The E.W. Scripps Company (SSP) 10-Q 8 Nov 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Document Information [Line Items]	'
Entity Registrant Name	'SCRIPPS E W CO /DE
Entity Central Index Key	'0000832428
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer
Document Type	'10-Q
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3
Amendment Flag	'false
Common Class A	'
Document Information [Line Items]	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	43,758,098
Voting common stock	'
Document Information [Line Items]	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	11,932,722

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$202,136	$242,642
Restricted cash	8,210	10,010
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances - $1,651 and $2,491)	122,832	125,639
Inventory	6,826	6,437
Deferred income taxes	7,210	7,210
Income taxes receivable	5,177	2,926
Miscellaneous	7,757	7,836
Total current assets	360,148	402,700
Investments	19,696	21,115
Property, plant and equipment	359,058	374,931
Goodwill	27,966	27,966
Other intangible assets	139,597	144,783
Deferred income taxes	35,823	36,095
Miscellaneous	21,449	23,178
Total Assets	963,737	1,030,768
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	17,055	23,329
Customer deposits and unearned revenue	26,281	26,240
Current portion of long-term debt	38,850	15,900
Accrued liabilities:	'	'
Employee compensation and benefits	31,291	37,118
Miscellaneous	28,840	28,545
Other current liabilities	10,066	14,901
Total current liabilities	152,383	146,033
Long-term debt (less current portion)	145,325	180,200
Other liabilities (less current portion)	160,792	164,625
Equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par — authorized: 25,000,000 shares; none outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 43,758,098 and 43,594,229 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,735 shares	557	555
Additional paid-in capital	504,485	517,688
Retained earnings	111,192	136,293
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes:	'	'
Unrealized loss on derivatives	-515	-1,009
Pension liability adjustments	-112,696	-115,831
Total The E.W. Scripps Company shareholders’ equity	503,023	537,696
Noncontrolling interest	2,214	2,214
Total equity	505,237	539,910
Total Liabilities and Equity	963,737	1,030,768
Common stock, Class A	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 43,758,098 and 43,594,229 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,735 shares	438	436
Voting common stock	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 43,758,098 and 43,594,229 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,735 shares	$119	$119

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Allowances for accounts and notes receivable	$1,651	$2,491
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	25,000,000	25,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (USD per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, Class A	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	240,000,000	240,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	43,758,098	43,594,229
Common stock, shares outstanding	43,758,098	43,594,229
Voting common stock	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	60,000,000	60,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	11,932,722	11,932,735
Common stock, shares outstanding	11,932,722	11,932,735

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Advertising	$141,139	$175,029	$446,391	$499,481
Subscriptions	28,184	27,801	86,751	88,068
Other	20,212	16,814	62,899	56,156
Total operating revenues	189,535	219,644	596,041	643,705
Costs and Expenses:	'	'	'	'
Employee compensation and benefits	95,581	96,366	292,409	294,229
Programs and program licenses	14,318	14,605	40,332	43,559
Newsprint, press supplies, and other printing costs	10,614	11,658	34,965	38,101
Newspaper distribution	11,623	12,092	35,837	37,625
Other expenses	49,502	50,035	149,629	146,563
Pension expense	2,490	1,980	7,028	5,755
Acquisition and related integration costs	0	0	0	5,826
Separation and restructuring costs	1,290	2,354	3,691	6,420
Total costs and expenses	185,418	189,090	563,891	578,078
Depreciation, Amortization, and Losses (Gains):	'	'	'	'
Depreciation	10,360	10,359	30,497	31,721
Amortization of intangible assets	1,736	1,777	5,187	5,324
Losses (gains), net on disposal of property, plant and equipment	177	80	140	50
Net depreciation, amortization, and losses (gains)	12,273	12,216	35,824	37,095
Operating (loss) income	-8,156	18,338	-3,674	28,532
Interest expense	-2,655	-3,288	-7,924	-9,653
Miscellaneous, net	-1,087	-900	-4,025	-2,452
(Loss) income from operations before income taxes	-11,898	14,150	-15,623	16,427
(Benefit) provision for income taxes	-3,047	2,148	-7,286	3,424
Net (loss) income	-8,851	12,002	-8,337	13,003
Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0	0
Net (loss) income attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	($8,851)	$12,002	($8,337)	$13,003
Net (loss) income per basic share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company:	($0.16)	$0.21	($0.15)	$0.23
Net (loss) income per diluted share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company:	($0.16)	$0.21	($0.15)	$0.22

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net (loss) income	($8,851)	$12,002	($8,337)	$13,003
Changes in fair value of derivative, net of tax of $(107), $(214), $299 and $(659)	-177	-357	494	-1,099
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $460, $347, $1,759 and $1,038	1,179	576	3,135	1,728
Total comprehensive (loss) income	-7,849	12,221	-4,708	13,632
Less comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	0	0	0
Total comprehensive (loss) income attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	($7,849)	$12,221	($4,708)	$13,632

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Changes in fair value of derivatives, tax amount	($107)	($214)	$299	($659)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, tax amount	$460	$347	$1,759	$1,038

Condednsed_Consolidated_Statem

Condednsed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:	'	'
Net (loss) income	($8,337)	$13,003
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	35,684	37,045
Contract termination fees	0	5,663
Deferred income taxes	-1,770	6,463
Excess tax benefits of share-based compensation plans	0	-4,320
Stock and deferred compensation plans	6,092	6,397
Pension expense, net of payments	4,294	3,434
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net	-13,486	56,645
Miscellaneous, net	3,458	-52
Net cash provided by operating activities	25,935	124,278
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'
Additions to property, plant and equipment	-15,531	-14,166
Purchase of investments	-1,425	-4,666
Change in restricted cash	1,800	0
Miscellaneous, net	339	236
Net cash used in investing activities	-14,817	-18,596
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'
Payments on long-term debt	-11,925	-11,925
Repurchase of Class A Common shares	-69,313	-23,564
Proceeds from employee stock options	40,229	12,575
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs	-6,157	-7,524
Excess tax benefits from stock compensation plans	0	4,320
Miscellaneous, net	-4,458	2,215
Net cash used in financing activities	-51,624	-23,903
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-40,506	81,779
Cash and cash equivalents:	'	'
Beginning of year	242,642	127,889
End of year	202,136	209,668
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures	'	'
Interest paid	6,077	7,090
Income taxes paid	$290	$1,012

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity (USD $)		Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Noncontrolling Interests
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011		$517,001	$543	$515,421	$96,105	($97,548)	$2,480
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'	'
Net (loss) income		13,003	'	'	13,003	'	'
Changes in defined benefit pension plans		1,728	'	'	'	1,728	'
Change in fair value of derivative		-1,099	'	'	'	-1,099	'
Repurchase 2,478,453 Class A Common Shares in 2012 and 4,816,228 Class A Common Shares in 2013		-23,564	-25	-23,539	'	'	'
Compensation plans: 3,056,652 net shares issued in 2012 and 4,980,097 in 2013	[1]	11,388	30	11,358	'	'	'
Excess tax benefits of compensation plans		7,400	'	7,400	'	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2012		525,857	548	510,640	109,108	-96,919	2,480
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012		539,910	555	517,688	136,293	-116,840	2,214
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'	'
Net (loss) income		-8,337	'	'	-8,337	'	'
Changes in defined benefit pension plans		3,135	'	'	'	3,135	'
Change in fair value of derivative		494	'	'	'	494	'
Repurchase 2,478,453 Class A Common Shares in 2012 and 4,816,228 Class A Common Shares in 2013		-69,313	-48	-52,501	-16,764	'	'
Compensation plans: 3,056,652 net shares issued in 2012 and 4,980,097 in 2013	[1]	39,348	50	39,298	'	'	'
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013		$505,237	$557	$504,485	$111,192	($113,211)	$2,214
[1]	* Net of tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs of $6,157 in 2013 and $7,524 in 2012.

