135,000
BH Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Number of Markets	30
Management Agreement, Term	5 years
Management Agreement, Term Extension	1 year
Management Fee, Receivable	$ 5,000,000
BH Media Group, Inc. [Member] | Management Service [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax				11,320,000
Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets, Net		$ 5,506,000		$ 5,506,000
INN Partners, L.C. [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent		82.50%		82.50%
TNI Partners [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent		50.00%		50.00%
MNI [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent		50.00%		50.00%

Note 2 - Revenue (Details Textu

Note 2 - Revenue (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Contract with Customer, Liability, Current	$ 22,970,000	$ 22,970,000	$ 23,895,000
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized	2,262,000	22,475,000
Contract with Customer, Asset, Net, Current, Total	5,506,000	5,506,000	0
Accounts Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss	47,909,000	47,909,000	48,517,000
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Ending Balance	$ 5,643,000	$ 5,643,000	$ 4,806,000

Note 2 - Revenue - Disaggregati

Note 2 - Revenue - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Operating revenue	$ 127,284	$ 132,618	$ 386,189	$ 404,208
Advertising and Marketing Services [Member]
Operating revenue	65,754	73,538	204,651	229,751
Subscription and Circulation [Member]
Operating revenue	46,620	48,165	137,965	142,405
Digital Services Revenues [Member]
Operating revenue	5,087	3,826	14,507	11,302
Other Revenues [Member]
Operating revenue	$ 9,823	$ 7,089	$ 29,066	$ 20,750

Note 3 - Investments in Assoc_3

Note 3 - Investments in Associated Companies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
MNI [Member]
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution	$ 850,000	$ 500,000	$ 2,350,000	$ 2,500,000
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	50.00%		50.00%
TNI Partners [Member]
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution	$ 731,000	$ 1,177,000	$ 3,238,000	$ 4,375,000

Note 3 - Investments in Assoc_4

Note 3 - Investments in Associated Companies - Summarized Financial Results (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Equity in earnings	$ 1,451	$ 1,578	$ 5,298	$ 5,569
TNI Partners [Member]
Operating revenue	10,465	11,013	34,109	36,094
Operating expenses	8,363	9,039	26,291	28,376
Operating income	2,102	1,974	7,818	7,718
Company's 50% share of operating income	1,051	987	3,909	3,860
Less amortization of intangible assets	105	105	313	314
Equity in earnings	946	882	3,596	3,546
Madison Newspapers, Inc. [Member]
Operating revenue	13,709	14,518	41,627	44,421
Operating expenses	12,132	12,054	36,338	37,002
Operating income	1,230	2,123	4,316	6,311
Equity in earnings	505	696	1,702	2,023
Restructuring costs	67	61	134	270
Depreciation and amortization	280	280	839	838
Net income	$ 1,010	$ 1,391	$ 3,405	$ 4,047

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other I_3

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details Textual)	9 Months Ended	18 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	$ 3,551,000	$ 3,551,000
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired	$ 3,650,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period	10 years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Rolling Twelve Months	$ 16,060,000	16,060,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	15,634,000	15,634,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Three	12,744,000	12,744,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Four	12,263,000	12,263,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Five	$ 11,237,000	$ 11,237,000

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other I_4

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)	9 Months Ended	18 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Goodwill, gross amount			$ 1,535,155,000
Accumulated impairment losses			$ (1,288,979,000)
Goodwill, beginning of period	$ 246,176,000
Goodwill acquired in business combinations	3,551,000	$ 3,551,000
Goodwill, end of period	$ 249,727,000	$ 249,727,000

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other I_5

Note 4 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Identified Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Mastheads	$ 21,883	$ 21,883
Other intangible assets, net	110,806	119,819
Customer Lists [Member]
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	696,632	692,886
Less accumulated amortization	607,709	594,950
	$ 88,923	$ 97,936

Note 5 - Debt (Details Textual)

