1
Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3)
Registration No. 333-54003
PROSPECTUS
OFFER FOR ALL OUTSTANDING OFFER FOR ALL OUTSTANDING
8 3/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES DUE 2008
2008 IN EXCHANGE FOR
IN EXCHANGE FOR 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES DUE 2008
8 3/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE OF
2008 LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
OF
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this
Prospectus and the accompanying letters of transmittal, (i) LIN Television
Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and the Guarantors (as
defined) hereby offer (the "Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer") to
exchange $1,000 principal amount of registered 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes
Due 2008 (the "New Senior Subordinated Notes") issued by the Company, for each
$1,000 principal amount of unregistered 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due
2008 (the "Old Senior Subordinated Notes," and together with the New Senior
Subordinated Notes, the "Senior Subordinated Notes") issued by LIN Acquisition
Company, the predecessor in interest of the Company ("LIN Acquisition"), of
which an aggregate principal amount of $300,000,000 is outstanding and (ii) LIN
Holdings Corp., a Delaware corporation ("Holdings") hereby offers (the "Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer," and together with the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer, the "Exchange Offers") to exchange $1,000 principal amount at
maturity of registered 10% Senior Discount Notes Due 2008 (the "New Senior
Discount Notes") issued by Holdings, for each $1,000 principal amount at
maturity of unregistered 10% Senior Discount Notes Due 2008 (the "Old Senior
Discount Notes," and together with the New Senior Discount Notes, the "Senior
Discount Notes") issued by Holdings, of which an aggregate principal amount at
maturity of $325,000,000 is outstanding. The Old Senior Subordinated Notes and
the Old Senior Discount Notes are sometimes collectively referred to herein as
the "Old Notes" and the New Senior Subordinated Notes and the New Senior
Discount Notes are sometimes collectively referred to herein as the "New Notes."
The Old Notes and the New Notes are sometimes collectively referred to herein as
the "Notes." The Company and Holdings are sometimes collectively referred to
herein as the "Issuers."
The form and terms of the New Notes are identical to the form and terms of
the Old Notes except that (i) interest on the New Senior Subordinated Notes
shall accrue from the date of issuance of the Old Senior Subordinated Notes,
(ii) the Accreted Value (as defined) of the New Senior Discount Notes will be
calculated from the date of issuance of the Old Senior Discount Notes, and (iii)
the New Notes are being registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
(the "Securities Act"), and will not bear any legends restricting their
transfer. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will evidence the same debt as the
Old Senior Subordinated Notes and will be issued pursuant to, and entitled to
the benefits of, the indenture governing the Old Senior Subordinated Notes. The
New Senior Discount Notes will evidence the same debt as the Old Senior Discount
Notes and will be issued pursuant to, and entitled to the benefits of, the
indenture governing the Old Senior Discount Notes. The Exchange Offers are being
made in order to satisfy certain contractual obligations of the Company and
Holdings. See "The Exchange Offers," "Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes" and "Description of the New Senior Discount Notes."
The net proceeds from the sale of the Old Notes were used to effect the
acquisition by Holdings of the Company and its subsidiaries (the "Acquisition").
Such acquisition was effected pursuant to the merger of LIN Acquisition with and
into the Company, with the Company surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of
Holdings. See "The Transactions and Other Matters."
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SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 23 FOR A DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN
INFORMATION THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED IN CONNECTION WITH AN INVESTMENT IN THE
NEW NOTES.
---------------------
The Company and Holdings will accept for exchange any and all Old Notes
validly tendered and not withdrawn prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on
October 1, 1998, unless extended (as so extended, the "Expiration Date").
Tenders of Old Notes may be withdrawn at any time prior to the Expiration Date.
The Exchange Offers are subject to certain customary conditions. See "The
Exchange Offers."
In order for a holder of Old Notes to participate in an Exchange Offer, such
holder must represent to the Company or Holdings, as appropriate, that, among
other things, (i) the New Notes acquired pursuant to such Exchange Offer are
being obtained in the ordinary course of business of the person receiving such
New Notes, whether or not such person is the holder of the Old Notes, (ii)
neither the holder nor any such other person is engaging or intends to engage in
a distribution of such New Notes, (iii) neither the holder nor any such other
person has an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in the
distribution of such New Notes within the meaning of the Securities Act, (iv)
neither the holder nor any such other person is an "affiliate," as defined under
Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act, of the Company, Holdings or any
Guarantor, and (v) if such holder or other person is a broker-dealer, that it
will receive New Notes for its own account in exchange for Old Notes that were
acquired as a result of marketmaking activities or other trading activities. See
"The Exchange Offers--Purpose and Effect."
Each broker-dealer that receives New Notes for its own account pursuant to
either of the Exchange Offers must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus
in connection with any resale of those New Notes. The letter of transmittal
accompanying this Prospectus states that by so acknowledging and by delivering a
prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an
"underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act. This Prospectus, as it
may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer
in connection with resales of New Notes received in exchange for Old Notes where
such Old Notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making
activities or other trading activities. The Company and Holdings have agreed
that, for a period of 90 days after the Expiration Date, they will make this
Prospectus available to any broker-dealer for use in connection with any such
resale. See "Plan of Distribution."
No public market has existed for the Old Notes. The Company and Holdings
currently do not intend to list the New Notes on any securities exchange or to
seek approval for quotation through any automated quotation system, and no
active public market for the New Notes is currently anticipated. The Company and
Holdings will pay all expenses incident to the Exchange Offers.
The Exchange Offers are not conditioned upon any minimum principal amount of
Old Senior Subordinated Notes or Old Senior Discount Notes being tendered for
exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offers.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
THE DATE OF THIS PROSPECTUS IS SEPTEMBER 2, 1998.
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continued from cover
The New Senior Subordinated Notes will bear interest at a rate of 8 3/8% per
annum, payable semi-annually on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing
on September 1, 1998. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will mature on March 1,
2008. Except as described below, the Company may not redeem the New Senior
Subordinated Notes prior to March 1, 2003. On or after such date the Company may
redeem the New Senior Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption
prices set forth herein, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to
the date of redemption. In addition, at any time and from time to time on or
prior to March 1, 2001, the Company may, subject to certain requirements, redeem
up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Senior Subordinated Notes
with the net cash proceeds from one or more private or public equity offerings
at a price equal to 108.735% of the principal amount to be redeemed, together
with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption, provided
that at least 65% of the originally issued aggregate principal amount of the
Senior Subordinate Notes remains outstanding after each such redemption. The New
Senior Subordinated Notes will not be subject to any sinking fund requirement.
Upon a Change of Control (as defined), (i) the Company will have the option, at
any time on or prior to March 1, 2003, to redeem the New Senior Subordinated
Notes, in whole but not in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest plus the Applicable
Premium (as defined) and (ii) if the New Senior Subordinated Notes are not
redeemed or if such Change of Control occurs after March 1, 2003, the Company
will be required to make an offer to repurchase the New Senior Subordinated
Notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, together with
accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. See "Description
of the New Senior Subordinated Notes."
The Old Senior Discount Notes were issued at a discount to their aggregate
principal amount at maturity and generated gross proceeds to Holdings of
$199,631,250. The yield to maturity of the New Senior Discount Notes is 10.00%
(computed on a semi-annual bond equivalent basis), calculated from March 3,
1998. Cash interest will not accrue or be payable on the New Senior Discount
Notes prior to March 1, 2003. Thereafter, cash interest on the New Senior
Discount Notes will accrue at a rate of 10% per annum and will be payable
semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing on
September 1, 2003. The New Senior Discount Notes will mature on March 1, 2008.
Except as described below, Holdings may not redeem the New Senior Discount Notes
prior to March 1, 2003. On March 1, 2003, Holdings will be required to redeem
Senior Discount Notes with an aggregate principal amount at maturity equal to
(i) $125.0 million multiplied by (ii) the quotient obtained by dividing (x) the
aggregate principal amount at maturity of Senior Discount Notes then outstanding
by (y) $325.0 million, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal
amount at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes so redeemed. The New Senior
Discount Notes will be redeemable at the option of Holdings, in whole or in
part, at any time on or after March 1, 2003, at the redemption prices set forth
herein, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
redemption. In addition, at any time and from time to time on or prior to March
1, 2001, Holdings may, subject to certain requirements, redeem up to 35% of the
aggregate principal amount at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes with the net
cash proceeds from one or more private or public equity offerings at a price
equal to 110% of the Accreted Value (as defined) at the date of redemption,
provided that at least 65% of the originally issued aggregate principal amount
at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes remains outstanding after each such
redemption. The New Senior Discount Notes will not be subject to any sinking
fund requirement. Upon a Change of Control, (i) Holdings will have the option,
at any time on or prior to March 1, 2003, to redeem the New Senior Discount
Notes, in whole but not in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
Accreted Value thereof plus the Applicable Premium and (ii) if the New Senior
Discount Notes are not so redeemed or if such Change of Control occurs after
March 1, 2003, Holdings will be required to make an offer to repurchase the New
Senior Discount Notes at a price equal to (a) 101% of the Accreted Value thereof
if redeemed on or before March 1, 2003, and (b) 101% of the principal amount at
maturity, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, if redeemed after March 1,
2003. See "Description of the New Senior Discount Notes."
The New Notes will be general obligations of the relevant issuer. The New
Senior Subordinated Notes will be unsecured and will be subordinated in right of
payment to all existing and future Senior Indebtedness (as defined) of the
Company. The New Senior Discount Notes will be senior unsecured obligations of
Holdings. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will be guaranteed (the "Subsidiary
Guarantees") on an unsecured senior subordinated basis by the Company's direct
and indirect, existing and future, Restricted Subsidiaries (as defined). The New
Senior Discount Notes will not have the benefit of any guarantees. The
Indentures (as defined) will permit the Issuers to incur additional
indebtedness, including indebtedness of Subsidiaries (as defined), and in the
case of the Senior Subordinated Notes, Senior Indebtedness, subject to certain
limitations. In connection with the Acquisition, the Company obtained senior
credit facilities in an aggregate amount of up to $570.0 million (the "Senior
Credit Facilities"). The Senior Credit Facilities have been guaranteed on a
senior basis by Holdings and the Company's direct and indirect, existing
Restricted Subsidiaries and will be guaranteed on a senior basis by the
Company's direct and indirect future Restricted Subsidiaries, secured by a lien
on substantially all of the assets of Holdings and its subsidiaries. As of March
31, 1998, the aggregate principal amount of the Company's outstanding Senior
Indebtedness was approximately $170.0 million (excluding unused commitments
under the Senior Credit Facilities). As of such date, liabilities of
Subsidiaries of the Company and Holdings, including indebtedness and other
liabilities such as trade payables and accrued expenses, were $17.8 million and
$523.8 million, respectively. See "Risk Factors," "Description of the Senior
Credit Facilities," "Description of the New Senior Subordinated Notes" and
"Description of the New Senior Discount Notes."
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AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Issuers and the Guarantors have filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") a Registration Statement (which term shall
encompass any amendments thereto) on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with
respect to the securities offered hereby. This Prospectus does not contain all
information set forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits thereto, to
which reference is hereby made. Although the Issuers and the Guarantors believe
that statements made in this Prospectus as to the contents of any contract,
agreement, or other document describe all material elements of such documents,
such statements are not necessarily complete. With respect to each such
contract, agreement, or other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration
Statement, reference is hereby made to such exhibit for a more complete
description of the matter involved, and each such statement shall be deemed
qualified in its entirety by such reference.
As a result of the filing of the Registration Statement with the
Commission, the Issuers and the Guarantors each will become subject to the
informational reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the "Exchange Act"). In accordance therewith, the Company and Holdings
will be required to file reports and other information with the Commission. Such
reports and other information can be inspected and copied at the principal
office of the Commission at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549 and the following Regional Offices of the Commission: Chicago
Regional Office, Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite
1400, Chicago, Illinois 60611 and New York Regional office, 7 World Trade
Center, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10048. Copies of such material may also
be obtained at prescribed rates from the Public Reference Section of the
Commission at its principal office at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W.,
Washington, DC 20549. The Commission also maintains a Web site that contains
reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding
registrants that file electronically with the Commission at http://www.sec.gov.
In reliance upon certain Staff Accounting Bulletins of the Commission,
interpretations of the staff of the Commission and no-action relief granted by
the Staff of the Commission to unrelated third parties, the Subsidiary
Guarantors do not intend to file periodic reports with the Commission under the
Exchange Act separately from the Issuers.
The Issuers will furnish holders of the securities offered hereby with
annual reports containing, among other information, audited financial statements
certified by an independent public accounting firm and quarterly reports
containing unaudited financial information for the first three quarters of each
fiscal year. The Issuers will also furnish such other reports as it may
determine or as may be required by law or by the indentures governing the New
Notes.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
THIS PROSPECTUS CONTAINS CERTAIN FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO
THE FINANCIAL CONDITIONS, RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND BUSINESSES OF THE ISSUERS,
INCLUDING STATEMENTS UNDER THE CAPTIONS "SUMMARY," "UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
FINANCIAL INFORMATION," "MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" AND "BUSINESS." ALL OF THESE FORWARD
LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE BASED ON ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS MADE BY MANAGEMENT OF
THE ISSUERS WHICH, ALTHOUGH BELIEVED TO BE REASONABLE, ARE INHERENTLY UNCERTAIN.
