Saga Communications (SGA) 10-K 10 Mar 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 02, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	SAGA COMMUNICATIONS INC
Entity Central Index Key	886,136
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 196,675,874
Trading Symbol	SGA
Common Class A [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		5,011,737
Common Class B [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		878,475

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 26,640	$ 21,614
Accounts receivable, less allowance of $560 ($664 in 2015)	21,660	21,300
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	3,022	2,608
Barter transactions	1,450	1,266
Deferred income taxes	1,022	1,107
Total current assets	53,794	47,895
Net property and equipment	56,562	58,131
Other assets:
Broadcast licenses, net	96,229	88,106
Goodwill	7,407	2,874
Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments, net of accumulated amortization of $12,031 ($11,336 in 2015)	7,028	7,565
Total assets	221,020	204,571
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	2,377	2,799
Accrued expenses:
Payroll and payroll taxes	7,718	7,401
Other	3,405	2,792
Barter transactions	1,467	1,346
Current portion of long-term debt	1,078	0
Total current liabilities	16,045	14,338
Deferred income taxes	30,763	27,688
Long-term debt	35,287	36,365
Broadcast program rights	969	780
Other liabilities	2,974	2,584
Total liabilities	86,038	81,755
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, 1,500 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	59,557	57,510
Retained earnings	108,733	98,180
Treasury stock (1,625 shares in 2016 and 1,612 in 2015, at cost)	(33,382)	(32,948)
Total stockholders' equity	134,982	122,816
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	221,020	204,571
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	66	66
Total stockholders' equity	66	66
Class B Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	8	8
Total stockholders' equity	$ 8	$ 8

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Allowance for accounts receivable	$ 560	$ 664
Accumulated amortization on other intangibles, deferred costs and investments	$ 12,031	$ 11,336
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	1,500	1,500
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	1,625	1,612
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	35,000	35,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	6,638	6,603
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	3,500	3,500
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	878	865
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	878	865

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net operating revenue	$ 142,591	$ 132,856	$ 133,998
Operating expenses (income):
Station operating expense	101,542	97,268	98,424
Corporate general and administrative	10,980	10,091	8,901
Other operating expense (income), net	(1,393)	541	(1,210)
Impairment of intangible assets	0	874	1,936
Operating Expenses, Total	111,129	108,774	108,051
Operating income	31,462	24,082	25,947
Other (income) expenses:
Interest expense	776	888	1,064
Write-off of debt issuance costs	0	557	0
Other income	0	(417)	(71)
Income before income tax	30,686	23,054	24,954
Income tax provision:
Current	9,340	6,000	6,665
Deferred	3,160	3,640	3,385
Income tax provision	12,500	9,640	10,050
Net income	$ 18,186	$ 13,414	$ 14,904
Basic earnings per share	$ 3.10	$ 2.31	$ 2.57
Weighted average common shares	5,761	5,706	5,700
Diluted earnings per share	$ 3.09	$ 2.29	$ 2.55
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares	5,771	5,740	5,753
Diluted earnings per share
Dividends declared per share	$ 1.30	$ 1.10	$ 1.80

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Class A Common Stock [Member]	Class B Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 109,701	$ 64	$ 8	$ 51,456	$ 86,693	$ (28,520)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		6,409	816
Net income	14,904				14,904
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A	0
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A (in shares)		3	(3)
Issuance of restricted stock	0
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)		27	30
Net proceeds from exercised options	244			244
Net proceeds from exercised options (in shares)		7
Dividends declared per common share	(10,419)				(10,419)
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	826			826
Purchase of shares held in treasury	(254)					(254)
401(k) plan contribution	243			(30)		273
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	115,245	$ 64	$ 8	52,496	91,178	(28,501)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		6,446	843
Net income	13,414				13,414
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A	0	$ 1	$ (1)
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A (in shares)		40	(40)
Issuance of restricted stock	0
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)		26	30
Forfeiture of restricted stock	0
Forfeiture of restricted stock (in shares)		(2)
Net proceeds from exercised options	(767)	$ 1	$ 1	3,393		(4,162)
Net proceeds from exercised options (in shares)		93	32
Dividends declared per common share	(6,412)				(6,412)
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	1,655			1,655
Purchase of shares held in treasury	(563)					(563)
401(k) plan contribution	244			(34)		278
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	122,816	$ 66	$ 8	57,510	98,180	(32,948)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015		6,603	865
Net income	18,186				18,186
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A	0
Conversion of shares from Class B to Class A (in shares)		12	(12)
Issuance of restricted stock	0
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)		23	25
Dividends declared per common share	(7,633)				(7,633)
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	2,101			2,101
Purchase of shares held in treasury	(746)					(746)
401(k) plan contribution	258			(54)		312
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 134,982	$ 66	$ 8	$ 59,557	$ 108,733	$ (33,382)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016		6,638	878

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 18,186	$ 13,414	$ 14,904
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	7,263	6,824	6,702
Deferred income taxes	3,160	3,640	3,385
Impairment of intangible assets	0	874	1,936
Broadcast program rights amortization	628	637	637
Amortization of deferred costs	53	131	187
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	2,101	1,655	826
(Gain) loss on sale of assets	(1,393)	541	(1,281)
Gain on insurance claim	0	(417)	0
Barter revenue, net	(286)	(113)	(208)
Deferred and other compensation	14	(41)	(129)
Write-off of debt issuance costs	0	557	0
Income tax expense (benefit) on exercise of options	0	0	10
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Decrease (increase) in receivables and prepaid expenses	(885)	233	(1,521)
Payments for broadcast program rights	(625)	(635)	(627)
Increase in accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities	1,117	1,235	595
Total adjustments	11,147	15,121	10,512
Net cash provided by operating activities	29,333	28,535	25,416
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment	(4,861)	(5,543)	(5,524)
Proceeds from sale and disposal of assets	1,735	168	90
Proceeds from insurance claim	0	777	0
Proceeds from sale of networks	0	0	1,640
Acquisition of broadcast properties	(12,841)	(11,842)	(903)
Other investing activities	39	(666)	(11)
Net cash used in investing activities	(15,928)	(17,106)	(4,708)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments on long-term debt	0	(35,000)	(10,000)
Proceeds from long-term debt	0	35,287	0
Cash dividends paid	(7,633)	(6,412)	(10,419)
Payments for debt issuance costs	0	(266)	0
Other financing activities	(746)	(1,331)	(10)
Net cash used in financing activities	(8,379)	(7,722)	(20,429)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	5,026	3,707	279
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	21,614	17,907	17,628
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	$ 26,640	$ 21,614	$ 17,907

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Nature of Business Saga Communications, Inc. is a broadcasting company whose business is devoted to acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. As of December 31, 2016 we owned or operated ninety-nine radio stations, four television stations, and five low-power television stations serving twenty-six markets throughout the United States. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Saga Communications, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Use of Estimates The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. While we do not believe that the ultimate settlement of any amounts reported will materially affect our financial position or results of future operations, actual results may differ from estimates provided. Concentration of Risk Our top six markets when combined represented 46 44 43 We sell advertising to local and national companies throughout the United States. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts at a level which we believe is sufficient to cover potential credit losses. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and time deposits with original maturities of three months or less. We did not have any time deposits at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Financial Instruments Our financial instruments are comprised of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and long-term debt. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short maturities. The carrying value of long-term debt approximates fair value as it carries interest rates that either fluctuate with the euro-dollar rate, prime rate or have been reset at the prevailing market rate at December 31, 2016. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts A provision for doubtful accounts is recorded based on our judgment of the collectability of receivables. Amounts are written off when determined to be fully uncollectible. Delinquent accounts are based on contractual terms. Write Off of Balance Charged to Allowance Uncollectible Balance at at Beginning Costs and From Accounts, Net of End of Year Ended of Period Expenses Acquisitions Recoveries Period (in thousands) December 31, 2016 $ 664 $ 206 $ — $ (310) $ 560 December 31, 2015 $ 395 $ 339 $ 99 $ (169) $ 664 December 31, 2014 $ 578 $ 139 $ — $ (322) $ 395 Barter Transactions Our radio and television stations trade air time for goods and services used principally for promotional, sales and other business activities. An asset and a liability are recorded at the fair market value of goods or services received. Barter revenue is recorded when commercials are broadcast, and barter expense is recorded when goods or services received are used. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are carried at cost. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. When property and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from the respective accounts and the gain or loss realized on disposition is reflected in earnings. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful life of the assets. We review our property and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of these assets is measured by comparison of their carrying amounts to future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate. If the assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized equals the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds its fair market value. We did not record any impairment of property and equipment during 2016, 2015 and 2014. Estimated December 31, Useful Life 2016 2015 (In thousands) Land and land improvements — $ 13,206 $ 13,207 Buildings 31.5 years 34,790 34,543 Towers and antennae 7-15 years 27,081 27,616 Equipment 3-15 years 73,287 79,624 Furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements 7-20 years 7,776 8,263 Vehicles 5 years 3,828 3,821 159,968 167,074 Accumulated depreciation (103,406) (108,943) Net property and equipment $ 56,562 $ 58,131 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 6,621,000 6,593,000 6,648,000 Intangible Assets Intangible assets deemed to have indefinite useful lives, which include broadcast licenses and goodwill, are not amortized and are subject to impairment tests which are conducted as of October 1 of each year, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. We have 108 26 Separable intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method. Favorable lease agreements are amortized over the leases ranging from five to twenty-six years. Other intangibles are amortized over one to fifteen years. Customer relationships are amortized over three years. The costs related to the issuance of debt are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the life of the debt. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized interest expense related to the amortization of debt issuance costs of $ 53,000 131,000 187,000 557,000 At December 31, 2016 and 2015 the net book value of debt issuance costs related to our line of credit was $ 191,000 244,000 We record the capitalized costs of broadcast program rights when the license period begins and the programs are available for use. Amortization of the program rights is recorded using the straight-line method over the license period or based on the number of showings. Amortization of broadcast program rights is included in station operating expense. Unamortized broadcast program rights are classified as current or non-current based on terms of the syndication agreements and estimated usage in future years. In March 2013, our board of directors authorized an increase in the amount committed to our Stock Buy-Back Program (the “Buy-Back Program”) from $ 60 75.8 24.2 Repurchases of shares of our Common Stock are recorded as Treasury stock and result in a reduction of Stockholders’ equity. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we acquired 18,612 40.06 129,384 36.53 6,165 41.15 Revenue from the sale of commercial broadcast time to advertisers is recognized when commercials are broadcast. Revenue is reported net of advertising agency commissions. Agency commissions, when applicable are based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing. All revenue is recognized in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 104, Topic 13, Revenue Recognition Revised and Updated Revenue Recognition We have entered into Time Brokerage Agreements (“TBA’s”) or Local Marketing Agreements (“LMA’s”) in certain markets. In a typical TBA/LMA, the FCC licensee of a station makes available, for a fee, blocks of air time on its station to another party that supplies programming to be broadcast during that air time and sells its own commercial advertising announcements during the time periods specified. Revenue and expenses related to TBA’s/LMA’s are included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. Assets and liabilities related to the TBA’s/LMA’s are included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. Advertising and promotion costs are expensed as incurred. Such costs amounted to $ 2,975,000 2,804,000 3,056,000 Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Our effective tax rate is higher than the federal statutory rate as a result of the inclusion of state taxes in the income tax amount. On November 21, 2016 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.30 0.20 2.9 On August 30, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $ 0.30 B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.8 2016. On June 1, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $ 0.25 Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.5 On March 2, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.25 A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.5 2016. On November 17, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.25 0.25 2.9 On September 2, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On June 10, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On March 25, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On December 3, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.20 8.2 On September 23, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.1 On June 30, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.1 Stock-based compensation cost for stock option awards is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes valuation model and is expensed on a straight-line method over the vesting period of the options. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures. The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the closing market price of the Company’s Class A Common Stock on the grant date and is adjusted at each reporting date based on the amount of shares ultimately expected to vest. See Note 6 — Stock-Based Compensation for further details regarding the expense calculated under the fair value based method. Earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security. The Company has participating securities related to restricted stock units, granted under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan, that earn dividends on an equal basis with common shares. In applying the two-class method, earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share: Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income $ 18,186 $ 13,414 $ 14,904 Less: Net income allocated to unvested participating securities 325 250 234 Net income available to common stockholders $ 17,861 $ 13,164 $ 14,670 Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per share-weighted average shares 5,761 5,706 5,700 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options 10 34 53 Denominator for diluted earnings per share — adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions 5,771 5,740 5,753 Basic earnings per share $ 3.10 $ 2.31 $ 2.57 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.09 $ 2.29 $ 2.55 The number of stock options outstanding that had an antidilutive effect on our earnings per share calculation, and therefore have been excluded from dilutive earnings per share calculation, was 0 0 45,000 Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In September 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-16, “Business Combinations (Topic 805), Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement Period Adjustments”, In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-05, “ Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40), Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-03, “ Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30), Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs “Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements”. In February 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-02, “ Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis , In January 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-01, “ Income Statement-Extraordinary and Unusual Items In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “ Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350)” In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, “ Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (Topic 230): Statement of Cash Flows” In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “ Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, "Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting" In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” In November 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-17, “Income Taxes (Topic 740), Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes” In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill an