Note 5 - Debt (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Sep. 24, 2023	Sep. 25, 2022	Sep. 26, 2021	Sep. 27, 2020	Jul. 31, 2019	Dec. 01, 2018	Nov. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Weighted Average Cost of Debt, Excluding Amortization of Debt Financing Costs		10.00%	10.00%
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year		$ 3,931,000	$ 3,931,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two		0	0
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three		0	0
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four		374,420,000	374,420,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five		80,207,000	80,207,000
Long-term Debt, Gross		458,558,000	458,558,000									$ 484,859,000
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount		10,580,000	10,580,000
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt, Total		(238,000)	(238,000)
Long-term Debt, Total		442,026,000	442,026,000									460,777,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt, Total			26,301,000	$ 48,573,000
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs			2,928,000
Debt Issuance Costs, Net, Total		12,601,000	12,601,000									17,055,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity		21,685,000	21,685,000
Liquidity		35,201,000	35,201,000
Future Liquidity Warrant Exercise Proceeds			25,140,000
Debt Financing Costs that Should Have Been Recorded in Prior Periods [Member]
Increase in Debt Financing and Other Costs		1,309,000	1,145,000
Increase (Decrease) in Long-term Debt, Unamortized Debt Financing Costs		$ 1,309,000	$ 1,309,000
Forecast [Member]
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs	$ 1,029,000				$ 232,000	$ 2,747,000	$ 4,388,000	$ 4,205,000
Warrants Issued in Connection with Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights		6,000,000	6,000,000
Warrants, When Fully Exercised, Percentage of Common Stock Outstanding			10.40%
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights		$ 4.19	$ 4.19
Warrants and Rights Outstanding		$ 16,930,000	$ 16,930,000
Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount													$ 400,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		9.50%	9.50%										9.50%
Long-term Debt, Gross		$ 374,420,000	$ 374,420,000									385,000,000
Repurchase Price of Notes, Change of Control		101.00%	101.00%
Debt Issuance Costs, Gross													$ 37,819,000
First Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount													250,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		8.50%	8.50%
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 27,200,000	$ 27,200,000							$ 27,200,000	$ 40,000,000		40,000,000
Long-term Debt, Gross												6,303,000
Long-term Debt, Total		0	0
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity		$ 21,685,000	$ 21,685,000
First Lien Term Loan [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Reduction in Loan Commitments									15.00%
First Lien Term Loan [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity									$ 23,120,000
Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount													$ 150,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		12.00%	12.00%
Long-term Debt, Gross		$ 84,138,000	$ 84,138,000									93,556,000
Long-term Debt, Total		84,138,000	84,138,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt, Total		$ 7,318,000	9,418,000
Pulitzer Excess Cash Flow			$ 3,931,000
First Lien Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		6.10%	6.10%
Long-term Debt, Gross
First Lien Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate			5.50%
First Lien Credit Facility [Member] | Prime Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate			4.50%
First Lien Credit Facility [Member] | Federal Funds Rate Plus 0.5% [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate			4.50%
First Lien Credit Facility [Member] | One Month LIBOR Plus 1.0% [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate			4.50%

Note 5 - Debt - Debt (Details)

Note 5 - Debt - Debt (Details) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2014
Long-term debt, gross	$ 458,558,000	$ 484,859,000
Interest rate
Unamortized debt issue costs	$ (12,601,000)	(17,055,000)
Interest rate
Less current maturities of long-term debt	$ 3,931,000	7,027,000
Total long-term debt	442,026,000	460,777,000
First Lien Credit Facility [Member]
Long-term debt, gross
Interest rate	6.10%
Interest rate	(6.10%)
First Lien Term Loan [Member]
Long-term debt, gross		6,303,000
Interest rate	8.50%
Interest rate	(8.50%)
Total long-term debt	$ 0
Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Long-term debt, gross	$ 374,420,000	385,000,000
Interest rate	9.50%		9.50%
Interest rate	(9.50%)		(9.50%)
Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Long-term debt, gross	$ 84,138,000	$ 93,556,000
Interest rate	12.00%
Interest rate	(12.00%)
Total long-term debt	$ 84,138,000

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirem_3

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans (Details Textual) - Pension Plan [Member] - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer		$ 650,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailment	$ 2,031,000