THEREFORE, UNDUE RELIANCE SHOULD NOT BE PLACED UPON SUCH ESTIMATES AND
STATEMENTS. NO ASSURANCE CAN BE GIVEN THAT ANY OF SUCH ESTIMATES OR STATEMENTS
WILL BE REALIZED AND IT IS LIKELY THAT ACTUAL RESULTS WILL DIFFER MATERIALLY
FROM THOSE CONTEMPLATED BY SUCH FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. FACTORS THAT MAY
CAUSE SUCH DIFFERENCES INCLUDE: (1) INCREASED COMPETITION, INCLUDING FROM NEWER
FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA OR CHANGES IN THE POPULARITY OR
AVAILABILITY OF PROGRAMMING; (2) INCREASED COSTS, INCLUDING INCREASED CAPITAL
EXPENDITURES AS A RESULT OF NECESSARY TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENTS (E.G.,
EXPENDITURES RELATED TO THE TRANSITION TO DIGITAL
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BROADCASTING) OR ACQUISITIONS OR INCREASED PROGRAMMING COSTS; (3) INABILITY TO
CONSUMMATE ACQUISITIONS ON ATTRACTIVE TERMS; (4) LOSS OR RETIREMENT OF KEY
MEMBERS OF MANAGEMENT; (5) INCREASES IN THE ISSUERS' COST OF BORROWINGS OR
INABILITY OR UNAVAILABILITY OF ADDITIONAL DEBT OR EQUITY CAPITAL; (6) ADVERSE
STATE OR FEDERAL LEGISLATION OR REGULATION OR ADVERSE DETERMINATIONS BY
REGULATORS; AND (7) CHANGES IN ADVERTISING TRENDS AND/OR BUDGETS AND IN GENERAL
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN THE MARKETS IN WHICH THE ISSUERS MAY, FROM TIME TO TIME,
COMPETE. MANY OF SUCH FACTORS WILL BE BEYOND THE CONTROL OF THE ISSUERS AND
THEIR MANAGEMENT. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS CONTAINED HEREIN SPEAK ONLY AS OF
THE DATE HEREOF. THE COMPANY UNDERTAKES NO OBLIGATION TO PUBLICLY RELEASE THE
RESULT OF ANY REVISIONS TO THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WHICH MAY BE MADE TO
REFLECT EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES AFTER THE DATE HEREOF OR TO REFLECT THE
OCCURRENCE OF UNANTICIPATED EVENTS. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR OTHER FACTORS
WHICH COULD AFFECT THE FINANCIAL RESULTS OF THE ISSUERS AND SUCH FORWARD LOOKING
STATEMENTS, SEE "RISK FACTORS."
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CERTAIN DEFINITIONS AND MARKET AND INDUSTRY DATA
As used in this Prospectus, unless the context otherwise requires, (i)
"Holdings" refers to LIN Holdings Corp., (ii) "LIN Acquisition" refers to LIN
Acquisition Company, (iii) "LIN Television" or the "Predecessor" refers to LIN
Television Corporation and its subsidiaries prior to the Acquisition, (iv) the
"Company" refers to LIN Television after giving effect to the Acquisition (as
defined), the Financings (as defined) and the Joint Venture (as defined)
(collectively, the "Transactions"), except where the context requires otherwise,
(v) "on a pro forma basis" or "pro forma" means after giving effect to the
Transactions, except as indicated otherwise and (vi) "Core Stations" refers to
the CBS, NBC and ABC-affiliated stations owned and operated by the Company
(WISH-TV, WANE-TV, WAND-TV, WAVY-TV, KXAN-TV, WTNH-TV and WIVB-TV). See "The
Transactions and Other Matters."
The terms "broadcast cash flow" ("BCF") and "EBITDA" are referred to in
various places in this Prospectus. BCF is defined as operating income (loss)
plus corporate expenses plus depreciation and amortization of intangible assets
and amortization of program rights plus other non-cash expenses (consisting of
tower write-offs and non-cash pension expenses), minus cash program payments.
EBITDA is defined as BCF minus corporate expenses. BCF and EBITDA are not
measures of performance calculated in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles ("GAAP"). However, management believes that BCF is useful
to a prospective investor because it is a measure widely used in the broadcast
industry to evaluate a television broadcast company's operating performance and
that EBITDA is useful to a prospective investor because it is widely used in the
broadcast industry to evaluate a television broadcast company's ability to
service debt. BCF and EBITDA should not be considered in isolation of or as a
substitute for net income (loss), cash flows from operating activities and other
income and cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a
measure of liquidity or profitability. BCF and EBITDA as determined above may
not be comparable to the BCF and EBITDA measures reported by other companies. In
addition, these measures do not represent funds available for discretionary use.
Designated market area ("DMA") rankings are from the Nielsen Station Index
dated November 1997 as estimated by the A.C. Nielsen Company ("Nielsen"). There
are 211 generally-recognized television "markets" or DMAs in the United States,
which are ranked in size according to various factors based upon actual or
potential audience. Unless otherwise indicated herein, (i) market revenue,
market revenue share, projected advertising revenue growth and station revenue
share data have been obtained from Investing in Television 1994, 1995, 1996 and
1997, BIA Publications, Inc. ("BIA"); (ii) television household data has been
obtained from the Nielsen Station Index for November of the appropriate year;
(iii) audience share and audience rankings, except where specifically stated to
the contrary, have been derived from Nielsen estimates (for May and November of
the appropriate year) of the percentage of persons in the DMA tuned into the
relevant station from sign-on to sign-off (Sunday to Saturday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:00
a.m.); (iv) general market economic data has been obtained from BIA and the
chambers of commerce in each station's market; (v) the term "station" or
"commercial station" means a television broadcast station and does not include
public television stations, cable stations or networks (e.g., CNN, TBS or ESPN),
or stations that do not meet the minimum Nielsen reporting standards (i.e.,
weekly cumulative audience share of at least 2.5% for Sunday to Saturday, 7:00
a.m. to 1:00 a.m.); and (vi) the term "independent" describes a commercial
television station that is not affiliated with the ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, WB or UPN
television networks.
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SUMMARY
The following summary should be read in conjunction with the more detailed
information, financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this
Prospectus. For additional information relating to certain defined terms used
herein, as well as the sources for the market and other industry data contained
herein, see "Certain Definitions and Market and Industry Data."
THE COMPANY
The Company is a leading television station group operator in the United
States that operates eleven television stations and provides consulting services
to two additional television stations. Twelve of these stations are network
affiliates and nine are in top forty DMAs, including: Indianapolis, Indiana; New
Haven-Hartford, Connecticut; Buffalo, New York; Norfolk-Portsmouth, Virginia;
Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, Michigan and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas.
These stations have an aggregate United States household reach of approximately
6.9%, ranking the Company among the top independent, "pure-play" television
station group operators in the United States.
The Company's Core Stations generated an aggregate pro forma BCF margin of
approximately 46% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, principally as a
result of their strong network affiliations, leading local news programming and
tight cost controls. In addition, the Company's management pioneered the
"multi-channel strategy," which involves the combination of an owned and
operated television station with an LMA station and/or a 24-hour cable weather
channel (a "Local Weather Station") in the same market. The multi-channel
strategy has enhanced the Company's revenue market shares and increased its BCF
by leveraging its fixed costs over a larger revenue base.
The Company's station portfolio is well diversified in terms of its network
affiliations, geographic coverage, net revenues and cash flow. The Company owns
and operates three CBS affiliates, two NBC affiliates and two ABC affiliates
which accounted for 35%, 28% and 28%, respectively, of the Company's pro forma
BCF for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. The Company's LMA stations and
Local Weather Stations accounted for substantially all of the remaining 9% of
its BCF on the same basis. The Company's Core Stations broadcast in seven
different markets, with no market representing more than 25% of the Company's
pro forma net revenues or BCF for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. The
Company's pro forma net revenues, BCF and EBITDA were $196.1 million, $79.5
million and $72.7 million, respectively, for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1997.
Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"), a leading private
equity firm with significant investments and experience in the media and
communications industry, has acquired LIN Television to serve as a platform for
acquiring and operating additional television stations that can benefit from
management's ability to improve operating performance and increase BCF margins
at acquired stations. In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC
formed a television station joint venture (the "Joint Venture"). The Joint
Venture consists of KXAS-TV, LIN Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate,
and KNSD-TV, NBC's San Diego station. A wholly owned subsidiary of NBC is the
general partner of the Joint Venture (the "NBC General Partner") and NBC
operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture pursuant to a management
agreement. The NBC General Partner holds an approximate 80% equity interest and
the Company holds an approximate 20% equity interest in the Joint Venture.
General Electric Capital Corporation ("GECC") provided debt financing to the
Joint Venture in the form of the GECC Note (as defined), the proceeds of which
were distributed to the Company to finance a portion of the cost of the
Acquisition. The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any
of their respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the
Company's equity interest therein and to one of Holding's two corporate parents
(the "GECC Note Guarantor") pursuant to a guarantee. The Company expects that
the interest payments on the GECC Note will be serviced solely by the cash flow
of the Joint Venture. See "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The Joint
Venture."
Later this year, the Company expects to acquire (the "Grand Rapids
Acquisition") from AT&T Corporation ("AT&T") the assets of WOOD-TV and the LMA
rights related to WOTV-TV (collectively,
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the "Grand Rapids Stations"), both of which stations are located in the Grand
Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market. The Company currently provides services to
the Grand Rapids Stations pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. See "The
Transactions and Other Matters -- The Grand Rapids Acquisition" and
"Business -- The Company -- History."
The following table provides information regarding the stations and other
programming outlets operated by the Company and the stations owned by the Joint
Venture:
COMMERCIAL STATION STATION
DMAS, STATIONS AND OTHER DMA STATIONS IN RANK IN AUDIENCE
PROGRAMMING OUTLETS STATUS(a) AFFILIATION(b) RANK(c) DMA(d) DMA(e) Share(e)
------------------------ --------- -------------- ------- ----------- ------- --------
COMPANY STATIONS AND OTHER PROGRAMMING OUTLETS:
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
WISH-TV.......................................... O&O CBS 25 8 1 18%
WIIH-LP (Satellite)(f)........................... O&O CBS
Local Weather Station............................ O&O Cable
NEW HAVEN-HARTFORD, CT
WTNH-TV.......................................... O&O ABC 27 8 2 14%
WBNE-TV.......................................... LMA WB 5(tie) 2%
GRAND RAPIDS-KALAMAZOO-BATTLE CREEK, MI(g)
WOOD-TV.......................................... CS NBC 37 8 1(tie) 18%
WOTV-TV.......................................... CS ABC 4 5%
NORFOLK-PORTSMOUTH, VA
WAVY-TV.......................................... O&O NBC 39 7 1(tie) 16%
WVBT-TV.......................................... LMA WB/Fox(h) 5 2%
Local Weather Station............................ O&O Cable
BUFFALO, NY
WIVB-TV.......................................... O&O CBS 40 7 2 17%
AUSTIN, TX
KXAN-TV.......................................... O&O NBC 60 7 3 14%
KNVA-TV.......................................... LMA WB 6 3%
KXAM-TV (Satellite)(i)........................... O&O NBC
Low Power Network................................ O&O UPN
DECATUR-CHAMPAIGN, IL
WAND-TV.......................................... O&O ABC 81 8 3 14%
Local Weather Station............................ O&O Cable
FORT WAYNE, IN
WANE-TV.......................................... O&O CBS 102 6 2 19%
Local Weather Station............................ O&O Cable
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX
KXTX-TV(j)....................................... LMA IND 8 13 9 3%
JOINT VENTURE STATIONS:
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX
KXAS-TV.......................................... JV NBC 8 13 3 12%
SAN DIEGO, CA
KNSD-TV.......................................... JV NBC 26 7 1 13%
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(a) "O&O" refers to a station owned and operated by the Company. "LMA" refers
to a station operated by the Company pursuant to a local marketing
agreement and with respect to which the Company has a purchase option
exercisable under certain circumstances. "JV" refers to a station owned by
the Joint Venture and operated by NBC. "CS" refers to a station which the
Company currently provides services to pursuant to a consulting agreement.
The Company's Core Stations, all of which are CBS, NBC and ABC affiliates,
are WISH-TV, WANE-TV, WAND-TV, WAVY-TV, KXAN-TV, WTNH-TV and WIVB-TV.
(b) "IND" refers to an independent station with no network affiliation.
(c) Rankings are based on the relative size of the station's "market" among the
211 generally recognized television markets in the United States. Source:
Nielsen Station Index DMA Market Ratings -- November 1997, A.C. Nielsen
Company.
(d) The number of stations in a market excludes local weather stations, low
power networks and satellite broadcasting facilities.
(e) Source: Nielsen Station Index DMA Market Ratings -- November 1997, A.C.
Nielsen Company, Sunday-Saturday 6:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.
(f) Station WIIH-LP, Indianapolis, Indiana, is operated as a satellite station
of WISH-TV in order to increase WISH-TV's coverage.
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(g) The Company currently provides services to WOOD-TV and WOTV-TV pursuant to
a consulting agreement with AT&T. The Company has agreed to acquire the
assets of WOOD-TV and the LMA rights related to WOTV-TV from AT&T for a
purchase price of approximately $125.5 million. The acquisition is expected
to close later this year. See "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The
Grand Rapids Acquisition" and "Business -- The Company -- History."
(h) WVBT-TV will become a Fox affiliate on August 31, 1998.
(i) Station KXAM-TV, Llano, Texas, is operated as a satellite station of
KXAN-TV in order to increase KXAN-TV's coverage.
(j) On August 27, 1998, LIN Television of Texas, L.P. ("LIN Texas") and
Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SSG"), entered into
an Asset Purchase Agreement pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell KXTX-TV
to SSG. See "Recent Developments."