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Broadcast Licenses and Other Intangibles Assets	2. Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We evaluate our FCC licenses for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. We operate our broadcast licenses in each market as a single asset and determine the fair value by relying on a discounted cash flow approach assuming a start-up scenario in which the only assets held by an investor are broadcast licenses. The fair value calculation contains assumptions incorporating variables that are based on past experiences and judgments about future operating performance using industry normalized information for an average station within a market. These variables include, but are not limited to: (1) the forecasted growth rate of each radio or television market, including population, household income, retail sales and other expenditures that would influence advertising expenditures; (2) the estimated available advertising revenue within the market and the related market share and profit margin of an average station within a market; (3) estimated capital start-up costs and losses incurred during the early years; (4) risk-adjusted discount rate; (5) the likely media competition within the market area; and (6) terminal values. If the carrying amount of FCC licenses is greater than their estimated fair value in a given market, the carrying amount of FCC licenses in that market is reduced to its estimated fair value. We also evaluate goodwill in each of its reporting units (reportable segment) for impairment annually, or more frequently if certain circumstances are present. If the carrying amount of goodwill in a reporting unit is greater than the implied value of goodwill determined by completing a hypothetical purchase price allocation using estimated fair value of the reporting unit, the carrying amount of goodwill in that reporting unit is reduced to its implied value. We utilize independent appraisals in testing FCC licenses for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We evaluate amortizable intangible assets for recoverability when circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred, using an undiscounted cash flow methodology. If the future undiscounted cash flows for the intangible asset are less than net book value, then the net book value is reduced to the estimated fair value. Amortizable intangible assets are included in other intangibles, deferred costs and investments in the consolidated balance sheets. Broadcast Licenses Radio Television Total (In thousands) Balance at January 1, 2015 $ 77,155 $ 9,607 $ 86,762 Acquisitions 2,218 — 2,218 Impairment charge (874) — (874) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 78,499 $ 9,607 $ 88,106 Acquisitions 8,123 — 8,123 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 86,622 $ 9,607 $ 96,229 2016 Impairment Test During the fourth quarter of 2016, we completed our annual impairment test of broadcast licenses and determined that the fair value of the broadcast licenses was greater than the carrying value recorded for each of our markets and, accordingly, no impairment was recorded. The following table reflects certain key estimates and assumptions used in the impairment test in the fourth quarter of 2015. The ranges for operating profit margin and market long-term revenue growth rates vary by market. In general, when comparing between 2015 and 2014: (1) the market specific operating profit margin range remained relatively consistent; (2) the market long-term revenue growth rates were relatively consistent; (3) the discount rate remained relatively consistent; and (4) current year revenues were 0.9 % lower than previously projected for 2015. Fourth Fourth Quarter Fourth Quarter 2015 Quarter 2016 2014 Discount rates 12.3% - 12.4% 12.2% - 12.4% 12.3% - 12.4% Operating profit margin ranges 19.5% - 36.4% 19.5% - 36.4% 20.8% - 36.4% Market long-term revenue growth rates 0.9% - 3.4 % 1.3% - 3.1% 1.2% - 4.1% If actual market conditions are less favorable than those estimated by us or if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of our broadcast licenses below the carrying value, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in future periods. Such a charge could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. 2015 Impairment Test We completed our annual impairment test of broadcast licenses during the fourth quarter of 2015 and determined that the fair value of the broadcast licenses were less than the amount reflected in the balance sheet for one of the Company’s radio markets, Columbus, Ohio, and recorded non-cash impairment charge of $874,000 to reduce the carrying value of these assets to the estimated fair market value. The reasons for the impairment to the broadcasting licenses recognized in the fourth quarter of 2015 were primarily due to declines in available market revenue, market revenue share, profit margins and estimated long-term growth rates in our Columbus, OH market. 2014 Impairment Test We completed our annual impairment test of broadcast licenses during the fourth quarter of 2014 and determined that the fair value of the broadcast licenses were less than the amount reflected in the balance sheet for one of the Company’s radio markets, Columbus, Ohio, and recorded non-cash impairment charge of $1,936,000 to reduce the carrying value of these assets to the estimated fair market value. The reasons for the impairment to the broadcasting licenses recognized in the fourth quarter of 2014 were primarily due to declines in available market revenue, market revenue share, profit margins and estimated long-term growth rates in our Columbus, OH market. Goodwill During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company performed its annual impairment test of its goodwill in accordance with ASC 350 and determined under the first step that the fair value of the Radio reporting unit was in excess of its carrying value (each segment is a reporting unit), and therefore, no impairment was indicated. For the years presented there was no goodwill related to the television reporting unit. Radio Television Total (In thousands) Balance at January 1, 2015 $ 326 $ — $ 326 Acquisitions 2,548 — 2,548 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 2,874 $ — $ 2,874 Acquisitions 4,533 — 4,533 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 7,407 $ — $ 7,407 Other Intangible Assets Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Amount Amortization Amount (In thousands) Non-competition agreements $ 3,861 $ 3,861 $ — Favorable lease agreements 5,990 5,666 324 Customer relationships 1,744 747 997 Other intangibles 1,920 1,682 238 Total amortizable intangible assets $ 13,515 $ 11,956 $ 1,559 We have recorded amortizable intangible assets at December 31, 2015 as follows: Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Amount Amortization Amount (In thousands) Non-competition agreements $ 3,861 $ 3,861 $ — Favorable lease agreements 5,990 5,638 352 Customer relationships 1,346 177 1,169 Other intangibles 1,920 1,638 282 Total amortizable intangible assets $ 13,117 $ 11,314 $ 1,803 Aggregate amortization expense for these intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, was $ 642,000 231,000 54,000 653,000 476,000 82,000 67,000 41,000

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	3. Long-Term Debt December 31, December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Credit Facility: Revolving Credit Facility $ 35,287 $ 35,287 Secured debt of affiliate 1,078 1,078 36,365 36,365 Amounts payable within one year 1,078 - $ 35,287 $ 36,365 Year Ending Amount (In thousands) 2017 $ 1,078 2018 — 2019 — 2020 35,287 2021 — Thereafter — $ 36,365 On August 18, 2015, we entered into a new credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., The Huntington National Bank, Citizens Bank, National Association and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC. In connection with the execution of the Credit Facility, the credit agreement in place at June 30, 2015 (the “Old Credit Agreement”) was terminated, and all outstanding amounts were paid in full. The Credit Facility consists of a $ 100 August 18, 2020 The proceeds from the Credit Facility were used to repay all amounts outstanding on our Old Credit Agreement and pay transactional fees. The unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility is available for general corporate purposes, including working capital, capital expenditures, permitted acquisitions and related transaction expenses and permitted stock buybacks. We wrote-off unamortized debt issuance costs relating to the Old Credit Agreement of approximately $ 557,000 Approximately $ 266,000 Interest rates under the Credit Facility are payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to LIBOR ( 0.625 1 2 0 1 0.25 0.2 0.3 The Credit Facility contains a number of financial covenants (all of which we were in compliance with at December 31, 2016) which, among other things, require us to maintain specified financial ratios and impose certain limitations on us with respect to investments, additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and encumbrances. We had approximately $ 65 The loan agreement of approximately $ 1.1 May 1, 2017

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	Supplemental Cash Flow Information Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cash paid during the period for: Interest $ 668 $ 751 $ 874 Income taxes $ 9,232 $ 6,164 $ 7,319 Non-cash transactions: Barter revenue $ 3,877 $ 3,863 $ 3,844 Barter expense $ 3,591 $ 3,750 $ 3,636 Purchase of treasury shares in connection with exercise of stock options $ — $ 3,294 $ — Acquisition of property and equipment $ 92 $ 48 $ 91 Acquisition of broadcast properties $ — $ 50 $ —

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	5. Income Taxes Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment $ 6,858 $ 7,093 Intangible assets 24,987 21,668 Prepaid expenses 619 374 Total deferred tax liabilities 32,464 29,135 Deferred tax assets: Allowance for doubtful accounts 224 226 Compensation 2,421 2,210 Other accrued liabilities 78 118 2,723 2,554 Less: valuation allowance — — Total net deferred tax assets 2,723 2,554 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 29,741 $ 26,581 Current portion of deferred tax assets $ 1,022 $ 1,107 Non-current portion of deferred tax liabilities (30,763) (27,688) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (29,741) $ (26,581) Deferred tax assets are required to be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we do not have a valuation allowance for net deferred tax assets. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, net deferred tax liabilities include a deferred tax asset of $ 1,082,000 1,074,000 59,000 893,000 360,000 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: Federal $ 7,920 $ 4,850 $ 5,540 State 1,420 1,150 1,125 Total current 9,340 6,000 6,665 Total deferred 3,160 3,640 3,385 Total Income Tax Provision $ 12,500 $ 9,640 $ 10,050 In addition, we recognized a tax expense of $0, $230,000, and $10,000 as a result of stock option exercises for the difference between compensation expense for financial statement and income tax purposes for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Tax expense at U.S. statutory rates $ 10,781 $ 7,922 $ 8,630 State tax expense, net of federal benefit 1,323 1,115 1,249 Other, net 396 603 178 Change in valuation allowance on loss carry forwards — — (7) $ 12,500 $ 9,640 $ 10,050 The Company files income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and in various state and local jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for years prior to 2014. During the first quarter of 2015, the IRS commenced an examination of the Company’s 2013 U.S. federal income tax return which was completed in the first quarter of 2016 and resulted in no changes to the return. The Company is subject to examination for income and non-income tax filings in various states. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 there were no accrued balances recorded related to uncertain tax positions. We classify income tax-related interest and penalties as interest expense and corporate general and administrative expense, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we had no tax-related interest or penalties and had $ 0