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'
Repurchase of common shares	4,816,228	2,478,453
Shares issued on compensation plans	4,980,097	3,056,652
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs	($6,157)	($7,524)

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	As used in the Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, the terms “Scripps,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us” may, depending on the context, refer to The E. W. Scripps Company, to one or more of its consolidated subsidiary companies or to all of them taken as a whole.
	Basis of Presentation — The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. The interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto included in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In management's opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods have been made. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period’s presentation.
	Results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future interim periods or for the full year.
	Nature of Operations — We are a diverse media company with interests in television and newspaper publishing. All of our media businesses provide content and advertising services via digital platforms, including the Internet, mobile devices and tablets. Our media businesses are organized into the following reportable business segments: Television, Newspapers, and Syndication and other. Additional information for our business segments is presented in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Use of Estimates — Preparing financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make a variety of decisions that affect the reported amounts and the related disclosures. Such decisions include the selection of accounting principles that reflect the economic substance of the underlying transactions and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. In reaching such decisions, we apply judgment based on our understanding and analysis of the relevant circumstances, including our historical experience, actuarial studies and other assumptions.
	Our financial statements include estimates and assumptions used in accounting for our defined benefit pension plans; the periods over which long-lived assets are depreciated or amortized; the fair value of long-lived assets, goodwill and indefinite lived assets; the liability for uncertain tax positions and valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets; and self-insured risks.
	While we re-evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis, actual results could differ from those estimated at the time of preparation of the financial statements.
	Revenue Recognition — We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, delivery occurs or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured.
	Our primary sources of revenue are from the sale of print, broadcast and digital advertising and the sale of newspaper subscriptions.
	The revenue recognition policies for each source of revenue are described in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
	Share-Based Compensation — We have a Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) which is described more fully in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012. The Plan provides for the award of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units (RSUs), unrestricted Class A Common shares and performance units to key employees and non-employee directors.
	Share-based compensation costs totaled $1.1 million and $1.5 million for the third quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Year-to-date share-based compensation costs totaled $5.0 million and $6.2 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) — Unvested awards of share-based payments with rights to receive dividends or dividend equivalents, such as our RSUs, are considered participating securities for purposes of calculating EPS. Under the two-class method, we allocate a portion of net income to these participating securities and therefore exclude that income from the calculation of EPS for common stock. We do not allocate losses to the participating securities.
	The following table presents information about basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share)
	Net (loss) income attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$	(8,851	)	$	12,002		$	(8,337	)	$	13,003
	Less income allocated to RSUs	—			(496		)	—			(617		)
	Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share	$	(8,851	)	$	11,506		$	(8,337	)	$	12,386
	Denominator
	Basic weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177			54,637			56,696			54,852
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options held by employees and directors	—			574			—			338
	Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177			55,211			56,696			55,190
	Anti-dilutive securities (1)	5,551			4,415			5,551			4,415
	(1) Amount outstanding at Balance Sheet date, before application of the treasury stock method and not weighted for period outstanding.
	For the quarter ended and the year-to-date period ended September 30, 2013, we incurred a net loss and the inclusion of unvested stock, RSUs and stock options held by employees and directors would have been anti-dilutive and accordingly the diluted EPS calculation for the period excludes those common share equivalents.
	Derivative Financial Instruments — It is our policy that derivative transactions are executed only to manage exposures arising in the normal course of business and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions or trading. Derivative financial instruments are utilized to manage interest rate risks. We do not hold derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. All derivatives must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Each derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified to the statement of operations when the effects of the item being hedged are recognized in the statement of operations. These changes are offset in earnings to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in the fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in the statement of operations. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in earnings.
	All designated hedges are formally documented as to the relationship with the hedged item as well as the risk-management strategy. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness, when applicable. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, or the underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, or the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued.

Recently_Adopted_Standards_and

Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]	'
Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards	'
	Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards
	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards — In February 2013, the FASB issued new guidance regarding the disclosure of comprehensive income (loss). The update requires an entity to present, either on the face of the statement where net income (loss) is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by the respective line items of net income (loss), but only if the amount reclassified is required under US GAAP to be reclassified to net income (loss) in its entirety in the same reporting period. The update was effective for us on January 1, 2013. The implementation of this amended accounting guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In July 2012, the FASB amended the guidance on testing indefinite-lived assets, other than goodwill, for impairment. Under the revised guidance, an entity testing an indefinite-lived intangible asset for impairment has the option of performing a qualitative assessment before performing quantitative tests. If the entity determines, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is not more likely than not impaired, the entity would not need to perform the quantitative tests. This guidance will be effective for our annual impairment tests for the year ending December 31, 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial statements; rather it may change our approach to testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	We file a consolidated federal income tax return, consolidated unitary tax returns in certain states, and other separate state income tax returns for our subsidiary companies.
	The income tax provision for interim periods is generally determined based upon the expected effective income tax rate for the full year and the tax rate applicable to certain discrete transactions in the interim period. To determine the annual effective income tax rate, we must estimate both the total income (loss) before income tax for the full year and the jurisdictions in which that income (loss) is subject to tax. The actual effective income tax rate for the full year may differ from these estimates if income (loss) before income tax is greater than or less than what was estimated or if the allocation of income (loss) to jurisdictions in which it is taxed is different from the estimated allocations. We review and adjust our estimated effective income tax rate for the full year each quarter based upon our most recent estimates of income (loss) before income tax for the full year and the jurisdictions in which we expect that income will be taxed.
	The impact of small changes in our estimated pretax income for the 2013 year significantly impact our estimated effective tax rate for the year. Differences between pretax book and taxable earnings, such as non-deductible expenses and state income taxes, on the effective income tax rate varies significantly as income before income taxes changes. Accordingly, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we do not believe we can reasonably estimate our full year effective income tax rate, and as permitted by US GAAP, we have determined our tax benefit for 2013 based upon year-to-date pretax loss and the effect of differences between book and taxable loss.
	The effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, was 46.6% and 20.8%, respectively. The primary reason for the difference between these rates and the U.S. Federal statutory rate of 35% is the impact of state taxes, non-deductible expenses and reserves for uncertain tax positions (including interest). We recognized $2.4 million and $3.7 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits in the first nine months of 2013 and 2012, respectively, upon settlement of audits or when the statutes of limitations lapsed in certain tax jurisdictions.
	Deferred tax assets totaled $43 million at September 30, 2013. Management believes that it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of our Federal deferred tax assets and therefore has not recorded a valuation allowance for our Federal deferred tax assets. If economic conditions worsen, future estimates of taxable income could be lower than our current estimates, which may require valuation allowances to be recorded in future reporting periods.
	During the period ended September 30, 2013, deferred tax assets relating to employee share-based compensation from the vesting of RSU's and the exercise of stock options have not been recognized since we are in a net tax loss position as of September 30, 2013. The additional tax benefits will be reflected as net operating loss carryforwards when we file our tax return for 2013, but the additional tax benefits are not recorded under GAAP until the tax deduction reduces taxes payable. The amount of unrecognized tax deductions for the period ended September 30, 2013 was approximately $33 million.