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Company's business strategy is to maximize its BCF through both revenue
growth and the implementation of effective cost controls. To achieve these
goals, the Company seeks, among other things, to:
Maximize Revenue Shares. From 1993 to 1997, the Company increased its
broadcast television advertising revenue market share from 22.8% to 25.9%
(assuming the acquisitions of WIVB-TV and WTNH-TV occurred on January 1, 1993)
by targeting audiences with favorable demographic profiles, creating auxiliary
revenue streams and cultivating strong network affiliations. On the same basis,
the Company's gross advertising revenues have grown at a compound annual rate of
10.3%, whereas gross advertising revenues in the Company's markets have grown at
a compound annual rate of 6.8%.
The Company attempts to maximize each station's revenue share through a
quarterly "entitlement review process." This process involves the benchmarking
of each station's advertising revenues against an index which weights various
demographic attributes according to their relative advertising revenue value. As
a result of the entitlement review process, the Company's revenue shares
typically outperform its audience shares.
The Company's revenue shares also benefit from long term affiliations with
its three core networks -- CBS, NBC and ABC -- which provide the Company's
television stations affiliated with such networks with competitive programming,
including coverage of political events and high profile sporting events such as
the Olympic Games, Super Bowl and NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. The Company
also has stations affiliated with Fox, WB and UPN, which further enhances its
ability to grow its revenue shares through access to their competitive
programming.
Emphasize Leading Local News. The Company's Core Stations are ranked number
one or two in late news in all but the Company's smallest market. Management
believes that a successful news operation is critical to the success of a
television station because news audiences generally have the best demographic
profiles from an advertising sales perspective. In addition, news programming:
(i) enables the Company to purchase less syndicated programming and thereby
maintain tight control over programming costs; (ii) serves as a strong lead-in
to other programming; and (iii) fosters a high profile in the local community,
which is critical to maximizing local advertising sales.
The Company believes that its local news programming significantly improves
its stations' BCF margins. Accordingly, the Company has increased the hours of
news produced per week from 81 in 1989 to 187 in 1997 on a pro forma basis.
Partly as a result of its emphasis on quality local news programming, management
has increased the BCF margin at the five network-affiliated stations that it has
operated throughout the period from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 1997
(WISH-TV, WANE-TV, WAND-TV, WAVY-TV and KXAN-TV) from 37% to 47%.
Execute a Multi-Channel Strategy. The Company's management pioneered the
"multi-channel strategy," which involves the combination of an owned and
operated television station with an LMA station and/or a Local Weather Station
in the same market. Management has pursued this strategy in all but one of the
Company's markets. Execution of the multi-channel strategy has been a factor in
the Company's ability to generate incremental cash flow. The advantages of the
multi-channel strategy are: (i) the ability to capitalize on management's
expertise; (ii) additional advertising inventory in each market; (iii) greater
programming flexibility; (iv) enhanced ability to leverage fixed operating costs
over a larger revenue base; (v) improved
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negotiating positions with respect to suppliers of syndicated programming,
advertisers and the networks; (vi) increased share of actual viewers; (vii) the
opportunity to affiliate with the emerging networks; and (viii) enhanced
opportunities for cross promotion.
Control Costs. In addition to concentrating on maximizing advertising
revenues in its local markets, management focuses on controlling costs to
maximize BCF. In many markets, the Company operates with fewer personnel than
its competitors. In addition, management typically buys syndicated programming
on a Company-wide basis and performs detailed profitability analyses for all
programming purchases. As a result, management believes that the Company's
margins are among the highest in the industry for stations in markets of
comparable size.
Pursue Selective Acquisitions. The Company intends to pursue selective
acquisitions of television stations with the goal of improving their operating
performance by applying management's business strategy. Targeted stations
generally will share many of the following characteristics: (i) attractive
acquisition terms; (ii) opportunities for increased advertising revenue; (iii)
opportunities to implement effective cost controls; (iv) opportunities for
increased audience share through improved newscasts and programming; and (v)
market locations that are projected to have attractive growth in advertising
revenues. The Company intends to primarily target network-affiliated stations
located in the fifty largest DMAs, which stations typically have established
audiences for their news, sports and entertainment programming.
Invest in Digital Technology. Management believes that the Company is well
positioned for the transition to digital broadcasting and anticipates that the
Company will be one of the first television broadcasters in the United States to
transmit a digital signal. The Company has already invested $13 million to fully
prepare its towers and transmitter buildings for the transition, and estimates
that an additional $40 million will be required over the next five to seven
years for other necessary capital expenditures such as the purchase of antennae,
transmitters, studio equipment and news gathering equipment. In accordance with
FCC regulations, all station affiliates of ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox in the top ten
DMAs will be required to transmit a digital signal by May 1, 1999. Affiliates of
those networks in DMAs ranked eleven through thirty will be required to transmit
a digital signal by November 1, 1999. All remaining commercial broadcasters will
be required to transmit a digital signal by May 1, 2002.
MANAGEMENT AND OWNERSHIP
The Company's management team, led by Gary Chapman, the Company's President
and Chief Executive Officer, is recognized as an industry leader. As an
indication of management's expertise and ability, the five network-affiliated
stations operated by management throughout the period from January 1, 1991 to
December 31, 1997 (WISH-TV, WANE-TV, WAND-TV, WAVY-TV and KXAN-TV) achieved an
aggregate annual compound growth rate in net revenues and BCF of 8.9% (from
$57.8 million to $96.2 million) and 13.3% (from $21.4 million to $45.2 million),
respectively. Management also increased the Company's BCF margin at these
stations from 37% to 47% during such period. In connection with the Acquisition,
management and key employees reinvested a portion of their equity interest in
LIN Television in the indirect parent corporation of Holdings. In addition,
management and key employees will be granted options to acquire additional
shares representing an approximate 5% equity interest in such parent
corporation.
Hicks Muse is a leading private investment firm with offices in Dallas, New
York, St. Louis and Mexico City that specializes in leveraged acquisitions,
recapitalizations and other principal investing activities. Hicks Muse and its
predecessor firm have completed or have pending over 100 transactions having a
combined transaction value of more than $24 billion.
Although Hicks Muse invests in a wide variety of industries, it has
significant investments and experience in the media and communications industry,
including interests in Chancellor Media, Capstar Broadcasting, STC Broadcasting,
Katz Media, OmniAmerica Tower and Grupo MVS. Hicks Muse plans to utilize an
investment model for the Company similar to that used for Chancellor Media and
Capstar Broadcasting. Chancellor Media was formed in 1993 with the purchase of
two radio stations. Today, Chancellor Media is the second largest radio operator
in the United States in terms of revenue (behind only CBS). Similarly, Capstar
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Broadcasting was formed in 1996 for the purpose of acquiring radio stations in
small to medium size markets. Capstar Broadcasting is now the largest radio
operator in the United States in terms of number of stations. See "Risk
Factors -- Potential Conflicts of Interest" and "Certain Other Transactions."
THE TRANSACTIONS AND OTHER MATTERS
THE TRANSACTIONS
The Acquisition. Holdings, LIN Acquisition and LIN Television entered into
an Agreement and Plan of Merger on August 12, 1997 (as amended, the "Merger
Agreement"). Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the Merger
Agreement, Holdings acquired LIN Television (the "Acquisition") on March 3, 1998
by merging LIN Acquisition, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with and into LIN
Television (the "Merger"), with LIN Television surviving the Merger and becoming
a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Holdings. The total purchase price for the
common equity of LIN Television was approximately $1.7 billion. In addition, the
Company refinanced $260.2 million of LIN Television indebtedness and incurred
acquisition costs of approximately $32.2 million.
The Financings. The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess
cash on the Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal
amount of senior secured Tranche A term loans ("Tranche A Term Loans"); (iii)
$120.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured Tranche B term loans
("Tranche B Term Loans"); (iv) $299.3 million gross proceeds from the issuance
by LIN Television of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of Old Senior
Subordinated Notes; (v) $199.6 million gross proceeds from the issuance by
Holdings of $325.0 million aggregate principal amount at maturity of Old Senior
Discount Notes, which proceeds were contributed by Holdings to the common equity
of the Company; (vi) $558.1 million of common equity provided by affiliates of
Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors to the equity of the corporate
parents of Holdings, which in turn, through Holdings, contributed such amount to
the common equity of the Company; and (vii) $815.5 million of proceeds of the
GECC Note (collectively, the "Financings").
The Joint Venture. In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC
formed the Joint Venture. The Joint Venture consists of KXAS-TV, formerly LIN
Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV, formerly NBC's San
Diego station. A wholly owned subsidiary of NBC is the general partner of the
Joint Venture and NBC operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The NBC
General Partner holds an approximate 80% equity interest and the Company holds
an approximate 20% equity interest in the Joint Venture. GECC provided debt
financing for the Joint Venture in the form of an $815.5 million 25-year
non-amortizing senior secured note bearing an initial interest rate of 8.0% per
annum (the "GECC Note"). The Company expects that the interest payments on the
GECC Note will be serviced solely by the cash flow of the Joint Venture. All
Distributable Cash (as defined) of the Joint Venture will be distributed to the
Company and the NBC General Partner based on their respective equity interests
in the Joint Venture. On a pro forma basis for the fiscal year ended December
31, 1997, the Company's portion of the Joint Venture's Distributable Cash would
have been $2.2 million (without giving effect to a reserve of $15.0 million
which must be established, subject to waiver by the Company, prior to any
distribution of Distributable Cash). See "Risk Factors -- Control of Holdings
and the Company."
The GECC Note was issued by LIN Television of Texas, L.P., the Company's
indirect wholly owned partnership ("LIN Texas"), which distributed the proceeds
to the Company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition. The
obligations to GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by the Joint Venture and
LIN Texas was simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC Note.
The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any of their
respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the Company's
equity interest therein and to the GECC Note Guarantor. See "Risk Factors --
Defaults under the GECC Note" and "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The
Joint Venture."
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of its NBC network affiliation agreements to 2010 and the option
(exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the NBC affiliate
in Birmingham, Alabama.
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Sources and Uses. The following table sets forth the sources and uses of
funds in connection with the Acquisition (dollars in millions):
SOURCES
Excess cash........................ $ 6.9
Term Loans(a)...................... 170.0
Old Senior Subordinated Notes(b)... 299.3
Holdings contributions(c).......... 757.7
GECC Note(d)....................... 815.5
--------
Total Sources................. $2,049.4
========
USES
Purchase of LIN Television
equity(e)........................ $1,706.4
Refinance LIN Television debt...... 260.2
Transaction fees and expenses(f)... 82.8
--------
Total Uses.................... $2,049.4
========
- ---------------
(a) The Term Loans funded in connection with the Acquisition consisted of $50.0
million aggregate principal amount of Tranche A Term Loans and $120.0
million aggregate principal amount of Tranche B Term Loans. As of December
31, 1997, the interest rates payable on outstanding Tranche A Term Loans and
Tranche B Term Loans would have been approximately 7.50% and 8.00%,
respectively. See "Description of the Senior Credit Facilities."
(b) Represents gross proceeds to the Company from the issuance of $300.0 million
aggregate principal amount of Old Senior Subordinated Notes.
(c) Affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors contributed
$558.1 million to the equity of the corporate parents of Holdings, which in
turn, through Holdings, contributed such amount to the common equity of the
Company. In addition, Holdings issued $325.0 million aggregate principal
amount at maturity of Old Senior Discount Notes and contributed the $199.6
million gross proceeds thereof to the common equity of the Company.
(d) LIN Texas distributed the proceeds from the issuance of the GECC Note to the
Company, which used such proceeds to finance a portion of the cost of the
Acquisition. The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or
any of their respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint
Venture, the Company's equity interest therein and to the GECC Note
Guarantor. The Company expects that the interest payments on the GECC Note
will be serviced solely by the cash flow of the Joint Venture. See "Risk
Factors -- Control of Holdings and the Company" and "-- Defaults under the
GECC Note" and "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The Joint Venture.".
(e) The purchase price reflects the total price to acquire the equity of LIN
Television (including KXAS-TV, which was contributed to the Joint Venture).
(f) Includes discounts and commissions on the Old Notes in connection with the
Offerings.
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Organizational Structure
The following chart depicts (i) the summary organizational chart of
Holdings and the Company and (ii) the sources of financing for the Transactions:
LIN GRAPH
THE GRAND RAPIDS ACQUISITION
The Company expects to consummate the Grand Rapids Acquisition later this
year. The Company currently provides services to the Grand Rapids Stations
pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. The total purchase price for the
Grand Rapids Acquisition will be approximately $125.5 million (plus accretion
thereon of 8% from March 1, 1998), which is expected to be funded by $125.0
million of additional Tranche A Term Loans. For the fiscal year ended December
31, 1997, the Grand Rapids Stations generated net revenues and BCF of $28.4
million and $11.3 million, respectively. The historical and pro forma financial
information contained herein does not give effect to the Grand Rapids
Acquisition. See "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The Grand Rapids
Acquisition" and "Business -- The Company -- History."
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
Chancellor Media Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Chancellor") and
Ranger Equity Holdings Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Ranger"), the
indirect parent company of Holdings and the Company, entered into an Agreement
and Plan of Merger, dated July 7, 1998 (the "Chancellor Merger Agreement").