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	6. Stock-Based Compensation 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan On October 16, 2013 our stockholders approved the Second Amended and Restated Saga Communications, Inc. 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Second Restated 2005 Plan”). The 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan was first approved by stockholders in 2005 and replaced our 2003 Stock Option Plan (the “2003 Plan”), subsequently this plan was re-approved by stockholders in 2010. The changes in the Second Restated 2005 Plan (i) increased the number of authorized shares by 233,334 50 The number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Second Restated 2005 Plan may not exceed 280,000 900,000 620,000 280,000 Stock-Based Compensation The Company’s stock-based compensation expense is measured and recognized for all stock-based awards to employees using the estimated fair value of the award. Compensation expense is recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. For these awards, we have recognized compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method. Accounting guidance requires that stock-based compensation expense be based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest; therefore stock-based compensation has been adjusted for estimated forfeitures. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behaviors as well as trends of actual option forfeitures. All stock options were fully expensed at December 31, 2012, therefore there was no compensation expense related to stock options for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. We calculated the fair value of each option award on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The estimated expected volatility, expected term of options and estimated annual forfeiture rate were determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the stock-based awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The risk-free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Weighted Average Weighted Remaining Aggregate Number of Average Contractual Intrinsic Options Exercise Price Term (Years) Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 233,787 $ 33.38 2.1 $ 4,058,035 Granted — — Exercised (7,294) 34.80 Forfeited/canceled/expired (13,323) 57.93 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 213,170 $ 31.79 1.2 $ 2,519,147 Granted — — Exercised (125,354) 27.09 Forfeited/canceled/expired (58,781) 43.47 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 29,035 $ 28.47 1.4 $ 289,769 Granted — — Exercised — — Forfeited/canceled/expired — — Outstanding at December 31, 2016 29,035 $ 28.47 0.4 $ 633,834 Vested and Exercisable at December 31, 2016 29,035 $ 28.47 0.4 $ 633,834 The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 0 1,120,153 100,300 0 101,200 291,600 There were no options granted during 2016, 2015 and 2014 and all stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2016 are fully vested. Weighted Average Grant Date Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 50,062 $ 46.51 Granted 56,756 38.11 Vested (16,529) 46.51 Forfeited/canceled/expired (457) 46.51 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 89,832 $ 41.20 Granted 55,081 40.09 Vested (36,142) 42.11 Forfeited/canceled/expired (1,982) 43.62 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 106,789 $ 40.28 Granted 48,471 48.60 Vested (51,368) 41.20 Forfeited/canceled/expired (630) 38.83 Non-vested and outstanding at December 31, 2016 103,262 $ 43.73 Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years) 3.4 The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock that vested during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 2,116,000 1,522,000 769,000 4,223,000 3,993,000 3,526,000 For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 we had $ 2,101,000 1,655,000 826,000 840,000 662,000 330,000

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	7. Employee Benefit Plans 401(k) Plan We have a defined contribution pension plan (“401(k) Plan”) that covers substantially all employees. Employees can elect to have a portion of their wages withheld and contributed to the plan. The 401(k) Plan also allows us to make a discretionary contribution. Total administrative expense under the 401(k) Plan was $1,200, $2,300 and $7,000 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The Company’s discretionary contribution to the plan was approximately $260,000, $250,000 and $260,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Deferred Compensation Plan In 1999 we established a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan which allows officers and certain management employees to annually elect to defer a portion of their compensation, on a pre-tax basis, until their retirement. The retirement benefit to be provided is based on the amount of compensation deferred and any earnings thereon. Deferred compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 184,000 138,000 123,000 Split Dollar Officer Life Insurance The Company provides split dollar insurance benefits to certain executive officers and records an asset equal to the cumulative premiums paid on the related policies, as the Company will fully recover these premiums under the terms of the plan. The Company retains a collateral assignment of the cash surrender values and policy death benefits payable to insure recovery of these premiums.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Dispositions	8. Acquisitions and Dispositions We actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisition of additional broadcast properties. The consolidated statements of income include the operating results of the acquired stations from their respective dates of acquisition. All acquisitions were accounted for as purchases and, accordingly, the total purchase consideration was allocated to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition dates. The excess of the consideration paid over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired have been recorded as goodwill. The Company accounts for acquisition under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations Management assigned fair values to the acquired property and equipment through a combination of cost and market approaches based upon each specific asset’s replacement cost, with a provision for depreciation, and to the acquired intangibles, primarily an FCC license, based on the Greenfield valuation methodology, a discounted cash flow approach. 2016 Acquisitions On November 2, 2015, we entered into an agreement to acquire an FM radio station (WLVQ) from Wilks Broadcast Columbus, LLC, serving the Columbus, Ohio market for approximately $ 13,791,000 734,000 57,000 On March 16, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Portland, Maine market for approximately $ 50,000 On March 25, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Milwaukee, Wisconsin market for approximately $ 50,000 On April 8, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Charlottesville, Virginia market for approximately $ 100,000 On April 11, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Clarksville, Tennessee market for approximately $ 30,000 On June 3, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Spencer, Iowa market for approximately $ 35,000 On August 11, 2016 we acquired two FM translators serving the Bellingham, Washington market for approximately $ 50,000 On September 12, 2016 we acquired an FM translator serving the Portland, Maine market for approximately $ 45,000 On October 11, 2016 we acquired a FM Translator serving the Bellingham, Washington market for approximately $ 25,000 On November 8, 2016 we acquired a FM Translator serving the Des Moines, Iowa market for approximately $ 25,000 On November 14, 2016 we acquired a FM Translator serving the Springfield, Illinois market for approximately $ 23,000 On December 2, 2016 we acquired a FM Translator serving the Ithaca, New York market for approximately $ 35,000 2015 Acquisitions and Disposition On July 13, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Manchester, New Hampshire market for approximately $ 45,000 On August 1, 2015 we acquired two AM and three FM stations and one FM translator (WSVA-AM, WHBG-AM, WQPO-FM, WMQR-FM, WWRE-FM and WQPO-HD3) from M. Belmont VerStandig, Inc., serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $ 10,131,000 128,000 On August 26, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Asheville, North Carolina market for approximately $ 125,000 On September 1, 2015 we acquired two FM stations (WSIG-FM and WBOP-FM) from Gamma Broadcasting, LLC, serving the Harrisonburg, Virginia market for approximately $ 1,558,000 92,000 50,000 400,000 On October 23, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Charlottesville, Virginia market for approximately $ 30,000 On November 12, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Bucyrus, Ohio market for approximately $ 30,000 On November 23, 2015 we acquired an FM translator serving the Charlottesville, Virginia market for approximately $ 150,000 On December 31, 2015 we donated the Illinois Radio Network (“the network”) to the Illinois Policy Institute. The net book value of the network was approximately $ 7,000 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2016 and 2015 Acquisitions: The following condensed balance sheets represent the estimated fair value assigned to the related assets and liabilities of the 2016 and 2015 acquisitions at their respective acquisition dates. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2016 and 2015 Acquisitions Acquisitions in 2016 2015 (In thousands) Assets Acquired: Current assets $ 814 $ 977 Property and equipment 375 4,614 Other assets: Broadcast licenses-Radio segment 8,123 2,218 Broadcast licenses-Television segment — — Goodwill-Radio segment 4,533 2,548 Goodwill-Television segment — — Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments 398 1,623 Total other assets 13,054 6,389 Total assets acquired 14,243 11,980 Liabilities Assumed: Current liabilities 41 82 Total liabilities assumed 41 82 Net assets acquired $ 14,202 $ 11,898 Pro Forma Results of Operations for Acquisitions (Unaudited) The following unaudited pro forma results of our operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 assume the 2016 and 2015 acquisitions occurred as of January 1, 2015. The translators are start-up stations and therefore, have no pro forma revenue and expenses. The pro forma results give effect to certain adjustments, including depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, increased interest expense on acquisition debt and related income tax effects. Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands, except per share data) Pro forma Consolidated Results of Operations Net operating revenue $ 142,591 $ 139,458 Station operating expense 101,557 102,401 Corporate general and administrative 10,980 10,091 Other operating (income) expenses, net (1,393) 541 Impairment of intangible assets — 874 Operating income 31,447 25,551 Interest expense 776 888 Write-off of debt issuance costs — 557 Other income — (417) Income before income tax expense 30,671 24,523 Income tax expense 12,494 10,242 Net income $ 18,177 $ 14,281 Basic earnings per share $ 3.10 $ 2.46 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.09 $ 2.44 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Radio Broadcasting Segment Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 118,394 Station operating expense 86,814 88,321 Other operating (income) expenses, net (1,351) 499 Impairment of intangible assets — 874 Operating income $ 33,492 $ 28,700 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Television Broadcasting Segment Net operating revenue $ 23,636 $ 21,064 Station operating expense 14,743 14,080 Other operating (income) expenses, net (42) 32 Operating income $ 8,935 $ 6,952 Reconciliation of pro forma segment operating income to pro forma consolidated operating income: Corporate and Radio Television Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2016: Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 23,636 $ — $ 142,591 Station operating expense 86,814 14,743 — 101,557 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,980 10,980 Other operating income (1,351) (42) — (1,393) Impairment of intangible assets — — — — Operating income (loss) $ 33,492 $ 8,935 $ (10,980) $ 31,447 Corporate and Radio Television Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015: Net operating revenue $ 118,394 $ 21,064 $ — $ 139,458 Station operating expense 88,321 14,080 — 102,401 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,091 10,091 Other operating expense 499 32 10 541 Impairment of intangible assets 874 — — 874 Operating income (loss) $ 28,700 $ 6,952 $ (10,101) $ 25,551

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	9. Related Party Transactions Principal Stockholder Employment Agreement In June 2011, we entered into a new employment agreement with Edward K. Christian, Chairman, President and CEO, which became effective as of June 1, 2011, and replaces and supersedes his prior employment agreement. On February 12, 2016 we entered into an amendment to the agreement. The amendment extends the term of the employment agreement to March 31, 2021. The amendment also states that on each anniversary of the effective date of the employment agreement, the Company’s Compensation committee shall determine in its discretion the amount of any annual increases (which shall not be less than the greater of 4 % or a defined cost of living increase). Mr. Christian may defer any or all of his annual salary. Under the agreement, Mr. Christian is eligible for discretionary and performance bonuses, stock options and/or stock grants in amounts determined by the Compensation Committee and will continue to participate in the Company’s benefit plans. The Company will maintain insurance policies, will furnish an automobile, will pay for an executive medical plan and will maintain an office for Mr. Christian at its principal executive offices and in Sarasota County, Florida. The amendment adds that the Company is authorized to pay for Mr. Christian’s tax preparation services on an annual basis and that this amount will be subject to income tax as additional compensation. The agreement provides certain payments to Mr. Christian in the event of his disability, death or a change in control. Upon a change in control, Mr. Christian may terminate his employment. The agreement also provides generally that, upon a change in control, the Company will pay Mr. Christian an amount equal to 2.99 times the average of his total annual salary and bonuses for each of the three immediately preceding periods of twelve consecutive months, plus an additional amount for tax liabilities, related to the payment. For the three years ended December 31, 2016 Mr. Christian’s average annual compensation, as defined by the employment agreement was approximately $ 1,559,000 In addition, if Mr. Christian’s employment is terminated for any reason, other than for cause, the Company will continue to provide health insurance and medical reimbursement and maintain existing life insurance policies for a period of ten years, and the current split dollar life insurance policy shall be transferred to Mr. Christian and his wife, and the Company shall reimburse Mr. Christian for any tax consequences of such transfer. The agreement contains a covenant not to compete restricting Mr. Christian from competing with the Company in any of its markets if he voluntarily terminates his employment with the Company or is terminated for cause, for a three year period thereafter. The amendment also entitles Mr. Christian to receive severance pay equal to 100 On December 2, 2014, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2015 salary which was paid 100% on January 8, 2016. On December 21, 2015, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2016 salary to be paid 100% on January 6, 2017. On December 13, 2016, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2017 salary to be paid 100% on January 5, 2018. Change in Control Agreements In December 2007, Samuel D. Bush, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Warren S. Lada, Chief Operating Officer, Marcia K. Lobaito, Senior Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Director of Business Affairs, and Catherine Bobinski, Senior Vice President/Finance, Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller, entered into Change in Control Agreements. A change in control is defined to mean the occurrence of (a) any person or group becoming the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of more than 30% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities and Mr. Christian ceasing to be Chairman and CEO of the Company; (b) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which results in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent more than 50% of the combined voting securities of the Company or such surviving entity; or (c) the approval of the stockholders of the Company of a plan of complete liquidation of the Company or an agreement for the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of its assets. If there is a change in control, the Company shall pay a lump sum payment within 45 days thereof of 1.5 times the average of the executive’s last three full calendar years of such executive’s base salary and any annual cash bonus paid. In the event that such payment constitutes a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G subject to an excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code, the Company shall pay the executive an additional amount so that the executive will receive the entire amount of the lump sum payment before deduction for federal, state and local income tax and payroll tax. In the event of a change in control (other than the approval of plan of liquidation), the Company or the surviving entity may require as a condition to receipt of payment that the executive continue in employment for a period of up to six months after consummation of the change in control. During such six months, executive will continue to earn his pre-existing salary and benefits. In such case, the executive shall be paid the lump sum payment upon completion of the continued employment. If, however, the executive fails to remain employed during this period of continued employment for any reason other than (a) termination without cause by the Company or the surviving entity, (b) death, (c) disability or (d) breach of the agreement by the Company or the surviving entity, then executive shall not be paid the lump sum payment. In addition, if the executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without cause within six months prior to the consummation of a change in control, then the executive shall be paid the lump sum payment within 45 days of such change in control. Transactions with Affiliate and Other Related Party Transactions Surtsey Media, LLC (“Surtsey Media”) owns the assets of television station KVCT in Victoria, Texas. Surtsey Media is a multi-media company 100%-owned by the daughter of Mr. Christian, our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. We operate KVCT under a Time Brokerage Agreement (“TBA”) with Surtsey Media which we entered into in May 1999. Under the FCC’s ownership rules, we are prohibited from owning or having an attributable or cognizable interest in this station. In January 2012, the TBA was amended. Pursuant to the amendment, (i) the term was extended nine years commencing from June 1, 2013, with rights to extend for two additional eight year terms, (ii) we paid Surtsey Media an extension fee of $ 27,950 3,900 3,800 3,600 In March 2003, we entered into an agreement of understanding with Surtsey Media whereby we have guaranteed up to $ 1,250,000 1,078,000 1,000,000 37,050 1.2 5,100 5,000 4,800 Surtsey Productions, Inc., the parent company of Surtsey Media, leases office space in a building owned by us, and paid us rent of $ 6,000 6,000 6,000