Restricted_Cash

Restricted Cash	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]	'
Restricted Cash	'
	Restricted Cash
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we had $8.2 million and $10.0 million, respectively, in a restricted cash account on deposit with our insurance carrier. This account serves as collateral, in place of an irrevocable stand-by letter of credit, to provide financial assurance that we will fulfill our obligations with respect to cash requirements associated with workers compensation self-insurance. This cash is to remain on deposit with the carrier until all claims have been paid or we provide a letter of credit in lieu of the cash deposit.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	Other intangible assets consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of			As of
		September 30,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Carrying amount:
	Television network affiliation relationships	$	78,844		$	78,844
	Customer lists and advertiser relationships	22,304			22,304
	Other	3,561			3,765
	Total carrying amount	104,709			104,913
	Accumulated amortization:
	Television network affiliation relationships	(8,704		)	(5,755		)
	Customer lists and advertiser relationships	(12,438		)	(10,346		)
	Other	(1,785		)	(1,844		)
	Total accumulated amortization	(22,927		)	(17,945		)
	Net amortizable intangible assets	81,782			86,968
	Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses	57,815			57,815
	Total other intangible assets	$	139,597		$	144,783
	Goodwill by business segment was as follows:
	(in thousands)	Television			Newspapers			Total
	Gross balance at December 31, 2012	$	243,380		$	778,900		$	1,022,280
	Accumulated impairment losses	(215,414		)	(778,900		)	(994,314		)
	Net balance as of December 31, 2012	$	27,966		$	—		$	27,966
	Gross balance as of September 30, 2013	$	243,380		$	778,900		$	1,022,280
	Accumulated impairment losses	(215,414		)	(778,900		)	(994,314		)
	Net balance at September 30, 2013	$	27,966		$	—		$	27,966
	Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for each of the next five years is $1.9 million for the remainder of 2013, $6.8 million in 2014, $6.7 million in 2015, $6.7 million in 2016, $4.2 million in 2017, $4.2 million in 2018, and $51.3 million in later years.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of		As of
		September 30,		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Variable rate credit facility	$	—	$	—
	Term loan	184,175		196,100
	Long-term debt	184,175		196,100
	Current portion of long-term debt	38,850		15,900
	Long-term debt (less current portion)	$	145,325	$	180,200
	Fair value of long-term debt *	$	192,700	$	196,100
	* Fair value was estimated based on current rates available to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturity and are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
	We currently have a $312 million revolving credit and term loan agreement (“Financing Agreement”). The Financing Agreement, which expires in December 2016, includes a $212 million term loan and a $100 million revolving credit facility.
	The Financing Agreement includes certain affirmative and negative covenants, including maintenance of minimum fixed charge coverage and leverage ratios, as defined in the Financing Agreement. We were in compliance with all covenants at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.
	Interest is payable at rates based on LIBOR plus a margin based on our leverage ratio ranging from 3.5% to 4.0%. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the interest rate was 3.68% and 3.72%, respectively. The Financing Agreement also includes a provision that in certain circumstances we must use a portion of excess cash flow to repay debt. As of September 30, 2013, we expect to pay approximately $15 million in the fourth quarter under the excess cash flow provision. The weighted-average interest rate on borrowings was 3.70% and 4.25% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Due to favorable market conditions, we are exploring options to refinance our Financing Agreement which, if completed, would provide more favorable terms.
	Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt at September 30, 2013, are: $4.0 million for the remainder of 2013, $26.5 million in 2014, $26.5 million in 2015, and $127.2 million in 2016.
	Under the terms of the Financing Agreement, we granted the lenders mortgages on certain of our real property, pledges of our equity interests in our subsidiaries and security interests in substantially all other personal property, including cash, accounts receivables, inventories and equipment.
	The Financing Agreement allows us to make restricted payments (dividends and share repurchases) up to $25 million plus additional amounts based on our financial results and condition, up to a maximum of $250 million over the term of the agreement. We can also make additional restricted payments for share repurchases equal to the amount of proceeds that we receive from the exercise of stock options held by our employees. We can make acquisitions up to $25 million plus additional amounts based on our financial results and condition, up to a maximum of $150 million.
	Commitment fees of 0.50% per annum of the total unused commitment are payable under the revolving credit facility.
	As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $0.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

Financial_Instruments

Financial Instruments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

'

Financial Instruments

'

Financial Instruments

We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates. To manage risks associated with the volatility of changes in interest rates we may enter into interest rate management instruments.

We utilize interest rate swaps to manage our interest expense exposure by fixing our interest rate on portions of our floating rate term loan. We have entered into a $75 million notional value interest rate swap expiring in March 2016 which provides for a fixed interest rate of 1.08%. We did not provide or receive any collateral for this contract. The fair value of this financial derivative, which is designated as and qualifies as a cash flow hedge, is determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash receipts (or payments) and the discounted expected variable cash payments (or receipts). The variable cash payments (or receipts) are based on the expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observed market interest rate curves and implied volatilities. In addition, credit valuation adjustments, which consider the impact of any credit enhancements to the contracts, are incorporated in the fair values to account for potential nonperformance risk.

Fair Value of Derivative Instruments

The notional amounts and fair values of derivative instruments designated as cash flow are shown below.

As of September 30, 2013

As of December 31, 2012

Notional

Fair value

Notional

Fair value

(in thousands)

amount

Asset

Liability (1)

amount

Asset

Liability (1)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

75,000

$

—

$

825

$

75,000

$

—

$

1,619

(1) Balance recorded in "Other liabilities"

The above derivative instrument that is designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge and the effective portion of the unrealized gain and loss on the derivative is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. Gain and loss on the derivative representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.

Three months ended September 30, 2013

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(455

)

$

171

$

—

Three months ended September 30, 2012

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(732

)

$

161

$

—

Nine months ended September 30, 2013

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

290

$

504

$

—

Nine months ended September 30, 2012

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(2,121

)

$

363

$

—

Fair_Value_Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurement	'
	Fair Value Measurement
	We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, such as derivatives and cash equivalents. The fair value of these financial assets and liabilities were determined based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value. These levels of input are as follows:
	•	Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	•	Level 2 — Inputs, other than quoted market prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly.
	•	Level 3 — Unobservable inputs based on our own assumptions.
	The following tables set forth our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
			As of September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)		Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Assets/(Liabilities):
	Cash equivalents		$	40,000		$	40,000	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap		(825		)	—		(825		)	—
			As of December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)		Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Assets/(Liabilities):
	Cash equivalents		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap		(1,619		)	—		(1,619		)	—

Other_Liabilities

Other Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Other Liabilities	'
	Other Liabilities
	Other liabilities consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of		As of
		September 30,		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Employee compensation and benefits	$	21,317	$	20,596
	Liability for pension benefits	112,692		112,556
	Liabilities for uncertain tax positions	11,050		12,534
	Other	15,733		18,939
	Other liabilities (less current portion)	$	160,792	$	164,625

Noncontrolling_Interests

Noncontrolling Interests	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'
Noncontrolling Interests	'
	Noncontrolling Interests
	Individuals and other entities own a 4% noncontrolling interest in the capital stock of the subsidiary company that publishes our Memphis newspaper and a 6% noncontrolling interest in the capital stock of the subsidiary company that publishes our Evansville newspaper. We are not required to redeem the noncontrolling interests in these subsidiary companies.