Pursuant to, and subject to the prior satisfaction or waiver of certain
customary conditions (including, without limitation, the approval of
Chancellor's and the Company's respective shareholders, the receipt of necessary
FCC approvals, and the termination or expiration of the applicable waiting
periods under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended) set forth in, the Chancellor Merger Agreement, Ranger will be merged
with and into Chancellor (the "Chancellor Merger"), with Chancellor continuing
as the surviving corporation following the Chancellor Merger. As a result of the
Chancellor Merger, (i) each share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Ranger
Common Stock"), of Ranger will be converted into the right to receive 0.0300 of
a share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Chancellor Common Stock"), of
Chancellor, other than shares of Ranger Common Stock for which appraisal rights
have been exercised pursuant to Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware. In addition, Chancellor, as the surviving corporation,
will assume certain outstanding options to purchase shares of Ranger Common
Stock held by certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of Ranger
and its subsidiaries. Following the Chancellor Merger, Holdings and the Company
will become indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Chancellor.
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A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
On August 27, 1998, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("SSG"), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG
Agreement") pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange,
LIN Texas will receive 500,000 shares of SSG's Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock, par value $100.00 per share ("SSG Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will be
entitled to receive dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value prior to
the payment by SSG of any dividend in respect of its common stock ("SSG Common
Stock") or any other junior securities. At the option of SSG, dividends will be
payable either in kind or in cash. LIN Texas will have the right, upon the
earlier of (i) the third anniversary of the issuance of the SSG Preferred Stock
and (ii) an initial public offering of SSG Common Stock, to convert its shares
of SSG Preferred Stock into shares of SSG Common Stock at a conversion rate
equal to the par value per share of the SSG Preferred Stock (plus all accrued
and unpaid dividends thereon) divided by the fair market value per share of the
SSG Common Stock. SSG will have the right, at its sole option, to redeem the SSG
Preferred Stock at par value (plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) at
any time. In connection with the SSG Agreement, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports
Television, Inc., a Delaware corporation and an affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"),
entered into a Sub-Programming Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which
SSTI will provide certain management, operating and programming services to
KXTX-TV prior to the closing of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for
providing such services, SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total
aggregate revenue received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas
that relate to the operation of KXTX-TV.
Subject to the terms of the SSG Agreement and the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the receipt of National Hockey League and Major League
Baseball approvals and SSG's consummation of certain other business
acquisitions, it is expected that the sale of KXTX-TV will be consummated by the
end of 1998. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million.
THE EXCHANGE OFFERS
THE SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES EXCHANGE OFFER:
The Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer applies to $300,000,000
aggregate principal amount of the Old Senior Subordinated Notes. The form and
terms of the New Senior Subordinated Notes will be the same as the form and
terms of the Old Senior Subordinated Notes except that (i) interest on the New
Senior Subordinated Notes will accrue from the date of issuance of the Old
Senior Subordinated Notes, and (ii) the New Senior Subordinated Notes are being
registered under the Securities Act and, therefore, will not bear legends
restricting their transfer. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will evidence the
same debt as the Old Senior Subordinated Notes and will be entitled to the
benefits of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture (as defined) pursuant to
which the Old Senior Subordinated Notes were issued. The Old Senior Subordinated
Notes and the New Senior Subordinated Notes are sometimes referred to
collectively herein as the "Senior Subordinated Notes." See "Description of the
New Senior Subordinated Notes."
The Senior Subordinated
Notes Exchange Offer....... $1,000 principal amount of New Senior Subordinated
Notes in exchange for each $1,000 principal amount
of Old Senior Subordinated Notes. As of the date
hereof, Old Senior Subordinated Notes representing
$300,000,000 aggregate principal amount are
outstanding. The terms of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes and the Old Senior Subordinated
Notes are substantially identical.
Based on an interpretation by the Commission's
staff set forth in no-action letters issued to
third parties unrelated to the Company, Holdings
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and the Guarantors, the Company and the Guarantors
believe that New Senior Subordinated Notes issued
pursuant to the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange
Offer in exchange for Old Senior Subordinated Notes
may be offered for resale, resold and otherwise
transferred by any person receiving the New Senior
Subordinated Notes, whether or not that person is
the registered holder (other than any such holder
or such other person that is an "affiliate" of the
Company or any Guarantors within the meaning of
Rule 405 under the Securities Act), without
compliance with the registration and prospectus
delivery provisions of the Securities Act, provided
that (i) the New Senior Subordinated Notes are
acquired in the ordinary course of business of that
holder or such other person, (ii) neither the
holder nor such other person is engaging in or
intends to engage in a distribution of the New
Senior Subordinated Notes, and (iii) neither the
holder nor such other person has an arrangement or
understanding with any person to participate in the
distribution of the New Senior Subordinated Notes.
See "The Exchange Offers -- Purpose and Effect."
Each broker-dealer that receives New Senior
Subordinated Notes for its own account in exchange
for Old Senior Subordinated Notes, where those Old
Senior Subordinated Notes were acquired by the
broker-dealer as a result of its market-making
activities or other trading activities, must
acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in
connection with any resale of such New Senior
Subordinated Notes. See "Plan of Distribution."
Senior Subordinated Notes
Registration Rights
Agreement................ The Old Senior Subordinated Notes were sold by the
Company on March 3, 1998, in a private placement in
reliance on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and
immediately resold by the initial purchasers
thereof (the "Initial Purchasers") in reliance on
Rule 144A under the Securities Act (the "Original
Senior Subordinated Notes Offering"). In connection
with the original Senior Subordinated Notes
Offering, the Company and Holdings entered into a
Registration Rights Agreement with the Initial
Purchasers (the "Senior Subordinated Notes
Registration Rights Agreement") providing for,
among other things, the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer. See "The Exchange Offers -- Purpose
and Effect."
Expiration Date............ The Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer will
expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on October
1, 1998, or such later date and time to which it is
extended by the Company.
Withdrawal................. The tender of Old Senior Subordinated Notes
pursuant to the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange
Offer may be withdrawn at any time prior to 5:00
p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
Any Old Senior Subordinated Notes not accepted for
exchange for any reason will be returned without
expense to the tendering holder thereof as promptly
as practicable after the expiration or termination
of the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer.
Interest on the New Senior
Subordinated Notes and
Old Senior Subordinated
Notes.................... Interest on each New Senior Subordinated Note will
accrue from the date of issuance of the Old Senior
Subordinated Note for which such
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Old Senior Subordinated Note is exchanged or from
the date of the last periodic payment of interest
on such Old Note, whichever is later.
Conditions to the Senior
Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer........... The Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer is
subject to certain customary conditions, certain of
which may be waived by the Company. See "The
Exchange Offers -- Certain Conditions to the
Exchange Offers."
Procedures for Tendering
Old Senior Subordinated
Notes.................... Each holder of Old Senior Subordinated Notes
wishing to accept the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer must complete, sign and date the
accompanying letter of transmittal relating to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer (the
"Senior Subordinated Notes Letter of Transmittal"),
or a copy thereof, in accordance with the
instructions contained herein and therein, and mail
or otherwise deliver the Senior Subordinated Notes
Letter of Transmittal, or the copy, together with
the Old Senior Subordinated Notes and any other
required documentation, to the Senior Subordinated
Notes Exchange Agent (as defined) at the address
set forth in the Senior Subordinated Notes Letter
of Transmittal. Persons holding Old Senior
Subordinated Notes through the Depository Trust
Company ("DTC") and wishing to accept the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer must do so
pursuant to the DTC's Automated Tender Offer
Program, by which each tendering Participant will
agree to be bound by the Senior Subordinated Notes
Letter of Transmittal. By executing or agreeing to
be bound by the Senior Subordinated Notes Letter of
Transmittal, each holder will represent to the
Company that, among other things, (i) the New
Senior Subordinated Notes acquired pursuant to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer are being
obtained in the ordinary course of business of the
person receiving such New Senior Subordinated
Notes, whether or not such person is the holder of
the Old Senior Subordinated Notes, (ii) neither the
holder nor any such other person is engaging in or
intends to engage in a distribution of such New
Senior Subordinated Notes, (iii) neither the holder
nor any such other person has an arrangement or
understanding with any person to participate in the
distribution of such New Senior Subordinated Notes
within the meaning of the Securities Act, (iv)
neither the holder nor any such person is an
"affiliate," as defined under Rule 405 promulgated
under the Securities Act, of the Company or any
Guarantor, and (v) if such holder or other person
is a broker-dealer, that it will receive New Senior
Subordinated Notes for its own account in exchange
for Old Senior Subordinated Notes that were
acquired as a result of market-making activities or
other trading activities and that it will be
required to acknowledge that it will deliver a
prospectus in connection with any resale of such
New Senior Subordinated Notes. See "The Exchange
Offers -- Procedures for Tendering."
Shelf Registration
Requirement.............. Pursuant to the Senior Subordinated Notes
Registration Rights Agreement, the Company is
required to file a "shelf" registration statement
for a continuous offering pursuant to Rule 415
under the Securities Act in respect of the Old
Senior Subordinated Notes if (i) because of any
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change in law or applicable interpretations of the
staff of the Commission, the Company is not
permitted to effect the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer, (ii) the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer is not consummated within 225 days
of the Original Senior Subordinated Notes Offering,
(iii) any holder of Private Exchange Securities (as
defined) requests within 60 days after the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer, (iv) any
applicable law or interpretations do not permit any
holder of Old Senior Subordinated Notes to
participate in the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Offer, (v) any holder of Old Senior
Subordinated Notes participates in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer and does not
receive freely transferrable New Senior
Subordinated Notes in change for Old Senior
Subordinated Notes or (vi) the Company so elects.
Acceptance of Old Senior
Subordinated Notes and
Delivery of New Senior
Subordinated Notes....... The Company will accept for exchange any and all
Old Senior Subordinated Notes which are properly
tendered (and not withdrawn) in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer prior to 5:00
p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
The New Senior Subordinated Notes issued pursuant
to the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer
will be delivered promptly following the Expiration
Date. See "The Exchange Offers -- Terms of the
Exchange Offers."
Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Agent........... United States Trust Company of New York is serving
as Exchange Agent (the "Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Agent") in connection with the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer.
Federal Income Tax
Considerations........... The exchange pursuant to the Senior Subordinated
Notes Exchange Offer should not be a taxable event
for federal income tax purposes. See "Certain
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations."
Effect of Not Tendering.... Old Senior Subordinated Notes that are not tendered
or that are tendered but not accepted will,
following the completion of the Senior Subordinated
Notes Exchange Offer, continue to be subject to the
existing restrictions upon transfer thereof.
THE SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES EXCHANGE OFFER:
The Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer applies to $325,000,000 aggregate
principal amount at maturity of the Old Senior Discount Notes. The form and
terms of the New Senior Discount Notes will be the same as the form and terms of
the Old Senior Discount Notes except that (i) the Accreted Value (as defined) of
the New Senior Discount Notes will be calculated from the date of issuance of
the Old Senior Discount Notes and (ii) the New Senior Discount Notes are being
registered under the Securities Act and, therefore, will not bear legends
restricting their transfer. The New Senior Discount Notes will evidence the same
debt as the Old Senior Discount Notes and will be entitled to the benefits of
the Senior Discount Notes Indenture (as defined) pursuant to which the Old
Senior Discount Notes were issued. The Old Senior Discount Notes and the New
Senior Discount Notes are sometimes referred to collectively herein as the
"Senior Discount Notes." See "Description of the New Senior Discount Notes."
The Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer........... $1,000 principal amount at maturity of New Senior
Discount Notes in exchange for each $1,000
principal amount at maturity of Old Senior
11
17
Discount Notes. As of the date hereof, Old Senior
Discount Notes representing $325,000,000 aggregate
principal amount at maturity are outstanding. The
terms of the New Senior Discount Notes and the Old
Senior Discount Notes are substantially identical.
Based on an interpretation by the Commission's
staff set forth in no-action letters issued to
third parties unrelated to Holdings, Holdings
believes that New Senior Discount Notes issued
pursuant to the Senior Discount Notes Exchange
Offer in exchange for Old Senior Discount Notes may
be offered for resale, resold and otherwise
transferred by any person receiving the New Senior
Discount Notes, whether or not that person is the
holder (other than any such holder or such other
person that is an "affiliate" of Holdings within
the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act),
without compliance with the registration and
prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities
Act, provided that (i) the New Senior Discount
Notes are required in the ordinary course of
business of that holder or such other person, (ii)
neither the holder nor such other person is
engaging in or intends to engage in a distribution
of the New Senior Discount Notes, and (iii) neither
the holder nor such other person has an arrangement
or understanding with any person to participate in
the distribution of the New Senior Discount Notes.
See "The Exchange Offers -- Purpose and Effect."
Each broker-dealer that receives New Senior
Discount Notes for its own account in exchange for
Old Senior Discount Notes where the Old Senior
Discount Notes were acquired by the broker-dealer
as a result of its market-making activities or
other trading activities, must acknowledge that it
will deliver a prospectus in connection with any
resale of such New Senior Discount Notes. See "Plan
of Distribution."
Senior Discount Notes
Registration Rights
Agreement................ The Old Senior Discount Notes were sold by Holdings
on March 3, 1998, in a private placement in
reliance on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and
immediately resold by the Initial Purchasers in
reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act (the
"Original Senior Discount Notes Offering," and
together with the Original Senior Subordinated
Notes Offering, the "Original Offerings.") In
connection with the Original Senior Discount Notes
Offering, the Company and Holdings entered into a
Registration Rights Agreement with the Initial
Purchasers (the "Senior Discount Notes Registration
Rights Agreement") providing for, among other
things, the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer.
See "The Exchange Offers -- Purpose and Effect."
Expiration Date............ The Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer will
expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on October
1, 1998, or such later date and time to which it is
extended by Holdings.
Withdrawal................. The tender of Old Senior Discount Notes pursuant to
the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer may be
withdrawn at any time prior to 5:00 p.m., New York
City time, on the Expiration Date. Any Old Senior
Discount Notes not accepted for exchange for any
reason will be returned without expense to the
tendering holder thereof as promptly as practicable
after the expiration or termination of the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer.