Common Stock

Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Common Stock	10. Common Stock Dividends. Voting Rights. In the election of directors, the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting as a separate class, are entitled to elect twenty-five percent, or two, of our directors. The holders of the Common Stock, voting as a single class with each share of Class A Common Stock entitled to one vote and each share of Class B Common Stock entitled to ten votes, are entitled to elect the remaining directors. The Board of Directors consisted of six members at December 31, 2016. Holders of Common Stock are not entitled to cumulative voting in the election of directors. The holders of the Common Stock vote as a single class with respect to any proposed “going private” transaction with the principal stockholder or an affiliate of the principal stockholder, with each share of each class of Common Stock entitled to one vote per share. Under Delaware law, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of any class of common stock is required to approve, among other things, a change in the designations, preferences and limitations of the shares of such class of common stock. Liquidation Rights. In any merger, consolidation, or business combination, the consideration to be received per share by the holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock must be identical for each class of stock, except that in any such transaction in which shares of common stock are to be distributed, such shares may differ as to voting rights to the extent that voting rights now differ among the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock. Other Provisions.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	11. Commitments and Contingencies Leases We lease certain land, buildings and equipment under noncancellable operating leases. Rent expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $ 1,613,000 1,477,000 1,503,000 2017 $ 1,543 2018 1,284 2019 908 2020 732 2021 618 Thereafter 3,322 $ 8,407 Broadcast Program Rights We have entered into contracts for broadcast program rights that expire at various dates during the next five years. 2017 $ 586 2018 438 2019 274 2020 185 2021 40 Thereafter 32 $ 1,555 Amounts due within one year (included in accounts payable) 586 $ 969 Performance Fees The Company incurs fees from performing rights organizations (“PRO”) to license the Company’s public performance of the musical works contained in each PRO’s repertory. The Radio Music Licensing Committee, of which the Company is a represented participant, (1) entered into an industry-wide settlement with American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers that was effective January 1, 2017 for a five-year term; (2) is currently seeking reasonable industry-wide fees from Broadcast Music, Inc. effective January 1, 2017; (3) is currently subject to arbitration proceedings with the Society of European Stage Authors and Composers to determine fair and reasonable fees that would be retroactive to January 1, 2016; and (4) filed in November 2016 a motion in the U.S. District Court in Pennsylvania against Global Music Rights (“GMR”) arguing that GMR is a monopoly demanding monopoly prices and asking the Court to subject GMR to an antitrust consent decree. In January 2017, the Company obtained an interim license from GMR for fees effective January 1, 2017 to avoid any infringement claims by GMR for using GMR’s repertory without a license. Contingencies In 2003, in connection with our acquisition of one FM radio station, WJZK-FM serving the Columbus, Ohio market, we entered into an agreement whereby we would pay the seller up to an additional $ 1,000,000

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	12. Fair Value Measurements As defined in ASC Topic 820, fair value is defined as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. To increase the comparability of fair value measures, the following hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation methodologies used to measure fair value: Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 — Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data available, which requires management to develop its own assumptions in pricing the asset or liability. Fair Value Fair Value December 31, December 31, Financial Instrument Hierarchy 2016 2015 Cash and cash equivalents Level 1 $ 26,640 $ 21,614 Revolving Credit Facility Level 2 35,287 35,287 Our financial instruments are comprised of cash and cash equivalents, and long-term debt. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value due to their short maturities. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents is derived from quoted market prices and are considered a level 1. Interest on the Credit Facility is at a variable rate, and as such the debt obligation outstanding approximates fair value and is considered a level 2. Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements The Company has certain assets that are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis under the circumstances and events described in Note 2 — Broadcast Licenses and Other Intangibles, and are adjusted to fair value only when the carrying values are more than the fair values. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company reviewed the fair value of the assets that are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis and concluded that these assets were not impaired as the fair value of these assets equaled or exceeded their carrying values. During the fourth quarter of 2015, as a result of our annual impairment test, the Company wrote down broadcast licenses with a carrying value of $ 13,282 12,408 874 During the fourth quarter of 2014, as a result of our annual impairment test, the Company wrote down broadcast licenses with a carrying value of $ 15,218 13,282 1,936

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	13. Segment Information We evaluate the operating performance of our markets individually. For purposes of business segment reporting, we have aligned operations with similar characteristics into two business segments: Radio and Television. The Radio segment includes twenty-four markets, which includes all ninety-nine of our radio stations and we also had one radio network in 2015. In 2014 the Radio segment included twenty-three markets, which included ninety-two radio stations and one radio information network. The Television segment includes two markets and consists of four television stations and five low power television (“LPTV”) stations. The Radio and Television segments derive their revenue from the sale of commercial broadcast inventory. Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2016: Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 23,636 $ — $ 142,591 Station operating expense 86,799 14,743 — 101,542 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,980 10,980 Other operating (income) expense, net (1,351) (42) — (1,393) Impairment of intangible assets — — — — Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 33,507 8,935 (10,980) 31,462 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,555 1,387 321 7,263 Capital additions $ 3,246 894 721 4,861 Broadcast licenses, net $ 86,662 9,607 — 96,229 Total assets at December 31, 2016 $ 162,434 22,674 35,912 221,020 Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2015: Net operating revenue $ 111,792 $ 21,064 $ — $ 132,856 Station operating expense 83,188 14,080 — 97,268 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,091 10,091 Other operating expense 499 32 10 541 Impairment of intangible assets 874 — — 874 Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 27,231 6,952 (10,101) 24,082 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,135 1,399 290 6,824 Capital additions $ 3,436 1,970 137 5,543 Broadcast licenses, net $ 78,499 9,607 — 88,106 Total assets at December 31, 2015 $ 150,855 23,091 30,625 204,571 Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2014: Net operating revenue $ 113,627 $ 20,371 $ — $ 133,998 Station operating expense 85,167 13,257 — 98,424 Corporate general and administrative — — 8,901 8,901 Other operating income (1,210) — — (1,210) Impairment of intangible assets 1,936 — — 1,936 Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 27,734 7,114 (8,901) 25,947 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,023 1,411 268 6,702 Capital additions $ 3,856 929 739 5,524

Quarterly Results of Operations

Quarterly Results of Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results of Operations	14. Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 (In thousands, except per share data) Net operating revenue $ 32,745 $ 29,061 $ 36,438 $ 34,358 $ 36,119 $ 33,831 $ 37,289 $ 35,606 Station operating expenses 24,685 22,765 25,420 24,311 25,459 24,324 25,978 25,868 Corporate G&A 2,717 2,482 2,620 2,583 2,728 2,577 2,915 2,449 Other operating expense (income), net — — 8 14 (1,393) 433 (8) 94 Impairment of intangible assets — — — — — — — 874 Operating income from continuing operations 5,343 3,814 8,390 7,450 9,325 6,497 8,404 6,321 Other (income) expenses: Interest expense 189 241 189 244 196 229 202 174 Write-off of debt issuance costs — — — — — 557 — — Other (income) expenses — (8) — (409) — — — — Income before income tax 5,154 3,581 8,201 7,615 9,129 5,711 8,202 6,147 Income tax provision 2,130 1,450 3,390 3,141 3,715 2,599 3,265 2,450 Net income $ 3,024 $ 2,131 $ 4,811 $ 4,474 $ 5,414 $ 3,112 $ 4,937 $ 3,697 Basic earnings per share $ .52 $ .37 $ .82 $ .77 $ .92 $ .54 $ .84 $ .63 Weighted average common shares 5,751 5,710 5,754 5,712 5,755 5,724 5,785 5,732 Diluted earnings per share $ .52 $ .36 $ .82 $ .77 $ .92 $ .53 $ .84 $ .63 Weighted average common and common equivalent shares 5,759 5,762 5,763 5,757 5,764 5,752 5,797 5,741

Litigation

Litigation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Litigation	15. Litigation The Company is subject to various outstanding claims which arise in the ordinary course of business and to other legal proceedings. Management anticipates that any potential liability of the Company, which may arise out of or with respect to these matters, will not materially affect the Company’s financial statements.

Other Income

Other Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Income	Other Income During the third quarter of 2016, the Company sold a tower in our Norfolk, Virginia market for approximately $ 1,619,000 1,415,000 65,000 During the second quarter of 2015, two transmitters in our Victoria, Texas market were significantly damaged by lightning. The Company’s insurance policy provided coverage for the replacement cost of the transmitters. The insurance settlement was finalized during the second quarter and the Company received cash proceeds of $ 777,000 417,000

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	17. Subsequent Events On January 16, 2017 we entered into an asset purchase agreement to purchase an FM radio station (WUVA) from WUVA, Incorporated, serving the Charlottesville, Virginia market for approximately $ 1,650,000 On March 3, 2017, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $ 0.30 1.8 March 28, 2017