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	'
	Supplemental Cash Flow Information
	The following table presents additional information about the change in certain working capital accounts:
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
	Accounts and notes receivable	$	2,807		$	16,376
	Income taxes (receivable) payable, net	(2,251		)	27,827
	Accounts payable	(6,274		)	1,517
	Accrued employee compensation and benefits	(5,827		)	4,756
	Other accrued liabilities	(238		)	1,708
	Other, net	(1,703		)	4,461
	Total	$	(13,486	)	$	56,645

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Employee Benefit Plans	'
	Employee Benefit Plans
	We sponsor various noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all full-time employees that began employment prior to June 30, 2008. We also have a non-qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan ("SERP"). Effective June 30, 2009, we froze the accrual of benefits under our defined benefit pension plans that cover the majority of our employees and our SERP.
	We sponsor a defined contribution plan covering substantially all non-union and certain union employees. We match a portion of employees' voluntary contributions to this plan. In connection with freezing the accrual of service credits under certain of our defined benefit pension plans, we began contributing additional amounts to certain employees' defined contribution retirement accounts in 2011. These transition credits, which we will make through 2014, are determined based upon the employee’s age and compensation.
	Other union-represented employees are covered by defined benefit pension plans jointly sponsored by us and the union, or by union-sponsored multi-employer plans.
	The components of the expense consisted of the following:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service cost	$	17		$	13		$	51		$	39
	Interest cost	5,976			6,470			17,927			19,410
	Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses	(5,371		)	(5,641		)	(16,113		)	(16,924		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	—			1			—			2
	Amortization of actuarial loss	1,060			870			3,182			2,609
	Total for defined benefit plans	1,682			1,713			5,047			5,136
	Multi-employer plans	95			119			326			353
	SERP	808			268			1,981			620
	Defined contribution plans	2,341			2,625			8,627			8,054
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	4,926		$	4,725		$	15,981		$	14,163
	We contributed $2.6 million to fund current benefit payments for our SERP during the first nine months of 2013. We anticipate contributing an additional $0.2 million to fund the SERP’s benefit payments during the remainder of 2013. We contributed $0.1 million to our defined benefit plans during the first nine months of 2013.
	A settlement charge of $0.5 million was recorded for the third quarter of 2013 and $1.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 for our SERP plan. We remeasured our SERP liability in the second quarter of 2013 in accordance with US GAAP, reflecting the settlement of a significant portion of the plan's obligations. The actuarial assumptions used to remeasure the plan liability were substantially the same as those used in the December 31, 2012 measurement, except for an increase in the discount rate to 5%. Our discount rate is based on a dedicated bond portfolio approach that includes securities rated Aa or better with maturities matching the expected benefit payments of the SERP. The remeasurement reduced our pension liabilities and accumulated comprehensive loss by $3.3 million.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Segment Information
	We determine our business segments based upon our management and internal reporting structure. Our reportable segments are strategic businesses that offer different products and services.
	Television includes 10 ABC affiliates, three NBC affiliates, one independent station that we operate as a duopoly with our Kansas City NBC affiliate and five Azteca affiliates. Our television stations reach approximately 13% of the nation’s households. Television stations earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising time to local and national advertisers.
	Our newspaper business segment includes daily and community newspapers in 13 markets in the US. Newspapers earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising space to local and national advertisers and from the sale of newspaper subscriptions to readers.
	Syndication and other primarily includes syndication of news features and comics and other features for the newspaper industry.
	We allocate a portion of certain corporate costs and expenses, including information technology, certain employee benefits, digital operations services and other shared services, to our business segments. The allocations are generally amounts agreed upon by management, which may differ from an arms-length amount. Corporate assets are primarily cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and other short-term investments, property and equipment primarily used for corporate purposes, and deferred income taxes. A portion of our digital operations which are not allocated to our newspaper and television segments is included in shared services and corporate.
	Our chief operating decision maker evaluates the operating performance of our business segments and makes decisions about the allocation of resources to our business segments using a measure called segment profit. Segment profit excludes interest, defined benefit plan pension expense (other than current service cost), income taxes, depreciation and amortization, impairment charges, divested operating units, restructuring activities, investment results and certain other items that are included in net income (loss) determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
	Information regarding our business segments is as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Segment operating revenues:
	Television	$	99,289		$	125,329		$	307,548		$	341,983
	Newspapers	88,346			92,390			281,286			293,949
	Syndication and other	1,900			1,925			7,207			7,773
	Total operating revenues	$	189,535		$	219,644		$	596,041		$	643,705
	Segment profit (loss):
	Television	$	18,921		$	41,835		$	65,945		$	94,627
	Newspapers	3,038			4,249			14,857			15,980
	Syndication and other	(177		)	(620		)	(145		)	(212		)
	Shared services and corporate	(13,885		)	(10,576		)	(37,788		)	(26,767		)
	Depreciation and amortization of intangibles	(12,096		)	(12,136		)	(35,684		)	(37,045		)
	(Losses) gains, net on disposal of property, plant and equipment	(177		)	(80		)	(140		)	(50		)
	Pension expense	(2,490		)	(1,980		)	(7,028		)	(5,755		)
	Interest expense	(2,655		)	(3,288		)	(7,924		)	(9,653		)
	Acquisition and related integration costs	—			—			—			(5,826		)
	Separation and restructuring costs	(1,290		)	(2,354		)	(3,691		)	(6,420		)
	Miscellaneous, net	(1,087		)	(900		)	(4,025		)	(2,452		)
	(Loss) income from operations before income taxes	$	(11,898	)	$	14,150		$	(15,623	)	$	16,427
	Depreciation:
	Television	$	5,751		$	5,645		$	16,958		$	17,034
	Newspapers	4,015			4,464			12,132			13,937
	Syndication and other	20			12			58			36
	Shared services and corporate	574			238			1,349			714
	Total depreciation	$	10,360		$	10,359		$	30,497		$	31,721
	Amortization of intangibles:
	Television	$	1,599		$	1,612		$	4,778		$	4,801
	Newspapers	137			165			409			523
	Total amortization of intangibles	$	1,736		$	1,777		$	5,187		$	5,324
	Additions to property, plant and equipment:
	Television	$	2,169		$	4,716		$	7,325		$	9,267
	Newspapers	285			357			1,746			1,283
	Syndication and other	—			126			—			126
	Shared services and corporate	908			2,882			6,460			3,490
	Total additions to property, plant and equipment	$	3,362		$	8,081		$	15,531		$	14,166
	No single customer provides more than 10% of our revenue.

SpinOff_of_Scripps_Networks_In

Spin-Off of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Spin Off of Company [Abstract]	'
Spin-off of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.	'
	Spin-off of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.
	On July 1, 2008, we distributed all of the shares of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (“SNI”) to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 16, 2008. SNI owned and operated our national lifestyle cable television networks and interactive media businesses.
	In connection with the separation we entered into several agreements, including a Tax Allocation Agreement. This agreement sets forth the allocations between us and SNI with regards to liabilities for federal, state and local taxes for periods prior to the separation.
	Under the terms of the Tax Allocation Agreement we receive any tax deductions for share-based compensation awards held by our employees in SNI. Year-to-date tax deductions resulting from the exercise of those awards for 2013 and 2012 totaled approximately $11.4 million and $15.8 million, respectively. At September 30, 2013, our employees held options on approximately 0.5 million SNI shares, which expire through 2015.