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18
Accreted Value of the New
Senior Discount Notes and
Old Senior Discount
Notes.................... The Accreted Value of each New Senior Discount Note
will be calculated from the date of issuance of the
Old Senior Discount Note for which such New Senior
Discount Note is exchanged.
Conditions to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange
Offer.................... The Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer is subject
to certain customary conditions, certain of which
may be waived by the Company. See "The Exchange
Offers -- Certain Conditions to the Exchange
Offers."
Procedures for Tendering
Senior Discount Notes...... Each holder of Old Senior Discount Notes wishing to
accept the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer
must complete, sign and date the accompanying
letter of transmittal relating to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer (the "Senior Discount
Notes Letter of Transmittal"; the Senior Discount
Notes Letter of Transmittal and the Senior
Subordinated Notes Letter of Transmittal are
sometimes referred to herein individually as a
"Letter of Transmittal" and collectively as the
"Letters of Transmittal"), or a copy thereof, in
accordance with the instructions contained herein
and therein, and mail or otherwise deliver the
Senior Discount Notes Letter of Transmittal, or the
copy, together with the Old Senior Discount Notes
and any other required documentation, to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer (as defined) at the
address set forth in the Senior Discount Notes
Letter of Transmittal. Persons holding Old Discount
Notes through the DTC and wishing to accept the
Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer must do so
pursuant to the DTC's Automated Tender Offer
Program, by which each tendering Participant will
agree to be bound by the Senior Discount Notes
Letter of Transmittal. By executing or agreeing to
be bound by the Senior Discount Notes Letter of
Transmittal, each holder will represent to Holdings
that, among other things, (i) the New Senior
Discount Notes acquired pursuant to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer are being obtained in
the ordinary course of business of the person
receiving such New Senior Discount Notes, whether
or not such person is the holder of the Old Senior
Discount Notes, (ii) neither the holder nor any
such other person is engaging in or intends to
engage in a distribution of such New Senior
Discount Notes, (iii) neither the holder nor any
such other person has an arrangement or
understanding with any person to participate in the
distribution of such New Senior Discount Notes,
(iv) neither the holder nor any such other person
is an "affiliate," as defined under Rule 405
promulgated under the Securities Act, of Holdings,
and (v) if such holder or other person is a
broker-dealer, that it will receive New Senior
Discount Notes for its own account in exchange for
Old Senior Discount Notes that were acquired as a
result of market-making activities or other trading
activities and that it will be required to
acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in
connection with any resale of such New Senior
Discount Notes.
Shelf Registration
Requirement.............. Pursuant to the Senior Discount Notes Registration
Rights Agreement, Holdings is required to file a
"shelf" registration statement for a continuous
offering pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities
Act in
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19
respect of the Old Senior Discount Notes if (i)
because of any change in law or applicable
interpretations of the staff of the Commission,
Holdings is not permitted to effect the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer, (ii) the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer is not consummated
within 225 days of the Original Senior Discount
Notes Offering, (iii) any holder of Private
Exchange Securities (as defined) requests within 60
days after the Senior Discount Notes Exchange
Offer, (iv) any applicable law or interpretations
do not permit any holder of Old Senior Discount
Notes to participate in the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer, (v) any holder of Old Senior
Discount Notes participates in the Senior Discount
Notes Exchange Offer and does not receive freely
transferrable New Senior Discount Notes in exchange
for Old Senior Discount Notes or (vi) Holdings so
elects.
Acceptance of Old Senior
Discount Notes and
Delivery of New Senior
Discount
Notes.................... Holdings will accept for exchange any and all Old
Senior Discount Notes which are properly tendered
(and not withdrawn) in the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City
time, on the Expiration Date. The New Senior
Discount Notes issued pursuant to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer will be delivered
promptly following the Expiration Date. See "The
Exchange Offers -- Terms of the Exchange Offer."
Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Agent........... United States Trust Company of New York is serving
as Exchange Agent (the "Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Agent"; the Senior Subordinated Notes
Exchange Agent and the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Agent are sometimes referred to herein
individually as an "Exchange Agent" and
collectively as the "Exchange Agents") in
connection with the Senior Discount Notes Exchange
Offer.
Federal Income Tax
Considerations........... The exchange pursuant to the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer should not be a taxable event for
federal income tax purposes. See "Certain United
States Federal Income Tax Considerations."
Effect of Not Tendering.... Old Senior Discount Notes that are not tendered or
that are tendered but not accepted will, following
the completion of the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer, continue to be subject to the
existing restrictions upon transfer thereof.
TERMS OF THE NEW NOTES
NEW SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES
Issuer..................... LIN Television Corporation (as
successor-in-interest to LIN Acquisition Company).
Securities Offered......... $300,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 8 3/8%
Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008.
Maturity................... March 1, 2008.
Interest Payment Dates..... March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing
September 1, 1998.
Sinking Fund............... None.
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20
Optional Redemption........ Except as described below, the Company may not
redeem the New Senior Subordinated Notes prior to
March 1, 2003. On or after such date, the Company
may redeem the Senior Subordinated Notes, in whole
or in part, at the redemption prices set forth
herein, together with accrued and unpaid interest,
if any, to the date of redemption. In addition, at
any time and from time to time on or prior to March
1, 2001, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the
aggregate principal amount of the Senior
Subordinated Notes with the net cash proceeds of
one or more private or public offerings by the
Company, at a redemption price equal to 108.375% of
the principal amount to be redeemed, together with
accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
redemption, provided that at least 65% of the
originally issued aggregate principal amount of the
Senior Subordinated Notes remains outstanding after
each such redemption. See "Description of the New
Senior Subordinated Notes -- Optional Redemption."
Change of Control.......... Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, (i) the
Company will have the option, at any time on or
prior to March 1, 2003, to redeem the New Senior
Subordinated Notes, in whole but not in part, at a
redemption price equal to 100% of the principal
amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest
plus the Applicable Premium (as defined) and (ii)
if the New Senior Subordinated Notes are not
redeemed or if such Change of Control occurs after
March 1, 2003, the Company will be required to make
an offer to repurchase the New Senior Subordinated
Notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal
amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid
interest, if any, to the date of purchase. See
"Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes -- Change of Control" and "-- Amendment."
Guarantees................. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will be
guaranteed (the "Subsidiary Guarantees"), jointly
and severally on an unsecured senior subordinated
basis, by the Company's direct and indirect,
existing and future, Restricted Subsidiaries (the
"Guarantors"). The Guarantors also will guarantee
all obligations of the Company under the Senior
Credit Facilities (as defined). The Company's
obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities also
will be secured by substantially all of the assets
of the Company and the Guarantors. The obligations
of each Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee
will be subordinated in right of payment to the
prior payment in full of all Guarantor Senior
Indebtedness (as defined) of such Guarantor to
substantially the same extent as the Senior
Subordinated Notes are subordinated to all existing
and future Senior Indebtedness of the Company. See
"Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes -- Subsidiary Guarantees of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes."
Ranking.................... The New Senior Subordinated Notes will be unsecured
and will be subordinated in right of payment to all
existing and future Senior Indebtedness (as
defined) of the Company and will rank pari passu in
right of payment with all Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness (as defined) of the Company. As of
March 31, 1998, the aggregate principal amount of
the Company's outstanding Senior Indebtedness was
$170.0 million (consisting of outstanding Term
Loans) and the Company had no Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness outstanding other than the Senior
Subordinated Notes and had no Subsidiary
Indebtedness outstanding. As of such date,
liabilities of the Company's Subsidiaries reflected
on its consolidated balance sheet, including
indebtedness and other liabilities such as
15
21
trade payables and accrued expenses, aggregated
$17.8 million. See "Description of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes -- Ranking and Subordination."
Restrictive Covenants...... The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture limits,
among other things, (i) the incurrence of
additional indebtedness and issuance of capital
stock, (ii) layering of indebtedness, (iii) the
payment of dividends on, and redemption of, capital
stock of the Company, (iv) liens, (v) mergers,
consolidations, and sales of all or substantially
all of the Company's assets, (vi) asset sales,
(vii) asset swaps, (viii) dividend and other
payment restrictions affecting Restricted
Subsidiaries and (ix) transactions with affiliates
of the Company. However, all of these limitations
and prohibitions are subject to a number of
important qualifications and exceptions. See
"Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes -- Certain Covenants."
Use of Proceeds............ There will be no cash proceeds to the Company from
the exchange of New Senior Subordinated Notes for
Old Senior Subordinated Notes pursuant to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer. The net
proceeds from the Original Senior Subordinated
Notes Offering were used, together with the
proceeds of the other Financings, to consummate the
Acquisition.
NEW SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES
Issuer..................... LIN Holdings Corp.
Securities Offered......... $325,000,000 aggregate principal amount at maturity
of 10% Senior Discount Notes due 2008. The Senior
Discount Notes will be issued at a discount to
their aggregate principal amount at maturity.
Maturity................... March 1, 2008.
Interest Payment Dates..... Cash interest will not accrue or be payable on the
New Senior Discount Notes prior to March 1, 2003.
Thereafter, cash interest on the New Senior
Discount Notes will accrue at a rate of 10% per
annum and will be payable semi-annually in arrears
on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing
on September 1, 2003.
Original Issue Discount.... For federal income tax purposes, the New Senior
Discount Notes will be treated as having been
issued with "original issue discount" equal to the
difference between the issue price of the Old
Senior Discount Notes and the sum of all cash
payments (whether denominated as principal or
interest) to be made thereon. Each holder of a New
Senior Discount Note must include as gross income
for federal income tax purposes a portion of such
original issue discount for each day during each
taxable year in which a New Senior Discount Note is
held even though no cash interest payments will be
received prior to March 1, 2003. See "Certain
United States Federal Income Tax
Considerations -- Taxation of Original Issue
Discount."
Sinking Fund............... None.
Mandatory Principal
Redemption............... Except as described below, Holdings may not redeem
the New Senior Discount Notes prior to March 1,
2003. On March 1, 2003, Holdings will be required
to redeem Senior Discount Notes with an aggregate
principal amount at maturity equal to (i) $125.0
million multiplied by (ii) the quotient obtained by
dividing (x) the aggregate principal amount at
maturity of Senior Discount Notes then outstanding
(other than Senior
16
22
Discount Notes then held by Holdings or its
Subsidiaries or the entities with respect to which
Holdings is a direct or indirect Subsidiary) by (y)
$325.0 million, (the "Mandatory Principal
Redemption Amount") at a redemption price equal to
100% of the principal amount at maturity of the
Senior Discount Notes so redeemed. See "Description
of the New Senior Discount Notes -- Mandatory
Principal Redemption."
Optional Redemption........ The New Senior Discount Notes will be redeemable at
the option of Holdings, in whole or in part, at any
time on or after March 1, 2003. On or after such
date, Holdings may redeem the New Senior Discount
Notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption
prices set forth herein, together with accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption.
In addition, at any time and from time to time on
or prior to March 1, 2001, Holdings may, subject to
certain requirements, redeem up to 35% of the
aggregate principal amount at maturity of the
Senior Discount Notes with the net cash proceeds
from one or more private or public equity offerings
at a price equal to 110% of the Accreted Value (as
defined) at the date of redemption, provided that
at least 65% of the originally issued aggregate
principal amount at maturity of the Senior Discount
Notes remains outstanding after each such
redemption. See "Description of the New Senior
Discount Notes -- Optional Redemption."
Change of Control.......... Upon a Change of Control, (i) Holdings will have
the option, at any time on or prior to March 1,
2003, to redeem the New Senior Discount Notes, in
whole but not in part, at a redemption price equal
to 100% of the Accreted Value thereof plus the
Applicable Premium and (ii) if the New Senior
Discount Notes are not so redeemed or if such
Change of Control occurs after March 1, 2003,
Holdings will be required to make an offer to
repurchase the New Senior Discount Notes at a price
equal to (a) 101% of the Accreted Value thereof if
redeemed on or before March 1, 2003, and (b) 101%
of the principal amount at maturity, plus accrued
and unpaid interest, if any, thereon, if redeemed
after March 1, 2003. See "Description of the New
Senior Discount Notes -- Change of Control."
Guarantees................. None.
Ranking.................... The New Senior Discount Notes will be senior
unsecured obligations of Holdings and will rank
pari passu in right of payment with all Senior
Indebtedness of Holdings, including Holdings'
guarantee of the Senior Credit Facilities. Holdings
is a holding company with no operations of its own
and whose primary asset is the capital stock of the
Company (all of which will be pledged to secure the
Senior Credit Facilities). As a result of the
holding company structure, the New Senior Discount
Notes will effectively rank junior in right of
payment to all creditors of the Company and its
subsidiaries, including the lenders under the
Senior Credit Facilities, holders of the Senior
Subordinated Notes and trade creditors. As of March
31, 1998, the New Senior Discount Notes were
effectively subordinated to $523.8 of aggregate
liabilities (including indebtedness and other
liabilities such as trade payables and accrued
expenses that would have been reflected on the
consolidated balance sheet) of the Company and its
subsidiaries. See "Description of the New Senior
Discount Notes."
Restrictive Covenants...... The Senior Discount Notes Indenture limits, among
other things, (i) the incurrence of additional
indebtedness and issuance of capital stock,
17
23
(ii) the payment of dividends on, and redemption
of, capital stock of Holdings, (iii) mergers,
consolidations and sales of all or substantially
all of Holdings' assets, (iv) asset sales, (v)
asset swaps, (vi) dividend and other payment
restrictions affecting Restricted Subsidiaries and
(vii) transactions with affiliates. However, all of
these limitations and prohibitions are subject to a
number of important qualifications and exceptions.