Summary of Significant Accoun24

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Nature of Business	Nature of Business Saga Communications, Inc. is a broadcasting company whose business is devoted to acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. As of December 31, 2016 we owned or operated ninety-nine radio stations, four television stations, and five low-power television stations serving twenty-six markets throughout the United States.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Saga Communications, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. While we do not believe that the ultimate settlement of any amounts reported will materially affect our financial position or results of future operations, actual results may differ from estimates provided.
Concentration of Risk	Concentration of Risk Our top six markets when combined represented 46 44 43 We sell advertising to local and national companies throughout the United States. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts at a level which we believe is sufficient to cover potential credit losses.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and time deposits with original maturities of three months or less. We did not have any time deposits at December 31, 2016 and 2015.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments Our financial instruments are comprised of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and long-term debt. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short maturities. The carrying value of long-term debt approximates fair value as it carries interest rates that either fluctuate with the euro-dollar rate, prime rate or have been reset at the prevailing market rate at December 31, 2016.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts A provision for doubtful accounts is recorded based on our judgment of the collectability of receivables. Amounts are written off when determined to be fully uncollectible. Delinquent accounts are based on contractual terms. Write Off of Balance Charged to Allowance Uncollectible Balance at at Beginning Costs and From Accounts, Net of End of Year Ended of Period Expenses Acquisitions Recoveries Period (in thousands) December 31, 2016 $ 664 $ 206 $ — $ (310) $ 560 December 31, 2015 $ 395 $ 339 $ 99 $ (169) $ 664 December 31, 2014 $ 578 $ 139 $ — $ (322) $ 395
Barter Transactions	Barter Transactions Our radio and television stations trade air time for goods and services used principally for promotional, sales and other business activities. An asset and a liability are recorded at the fair market value of goods or services received. Barter revenue is recorded when commercials are broadcast, and barter expense is recorded when goods or services received are used.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are carried at cost. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. When property and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from the respective accounts and the gain or loss realized on disposition is reflected in earnings. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful life of the assets. We review our property and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of these assets is measured by comparison of their carrying amounts to future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate. If the assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized equals the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds its fair market value. We did not record any impairment of property and equipment during 2016, 2015 and 2014. Estimated December 31, Useful Life 2016 2015 (In thousands) Land and land improvements — $ 13,206 $ 13,207 Buildings 31.5 years 34,790 34,543 Towers and antennae 7-15 years 27,081 27,616 Equipment 3-15 years 73,287 79,624 Furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements 7-20 years 7,776 8,263 Vehicles 5 years 3,828 3,821 159,968 167,074 Accumulated depreciation (103,406) (108,943) Net property and equipment $ 56,562 $ 58,131 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $ 6,621,000 6,593,000 6,648,000
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets Intangible assets deemed to have indefinite useful lives, which include broadcast licenses and goodwill, are not amortized and are subject to impairment tests which are conducted as of October 1 of each year, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. We have 108 26 Separable intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method. Favorable lease agreements are amortized over the leases ranging from five to twenty-six years. Other intangibles are amortized over one to fifteen years. Customer relationships are amortized over three years.
Deferred Costs	Deferred Costs The costs related to the issuance of debt are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the life of the debt. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized interest expense related to the amortization of debt issuance costs of $ 53,000 131,000 187,000 557,000 At December 31, 2016 and 2015 the net book value of debt issuance costs related to our line of credit was $ 191,000 244,000
Broadcast Program Rights	Broadcast Program Rights We record the capitalized costs of broadcast program rights when the license period begins and the programs are available for use. Amortization of the program rights is recorded using the straight-line method over the license period or based on the number of showings. Amortization of broadcast program rights is included in station operating expense. Unamortized broadcast program rights are classified as current or non-current based on terms of the syndication agreements and estimated usage in future years.
Treasury Stock	Treasury Stock In March 2013, our board of directors authorized an increase in the amount committed to our Stock Buy-Back Program (the “Buy-Back Program”) from $ 60 75.8 24.2 Repurchases of shares of our Common Stock are recorded as Treasury stock and result in a reduction of Stockholders’ equity. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we acquired 18,612 40.06 129,384 36.53 6,165 41.15
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Revenue from the sale of commercial broadcast time to advertisers is recognized when commercials are broadcast. Revenue is reported net of advertising agency commissions. Agency commissions, when applicable are based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing. All revenue is recognized in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 104, Topic 13, Revenue Recognition Revised and Updated Revenue Recognition
Time Brokerage Agreements/Local Marketing Agreements	Time Brokerage Agreements/Local Marketing Agreements We have entered into Time Brokerage Agreements (“TBA’s”) or Local Marketing Agreements (“LMA’s”) in certain markets. In a typical TBA/LMA, the FCC licensee of a station makes available, for a fee, blocks of air time on its station to another party that supplies programming to be broadcast during that air time and sells its own commercial advertising announcements during the time periods specified. Revenue and expenses related to TBA’s/LMA’s are included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. Assets and liabilities related to the TBA’s/LMA’s are included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Advertising and Promotion Costs	Advertising and Promotion Costs Advertising and promotion costs are expensed as incurred. Such costs amounted to $ 2,975,000 2,804,000 3,056,000
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Our effective tax rate is higher than the federal statutory rate as a result of the inclusion of state taxes in the income tax amount.
Dividends	Dividends On November 21, 2016 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.30 0.20 2.9 On August 30, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $ 0.30 B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.8 2016. On June 1, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular cash dividend of $ 0.25 Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.5 On March 2, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.25 A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling $ 1.5 2016. On November 17, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.25 0.25 2.9 On September 2, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On June 10, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On March 25, 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.2 On December 3, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.20 8.2 On September 23, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.1 On June 30, 2014 the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $ 0.20 1.1
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation cost for stock option awards is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes valuation model and is expensed on a straight-line method over the vesting period of the options. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures. The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the closing market price of the Company’s Class A Common Stock on the grant date and is adjusted at each reporting date based on the amount of shares ultimately expected to vest. See Note 6 — Stock-Based Compensation for further details regarding the expense calculated under the fair value based method.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share Earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security. The Company has participating securities related to restricted stock units, granted under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan, that earn dividends on an equal basis with common shares. In applying the two-class method, earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities. Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income $ 18,186 $ 13,414 $ 14,904 Less: Net income allocated to unvested participating securities 325 250 234 Net income available to common stockholders $ 17,861 $ 13,164 $ 14,670 Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per share-weighted average shares 5,761 5,706 5,700 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options 10 34 53 Denominator for diluted earnings per share — adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions 5,771 5,740 5,753 Basic earnings per share $ 3.10 $ 2.31 $ 2.57 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.09 $ 2.29 $ 2.55 The number of stock options outstanding that had an antidilutive effect on our earnings per share calculation, and therefore have been excluded from dilutive earnings per share calculation, was 0 0 45,000
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In September 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-16, “Business Combinations (Topic 805), Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement Period Adjustments”, In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-05, “ Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40), Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement In April 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-03, “ Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30), Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs “Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements”. In February 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-02, “ Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis , In January 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-01, “ Income Statement-Extraordinary and Unusual Items
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements – Not Yet Adopted In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “ Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350)” In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, “ Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (Topic 230): Statement of Cash Flows” In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “ Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, "Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting" In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” In November 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-17, “Income Taxes (Topic 740), Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes” In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”

Summary of Significant Accoun25

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts	Write Off of Balance Charged to Allowance Uncollectible Balance at at Beginning Costs and From Accounts, Net of End of Year Ended of Period Expenses Acquisitions Recoveries Period (in thousands) December 31, 2016 $ 664 $ 206 $ — $ (310) $ 560 December 31, 2015 $ 395 $ 339 $ 99 $ (169) $ 664 December 31, 2014 $ 578 $ 139 $ — $ (322) $ 395
Property and equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following: Estimated December 31, Useful Life 2016 2015 (In thousands) Land and land improvements — $ 13,206 $ 13,207 Buildings 31.5 years 34,790 34,543 Towers and antennae 7-15 years 27,081 27,616 Equipment 3-15 years 73,287 79,624 Furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements 7-20 years 7,776 8,263 Vehicles 5 years 3,828 3,821 159,968 167,074 Accumulated depreciation (103,406) (108,943) Net property and equipment $ 56,562 $ 58,131
Computation of basic and diluted earnings per share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share: Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income $ 18,186 $ 13,414 $ 14,904 Less: Net income allocated to unvested participating securities 325 250 234 Net income available to common stockholders $ 17,861 $ 13,164 $ 14,670 Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per share-weighted average shares 5,761 5,706 5,700 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options 10 34 53 Denominator for diluted earnings per share — adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions 5,771 5,740 5,753 Basic earnings per share $ 3.10 $ 2.31 $ 2.57 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.09 $ 2.29 $ 2.55

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 26

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes to broadcast licenses	We have recorded the changes to broadcast licenses for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 as follows: Radio Television Total (In thousands) Balance at January 1, 2015 $ 77,155 $ 9,607 $ 86,762 Acquisitions 2,218 — 2,218 Impairment charge (874) — (874) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 78,499 $ 9,607 $ 88,106 Acquisitions 8,123 — 8,123 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 86,622 $ 9,607 $ 96,229
Key estimates and assumptions used in the impairment test	Fourth Fourth Quarter Fourth Quarter 2015 Quarter 2016 2014 Discount rates 12.3% - 12.4% 12.2% - 12.4% 12.3% - 12.4% Operating profit margin ranges 19.5% - 36.4% 19.5% - 36.4% 20.8% - 36.4% Market long-term revenue growth rates 0.9% - 3.4 % 1.3% - 3.1% 1.2% - 4.1%
Changes to Goodwill	We have recorded the changes to goodwill for each of the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 as follows: Radio Television Total (In thousands) Balance at January 1, 2015 $ 326 $ — $ 326 Acquisitions 2,548 — 2,548 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 2,874 $ — $ 2,874 Acquisitions 4,533 — 4,533 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 7,407 $ — $ 7,407
Amortizable intangible assets	We have recorded amortizable intangible assets at December 31, 2016 as follows: Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Amount Amortization Amount (In thousands) Non-competition agreements $ 3,861 $ 3,861 $ — Favorable lease agreements 5,990 5,666 324 Customer relationships 1,744 747 997 Other intangibles 1,920 1,682 238 Total amortizable intangible assets $ 13,515 $ 11,956 $ 1,559 We have recorded amortizable intangible assets at December 31, 2015 as follows: Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Amount Amortization Amount (In thousands) Non-competition agreements $ 3,861 $ 3,861 $ — Favorable lease agreements 5,990 5,638 352 Customer relationships 1,346 177 1,169 Other intangibles 1,920 1,638 282 Total amortizable intangible assets $ 13,117 $ 11,314 $ 1,803

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following: December 31, December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Credit Facility: Revolving Credit Facility $ 35,287 $ 35,287 Secured debt of affiliate 1,078 1,078 36,365 36,365 Amounts payable within one year 1,078 - $ 35,287 $ 36,365
Future maturities of long-term debt	Year Ending Amount (In thousands) 2017 $ 1,078 2018 — 2019 — 2020 35,287 2021 — Thereafter — $ 36,365

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform28

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental cash flow information	Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cash paid during the period for: Interest $ 668 $ 751 $ 874 Income taxes $ 9,232 $ 6,164 $ 7,319 Non-cash transactions: Barter revenue $ 3,877 $ 3,863 $ 3,844 Barter expense $ 3,591 $ 3,750 $ 3,636 Purchase of treasury shares in connection with exercise of stock options $ — $ 3,294 $ — Acquisition of property and equipment $ 92 $ 48 $ 91 Acquisition of broadcast properties $ — $ 50 $ —

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Significant components of the Companys deferred tax liabilities and assets	Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax liabilities and assets are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment $ 6,858 $ 7,093 Intangible assets 24,987 21,668 Prepaid expenses 619 374 Total deferred tax liabilities 32,464 29,135 Deferred tax assets: Allowance for doubtful accounts 224 226 Compensation 2,421 2,210 Other accrued liabilities 78 118 2,723 2,554 Less: valuation allowance — — Total net deferred tax assets 2,723 2,554 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 29,741 $ 26,581 Current portion of deferred tax assets $ 1,022 $ 1,107 Non-current portion of deferred tax liabilities (30,763) (27,688) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (29,741) $ (26,581)
Significant components of the provision for income taxes	The significant components of the provision for income taxes are as follows: Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: Federal $ 7,920 $ 4,850 $ 5,540 State 1,420 1,150 1,125 Total current 9,340 6,000 6,665 Total deferred 3,160 3,640 3,385 Total Income Tax Provision $ 12,500 $ 9,640 $ 10,050
Reconciliation of income tax	The reconciliation of income tax at the U.S. federal statutory tax rates to income tax expense (benefit) is as follows: Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Tax expense at U.S. statutory rates $ 10,781 $ 7,922 $ 8,630 State tax expense, net of federal benefit 1,323 1,115 1,249 Other, net 396 603 178 Change in valuation allowance on loss carry forwards — — (7) $ 12,500 $ 9,640 $ 10,050