Capital_Stock

Capital Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Capital Stock	'
	Capital Stock
	Capital Stock — We have two classes of common shares, Common Voting Shares and Class A Common shares. The Class A Common shares are only entitled to vote on the election of the greater of three or one-third of the directors and other matters as required by Ohio law.
	Share Repurchase Plan — In November 2012, our board of directors authorized a repurchase program of up to $100 million of our Class A Common shares through December 2014. Shares may be repurchased from time to time at management's discretion, either in the open market, through pre-arranged trading plans or in privately negotiated block transactions. Under the authorization, we repurchased $69.3 million of shares at prices ranging from $10.83 to $17.94 per share during 2013.
	Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant as of September 30, 2013 is as follows:
				Options Outstanding and Exercisable
	Year of Grant	Range of Exercise Prices	Average Remaining Term	Options on Shares Outstanding	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
			(in years)
	2003 – expire in 2013	10	0.13	1,969	$	9.9	$	—
	2004 – expire in 2014	11-Oct	0.5	256,187	10.57		2
	2005 – expire in 2013	11-Oct	1.37	54,129	10.77		0.4
	2006 – expire in 2014	11-Oct	0.48	280,894	10.34		2.2
	2007 – expire in 2015	10-Sep	1.41	1,164,836	10.36		9.3
	2008 – expire in 2016	10-Jul	2.5	2,184,742	8.71		21.1
	Total	11-Jul	1.88	3,942,757	$	9.46	$	35

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCL") by component, including items reclassified out of AOCL, were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)	Gains and Losses on Derivatives			Defined Benefit Pension Items			Other		Total
	Beginning balance, June 30, 2013	$	(338	)	$	(114,232	)	$	357	$	(114,213	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(284		)	—			—		(284		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
	comprehensive loss
	Interest rate swap (a), net of tax of $64	107			—			—		107
	Actuarial loss (b), net of tax of $460	—			1,179			—		1,179
	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(177		)	1,179			—		1,002
	Ending balance, September 30, 2013	$	(515	)	$	(113,053	)	$	357	$	(113,211	)
		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)	Gains and Losses on Derivatives			Defined Benefit Pension Items			Other		Total
	Beginning balance, December 31, 2012	$	(1,009	)	$	(116,188	)	$	357	$	(116,840	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	180			—			—		180
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
	comprehensive loss
	Interest rate swap (a), net of tax of $190	314			—			—		314
	Actuarial loss (b), net of tax of $1,759	—			3,135			—		3,135
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	494			3,135			—		3,629
	Ending balance, September 30, 2013	$	(515	)	$	(113,053	)	$	357	$	(113,211	)
	(a) Included in interest expense on the Statement of Operations
	(b) Included in pension expense on the Statement of Operations

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation — The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. The interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto included in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In management's opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods have been made. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period’s presentation.
Nature of Operations	'
	Nature of Operations — We are a diverse media company with interests in television and newspaper publishing. All of our media businesses provide content and advertising services via digital platforms, including the Internet, mobile devices and tablets. Our media businesses are organized into the following reportable business segments: Television, Newspapers, and Syndication and other. Additional information for our business segments is presented in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates — Preparing financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make a variety of decisions that affect the reported amounts and the related disclosures. Such decisions include the selection of accounting principles that reflect the economic substance of the underlying transactions and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. In reaching such decisions, we apply judgment based on our understanding and analysis of the relevant circumstances, including our historical experience, actuarial studies and other assumptions.
	Our financial statements include estimates and assumptions used in accounting for our defined benefit pension plans; the periods over which long-lived assets are depreciated or amortized; the fair value of long-lived assets, goodwill and indefinite lived assets; the liability for uncertain tax positions and valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets; and self-insured risks.
	While we re-evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis, actual results could differ from those estimated at the time of preparation of the financial statements.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition — We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, delivery occurs or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured.
	Our primary sources of revenue are from the sale of print, broadcast and digital advertising and the sale of newspaper subscriptions.
	The revenue recognition policies for each source of revenue are described in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Share-Based Compensation	'
	Share-Based Compensation — We have a Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) which is described more fully in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012. The Plan provides for the award of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units (RSUs), unrestricted Class A Common shares and performance units to key employees and non-employee directors.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)	'
	Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) — Unvested awards of share-based payments with rights to receive dividends or dividend equivalents, such as our RSUs, are considered participating securities for purposes of calculating EPS. Under the two-class method, we allocate a portion of net income to these participating securities and therefore exclude that income from the calculation of EPS for common stock. We do not allocate losses to the participating securities.
Derivative Financial Instruments	'
	Derivative Financial Instruments — It is our policy that derivative transactions are executed only to manage exposures arising in the normal course of business and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions or trading. Derivative financial instruments are utilized to manage interest rate risks. We do not hold derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. All derivatives must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Each derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified to the statement of operations when the effects of the item being hedged are recognized in the statement of operations. These changes are offset in earnings to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in the fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in the statement of operations. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in earnings.
	All designated hedges are formally documented as to the relationship with the hedged item as well as the risk-management strategy. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness, when applicable. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, or the underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, or the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Components of basic and diluted weighted-average shares	'
	The following table presents information about basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share)
	Net (loss) income attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$	(8,851	)	$	12,002		$	(8,337	)	$	13,003
	Less income allocated to RSUs	—			(496		)	—			(617		)
	Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share	$	(8,851	)	$	11,506		$	(8,337	)	$	12,386
	Denominator
	Basic weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177			54,637			56,696			54,852
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options held by employees and directors	—			574			—			338
	Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177			55,211			56,696			55,190
	Anti-dilutive securities (1)	5,551			4,415			5,551			4,415

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Summary of other intangible assets	'
	Other intangible assets consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of			As of
		September 30,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Carrying amount:
	Television network affiliation relationships	$	78,844		$	78,844
	Customer lists and advertiser relationships	22,304			22,304
	Other	3,561			3,765
	Total carrying amount	104,709			104,913
	Accumulated amortization:
	Television network affiliation relationships	(8,704		)	(5,755		)
	Customer lists and advertiser relationships	(12,438		)	(10,346		)
	Other	(1,785		)	(1,844		)
	Total accumulated amortization	(22,927		)	(17,945		)
	Net amortizable intangible assets	81,782			86,968
	Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses	57,815			57,815
	Total other intangible assets	$	139,597		$	144,783
Goodwill by business segment	'
	Goodwill by business segment was as follows:
	(in thousands)	Television			Newspapers			Total
	Gross balance at December 31, 2012	$	243,380		$	778,900		$	1,022,280
	Accumulated impairment losses	(215,414		)	(778,900		)	(994,314		)
	Net balance as of December 31, 2012	$	27,966		$	—		$	27,966
	Gross balance as of September 30, 2013	$	243,380		$	778,900		$	1,022,280
	Accumulated impairment losses	(215,414		)	(778,900		)	(994,314		)
	Net balance at September 30, 2013	$	27,966		$	—		$	27,966

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components of Long-term debt	'
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of		As of
		September 30,		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Variable rate credit facility	$	—	$	—
	Term loan	184,175		196,100
	Long-term debt	184,175		196,100
	Current portion of long-term debt	38,850		15,900
	Long-term debt (less current portion)	$	145,325	$	180,200
	Fair value of long-term debt *	$	192,700	$	196,100

Financial_Instruments_Tables

Financial Instruments (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

'

Notional amounts and fair values of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

'

The notional amounts and fair values of derivative instruments designated as cash flow are shown below.