See "Description of the New Senior Discount
Notes -- Certain Covenants."
Use of Proceeds............ There will be no cash proceeds to Holdings from the
exchange of New Senior Discount Notes for Old
Senior Discount Notes pursuant to the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer. The net proceeds
from the Original Senior Discount Notes Offering
were used, together with the proceeds of the other
Financings, to consummate the Acquisition.
RISK FACTORS
Prospective investors should carefully consider all of the information set
forth in this Prospectus and, in particular, should evaluate the specific
factors set forth under "Risk Factors" for risks involved with an investment in
the New Notes, as well as a continuing investment in the Old Notes.
18
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SUMMARY HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth, as of the dates and for the years
indicated, summary historical consolidated financial data of the Company and
Holdings. The historical statement of operations and other data with respect to
December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 and the balance sheet data at December 31, 1996
and 1997, set forth below, are derived from, and are qualified by reference to,
the consolidated financial statements as audited by Ernst & Young LLP, included
elsewhere in this Prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those
financial statements and notes thereto. The historical statement of operations
and other data with respect to December 31, 1993 and 1994 and the balance sheet
data at December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995, set forth below, are derived from LIN
Television's audited financial statements not included in this Prospectus. The
interim financial data set forth below is derived from the unaudited financial
statements included elsewhere in this Prospectus and should be read in
conjunction with those financial statements and the notes thereto.
HOLDINGS COMPANY PREDECESSOR
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM PREDECESSOR
MARCH 3 MARCH 3 JANUARY 1 THREE MONTHS
THROUGH THROUGH THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, MARCH 31, MARCH 2, MARCH 31,
1998 1998 1998 1997
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenues..................... $ 16,211 $ 16,211 $43,804 $ 61,662
Operating costs and expenses:
Station operating expenses...... 8,026 8,026 22,818 32,393
Amortization of program
rights........................ 1,015 1,015 2,743 4,058
Depreciation and amortization of
intangible assets............. 4,474 4,474 4,581 6,396
Corporate expense............... 458 458 1,170 1,698
Tower write-offs(c)............. -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Operating income................. 2,238 2,238 12,492 17,117
Interest expense................. 5,270 3,535 2,764 5,718
Other (income) expense........... 412 412 146 16
Merger expense(d)................ -- -- 8,616 --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes and
extraordinary item.............. (3,444) (1,709) 966 11,383
Provision (benefit) for income
taxes........................... (215) 2,019 3,710 4,246
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item.............. (3,229) (3,728) (2,744) 7,137
Extraordinary item, net of income
tax benefit(e).................. -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Net income (loss)................ $ (3,229) $ (3,728) $(2,744) $ 7,137
========== ========== ======= ========
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents........ $ 17,722 $ 17,722 $ 28,493
Total assets..................... 1,802,940 1,790,270 595,789
Long-term debt................... 670,560 469,301 335,000
Total stockholders' equity
(deficit)....................... 554,894 741,249 147,099
CASH FLOW DATA:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities............ 8,626 8,626 8,416 21,448
Investing activities............ (907,263) (907,263) (1,468) (7,421)
Financing activities............ 916,359 916,359 1,071 (13,486)
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents............ 17,722 17,722 8,019 541
OTHER DATA:
Capital expenditures............. $ 89 $ 89 $ 1,221 $ 7,171
BCF(f)........................... 7,730 7,730 17,104 25,817
EBITDA(f)........................ 7,272 7,272 15,934 24,119
Ratio of earnings to fixed
charges(g)...................... -- -- 1.4x 3.0x
PREDECESSOR
----------------------------------------------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995(a) 1994(b) 1993
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenues..................... $291,519 $273,367 $217,247 $150,523 $127,541
Operating costs and expenses:
Station operating expenses...... 134,219 128,928 96,988 66,001 57,587
Amortization of program
rights........................ 15,596 14,464 12,357 7,274 5,002
Depreciation and amortization of
intangible assets............. 24,789 23,817 17,127 8,849 7,920
Corporate expense............... 6,763 6,998 5,747 4,330 4,781
Tower write-offs(c)............. 2,697 -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income................. 107,455 99,160 85,028 64,069 52,251
Interest expense................. 21,340 26,582 26,262 13,451 13,678
Other (income) expense........... 200 (359) (938) (293) (797)
Merger expense(d)................ 7,206 -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes and
extraordinary item.............. 78,709 72,937 59,704 50,911 39,370
Provision (benefit) for income
taxes........................... 30,602 26,476 21,674 19,726 17,083
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item.............. 48,107 46,461 38,030 31,185 22,287
Extraordinary item, net of income
tax benefit(e).................. -- -- -- (2,925) --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)................ $ 48,107 $ 46,461 $ 38,030 $ 28,260 $ 22,287
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents........ $ 8,046 $ 27,952 $ 18,025 $ 17,907 $ 19,461
Total assets..................... 569,325 595,944 587,256 423,964 183,697
Long-term debt................... 260,000 350,000 387,000 295,000 176,447
Total stockholders' equity
(deficit)....................... 192,565 138,448 86,434 40,160 (99,115)
CASH FLOW DATA:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities............ $ 81,691 $ 70,799 $ 56,040 $ 49,654 $ 46,566
Investing activities............ (15,060) (27,864) (127,723) (142,168) (6,864)
Financing activities............ (86,537) (33,008) 71,801 90,960 (37,594)
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents............ (19,906) 9,927 118 (1,554) 2,108
OTHER DATA:
Capital expenditures............. $ 20,605 $ 27,557 $ 27,715 $ 20,406 $ 6,864
BCF(f)........................... 145,470 130,399 106,749 77,203 65,466
EBITDA(f)........................ 138,707 123,401 101,002 72,873 60,685
Ratio of earnings to fixed
charges(g)...................... 4.6x 3.7x 3.2x 4.5x 3.8x
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- ---------------
(a) On October 2, 1995, the Company purchased station WIVB-TV, Buffalo, New York
for approximately $100.7 million in cash.
(b) On December 28, 1994, the Company purchased station WTNH-TV, New
Haven-Hartford, Connecticut for approximately $120.2 million in cash plus
approximately 3.4 million shares of LIN Television common stock.
(c) During the second quarter of 1997, the Company disposed of towers and other
broadcast equipment that could no longer be used with digital technology.
(d) During the last half of 1997, the Company incurred financial, legal advisory
and regulatory filing fees in connection with the Acquisition.
(e) In 1994, the Company recorded a $4.5 million write-off of unamortized bank
fees and expenses related to its existing credit facility. This write-off
has been reflected as an extraordinary loss on extinguishment of debt of
$2.9 million, after the effect of an income tax benefit of $1.6 million, in
the Company's financial statements.
(f) The terms "broadcast cash flow" ("BCF") and "EBITDA" are referred to in
various places in this Prospectus. BCF is defined as operating income (loss)
plus corporate expenses plus depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets and amortization of program rights plus other non-cash expenses
(consisting of tower write-offs and non-cash pension expenses) minus cash
program payments. EBITDA is defined as BCF minus corporate expenses. BCF and
EBITDA are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). However, management
believes that BCF is useful to a prospective investor because it is a
measure widely used in the broadcast industry to evaluate a television
broadcast company's operating performance and that EBITDA is useful to a
prospective investor because it is widely used in the broadcast industry to
evaluate a television broadcast company's ability to service debt. BCF and
EBITDA should not be considered in isolation of or as a substitute for net
income (loss), cash flows from operating activities and other income and
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of
liquidity or profitability. BCF and EBITDA as determined above may not be
comparable to the BCF and EBITDA measures reported by other companies. In
addition, these measures do not represent funds available for discretionary
use. On August 27, 1998, LIN Television of Texas, L.P. ("LIN Texas") and
Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SSG"), entered into
an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG Agreement") pursuant to which LIN
Texas will sell KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas will receive 500,000
shares of SSG's Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $100.00 per
share ("SSG Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will be entitled to receive
dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value prior to the payment by
SSG of any dividend in respect of its common stock ("SSG Common Stock") or
any other junior securities. In connection with the SSG Agreement, LIN Texas
and Southwest Sports Television, Inc., a Delaware corporation and an
affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"), entered into a Sub-Programming Agreement on
August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will provide certain management,
operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior to the closing of the
sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing such services, SSTI
will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate revenue received,
less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate to the
operation of KXTX-TV. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million. See
"Recent Developments."
(g) For purposes of calculating the ratio of earnings to fixed charges,
"earnings" consist of income before provision for income taxes plus fixed
charges and losses from equity method joint ventures. "Fixed charges"
consist of interest expense, amortization of deferred financing costs and
the component of rental expense believed by management to be representative
of the interest factor thereon. Earnings were insufficient to cover fixed
charges by $3.0 million for Holdings for the period March 3 through March
31, 1998, and $1.2 million for the Company for the period March 3 through
March 31, 1998.
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SUMMARY PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth, as of the dates and for the years
indicated, summary pro forma financial data of the Company and Holdings. The pro
forma financial data is derived from the "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information" that gives pro forma effect to the Transactions. The pro forma
statement of operations and other data give effect to the Transactions as if
they had occurred on January 1 of each of the periods presented. The pro forma
financial information contained herein does not give effect to the Grand Rapids
Acquisition. The pro forma financial data do not purport to represent what the
financial position or results of operations of the Company and Holdings and
their subsidiaries would actually have been had the Transactions in fact been
consummated on the assumed dates or to project the financial position or results
of operations of the Company and Holdings and their subsidiaries for any future
period or date. The pro forma financial data presented below are based on
assumptions which management believes are reasonable and should be read in
conjunction with "Selected Consolidated Financial and Operating Data,"
"Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information," "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the consolidated
financial statements of the Company and Holdings, and the notes thereto,
included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 DECEMBER 31, 1997
------------------- -------------------
HOLDINGS COMPANY HOLDINGS COMPANY
-------- -------- -------- --------
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenues....................................... $ 46,762 $ 46,762 $196,115 $196,115
Operating costs and expenses
Station operating expenses....................... 25,848 25,848 106,098 106,098
Amortization of program rights................... 3,413 3,413 13,566 13,566
Depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets........................................ 13,597 13,597 54,074 54,074
Corporate expense................................ 1,628 1,628 6,763 6,763
Tower write-offs(a).............................. -- -- 2,697 2,697
-------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income................................... 2,276 2,276 12,917 12,917
Interest expense................................... 16,394 10,646 64,828 43,112
Other (income) expense............................. 2,180 2,180 4,989 4,989
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before provision (benefit) for income
taxes............................................ (16,298) (10,550) (56,900) (35,184)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes............... (1,159) 853 (13,485) (5,884)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net loss........................................... $(15,139) $(11,403) $(43,415) $(29,300)
======== ======== ======== ========
OTHER DATA:
Capital expenditures............................... $ 1,002 $ 1,002 $ 18,066 $ 18,066
BCF(b)............................................. 17,024 17,024 79,488 79,488
EBITDA(b).......................................... 15,396 15,396 72,725 72,725
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(c).............. -- -- -- --
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- ---------------
(a) During the second quarter of 1997, the Company disposed of towers and other
broadcast equipment that could no longer be used with digital technology.
(b) The terms "broadcast cash flow" ("BCF") and "EBITDA" are referred to in
various places in this Prospectus. BCF is defined as operating income (loss)
plus corporate expenses plus depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets and amortization of program rights plus other non-cash expenses
(consisting of tower write-offs and non-cash pension expenses) minus cash
program payments. EBITDA is defined as BCF minus corporate expenses. BCF and
EBITDA are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). However, management
believes that BCF is useful to a prospective investor because it is a
measure widely used in the broadcast industry to evaluate a television
broadcast company's operating performance and that EBITDA is useful to a
prospective investor because it is widely used in the broadcast industry to
evaluate a television broadcast company's ability to service debt. BCF and
EBITDA should not be considered in isolation of or as a substitute for net
income (loss), cash flows from operating activities and other income and
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of
liquidity or profitability. BCF and EBITDA as determined above may not be
comparable to the BCF and EBITDA measures reported by other companies. In
addition, these measures do not represent funds available for discretionary
use. On August 27, 1998, LIN Television of Texas, L.P. ("LIN Texas") and
Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SSG"), entered into
an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG Agreement") pursuant to which LIN
Texas will sell KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas will receive 500,000
shares of SSG's Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $100.00 per
share ("SSG Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will be entitled to receive
dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value prior to the payment by
SSG of any dividend in respect of its common stock ("SSG Common Stock") or
any other junior securities. In connection with the SSG Agreement, LIN Texas
and Southwest Sports Television, Inc., a Delaware corporation and an
affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"), entered into a Sub-Programming Agreement on
August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will provide certain management,
operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior to the closing of the
sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing such services, SSTI
will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate revenue received,
less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate to the
operation of KXTX-TV. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million. See
"Recent Developments."
(c) For purposes of calculating the ratio of earnings to fixed charges,
"earnings" consist of income before provision for income taxes plus fixed
charges and losses from equity method joint ventures. "Fixed charges"
consist of interest expense, amortization of deferred financing costs and
the component of rental expense believed by management to be representative
of the interest factor thereon. Earnings were insufficient to cover fixed
charges by $14.1 million and $51.9 million for Holdings for the periods
ended March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, respectively, and $8.4 million
and $30.2 million for the Company for the periods ended March 31, 1998 and
December 31, 1997, respectively.