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	The following summarizes the stock option transactions for the Second Restated 2005 Plan, and the 2003 Plan for the year ended December 31: Weighted Average Weighted Remaining Aggregate Number of Average Contractual Intrinsic Options Exercise Price Term (Years) Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 233,787 $ 33.38 2.1 $ 4,058,035 Granted — — Exercised (7,294) 34.80 Forfeited/canceled/expired (13,323) 57.93 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 213,170 $ 31.79 1.2 $ 2,519,147 Granted — — Exercised (125,354) 27.09 Forfeited/canceled/expired (58,781) 43.47 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 29,035 $ 28.47 1.4 $ 289,769 Granted — — Exercised — — Forfeited/canceled/expired — — Outstanding at December 31, 2016 29,035 $ 28.47 0.4 $ 633,834 Vested and Exercisable at December 31, 2016 29,035 $ 28.47 0.4 $ 633,834
Summary of restricted stock transactions	The following summarizes the restricted stock transactions for the year ended December 31: Weighted Average Grant Date Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 50,062 $ 46.51 Granted 56,756 38.11 Vested (16,529) 46.51 Forfeited/canceled/expired (457) 46.51 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 89,832 $ 41.20 Granted 55,081 40.09 Vested (36,142) 42.11 Forfeited/canceled/expired (1,982) 43.62 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 106,789 $ 40.28 Granted 48,471 48.60 Vested (51,368) 41.20 Forfeited/canceled/expired (630) 38.83 Non-vested and outstanding at December 31, 2016 103,262 $ 43.73 Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years) 3.4

Acquisitions and Dispositions (

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2016 and 2015 Acquisitions Acquisitions in 2016 2015 (In thousands) Assets Acquired: Current assets $ 814 $ 977 Property and equipment 375 4,614 Other assets: Broadcast licenses-Radio segment 8,123 2,218 Broadcast licenses-Television segment — — Goodwill-Radio segment 4,533 2,548 Goodwill-Television segment — — Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments 398 1,623 Total other assets 13,054 6,389 Total assets acquired 14,243 11,980 Liabilities Assumed: Current liabilities 41 82 Total liabilities assumed 41 82 Net assets acquired $ 14,202 $ 11,898
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information	The pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to indicate the results of operations which would actually have occurred had the combinations been in effect on the dates indicated or which may occur in the future. Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands, except per share data) Pro forma Consolidated Results of Operations Net operating revenue $ 142,591 $ 139,458 Station operating expense 101,557 102,401 Corporate general and administrative 10,980 10,091 Other operating (income) expenses, net (1,393) 541 Impairment of intangible assets — 874 Operating income 31,447 25,551 Interest expense 776 888 Write-off of debt issuance costs — 557 Other income — (417) Income before income tax expense 30,671 24,523 Income tax expense 12,494 10,242 Net income $ 18,177 $ 14,281 Basic earnings per share $ 3.10 $ 2.46 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.09 $ 2.44
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information By Segment	Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Radio Broadcasting Segment Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 118,394 Station operating expense 86,814 88,321 Other operating (income) expenses, net (1,351) 499 Impairment of intangible assets — 874 Operating income $ 33,492 $ 28,700 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Television Broadcasting Segment Net operating revenue $ 23,636 $ 21,064 Station operating expense 14,743 14,080 Other operating (income) expenses, net (42) 32 Operating income $ 8,935 $ 6,952 Reconciliation of pro forma segment operating income to pro forma consolidated operating income: Corporate and Radio Television Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2016: Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 23,636 $ — $ 142,591 Station operating expense 86,814 14,743 — 101,557 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,980 10,980 Other operating income (1,351) (42) — (1,393) Impairment of intangible assets — — — — Operating income (loss) $ 33,492 $ 8,935 $ (10,980) $ 31,447 Corporate and Radio Television Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015: Net operating revenue $ 118,394 $ 21,064 $ — $ 139,458 Station operating expense 88,321 14,080 — 102,401 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,091 10,091 Other operating expense 499 32 10 541 Impairment of intangible assets 874 — — 874 Operating income (loss) $ 28,700 $ 6,952 $ (10,101) $ 25,551

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum annual rental commitments	Minimum annual rental commitments under noncancellable operating leases consisted of the following at December 31, 2016 (in thousands): 2017 $ 1,543 2018 1,284 2019 908 2020 732 2021 618 Thereafter 3,322 $ 8,407
Schedule Of Aggregate Minimum Commitment Relating To Broadcast Program Rights	The aggregate minimum payments relating to these commitments consisted of the following at December 31, 2016 (in thousands): 2017 $ 586 2018 438 2019 274 2020 185 2021 40 Thereafter 32 $ 1,555 Amounts due within one year (included in accounts payable) 586 $ 969

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring	Our assets and liabilities disclosed at fair value are summarized below ($000’s omitted): Fair Value Fair Value December 31, December 31, Financial Instrument Hierarchy 2016 2015 Cash and cash equivalents Level 1 $ 26,640 $ 21,614 Revolving Credit Facility Level 2 35,287 35,287

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment reporting information	The category “Corporate general and administrative” represents the income and expense not allocated to reportable segments. Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2016: Net operating revenue $ 118,955 $ 23,636 $ — $ 142,591 Station operating expense 86,799 14,743 — 101,542 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,980 10,980 Other operating (income) expense, net (1,351) (42) — (1,393) Impairment of intangible assets — — — — Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 33,507 8,935 (10,980) 31,462 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,555 1,387 321 7,263 Capital additions $ 3,246 894 721 4,861 Broadcast licenses, net $ 86,662 9,607 — 96,229 Total assets at December 31, 2016 $ 162,434 22,674 35,912 221,020 Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2015: Net operating revenue $ 111,792 $ 21,064 $ — $ 132,856 Station operating expense 83,188 14,080 — 97,268 Corporate general and administrative — — 10,091 10,091 Other operating expense 499 32 10 541 Impairment of intangible assets 874 — — 874 Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 27,231 6,952 (10,101) 24,082 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,135 1,399 290 6,824 Capital additions $ 3,436 1,970 137 5,543 Broadcast licenses, net $ 78,499 9,607 — 88,106 Total assets at December 31, 2015 $ 150,855 23,091 30,625 204,571 Corporate Radio Television and Other Consolidated (In thousands) Year ended December 31, 2014: Net operating revenue $ 113,627 $ 20,371 $ — $ 133,998 Station operating expense 85,167 13,257 — 98,424 Corporate general and administrative — — 8,901 8,901 Other operating income (1,210) — — (1,210) Impairment of intangible assets 1,936 — — 1,936 Operating income (loss) from continuing operations $ 27,734 7,114 (8,901) 25,947 Depreciation and amortization $ 5,023 1,411 268 6,702 Capital additions $ 3,856 929 739 5,524

Quarterly Results of Operatio35

Quarterly Results of Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results of Operations	March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 (In thousands, except per share data) Net operating revenue $ 32,745 $ 29,061 $ 36,438 $ 34,358 $ 36,119 $ 33,831 $ 37,289 $ 35,606 Station operating expenses 24,685 22,765 25,420 24,311 25,459 24,324 25,978 25,868 Corporate G&A 2,717 2,482 2,620 2,583 2,728 2,577 2,915 2,449 Other operating expense (income), net — — 8 14 (1,393) 433 (8) 94 Impairment of intangible assets — — — — — — — 874 Operating income from continuing operations 5,343 3,814 8,390 7,450 9,325 6,497 8,404 6,321 Other (income) expenses: Interest expense 189 241 189 244 196 229 202 174 Write-off of debt issuance costs — — — — — 557 — — Other (income) expenses — (8) — (409) — — — — Income before income tax 5,154 3,581 8,201 7,615 9,129 5,711 8,202 6,147 Income tax provision 2,130 1,450 3,390 3,141 3,715 2,599 3,265 2,450 Net income $ 3,024 $ 2,131 $ 4,811 $ 4,474 $ 5,414 $ 3,112 $ 4,937 $ 3,697 Basic earnings per share $ .52 $ .37 $ .82 $ .77 $ .92 $ .54 $ .84 $ .63 Weighted average common shares 5,751 5,710 5,754 5,712 5,755 5,724 5,785 5,732 Diluted earnings per share $ .52 $ .36 $ .82 $ .77 $ .92 $ .53 $ .84 $ .63 Weighted average common and common equivalent shares 5,759 5,762 5,763 5,757 5,764 5,752 5,797 5,741

Summary of Significant Accoun36

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Rollforward [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 664	$ 395	$ 578
Charged to Costs and Expenses	206	339	139
Allowance From Acquisitions	0	99	0
Write Off of Uncollectible Accounts, Net of Recoveries	(310)	(169)	(322)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Balance at End of Period	$ 560	$ 664	$ 395

Summary of Significant Accoun37

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 159,968	$ 167,074
Accumulated depreciation	(103,406)	(108,943)
Net property and equipment	56,562	58,131
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 13,206	13,207
Estimated Useful Life	0 years
Building [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 34,790	34,543
Estimated Useful Life	31 years 6 months
Towers And Antennae [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 27,081	27,616
Towers And Antennae [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	7 years
Towers And Antennae [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	15 years
Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 73,287	79,624
Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	3 years
Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	15 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 7,776	8,263
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	7 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Life	20 years
Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 3,828	$ 3,821
Estimated Useful Life	5 years

Summary of Significant Accoun38

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Numerator:
Net income	$ 4,937	$ 5,414	$ 4,811	$ 3,024	$ 3,697	$ 3,112	$ 4,474	$ 2,131	$ 18,186	$ 13,414	$ 14,904
Less: Net income allocated to unvested participating securities									325	250	234
Net income available to common stockholders									$ 17,861	$ 13,164	$ 14,670
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share-weighted average shares	5,785	5,755	5,754	5,751	5,732	5,724	5,712	5,710	5,761	5,706	5,700
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options									10	34	53
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions	5,797	5,764	5,763	5,759	5,741	5,752	5,757	5,762	5,771	5,740	5,753
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.84	$ 0.92	$ 0.82	$ 0.52	$ 0.63	$ 0.54	$ 0.77	$ 0.37	$ 3.10	$ 2.31	$ 2.57
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.84	$ 0.92	$ 0.82	$ 0.52	$ 0.63	$ 0.53	$ 0.77	$ 0.36	$ 3.09	$ 2.29	$ 2.55

Summary of Significant Accoun39

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual)	Nov. 21, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 01, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 02, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 10, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 03, 2014USD ($)$ / shares	Aug. 30, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Nov. 17, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 02, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 25, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 23, 2014USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of stock options outstanding having antidilutive effect | shares																				0	0	45,000
Concentration Risk, Market Risk																				46.00%	44.00%	43.00%
Depreciation expense																				$ 6,621,000	$ 6,593,000	$ 6,648,000
Interest expense related to the amortization of debt issuance costs																				53,000	131,000	187,000
Write-off of debt issuance costs												$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 557,000	$ 0	$ 0	0	557,000	$ 0
Net book value of deferred costs												$ 191,000				$ 244,000				$ 191,000	$ 244,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired | shares																				18,612	129,384	6,165
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share | $ / shares																				$ 40.06	$ 36.53	$ 41.15
Advertising and promotion costs																				$ 2,975,000	$ 2,804,000	$ 3,056,000
Special cash dividend declared on Classes A and B Common Stock | $ / shares	$ 0.30	$ 0.25	$ 0.25	$ 0.20	$ 1.20	$ 0.30	$ 0.25	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.20									$ 1.30	$ 1.10	$ 1.80
Dividend paid	$ 2,900,000	$ 1,500,000	$ 1,500,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 8,200,000	$ 1,800,000	$ 2,900,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,100,000	$ 1,100,000
Number Of Broadcast Licenses												108								108
Number Of Market Serving												26								26
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share | $ / shares	$ 0.20				$ 0.20		$ 0.25
Class A Common Stock [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount												$ 24,200,000								$ 24,200,000
Minimum [Member] | Class A Common Stock [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount												60,000,000								60,000,000
Maximum [Member] | Class A Common Stock [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount												$ 75,800,000								$ 75,800,000
Favorable Lease Agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortized over the lives of the leases term range																				5 years
Favorable Lease Agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortized over the lives of the leases term range																				26 years