As of September 30, 2013

As of December 31, 2012

Notional

Fair value

Notional

Fair value

(in thousands)

amount

Asset

Liability (1)

amount

Asset

Liability (1)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

75,000

$

—

$

825

$

75,000

$

—

$

1,619

(1) Balance recorded in "Other liabilities"

Effective portion of the unrealized gain and loss on the derivative

'

Three months ended September 30, 2013

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(455

)

$

171

$

—

Three months ended September 30, 2012

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(732

)

$

161

$

—

Nine months ended September 30, 2013

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

290

$

504

$

—

Nine months ended September 30, 2012

(in thousands)

Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL,

Reclassified from Accumulated OCL,

Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Gain/(Loss)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:

Interest rate swap

$

(2,121

)

$

363

$

—

Fair_Value_Measurement_Tables

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'
	The following tables set forth our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
		As of September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Assets/(Liabilities):
	Cash equivalents	$	40,000		$	40,000	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap	(825		)	—		(825		)	—
		As of December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Assets/(Liabilities):
	Cash equivalents	$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap	(1,619		)	—		(1,619		)	—

Other_Liabilities_Tables

Other Liabilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Other liabilities	'
	Other liabilities consisted of the following:
	(in thousands)	As of		As of
		September 30,		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Employee compensation and benefits	$	21,317	$	20,596
	Liability for pension benefits	112,692		112,556
	Liabilities for uncertain tax positions	11,050		12,534
	Other	15,733		18,939
	Other liabilities (less current portion)	$	160,792	$	164,625

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Change in certain working capital accounts	'
	The following table presents additional information about the change in certain working capital accounts:
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
	Accounts and notes receivable	$	2,807		$	16,376
	Income taxes (receivable) payable, net	(2,251		)	27,827
	Accounts payable	(6,274		)	1,517
	Accrued employee compensation and benefits	(5,827		)	4,756
	Other accrued liabilities	(238		)	1,708
	Other, net	(1,703		)	4,461
	Total	$	(13,486	)	$	56,645

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components of benefit expense	'
	The components of the expense consisted of the following:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service cost	$	17		$	13		$	51		$	39
	Interest cost	5,976			6,470			17,927			19,410
	Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses	(5,371		)	(5,641		)	(16,113		)	(16,924		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	—			1			—			2
	Amortization of actuarial loss	1,060			870			3,182			2,609
	Total for defined benefit plans	1,682			1,713			5,047			5,136
	Multi-employer plans	95			119			326			353
	SERP	808			268			1,981			620
	Defined contribution plans	2,341			2,625			8,627			8,054
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	4,926		$	4,725		$	15,981		$	14,163

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Information regarding business segments	'
	Information regarding our business segments is as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Segment operating revenues:
	Television	$	99,289		$	125,329		$	307,548		$	341,983
	Newspapers	88,346			92,390			281,286			293,949
	Syndication and other	1,900			1,925			7,207			7,773
	Total operating revenues	$	189,535		$	219,644		$	596,041		$	643,705
	Segment profit (loss):
	Television	$	18,921		$	41,835		$	65,945		$	94,627
	Newspapers	3,038			4,249			14,857			15,980
	Syndication and other	(177		)	(620		)	(145		)	(212		)
	Shared services and corporate	(13,885		)	(10,576		)	(37,788		)	(26,767		)
	Depreciation and amortization of intangibles	(12,096		)	(12,136		)	(35,684		)	(37,045		)
	(Losses) gains, net on disposal of property, plant and equipment	(177		)	(80		)	(140		)	(50		)
	Pension expense	(2,490		)	(1,980		)	(7,028		)	(5,755		)
	Interest expense	(2,655		)	(3,288		)	(7,924		)	(9,653		)
	Acquisition and related integration costs	—			—			—			(5,826		)
	Separation and restructuring costs	(1,290		)	(2,354		)	(3,691		)	(6,420		)
	Miscellaneous, net	(1,087		)	(900		)	(4,025		)	(2,452		)
	(Loss) income from operations before income taxes	$	(11,898	)	$	14,150		$	(15,623	)	$	16,427
	Depreciation:
	Television	$	5,751		$	5,645		$	16,958		$	17,034
	Newspapers	4,015			4,464			12,132			13,937
	Syndication and other	20			12			58			36
	Shared services and corporate	574			238			1,349			714
	Total depreciation	$	10,360		$	10,359		$	30,497		$	31,721
	Amortization of intangibles:
	Television	$	1,599		$	1,612		$	4,778		$	4,801
	Newspapers	137			165			409			523
	Total amortization of intangibles	$	1,736		$	1,777		$	5,187		$	5,324
	Additions to property, plant and equipment:
	Television	$	2,169		$	4,716		$	7,325		$	9,267
	Newspapers	285			357			1,746			1,283
	Syndication and other	—			126			—			126
	Shared services and corporate	908			2,882			6,460			3,490
	Total additions to property, plant and equipment	$	3,362		$	8,081		$	15,531		$	14,166

Capital_Stock_Tables

Capital Stock (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of options outstanding and exercisable	'
	Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant as of September 30, 2013 is as follows:
				Options Outstanding and Exercisable
	Year of Grant	Range of Exercise Prices	Average Remaining Term	Options on Shares Outstanding	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
			(in years)
	2003 – expire in 2013	10	0.13	1,969	$	9.9	$	—
	2004 – expire in 2014	11-Oct	0.5	256,187	10.57		2
	2005 – expire in 2013	11-Oct	1.37	54,129	10.77		0.4
	2006 – expire in 2014	11-Oct	0.48	280,894	10.34		2.2
	2007 – expire in 2015	10-Sep	1.41	1,164,836	10.36		9.3
	2008 – expire in 2016	10-Jul	2.5	2,184,742	8.71		21.1
	Total	11-Jul	1.88	3,942,757	$	9.46	$	35

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	'
	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCL") by component, including items reclassified out of AOCL, were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)	Gains and Losses on Derivatives			Defined Benefit Pension Items			Other		Total
	Beginning balance, June 30, 2013	$	(338	)	$	(114,232	)	$	357	$	(114,213	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(284		)	—			—		(284		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
	comprehensive loss
	Interest rate swap (a), net of tax of $64	107			—			—		107
	Actuarial loss (b), net of tax of $460	—			1,179			—		1,179
	Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(177		)	1,179			—		1,002
	Ending balance, September 30, 2013	$	(515	)	$	(113,053	)	$	357	$	(113,211	)
		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(in thousands)	Gains and Losses on Derivatives			Defined Benefit Pension Items			Other		Total
	Beginning balance, December 31, 2012	$	(1,009	)	$	(116,188	)	$	357	$	(116,840	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	180			—			—		180
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
	comprehensive loss
	Interest rate swap (a), net of tax of $190	314			—			—		314
	Actuarial loss (b), net of tax of $1,759	—			3,135			—		3,135
	Net current-period other comprehensive income	494			3,135			—		3,629
	Ending balance, September 30, 2013	$	(515	)	$	(113,053	)	$	357	$	(113,211	)

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation costs	$1.10	$1.50	$5	$6.20

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012
Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share)	'		'		'		'
Net (loss) income attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	($8,851)		$12,002		($8,337)		$13,003
Less income allocated to unvested restricted stock and RSUs	0		-496		0		-617
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share	($8,851)		$11,506		($8,337)		$12,386
Denominator	'		'		'		'
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177		54,637		56,696		54,852
Effect of dilutive securities:	'		'		'		'
Stock options held by employees and directors	0		574		0		338
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	56,177		55,211		56,696		55,190
Anti-dilutive securities	5,551	[1]	4,415	[1]	5,551	[1]	4,415	[1]
[1]	(1) Amount outstanding at Balance Sheet date, before application of the treasury stock method and not weighted for period outstanding

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Effective income tax rate	46.60%	20.80%
U.S. Federal statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%
Previously unrecognized tax benefits	$2.40	$3.70
Deferred tax assets	43	'
Unrecognized deductions for share based compensation awards	$33	'