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirem_4

Note 6 - Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Defined Benefit Plans - Net Period Postretirement Cost (Benefit) Components for Postretirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Pension Plan [Member]
Service cost for benefits earned during the period	$ 9,000	$ 12,000	$ 27,000	$ 36,000
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,641,000	1,438,000	4,923,000	4,314,000
Expected return on plan assets	(2,018,000)	(1,983,000)	(6,055,000)	(5,949,000)
Amortization of net loss	284,000	506,000	851,000	1,518,000
Amortization of prior service benefit	(25,000)	(34,000)	(75,000)	(102,000)
Pension benefit	(109,000)	(61,000)	(329,000)	(183,000)
Curtailment gains		(2,031,000)
Postretirement Health Coverage [Member]
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	103,000	90,000	309,000	271,000
Expected return on plan assets	(270,000)	(270,000)	(811,000)	(810,000)
Amortization of net loss	(244,000)	(246,000)	(732,000)	(738,000)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(181,000)	(196,000)	(543,000)	(588,000)
Pension benefit	(592,000)	(622,000)	(1,777,000)	(3,896,000)
Curtailment gains				$ (2,031,000)

Note 7 - Income Taxes (Details

Note 7 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	$ 1,505,000	$ 1,972,000	$ 6,175,000	$ (16,791,000)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest, Total	$ (7,677,000)	$ 6,722,000	$ 20,739,000	$ 25,820,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent, Total	19.60%	29.30%	29.80%	(65.00%)
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Total					$ 63,048,000

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common _3

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common Share (Details Textual) - shares	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	6,000,000	6,484,300	6,000,000	6,701,300

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common _4

Note 8 - Earnings Per Common Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended						9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 30, 2018	Jun. 24, 2018	Mar. 25, 2018	Dec. 24, 2017	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 24, 2018
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ 5,766	$ (2,678)	$ 10,361	$ 4,458	$ 2,239	$ 35,003	$ 13,449	$ 41,700
Weighted average common shares (in shares)	57,731			57,064			57,578	56,971
Less weighted average restricted Common Stock (in shares)	(2,088)			(2,286)			(2,094)	(2,373)
Basic average common shares (in shares)	55,643			54,778			55,484	54,598
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock (in shares)	1,227			1,302			1,038	1,305
Diluted average common shares (in shares)	56,870			56,080			56,522	55,903
Basic: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10			$ 0.08			$ 0.24	$ 0.76
Diluted: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10			$ 0.08			$ 0.24	$ 0.75

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plan_2

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans (Details Textual) - Restricted Stock [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount, Total	$ 2,258,011
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 146 days

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plan_3

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Outstanding, Shares (in shares) | shares	1,100
Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.88
Exercised, Shares (in shares) | shares	(83)
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.11
Cancelled, Shares (in shares) | shares	(58)
Cancelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.01
Outstanding, Shares (in shares) | shares	959
Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.86
Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Year)	1 year 328 days
Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 497
Exercisable, Shares (in shares) | shares	959
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.86
Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Year)	1 year 328 days
Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 497

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plan_4

Note 9 - Stock Ownership Plans - Summary of Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock [Member] shares in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019$ / sharesshares
Outstanding, shares (in shares) | shares	2,059
Outstanding, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.31
Vested, shares (in shares) | shares	(737)
Vested, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.54
Granted, shares (in shares) | shares	788
Granted, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.18
Cancelled, shares (in shares) | shares	(34)
Cancelled, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.13
Outstanding, shares (in shares) | shares	2,076
Outstanding, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 2.53

Note 10 - Fair Value Measurem_2

Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements (Details Textual) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2014
Long-term Debt, Total	$ 442,026,000		$ 460,777,000
Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Long-term Debt, Total	84,138,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure, Total	6,068,000
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Amount	10,201,717
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Long-term Debt, Total	374,420,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Long-term Debt, Total	$ 84,138,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | TCT and Private Equity Investment [Member]
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Percent	17.00%
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Warrants and Rights Outstanding	$ 1,417,000	$ 4,479,000		$ 16,930,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	381,440,375
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Second Lien Term Loan [Member]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	$ 83,927,867

Note 11 - Commitments and Con_2

Note 11 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details Textual)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019
Number of Multiemployer Pension Plans			3
Plan Partially Withdrawn From in 2017 [Member] | Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation	$ 2,600,000
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Period	20 years
CWA ITU Multiempoyer Plan [Member] | Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Multiemployer Plans, Expenses for Lability Incurred		$ 500,000