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 40

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance				$ 88,106				$ 86,762		$ 88,106	$ 86,762
Acquisitions										8,123	2,218
Impairment charge	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	0	$ 874	$ 0	$ 0	0	$ 1,936	0	874	$ 1,936
Balance	96,229				88,106				86,762	96,229	88,106	86,762
Radio [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance				78,499				77,155		78,499	77,155
Acquisitions										8,123	2,218
Impairment charge											(874)
Balance	86,622				78,499				77,155	86,622	78,499	77,155
Television [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance				$ 9,607				$ 9,607		9,607	9,607
Acquisitions										0	0
Impairment charge											0
Balance	$ 9,607				$ 9,607				$ 9,607	$ 9,607	$ 9,607	$ 9,607

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 41

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details 1)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Discount rates	12.30%	12.20%	12.30%
Operating profit margin ranges	19.50%	19.50%	20.80%
Market long-term revenue growth rates	0.90%	1.30%	1.20%
Maximum [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Discount rates	12.40%	12.40%	12.40%
Operating profit margin ranges	36.40%	36.40%	36.40%
Market long-term revenue growth rates	3.40%	3.10%	4.10%

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 42

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance	$ 2,874	$ 326
Acquisitions	4,533	2,548
Balance	7,407	2,874
Radio [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance	2,874	326
Acquisitions	4,533	2,548
Balance	7,407	2,874
Television [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance	0	0
Acquisitions	0	0
Balance	$ 0	$ 0

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 43

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 13,515	$ 13,117
Accumulated Amortization	11,956	11,314
Net Amount	1,559	1,803
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,744	1,346
Accumulated Amortization	747	177
Net Amount	997	1,169
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	3,861	3,861
Accumulated Amortization	3,861	3,861
Net Amount	0	0
Favorable Lease Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	5,990	5,990
Accumulated Amortization	5,666	5,638
Net Amount	324	352
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,920	1,920
Accumulated Amortization	1,682	1,638
Net Amount	$ 238	$ 282

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill 44

Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of intangible assets	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 874,000	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1,936,000	$ 0	$ 874,000	$ 1,936,000
Amortization Expense										642,000	$ 231,000	$ 54,000
2,017	653,000									653,000
2,018	476,000									476,000
2,019	82,000									82,000
2,020	67,000									67,000
2,021	$ 41,000									$ 41,000

Long-Term Debt (Details)

Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Aug. 18, 2015
Total debt
Long-term debt	$ 36,365	$ 36,365
Amounts payable within one year	1,078	0
Long-term debt, noncurrent	35,287	36,365
Revolving credit facility [Member]
Total debt
Long-term debt			$ 100,000
Long-term debt, noncurrent	35,287	35,287
Secured debt of affiliate [Member]
Total debt
Long-term debt	$ 1,078	$ 1,078

Long-Term Debt (Details 1)

Long-Term Debt (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Maturities of Long Term Debt [Line Items]
2,017	$ 1,078
2,018	0
2,019	0
2,020	35,287
2,021	0
Thereafter	0
Long-term Debt	$ 36,365	$ 36,365

Long-Term Debt (Details Textual

Long-Term Debt (Details Textual) - USD ($)

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Aug. 18, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Sep. 30, 2016

Jun. 30, 2016

Mar. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Secured Debt

$ 1,100,000

$ 1,100,000

Long-term Debt, Total

36,365,000

$ 36,365,000

36,365,000

$ 36,365,000

Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost

$ 0

$ 0

$ 0

$ 0

$ 0

$ 557,000

$ 0

$ 0

0

$ 557,000

$ 0

Amortization of Acquisition Costs

$ 266,000

Secured Debt [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

May 1, 2017

Term Loan Maturity Period

3 years

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

0.25%

0.25%

Maximum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage

0.30%

Maximum [Member] | Base Rate [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

1.00%

Minimum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage

0.20%

Minimum [Member] | Base Rate [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

0.00%

Libor Rate [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

0.625%

0.625%

Libor Rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

2.00%

Libor Rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

1.00%

Revolving credit facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Aug. 18, 2020

Long-term Debt, Total

$ 100,000,000

Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity

$ 65,000,000

$ 65,000,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayment Terms

five-year

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform48

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest	$ 668	$ 751	$ 874
Income taxes	9,232	6,164	7,319
Non-cash transactions:
Barter revenue	3,877	3,863	3,844
Barter expense	3,591	3,750	3,636
Purchase of treasury shares in connection with exercise of stock options	0	3,294	0
Acquisition of property and equipment	92	48	91
Acquisition of broadcast properties	$ 0	$ 50	$ 0

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	$ 6,858	$ 7,093
Intangible assets	24,987	21,668
Prepaid expenses	619	374
Total deferred tax liabilities	32,464	29,135
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts	224	226
Compensation	2,421	2,210
Other accrued liabilities	78	118
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Total	2,723	2,554
Less: valuation allowance	0	0
Total net deferred tax assets	2,723	2,554
Net deferred tax liabilities	29,741	26,581
Current portion of deferred tax assets	1,022	1,107
Non-current portion of deferred tax liabilities	(30,763)	(27,688)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (29,741)	$ (26,581)

Income Taxes (Details 1)

Income Taxes (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current:
Federal	$ 7,920	$ 4,850	$ 5,540
State	1,420	1,150	1,125
Total current	9,340	6,000	6,665
Total deferred	3,160	3,640	3,385
Total Income Tax Provision	$ 12,500	$ 9,640	$ 10,050

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Effective Income Taxes Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Tax expense at U.S. statutory rates	$ 10,781	$ 7,922	$ 8,630
State tax expense, net of federal benefit	1,323	1,115	1,249
Other, net	396	603	178
Change in valuation allowance on loss carry forwards	0	0	(7)
Total Income Tax Provision	$ 12,500	$ 9,640	$ 10,050

Income Taxes (Details Textual)

Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets Tax Deferred Compensation Noncurrent	$ 1,082,000				$ 1,074,000				$ 1,082,000	$ 1,074,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	3,265,000	$ 3,715,000	$ 3,390,000	$ 2,130,000	2,450,000	$ 2,599,000	$ 3,141,000	$ 1,450,000	12,500,000	9,640,000	$ 10,050,000
Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Accrued	$ 0				$ 0				$ 0	0	$ 0
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Outstanding Value										893,000
Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation										$ 360,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period										59,000

Stock-Based Compensation (Detai

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary the stock option transactions
Number of Options, Forfeited/canceled/expired		(59,000)
Stock Option Plan [Member]
Summary the stock option transactions
Number of Options, Outstanding	29,035	213,170	233,787
Number of Options, Granted	0	0	0
Number of Options, Exercised	0	(125,354)	(7,294)
Number of Options, Forfeited/canceled/expired	0	(58,781)	(13,323)
Number of Options, Outstanding	29,035	29,035	213,170	233,787
Number of Options, Vested and Exercisable	29,035
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding	$ 28.47	$ 31.79	$ 33.38
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted	0	0	0
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised	0	27.09	34.80
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Forfeited/canceled/expired	0	43.47	57.93
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding	28.47	$ 28.47	$ 31.79	$ 33.38
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Vested and Exercisable	$ 28.47
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years), Outstanding	4 months 24 days	1 year 4 months 24 days	1 year 2 months 12 days	2 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Vested and Exercisable	4 months 24 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding	$ 633,834	$ 289,769	$ 2,519,147	$ 4,058,035
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Vested and Exercisable	$ 633,834

Stock-Based Compensation (Det54

Stock-Based Compensation (Details 1) - Restricted Stock [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of the restricted stock transactions
Shares, Outstanding	106,789	89,832	50,062
Shares, Granted	48,471	55,081	56,756
Shares, Vested	(51,368)	(36,142)	(16,529)
Shares, Forfeited/canceled/expired	(630)	(1,982)	(457)
Shares, Outstanding	103,262	106,789	89,832
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding	$ 40.28	$ 41.20	$ 46.51
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted	48.60	40.09	38.11
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested	41.20	42.11	46.51
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited/canceled/expired	38.83	43.62	46.51
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding	$ 43.73	$ 40.28	$ 41.20
Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)	3 years 4 months 24 days

Stock-Based Compensation (Det55

Stock-Based Compensation (Details Textual) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 16, 2013	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Increase in number of common stock shares authorized	233,334
Percentage to retain annual restricted stock awards	50.00%
Stock options exercise price description	may not be exercised at a price which is less than 100% of the fair market value of shares at the date of grant.
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised		$ 0	$ 1,120,153	$ 100,300
Proceeds from stock options exercised		0	101,200	291,600
Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock that vested during		2,116,000	1,522,000	769,000
Net value of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock awards		4,223,000	3,993,000	3,526,000
Restricted stock [Member]
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation expense		2,101,000	1,655,000	826,000
Recognized tax benefits		$ 840,000	$ 662,000	$ 330,000
Common Class A [Member] | Convert For Class B [Member]
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized	280,000
Common Class A [Member] | Stock Option [Member]
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized	900,000
Common Class A [Member] | Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized	620,000
Common Class B [Member] | Stock Option [Member]
Stock Based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized	280,000

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Administrative expense	$ 1,200	$ 2,300	$ 7,000
Discretionary contribution	260,000	250,000	260,000
Deferred Compensation Expense Non Qualified Plan	$ 184,000	$ 138,000	$ 123,000

Acquisitions and Dispositions57

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets Acquired:
Current assets	$ 814	$ 977
Property and equipment	375	4,614
Other assets:
Broadcast licenses-Radio segment	8,123	2,218
Broadcast licenses-Television segment	0	0
Goodwill-Radio segment	4,533	2,548
Goodwill-Television segment	0	0
Other intangibles, deferred costs and investments	398	1,623
Total other assets	13,054	6,389
Total assets acquired	14,243	11,980
Liabilities Assumed:
Current liabilities	41	82
Total liabilities assumed	41	82
Net assets acquired	$ 14,202	$ 11,898

Acquisitions and Dispositions58

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details 1) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue	$ 142,591	$ 139,458
Station operating expense	101,557	102,401
Corporate general and administrative	10,980	10,091
Other operating (income) expenses, net	(1,393)	541
Impairment of intangible assets	0	874
Operating income	31,447	25,551
Interest expense	776	888
Write-off of debt issuance costs	0	557
Other income	0	(417)
Income before income tax expense	30,671	24,523
Income tax expense	12,494	10,242
Net income	$ 18,177	$ 14,281
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 3.10	$ 2.46
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 3.09	$ 2.44

Acquisitions and Dispositions59

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue	$ 37,289	$ 36,119	$ 36,438	$ 32,745	$ 35,606	$ 33,831	$ 34,358	$ 29,061		$ 142,591	$ 132,856	$ 133,998
Station operating expense	25,978	25,459	25,420	24,685	25,868	24,324	24,311	22,765		101,542	97,268	98,424
Corporate general and administrative	2,915	2,728	2,620	2,717	2,449	2,577	2,583	2,482		10,980	10,091	8,901
Impairment of intangible assets	0	0	0	0	874	0	0	0	$ 1,936	0	874	1,936
Operating income (loss)	$ 8,404	$ 9,325	$ 8,390	$ 5,343	$ 6,321	$ 6,497	$ 7,450	$ 3,814		31,462	24,082	25,947
Nonrecurring Adjustment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										142,591	139,458
Station operating expense										101,557	102,401
Corporate general and administrative										10,980	10,091
Other operating (income) expenses, net										(1,393)	541
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874
Operating income (loss)										31,447	25,551
Radio [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										118,955	111,792	113,627
Station operating expense										86,799	83,188	85,167
Corporate general and administrative										0	0	0
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874	1,936
Operating income (loss)										33,507	27,231	27,734
Radio [Member] | Nonrecurring Adjustment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										118,955	118,394
Station operating expense										86,814	88,321
Corporate general and administrative										0	0
Other operating (income) expenses, net										(1,351)	499
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874
Operating income (loss)										33,492	28,700
Television [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										23,636	21,064	20,371
Station operating expense										14,743	14,080	13,257
Corporate general and administrative										0	0	0
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0	0
Operating income (loss)										8,935	6,952	7,114
Television [Member] | Nonrecurring Adjustment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										23,636	21,064
Station operating expense										14,743	14,080
Corporate general and administrative										0	0
Other operating (income) expenses, net										(42)	32
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0
Operating income (loss)										8,935	6,952
Corporate and Other [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										0	0	0
Station operating expense										0	0	0
Corporate general and administrative										10,980	10,091	8,901
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0	0
Operating income (loss)										(10,980)	(10,101)	$ (8,901)
Corporate and Other [Member] | Nonrecurring Adjustment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										0	0
Station operating expense										0	0
Corporate general and administrative										10,980	10,091
Other operating (income) expenses, net										0	10
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0
Operating income (loss)										(10,980)	(10,101)
Radio Broadcasting Segment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										118,955	118,394
Station operating expense										86,814	88,321
Other operating (income) expenses, net										(1,351)	499
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874
Operating income (loss)										33,492	28,700
Television Broadcasting Segment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net operating revenue										23,636	21,064
Station operating expense										14,743	14,080
Other operating (income) expenses, net										(42)	32
Operating income (loss)										$ 8,935	$ 6,952