Restricted_Cash_Narrative_Deta

Restricted Cash - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]	'	'
Restricted cash	$8,210	$10,010

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of other intangible assets (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Carrying amount:	'	'
Total carrying amount	$104,709	$104,913
Accumulated amortization:	'	'
Total accumulated amortization	-22,927	-17,945
Net amortizable intangible assets	81,782	86,968
Total other intangible assets	139,597	144,783
Licensing agreements	'	'
Accumulated amortization:	'	'
Other indefinite-lived intangible assets - FCC licenses	57,815	57,815
Television network affiliation relationships	'	'
Carrying amount:	'	'
Total carrying amount	78,844	78,844
Accumulated amortization:	'	'
Total accumulated amortization	-8,704	-5,755
Customer lists and advertiser relationships	'	'
Carrying amount:	'	'
Total carrying amount	22,304	22,304
Accumulated amortization:	'	'
Total accumulated amortization	-12,438	-10,346
Other	'	'
Carrying amount:	'	'
Total carrying amount	3,561	3,765
Accumulated amortization:	'	'
Total accumulated amortization	($1,785)	($1,844)

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill by business segment (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of activity related to goodwill by business segment	'	'
Gross balance	$1,022,280	$1,022,280
Accumulated impairment losses	-994,314	-994,314
Goodwill	27,966	27,966
Television	'	'
Summary of activity related to goodwill by business segment	'	'
Gross balance	243,380	243,380
Accumulated impairment losses	-215,414	-215,414
Goodwill	27,966	27,966
Newspapers	'	'
Summary of activity related to goodwill by business segment	'	'
Gross balance	778,900	778,900
Accumulated impairment losses	-778,900	-778,900
Goodwill	$0	$0

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for the remainder of 2013	$1.90
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2014	6.8
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2015	6.7
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2016	6.7
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2017	4.2
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2018	4.2
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for later years	$51.30

LongTerm_Debt_Components_of_Lo

Long-Term Debt - Components of Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Components of Long-term debt	'		'
Long-term debt	$184,175		$196,100
Current portion of long-term debt	38,850		15,900
Long-term debt (less current portion)	145,325		180,200
Fair value of long-term debt	192,700	[1]	196,100	[1]
Variable rate credit facilities	'		'
Components of Long-term debt	'		'
Long-term debt	0		0
Term loan	'		'
Components of Long-term debt	'		'
Long-term debt	$184,175		$196,100
[1]	* Fair value was estimated based on current rates available to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturity and are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

LongTerm_Debt_Narrative_Detail

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013
			Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement	Financing Agreement
				Minimum	Maximum	Term loan	Term loan	Term loan	Revolving Credit Facility
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving credit and term loan agreement to finance acquisition	'	'	$312,000,000	'	'	$212,000,000	'	'	$100,000,000
LIBOR plus margin range	'	'	'	3.50%	4.00%	'	'	'	'
Base interest rate	'	'	'	'	'	3.68%	3.72%	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	38,850,000	15,900,000	'	'	'	15,000,000	'	'	'
Long-term debt (less current portion)	145,325,000	180,200,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Weighted average interest rate	'	'	'	'	'	3.70%	'	4.25%	'
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2013	4,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2014	26,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2015	26,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2016	127,200,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase, maximum	'	'	25,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Additional restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase, maximum	'	'	250,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restriction amount related to acquisitions maximum	'	'	25,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restriction amount related to acquisitions based on financial results and condition maximum	'	'	150,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage of commitment fees of total unused commitment under revolving credit facility	0.50%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Letters of credit outstanding amount	$200,000	$1,100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Financial_Instruments_Narrativ

Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) (Interest rate swaps, USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Interest rate swaps	'	'
Financial Instruments (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'
Notional Amount	$75,000	$75,000
Fixed LIBOR interest rate	1.08%	'

Financial_Instruments_Notional

Financial Instruments - Notional Amounts (Details) (Interest rate swaps, USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Interest rate swaps	'		'
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:	'		'
Notional Amount	$75,000		$75,000
Fair Value, Asset	0		0
Fair Value, Liability	$825	[1]	$1,619	[1]
[1]	(1) Balance recorded in "Other liabilities"

Financial_Instruments_Effectiv

Financial Instruments - Effective Portion of Unrealized Gain and Loss (Details) (Interest rate swaps, USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Interest rate swaps	'	'	'	'
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:	'	'	'	'
Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL, Gain/(Loss)	($455)	($732)	$290	($2,121)
Reclassified from Accumulated OCL, Gain/(Loss)	171	161	504	363
Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing, Gain/(Loss)	$0	$0	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Measurement_Assets_

Fair Value Measurement - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value (Details) (Recurring Measurements, USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Cash equivalents	$40,000	$0
Level 1	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Cash equivalents	40,000	0
Level 2	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Cash equivalents	0	0
Level 3	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Cash equivalents	0	0
Interest rate swaps	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Interest rate swap assets/(liabilities)	-825	-1,619
Interest rate swaps | Level 1	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Interest rate swap assets/(liabilities)	0	0
Interest rate swaps | Level 2	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Interest rate swap assets/(liabilities)	-825	-1,619
Interest rate swaps | Level 3	'	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'
Interest rate swap assets/(liabilities)	$0	$0

Other_Liabilities_Additional_I

Other Liabilities - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other liabilities	'	'
Employee compensation and benefits	$21,317	$20,596
Liability for pension benefits	112,692	112,556
Liabilities for uncertain tax positions	11,050	12,534
Other	15,733	18,939
Other liabilities (less current portion)	$160,792	$164,625

Noncontrolling_Interests_Narra

Noncontrolling Interests - Narrative (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'
Noncontrolling interest Memphis Newspaper	4.00%
Noncontrolling interest Evansville Newspaper	6.00%

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Change in Certain Working Capital Accounts (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net	'	'
Accounts and notes receivable	$2,807	$16,376
Income taxes (receivable) payable — net	-2,251	27,827
Accounts payable	-6,274	1,517
Accrued employee compensation and benefits	-5,827	4,756
Other accrued liabilities	-238	1,708
Other, net	-1,703	4,461
Total	($13,486)	$56,645

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Compone

Employee Benefit Plans - Components of Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	$4,926	$4,725	$15,981	$14,163
Defined benefit plans	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Service cost	17	13	51	39
Interest cost	5,976	6,470	17,927	19,410
Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses	-5,371	-5,641	-16,113	-16,924
Amortization of prior service cost	0	1	0	2
Amortization of actuarial loss	1,060	870	3,182	2,609
Total for defined benefit plans	1,682	1,713	5,047	5,136
Multi-employer plans	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	95	119	326	353
SERP	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	808	268	1,981	620
Defined contribution plans	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	$2,341	$2,625	$8,627	$8,054

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Narrati

Employee Benefit Plans - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
SERP	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Contributions to benefit plan	'	$2.60
Estimated future contributions	0.2	0.2
Settlement charge	0.5	1.1
Plan obligation, discount rate	5.00%	5.00%
Decrease in pension liabilities and accumulated comprehensive loss	3.3	'
Defined benefit plans	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Contributions to benefit plan	'	$0.10

Segment_Information_Narrative_

Segment Information - Narrative (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
	customer
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of major customers customers	0
Percentage of revenue by major customer	10.00%
Television	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Percentage of market capture	13.00%
Television | ABC affiliates	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of affiliates in television segment	10
Television | NBC affiliates	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of affiliates in television segment	3
Television | Independent station	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of affiliates in television segment	1
Television | Azteca affiliates	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of affiliates in television segment	5
Newspapers	'
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Number of markets for daily and community newspapers	13