Acquisitions and Dispositions60

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details Textual) - USD ($)

Sep. 01, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 02, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 08, 2016

Oct. 11, 2016

Sep. 12, 2016

Aug. 11, 2016

Jun. 03, 2016

Apr. 11, 2016

Apr. 08, 2016

Mar. 25, 2016

Mar. 16, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Nov. 23, 2015

Nov. 12, 2015

Nov. 02, 2015

Oct. 23, 2015

Aug. 26, 2015

Aug. 01, 2015

Jul. 13, 2015

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets, Total

$ 14,243,000

$ 11,980,000

Belmont Verstandig Inc [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 10,131,000

Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs

$ 128,000

Gamma Broadcasting, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 1,558,000

Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs

92,000

FM Translator [Member] | Manchester, New Hampshire Market [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 45,000

FM Translator [Member] | Gamma Broadcasting, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

50,000

FM Translator [Member] | Portland, Maine market [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 50,000

FM Translator [Member] | Milwaukee, Wisconsin Market [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 50,000

FM Station [Member] | Asheville, North Carolina Market [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 125,000

FM Station [Member] | Gamma Broadcasting, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Expenses and Losses Recognized

$ 400,000

FM Station [Member] | Wilks Broadcast - Columbus, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets, Total

$ 13,791,000

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables

734,000

Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs

$ 57,000

Illinois Radio Network [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Carrying Value of Asset

$ 7,000

Tennessee Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Charlottesville [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 30,000

Iowa Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Spencer [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 35,000

Iowa Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving Des Moines [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 25,000

Virginia Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Charlottesville [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 100,000

$ 150,000

$ 30,000

Washington Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Bellingham [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 25,000

$ 50,000

Maine market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Portland [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 45,000

Illinois Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving Springfield [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 23,000

New York Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving Ithaca [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 35,000

Ohio Market [Member] | FM Translator Serving the Bucyrus [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

$ 30,000

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2003
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
CEO Employment Agreement	In June 2011, we entered into a new employment agreement with Edward K. Christian, Chairman, President and CEO, which became effective as of June 1, 2011, and replaces and supersedes his prior employment agreement. On February 12, 2016 we entered into an amendment to the agreement. The amendment extends the term of the employment agreement to March 31, 2021. The amendment also states that on each anniversary of the effective date of the employment agreement, the Companys Compensation committee shall determine in its discretion the amount of any annual increases (which shall not be less than the greater of 4 % or a defined cost of living increase). Mr. Christian may defer any or all of his annual salary.
Deferred Compensation Details	On December 2, 2014, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2015 salary which was paid 100% on January 8, 2016. On December 21, 2015, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2016 salary to be paid 100% on January 6, 2017. On December 13, 2016, Mr. Christian agreed to defer approximately $100,000 of his 2017 salary to be paid 100% on January 5, 2018.
Option Agreement For Kfjx	$ 1,200,000
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	100.00%
Ceo [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Average Annual Compensation	$ 1,559,000
Surtsey Productions Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Proceeds from Rents Received	6,000	$ 6,000	$ 6,000
Surtsey Media [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Tba Fees Kvct	3,900	3,800	3,600
Extension Fee Paid	27,950
Debt Guaranteed Related Party				$ 1,250,000
Debt guaranteed and outstanding	1,078,000
Intangible Assets Kfjxtv	1,000,000
Station Agreement Fees Kfjx	5,100	$ 5,000	$ 4,800
Extension fees paid, KFJX	$ 37,050

Commitments and Contingencies62

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Future Minimum Rental Payments For Operating Leases [Line Items]
2,017	$ 1,543
2,018	1,284
2,019	908
2,020	732
2,021	618
Thereafter	3,322
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	$ 8,407

Commitments and Contingencies63

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Future Minimum Payments for Broadcast Program Rights [Line items]
2,017	$ 586
2,018	438
2,019	274
2,020	185
2,021	40
Thereafter	32
Broadcast program rights, total future minimum payments	1,555
Amounts due within one year (included in accounts payable)	586
Broadcast program rights, total future minimum payments	$ 969	$ 780

Commitments and Contingencies64

Commitments and Contingencies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2003
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Rent expense	$ 1,613,000	$ 1,477,000	$ 1,503,000
Contingent cash payment				$ 1,000,000

Fair Value Measurements (Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility	$ 35,287	$ 35,287
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 26,640	$ 21,614

Fair Value Measurements (Deta66

Fair Value Measurements (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived License Agreements	$ 96,229				$ 88,106				$ 86,762	$ 96,229	$ 88,106	$ 86,762
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Nonrecurring									13,282			13,282
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	874	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	1,936	$ 0	874	1,936
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived License Agreements					13,282				$ 15,218		13,282	$ 15,218
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Nonrecurring					$ 12,408						12,408
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)											$ 874

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment reporting information
Net operating revenue	$ 37,289	$ 36,119	$ 36,438	$ 32,745	$ 35,606	$ 33,831	$ 34,358	$ 29,061		$ 142,591	$ 132,856	$ 133,998
Station operating expense	25,978	25,459	25,420	24,685	25,868	24,324	24,311	22,765		101,542	97,268	98,424
Corporate general and administrative	2,915	2,728	2,620	2,717	2,449	2,577	2,583	2,482		10,980	10,091	8,901
Other operating (income) expense, net	(8)	(1,393)	8	0	94	433	14	0		1,393	(541)	1,210
Impairment of intangible assets	0	0	0	0	874	0	0	0	$ 1,936	0	874	1,936
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations	8,404	$ 9,325	$ 8,390	$ 5,343	6,321	$ 6,497	$ 7,450	$ 3,814		31,462	24,082	25,947
Capital additions										4,861	5,543	5,524
Broadcast licenses, net	96,229				88,106				$ 86,762	96,229	88,106	86,762
Total assets	221,020				204,571					221,020	204,571
Radio [Member]
Segment reporting information
Net operating revenue										118,955	111,792	113,627
Station operating expense										86,799	83,188	85,167
Corporate general and administrative										0	0	0
Other operating (income) expense, net										(1,351)	499	(1,210)
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874	1,936
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations										33,507	27,231	27,734
Depreciation and amortization										5,555	5,135	5,023
Capital additions										3,246	3,436	3,856
Broadcast licenses, net	86,662				78,499					86,662	78,499
Total assets	162,434				150,855					162,434	150,855
Television [Member]
Segment reporting information
Net operating revenue										23,636	21,064	20,371
Station operating expense										14,743	14,080	13,257
Corporate general and administrative										0	0	0
Other operating (income) expense, net										(42)	32	0
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0	0
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations										8,935	6,952	7,114
Depreciation and amortization										1,387	1,399	1,411
Capital additions										894	1,970	929
Broadcast licenses, net	9,607				9,607					9,607	9,607
Total assets	22,674				23,091					22,674	23,091
Corporate and Other [Member]
Segment reporting information
Net operating revenue										0	0	0
Station operating expense										0	0	0
Corporate general and administrative										10,980	10,091	8,901
Other operating (income) expense, net										0	10	0
Impairment of intangible assets										0	0	0
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations										(10,980)	(10,101)	(8,901)
Depreciation and amortization										321	290	268
Capital additions										721	137	739
Broadcast licenses, net	0				0					0	0
Total assets	35,912				30,625					35,912	30,625
Consolidated Segments [Member]
Segment reporting information
Net operating revenue										142,591	132,856	133,998
Station operating expense										101,542	97,268	98,424
Corporate general and administrative										10,980	10,091	8,901
Other operating (income) expense, net										(1,393)	541	(1,210)
Impairment of intangible assets										0	874	1,936
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations										31,462	24,082	25,947
Depreciation and amortization										7,263	6,824	6,702
Capital additions										4,861	5,543	$ 5,524
Broadcast licenses, net	96,229				88,106					96,229	88,106
Total assets	$ 221,020				$ 204,571					$ 221,020	$ 204,571

Quarterly Results of Operatio68

Quarterly Results of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Effect of Fourth Quarter Events [Line Items]
Net operating revenue	$ 37,289	$ 36,119	$ 36,438	$ 32,745	$ 35,606	$ 33,831	$ 34,358	$ 29,061		$ 142,591	$ 132,856	$ 133,998
Station operating expenses	25,978	25,459	25,420	24,685	25,868	24,324	24,311	22,765		101,542	97,268	98,424
Corporate G&A	2,915	2,728	2,620	2,717	2,449	2,577	2,583	2,482		10,980	10,091	8,901
Other operating expense (income), net	(8)	(1,393)	8	0	94	433	14	0		1,393	(541)	1,210
Impairment of intangible assets	0	0	0	0	874	0	0	0	$ 1,936	0	874	1,936
Operating income from continuing operations	8,404	9,325	8,390	5,343	6,321	6,497	7,450	3,814		31,462	24,082	25,947
Other (income) expenses:
Interest expense	202	196	189	189	174	229	244	241		776	888	1,064
Write-off of debt issuance costs	0	0	0	0	0	557	0	0		0	557	0
Other (income) expenses	0	0	0	0	0	0	(409)	(8)		0	(417)	(71)
Income before income tax	8,202	9,129	8,201	5,154	6,147	5,711	7,615	3,581		30,686	23,054	24,954
Income tax provision	3,265	3,715	3,390	2,130	2,450	2,599	3,141	1,450		12,500	9,640	10,050
Net income	$ 4,937	$ 5,414	$ 4,811	$ 3,024	$ 3,697	$ 3,112	$ 4,474	$ 2,131		$ 18,186	$ 13,414	$ 14,904
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.84	$ 0.92	$ 0.82	$ 0.52	$ 0.63	$ 0.54	$ 0.77	$ 0.37		$ 3.10	$ 2.31	$ 2.57
Weighted average common shares	5,785	5,755	5,754	5,751	5,732	5,724	5,712	5,710		5,761	5,706	5,700
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.84	$ 0.92	$ 0.82	$ 0.52	$ 0.63	$ 0.53	$ 0.77	$ 0.36		$ 3.09	$ 2.29	$ 2.55
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares	5,797	5,764	5,763	5,759	5,741	5,752	5,757	5,762		5,771	5,740	5,753

Other Income (Details Textual)

Other Income (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Income [Line Items]
Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities		$ 777,000	$ 0	$ 777,000	$ 0
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Proceeds, Investing Activities	$ 1,619,000
Other Nonoperating Income		$ 417,000
Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member]
Other Income [Line Items]
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Current Period Gain Recognized	1,415,000
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Deferred Gain, Net	$ 65,000

Subsequent Events (Details Text

Subsequent Events (Details Textual) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Mar. 03, 2017	Jan. 16, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Nov. 21, 2016	Nov. 17, 2015	Dec. 03, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Proceeds, Investing Activities			$ 1,619,000
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share				$ 0.20	$ 0.25	$ 0.20
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Proceeds, Investing Activities		$ 1,650,000
Dividends Payable, Date Declared, Month and Year	2017-03
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share	$ 0.30
Dividends Payable	$ 1,800,000
Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid, Year and Month	2017-04
Dividends Payable, Date of Record	Mar. 28, 2017