Segment_Information_Schedule_o

Segment Information - Schedule of Business Segments (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Segment operating revenues:	'	'	'	'
Total operating revenues	$189,535	$219,644	$596,041	$643,705
Segment profit (loss):	'	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles	-12,096	-12,136	-35,684	-37,045
(Losses) gains, net on disposal of property, plant and equipment	-177	-80	-140	-50
Pension expense	-2,490	-1,980	-7,028	-5,755
Interest expense	-2,655	-3,288	-7,924	-9,653
Acquisition and related integration costs	0	0	0	-5,826
Separation and restructuring costs	-1,290	-2,354	-3,691	-6,420
Miscellaneous, net	-1,087	-900	-4,025	-2,452
(Loss) income from operations before income taxes	-11,898	14,150	-15,623	16,427
Depreciation:	'	'	'	'
Total depreciation	10,360	10,359	30,497	31,721
Amortization of intangibles:	'	'	'	'
Total amortization of intangibles	1,736	1,777	5,187	5,324
Additions to property, plant and equipment:	'	'	'	'
Total additions to property, plant and equipment	3,362	8,081	15,531	14,166
Television	'	'	'	'
Segment operating revenues:	'	'	'	'
Total operating revenues	99,289	125,329	307,548	341,983
Segment profit (loss):	'	'	'	'
Segment profit (loss)	18,921	41,835	65,945	94,627
Depreciation:	'	'	'	'
Total depreciation	5,751	5,645	16,958	17,034
Amortization of intangibles:	'	'	'	'
Total amortization of intangibles	1,599	1,612	4,778	4,801
Additions to property, plant and equipment:	'	'	'	'
Total additions to property, plant and equipment	2,169	4,716	7,325	9,267
Newspapers	'	'	'	'
Segment operating revenues:	'	'	'	'
Total operating revenues	88,346	92,390	281,286	293,949
Segment profit (loss):	'	'	'	'
Segment profit (loss)	3,038	4,249	14,857	15,980
Depreciation:	'	'	'	'
Total depreciation	4,015	4,464	12,132	13,937
Amortization of intangibles:	'	'	'	'
Total amortization of intangibles	137	165	409	523
Additions to property, plant and equipment:	'	'	'	'
Total additions to property, plant and equipment	285	357	1,746	1,283
Syndication and other	'	'	'	'
Segment operating revenues:	'	'	'	'
Total operating revenues	1,900	1,925	7,207	7,773
Segment profit (loss):	'	'	'	'
Segment profit (loss)	-177	-620	-145	-212
Depreciation:	'	'	'	'
Total depreciation	20	12	58	36
Additions to property, plant and equipment:	'	'	'	'
Total additions to property, plant and equipment	0	126	0	126
Shared services and corporate	'	'	'	'
Segment profit (loss):	'	'	'	'
Segment profit (loss)	-13,885	-10,576	-37,788	-26,767
Depreciation:	'	'	'	'
Total depreciation	574	238	1,349	714
Additions to property, plant and equipment:	'	'	'	'
Total additions to property, plant and equipment	$908	$2,882	$6,460	$3,490

SpinOff_of_Scripps_Networks_In1

Spin-Off of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Spin Off of Company [Abstract]	'	'
Spin-Off of Company, Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Deduction from Exercise of Stock Options	$11.40	$15.80
SNI options held by employees	0.5	'

Capital_Stock_Narrative_Detail

Capital Stock - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended					1 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Nov. 30, 2012
	common_share		Minimum	Maximum	Common stock, Class A	First Repurchase Plan
	director					Common stock, Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Classes of common shares	2	'	'	'	'	'
Minimum number of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote	3	'	'	'	'	'
Minumum percent of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote	33.33%	'	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount	'	'	'	'	'	$100,000,000
Stock repurchased during period, value	$69,313,000	$23,564,000	'	'	$69,300,000	'
Range of price of shares repurchased (USD per share)	'	'	$10.83	$17.94	'	'

Capital_Stock_Options_outstand

Capital Stock - Options outstanding and exercisable (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$7
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$11
2003 – expire in 2013	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
2004 – expire in 2014	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$11
2005 – expire in 2013	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$11
2006 – expire in 2014	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$11
2007 – expire in 2015	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$9
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
2008 – expire in 2016	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)	$7
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)	$10
Stock Options	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'1 year 10 months 16 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	3,942,757
Options on Shares Exercisable	3,942,757
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$9.46
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$9.46
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$35
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	35
Stock Options | 2003 – expire in 2013	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'1 month 18 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	1,969
Options on Shares Exercisable	1,969
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$9.90
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$9.90
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	0
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	0
Stock Options | 2004 – expire in 2014	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'6 months 0 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	256,187
Options on Shares Exercisable	256,187
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.57
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.57
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	2
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	2
Stock Options | 2005 – expire in 2013	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'1 year 4 months 12 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	54,129
Options on Shares Exercisable	54,129
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.77
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.77
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	0.4
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	0.4
Stock Options | 2006 – expire in 2014	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'5 months 22 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	280,894
Options on Shares Exercisable	280,894
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.34
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.34
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	2.2
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	2.2
Stock Options | 2007 – expire in 2015	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'1 year 4 months 27 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	1,164,836
Options on Shares Exercisable	1,164,836
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.36
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$10.36
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	9.3
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	9.3
Stock Options | 2008 – expire in 2016	'
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant	'
Average Remaining Term	'2 years 6 months 0 days
Options on Shares Outstanding	2,184,742
Options on Shares Exercisable	2,184,742
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$8.71
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)	$8.71
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	21.1
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$21.10

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Beginning balance	($114,213)		'	($116,840)		'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-284		'	180		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial loss	1,179		576	3,135		1,728
Net current-period other comprehensive income	1,002		'	3,629		'
Ending balance	-113,211		'	-113,211		'
Pension Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial loss	1,179	[1]	'	3,135	[1]	'
Interest rate swaps | Interest Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	107	[2]	'	314	[2]	'
Gains and Losses on Derivatives	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Beginning balance	-338		'	-1,009		'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-284		'	180		'
Net current-period other comprehensive income	-177		'	494		'
Ending balance	-515		'	-515		'
Gains and Losses on Derivatives | Pension Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial loss	0	[1]	'	0	[1]	'
Gains and Losses on Derivatives | Interest rate swaps	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassidied from accumulated other comprehensive loss, tax	64		'	190		'
Gains and Losses on Derivatives | Interest rate swaps | Interest Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	107	[2]	'	314	[2]	'
Defined Benefit Pension Items	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Beginning balance	-114,232		'	-116,188		'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	0		'	0		'
Net current-period other comprehensive income	1,179		'	3,135		'
Ending balance	-113,053		'	-113,053		'
Amounts reclassidied from accumulated other comprehensive loss, tax	460		'	1,759		'
Defined Benefit Pension Items | Pension Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial loss	1,179	[1]	'	3,135	[1]	'
Defined Benefit Pension Items | Interest rate swaps | Interest Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	0	[2]	'	0	[2]	'
Other	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Beginning balance	357		'	357		'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	0		'	0		'
Net current-period other comprehensive income	0		'	0		'
Ending balance	357		'	357		'
Other | Pension Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial loss	0	[1]	'	0	[1]	'
Other | Interest rate swaps | Interest Expense	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	$0	[2]	'	$0	[2]	'
[1]	(b) Included in pension expense on the Statement of Operations
[2]	(a) Included in interest expense on the Statement of Operations