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RISK FACTORS
Prospective investors should carefully consider the risk factors set forth
below, as well as the other information set forth in this Prospectus, before
making an investment in the Notes. This Prospectus contains forward-looking
statements which involve risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results
may differ significantly from the results discussed in the forward-looking
statements. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not
limited to, the risk factors set forth below. See also "Forward Looking
Statements" and "Certain Definitions and Market and Industry Data" above.
SUBSTANTIAL LEVERAGE AND DEBT SERVICE
Holdings and the Company incurred substantial indebtedness in connection
with the Acquisition. As of March 31, 1998, Holdings had $670.6 million of
consolidated indebtedness and $554.9 million of consolidated common
shareholders' equity, and the Company had $469.3 million of consolidated
indebtedness and $741.2 million of consolidated common shareholder's equity.
Both Holdings and the Company are substantially leveraged as a result of the
consummation of the Transactions. On a pro forma basis, earnings were
insufficient to cover fixed charges by $51.9 million for Holdings and $30.2
million for the Company for the year ended December 31, 1997. See
"Capitalization" and "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information." Holdings and
the Company may incur additional indebtedness in the future, subject to certain
limitations contained in the instruments and documents governing their
respective indebtedness. Accordingly, Holdings and the Company have significant
debt service obligations. See "Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes," "Description of the New Senior Discount Notes" and "Description of the
Senior Credit Facilities."
Holdings' and the Company's high degrees of leverage could have important
consequences to holders of the Notes, including the following: (i) a substantial
portion of their cash flow from operations will be dedicated to the payment of
principal of, premium (if any) and interest on their respective indebtedness,
thereby reducing the funds available for operations, distributions to Holdings
for payments with respect to the Senior Discount Notes, future business
opportunities and other purposes and increasing the vulnerability of Holdings
and the Company to adverse general economic and industry conditions; (ii) the
ability of Holdings and the Company to obtain additional financing in the future
may be limited; (iii) certain of the Company's borrowings (including, without
limitation, amounts borrowed under the Senior Credit Facilities) will be at
variable rates of interest, which will expose the Company to increases in
interest rates; (iv) all of the indebtedness incurred in connection with the
Senior Credit Facilities will be secured and is scheduled to become due prior to
the time the principal payments on the Notes are scheduled to become due; and
(v) the Mandatory Principal Redemption Amount will become due and payable in a
lump sum on March 1, 2003.
Holdings' and the Company's abilities to make scheduled payments of the
principal of, or to pay interest on, or to refinance their respective
indebtedness (including the Notes) will depend on the future performance of the
Company and its subsidiaries, which to a certain extent will be subject to
economic, financial, regulatory, competitive and other factors beyond the
Company's control. Based upon the Company's current operations and anticipated
growth, management believes that future cash flow from operations, together with
the Company's available borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities, will be
adequate to meet Holdings' and the Company's respective anticipated requirements
for capital expenditures, interest payments and scheduled principal payments.
See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources." There can be no assurance,
however, that the Company's business will continue to generate sufficient cash
flow from operations in the future to service its and Holdings' respective
indebtedness and make necessary capital expenditures. If unable to do so,
Holdings and the Company may be required to refinance all or a portion of their
respective indebtedness, including the Notes, to sell assets or to obtain
additional financing. There can be no assurance that any such refinancing would
be possible, that any assets could be sold (or, if sold, of the timing of such
sales and the amount of proceeds realized therefrom) or that additional
financing could be obtained.
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SUBSTANTIAL RESTRICTIONS AND COVENANTS
The Credit Agreement (as defined) and the Indentures (as defined) contain
numerous restrictive covenants, including, but not limited to, covenants that
restrict Holdings' and the Company's abilities to incur indebtedness, pay
dividends, create liens, sell assets, engage in certain mergers and acquisitions
and refinance indebtedness. In addition, the Credit Agreement requires the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios. The ability of Holdings and the
Company to comply with the covenants and other terms of the Credit Agreement and
the Indentures, to make cash payments with respect to the Notes and to satisfy
their other respective debt obligations (including, without limitation,
borrowings and other obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities) will depend
on the future operating performance of the Company and its subsidiaries. In the
event Holdings or the Company fails to comply with the various covenants
contained in the Credit Agreement or the Indentures, as applicable, it would be
in default thereunder, and in any such case, the maturity of substantially all
of its long-term indebtedness could be accelerated. A default under either of
the Indentures would also constitute an event of default under the Credit
Agreement. The Credit Agreement will prohibit the repayment, purchase,
redemption, defeasance or other payment of any of the principal of the Notes at
any time prior to their stated maturity. See "Description of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes," "Description of the New Senior Discount Notes" and
"Description of the Senior Credit Facilities."
RANKING OF THE NOTES AND GUARANTEES
The Senior Subordinated Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations
of the Company and the indebtedness evidenced by each Subsidiary Guarantee is
unsecured senior subordinated indebtedness of the relevant Guarantor. The
payment of principal of, premium (if any), and interest on the Senior
Subordinated Notes and the payment of any Subsidiary Guarantee will be
subordinated in right of payment to all Senior Indebtedness of the Company or
all Senior Indebtedness of ("Guarantor Senior Indebtedness") of the relevant
Guarantor, as the case may be, including all indebtedness and obligations of the
Company under the Senior Credit Facilities and such Guarantor's guarantee of
such obligations. As of March 31, 1998, Senior Indebtedness of the Company and
Guarantor Senior Indebtedness were approximately $170.0 million and $170.0
million, respectively, and Senior Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company and
Senior Subordinated Indebtedness of the Guarantors were approximately $300.0
million of aggregate principal and $300.0 million of aggregate principal,
respectively. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture permits the Company to
incur additional Senior Indebtedness, provided that certain conditions are met,
and the Company expects from time to time to incur additional Senior
Indebtedness. In addition, the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture permits
Senior Indebtedness to be secured. By reasons of the subordination provisions of
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, in the event of insolvency,
liquidation, reorganization, dissolution or other winding-up of the Company or a
Guarantor, holders of Senior Indebtedness of the Company or Guarantor Senior
Indebtedness, as the case may be, will have to be paid in full before the
Company makes payments in respect of the Senior Subordinated Notes or a
Guarantor makes payments in respect of its Subsidiary Guarantee. In addition, no
payment will be able to be made in respect of the Senior Subordinated Notes if
(i) any Senior Indebtedness is not paid when due or (ii) any other default on
Senior Indebtedness occurs and the maturity of such Senior Indebtedness is
accelerated in accordance with its terms. Accordingly, there may be insufficient
assets remaining after such payments to pay amounts due on the Senior
Subordinated Notes. Furthermore, if certain other defaults exist with respect to
Designated Senior Indebtedness (as defined), the holders of such Designated
Senior Indebtedness will be able to prevent payments on the Senior Subordinated
Notes for certain periods of time. See "Description of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes -- Ranking and Subordination."
The Senior Discount Notes are unsecured senior obligations of Holdings and
rank pari passu in right of payment with all unsecured Senior Indebtedness of
Holdings, including Holdings' guarantee of the Senior Credit Facilities. As a
result of the holding company structure, the holders of the Senior Discount
Notes effectively rank junior in right of payment to all creditors of the
Company and its subsidiaries, including, without limitation, the lenders under
the Senior Credit Facilities, holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes and trade
creditors. See "-- Structural Subordination of Holdings." In the event of the
dissolution, bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of Holdings or the
Company, the holders of the Senior Discount
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Notes may not receive any amounts in respect of the Senior Discount Notes until
after the payment in full of all claims of the creditors of the Company and its
subsidiaries. As of March 31, 1998, the Senior Discount Notes were effectively
subordinated to approximately $523.8 million of liabilities of Subsidiaries of
Holdings that would have been reflected on its consolidated balance sheet,
including indebtedness and other liabilities such as trade payables and accrued
expenses. See "Capitalization" and "Description of the New Senior Discount
Notes."
STRUCTURAL SUBORDINATION OF HOLDINGS
Holdings is a holding company whose only material asset is the capital
stock of the Company. The New Senior Discount Notes will be an obligation of
Holdings and the holders of the Senior Discount Notes will have no recourse to
the Company or its assets, including any subsidiaries of the Company. It is not
anticipated that Holdings will have any business (other than in connection with
its ownership of the capital stock of the Company and the performance of its
obligations with respect to the Senior Discount Notes and the Senior Credit
Facilities) and will depend on distributions from the Company to meet its debt
service obligations, including, without limitation, interest and principal
obligations with respect to the Senior Discount Notes. Because of the
substantial leverage of the Company, and the dependence of Holdings upon the
operating performance of the Company to generate distributions to Holdings,
there can be no assurance that Holdings will have adequate funds to fulfill its
obligations in respect of the Senior Discount Notes when due. In addition, the
Credit Agreement, the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture and applicable federal
and state law will impose restrictions on the payment of dividends and the
making of loans by the Company to Holdings. As a result of the foregoing
restrictions, Holdings may be unable to gain access to the cash flow or assets
of the Company in amounts sufficient to pay the Mandatory Principal Redemption
Amount when due on March 1, 2003, and cash interest on the Senior Discount Notes
on and after March 1, 2003, the date on which cash interest thereon first
becomes payable, and principal of the Senior Discount Notes when due or upon a
Change of Control or the occurrence of any other event requiring the repayment
of principal. In such event, Holdings may be required to (i) refinance the
Senior Discount Notes, (ii) seek additional debt or equity financing, (iii)
cause the Company to refinance all or a portion of the Company's indebtedness
with indebtedness containing covenants allowing Holdings to gain access to the
Company's cash flow or assets, (iv) cause the Company to obtain modifications of
the covenants restricting Holdings' access to cash flow or assets of the Company
contained in the Company's financing documents (including, without limitation,
the Credit Agreement and the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture) or (v) pursue
a combination of the foregoing actions. The measures Holdings may undertake to
gain access to sufficient cash flow to meet its future debt service requirements
in respect of the Senior Discount Notes will depend on general economic and
financial market conditions, as well as the financial condition of Holdings and
the Company and other relevant factors existing at the time. No assurance can be
given that any of the foregoing measures could be accomplished. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
ENCUMBRANCES ON ASSETS TO SECURE SENIOR CREDIT FACILITIES
The Company's obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities are secured by
a first priority pledge of, or a first priority security interest in, as the
case may be, substantially all of the assets (including 100% of the common
stock) of the Company and its subsidiaries. If the Company becomes insolvent or
is liquidated, or if payment under any of the Senior Credit Facilities or in
respect of any other secured Senior Indebtedness is accelerated, the lenders
under the Senior Credit Facilities or holders of such other secured Senior
Indebtedness will be entitled to exercise the remedies available to a secured
lender under applicable law (in addition to any remedies that may be available
under documents pertaining to the Senior Credit Facilities or such other Senior
Indebtedness). Neither the Senior Subordinated Notes nor the Senior Discount
Notes are secured. Accordingly, holders of such secured Senior Indebtedness will
have a prior claim with respect to the assets securing such indebtedness. See
"Description of the New Senior Subordinated Notes," "Description of the New
Senior Discount Notes" and "Description of the Senior Credit Facilities."
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OBLIGATIONS UPON A CHANGE OF CONTROL
Upon a Change of Control, (i) each Issuer will have the option, at any time
on or prior to March 1, 2003, to redeem such Issuer's Notes, in whole but not in
part, at a redemption price equal to (a) 100% of the principal amount thereof
plus the Applicable Premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date
of redemption in the case of the Senior Subordinated Notes and (b) at a
redemption price equal to 100% of the Accreted Value thereof plus the Applicable
Premium in the case of the Senior Discount Notes and (ii) if an Issuer does not
redeem its Notes pursuant to clause (i) above, or such Change in Control occurs
after March 1, 2003, each holder of a Note may require the Issuer thereof to
repurchase such Note (a) at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal
amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
repurchase in the case of a Senior Subordinated Note and (b) at a price equal to
(x) 101% of the Accreted Value thereof if redeemed on or before March 1, 2003,
and (y) 101% of the principal amount at maturity, plus accrued and unpaid
interest, if any, thereon, if redeemed after March 1, 2003, in the case of a
Senior Discount Note. There can be no assurance that Holdings or the Company
will be able to raise sufficient funds to meet their respective repurchase
obligations upon a Change of Control or that, in any event, Holdings and the
Company would be permitted under the terms of the Credit Agreement or the
Indentures to fulfill such obligations. See "Description of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes -- Change of Control" and "Description of the New Senior
Discount Notes -- Change of Control."
CONTROL OF HOLDINGS AND THE COMPANY
A majority of the common stock of Holdings is controlled indirectly by
Hicks Muse and certain of its affiliates through Holdings' corporate parents. As
a result, Hicks Muse is effectively able to elect all of the members of the
Board of Directors of Holdings and its subsidiaries, including the Company, and
thereby directly control the management and policies of Holdings and the
Company. The interests of Hicks Muse and its affiliates may differ from the
interests of holders of the Notes. See "-- Potential Conflicts of Interest,"
"Securities Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners" and "Certain Other
Transactions." In addition, if an event of default occurs under the GECC Note,
and GECC is unable to collect all obligations owed to it after exhausting all
commercially reasonable remedies against the Joint Venture (including during the
pendency of any bankruptcy involving the Joint Venture), GECC may proceed
against the GECC Guarantor to collect any deficiency. If the GECC Guarantor does
not otherwise satisfy its obligations under the guaranty, GECC could attempt to
claim all or a portion of the common stock of Holdings owned by the GECC
Guarantor (approximately 63% of the outstanding common stock of Holdings)
through an insolvency proceeding or otherwise. If such an event were to occur,
GECC could obtain control of Holdings. See "-- Defaults under the GECC Note."
POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The number of television stations the Company may acquire in any market is
limited by FCC rules and may vary depending upon whether the interests in other
television stations or certain other media properties of certain individuals
affiliated with the Company are attributable to those individuals under FCC
rules. In addition, the FCC's radio/television cross-ownership rule generally
prohibits a single individual or entity from having an attributable interest in
both a television station and a radio station serving the same market. The FCC
generally applies its ownership limits to "attributable" interests held by an
individual, corporation, partnership or other association. The broadcast
interests of the Company's officers, directors and majority stockholder are
generally attributable to the Company, which may limit the Company from
acquiring or owning television stations in certain markets. See "Management,"
"Securities Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners" and "Business -- Licensing
and Regulation."
As a result of the current or future ownership of television and radio
broadcast stations by entities in which Hicks Muse has significant equity
interests (other than through the Company), regulatory and other restrictions
may restrict or prohibit the Company from entering the markets in which those
other stations operate or intend to operate.
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Hicks Muse is in the business of making significant investments in existing
or newly formed companies and may from time to time acquire and hold controlling
or noncontrolling interests in television broadcast assets (such as its existing
investment in STC Broadcasting) other than through the Company, or in other
businesses (such as Chancellor Media and Capstar Broadcasting) that may directly
or indirectly compete with the Company for advertising revenues, among other
things. Hicks Muse and its affiliates may from time to time identify, pursue and
consummate acquisitions of television stations or other broadcast related
businesses that may be complementary to the business of the Company and
therefore such acquisition opportunities may not be available to the Company. In
addition, Hicks Muse may from time to time identify and structure acquisitions
for the Company and will receive fees in connection with such transactions.
Certain affiliates of Hicks Muse have entered, and in the future may enter into,
business relationships with the Company or its subsidiaries. See "Certain Other
Transactions."
On August 27, 1998, LIN Texas and SSG entered into the SSG Agreement,
pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas
will receive 500,000 shares of SSG Preferred Stock. LIN Texas will be entitled
to receive dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value ($100.00 per
share) prior to the payment by SSG of any dividend in respect of SSG Common
Stock or any other junior securities. At the option of SSG, dividends will be
payable either in kind or in cash. LIN Texas will have the right, upon the
earlier of (i) the third anniversary of the issuance of the SSG Preferred Stock
and (ii) an initial public offering of SSG Common Stock, to convert its shares
of SSG Preferred Stock into shares of SSG Common Stock at a conversion rate
equal to the par value per share of the SSG Preferred Stock (plus all accrued
and unpaid dividends thereon) divided by the fair market value per share of the
SSG Common Stock. SSG will have the right, at its sole option, to redeem the SSG
Preferred Stock at par value (plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) at
any time. In connection with the SSG Agreement, LIN Texas and SSTI entered into
a Sub-Programming Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will
provide certain management, operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior
to the closing of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing
such services, SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate
revenue received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate
to the operation of KXTX-TV.
Subject to the terms of the SSG Agreement and the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the receipt of National Hockey League and Major League
Baseball approvals and SSG's consummation of certain other business
acquisitions, it is expected that the sale of KXTX-TV will be consummated by the
end of 1998. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million.
DEPENDENCE UPON KEY PERSONNEL
The Company believes that its success will continue to be dependent upon
its ability to attract and retain skilled managers and other personnel,
including its present officers and general managers. The loss of the services of
the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, Gary R. Chapman, may have a
material adverse effect on the operations of the Company. Mr. Chapman's current
employment agreement with the Company runs through December 31, 1999. In
connection with the Acquisition, the Company's management team, including Mr.
Chapman, reinvested a portion of its equity interest in LIN Television in the
indirect parent corporation of Holdings. In addition, the management team will
be granted options to acquire additional shares representing an approximate 5%
equity interest in such parent corporation.
GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITIONS; FUTURE CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
The Company intends to pursue selective acquisitions of television stations
with the goal of improving their operating performance by applying management's
business strategy. Inherent in any future acquisitions are certain risks such as
increasing leverage and debt service requirements and combining company cultures
and facilities which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
operating results, particularly during the period immediately following such
acquisitions. Additional debt or equity capital may be required to complete
future acquisitions, and there can be no assurance the Company will be able to
raise the required capital. Moreover, there can be no assurances that with
respect to any acquired station, the Company will be able to successfully
implement effective cost controls, increase advertising revenues or increase its
audience share.
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DEPENDENCE ON CERTAIN EXTERNAL FACTORS
The Company's operating results are primarily dependent on advertising
revenues which, in turn, depend on national and local economic conditions,
coverage of political events and high profile sporting events (e.g., the
Olympics, Super Bowl and NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament), the relative
popularity of the Company's programming (which in many cases, is dependent on
the relative popularity of the relevant affiliate's programming), the
demographic characteristics of the Company's markets, the activities of
competitors and other factors which are outside the Company's control. The
television industry is cyclical in nature, and the Company's revenues could be
adversely affected by a future local, regional or national recession.
RELIANCE ON PROGRAMMING
The Company's most significant operating cost is syndicated programming.
There can be no assurance that the Company will not be exposed in the future to
increased syndicated programming costs which may adversely affect the Company's
operating results. Acquisition of program rights are often made two or three
years in advance, making it difficult to accurately predict how a program will
perform. In some instances, programs must be replaced before their costs have
been fully amortized, resulting in write-offs that increase station operating
costs.
CERTAIN AFFILIATION AGREEMENTS
Three of the Company's owned and operated stations are affiliated with CBS,
two with NBC, and two with ABC. Each of these networks generally provides these
stations with up to 22 hours of prime time programming per week. In return, the
stations broadcast network-inserted commercials during such programming and
receive cash network compensation. Although network affiliates generally have
achieved higher ratings than unaffiliated independent stations in the same
market, there can be no assurance as to the future success of each network's
programming or the continuation of such programming. The Company's network
affiliation agreements are subject to termination by such networks under certain
circumstances. The Company believes that it enjoys a good relationship with each
of CBS, NBC and ABC, as well as the other networks with which it has affiliation
agreements. However, there can be no assurance that such affiliation agreements
will remain in place or that each network will continue to provide programming
or compensation to affiliates on the same basis as it currently provides
programming or compensation. The non-renewal or termination of a network
affiliation agreement could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
operations.
Certain of the networks with which the Company's stations are affiliated
have floated proposals that would either reduce, or in some cases, eliminate
over time, network affiliation compensation paid to the Company or materially
modify the terms of the Company's existing affiliation agreements in exchange
for enhanced programming or other investment opportunities. The Company cannot
predict whether it will be able to reach agreement with its networks as to the
modification of its existing affiliation agreements or whether such
modifications would be materially financially disadvantageous to the Company.
COMPETITION
The television broadcasting industry is highly competitive and is
undergoing a period of consolidation and significant change. Many of the
Company's current and potential competitors have greater financial, marketing,
programming and broadcasting resources than the Company. Technological
innovation and the resulting proliferation of programming alternatives, such as
cable television, wireless cable, satellite-to-home distribution services,
pay-per-view and home video and entertainment systems, have fractionalized
television viewing audiences and have subjected free over-the-air television
broadcast stations to new types of competition. In addition, as a result of the
Telecommunications Act of 1996, the legislative ban on telephone cable ownership
has been repealed and telephone companies are now permitted to seek FCC approval
to provide video services to homes under specified circumstances.
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IMPACT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES
The FCC has adopted rules for implementing Advanced Television ("ATV"),
commonly referred to as "digital" television, in the United States.
Implementation of digital television will improve the technical quality of
over-the-air broadcast television. Under certain circumstances, however,
conversion to digital operations may reduce a station's geographical coverage
area. The FCC has adopted a plan which would allot a second broadcast channel to
each regular commercial television station for digital operation. Within the
next five years, stations are required to phase in their digital operations on
the second channel, build necessary digital facilities and begin operations,
with stations in the largest markets being required to initiate digital
transmissions by November 1999. Stations may be required to surrender their
non-digital channel by the year 2006. Implementation of digital television will
impose additional costs on television stations providing the new service due to
increased equipment costs. The Company estimates that the adoption of ATV will
require average capital expenditures of approximately $2.0 million per station
to develop facilities necessary for transmitting a digital signal. The
conversion of a station's equipment enabling it, for example, to produce and
transmit digital programming will require that consumers purchase new receivers
(television sets) for digital signals or, if available by that time, adapters
for their existing receivers. The FCC has assigned to full-power digital
stations the channels currently occupied by many low power television stations
("LPTVs") and has "cleared" a portion of the current broadcast spectrum (e.g.,
channels 60-69) and proposed to auction it off to other users. These proposals
could adversely affect the Company's LPTV stations. The Company believes that
digital television is essential to the long-term viability of the Company and
the broadcast industry, but the Company cannot predict the precise effect
digital television might have on the Company's business. As required by the
Telecommunications Act of 1996, the FCC has also proposed to levy fees on
broadcasters with respect to nonbroadcast uses of digital channels, including
data transmissions or subscriber services.
Further advances in technology may also increase competition for household
audiences and advertisers. The video compression techniques now under
development for use with current cable television channels or direct broadcast
satellites which do not carry local television signals (some of which commenced
operation in 1994) are expected to reduce the bandwidth which is required for
television signal transmission. These compression techniques, as well as other
technological developments, are applicable to all video delivery systems,
including over-the-air broadcasting, and have the potential to provide vastly
expanded programming to highly targeted audiences. Reduction in the cost of
creating additional channel capacity could lower entry barriers for new channels
and encourage the development of increasingly specialized "niche" programming.
This ability to reach a very defined audience may alter the competitive dynamics
for advertising expenditures. The Company is unable to predict the effect that
technological changes will have on the broadcast television industry or the
future results of the Company's operations.
LACK OF CONTROL OVER JOINT VENTURE
KXAS-TV is now managed by NBC rather than the Company. Accordingly, the
ability for the Joint Venture to generate BCF margins in the future which are as
high as KXAS-TV's historical BCF margins will be beyond the control of the
Company. Because the stations included in the Joint Venture will be managed by
NBC, which will have discretion in determining certain elements of Distributable
Cash of the Joint Venture, the Company will not control the amount of
Distributable Cash produced by the Joint Venture. See "The Transactions and
Other Matters -- The Joint Venture."
DEFAULTS UNDER THE GECC NOTE
Annual cash interest payments on the GECC Note will be approximately $65.2
million. There will be no scheduled payments of principal due prior to 2023, the
stated maturity of the GECC Note. The GECC Note is not an obligation of
Holdings, the Company or any of their respective subsidiaries and is recourse
only to the Joint Venture, the Company's equity interest therein, and to the
GECC Guarantor.
An event of default under the GECC Note will occur only if the Joint
Venture fails to make any scheduled payment of interest (within 90 days of the
date due and payable) on or principal of the GECC Note. A cash reserve of $15.0
million is expected to be established by the Joint Venture for the purpose of
29
35
making interest payments on the GECC Note. If the Joint Venture cannot make an
interest payment on the GECC Note when due, both the GECC Guarantor and NBC will
have the right to make a shortfall loan to the Joint Venture to cover such
interest payment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Joint Venture fails to
pay interest on the GECC Note, and neither the GECC Guarantor nor NBC makes a
shortfall loan to cover such interest payment, an event of default would occur
under the GECC Note and GECC could accelerate the maturity of the $815.5 million
principal amount due under the GECC Note.
The formation of the Joint Venture is intended to be tax-free to the
Company. However, any prepayment of the GECC Note, whether due to an
acceleration upon default or otherwise, could result in a substantial tax
liability to the Company which would have a material adverse effect on the
Company. Other than the acceleration of the principal amount of the GECC Note
upon an event of default as described above, prepayment of principal of the GECC
Note will be prohibited without the prior consent of the Company.
In addition, if an event of default occurs under the GECC Note, and GECC is
unable to collect all amounts owed to it after exhausting all commercially
reasonable remedies against the Joint Venture (including during the pendency of
any bankruptcy involving the Joint Venture), GECC may proceed against the GECC
Guarantor to collect any deficiency. In connection with the Transactions, the
assets contributed to the Joint Venture were attributed a value of $1.2 billion
by the parties thereto. See "-- Control of Holdings and the Company" and "The
Transactions and Other Matters -- The Joint Venture."
RENEWAL OF FCC LICENSES
The broadcasting industry is subject to regulation by the FCC pursuant to
the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the "Communications Act"). Approval
by the FCC is required for the issuance, renewal and assignment of station
operating licenses and the transfer of control of station licensees. In
particular, the Company's business will be dependent upon its continuing to hold
television broadcast licenses from the FCC, which licenses, since January 1997,
are issued for maximum terms of eight years. While in the vast majority of cases
such licenses are renewed by the FCC, there can be no assurance that the
Company's licenses or the licenses owned by the owner-operators of the stations
with which the Company has LMAs will be renewed at their expiration dates.
Following the Acquisition, all of the Company's stations will be operating under
regular eight-year FCC licenses except for WIVB-TV, WTNH-TV, KXTX-TV and
KXAN-TV, each of which is operating under a five-year license issued prior to
January 1997 and is expected to be issued an eight-year FCC license during the
current renewal cycle. See "Business -- Licensing and Regulation."
MULTIPLE OWNERSHIP RULES AND EFFECT ON LMAS
The local marketing agreements pursuant to which the Company operates its
LMAs require the Company to pay fixed periodic fees and incur programming and
operating costs relating to its LMA stations, but the Company retains all of the
LMA stations' advertising revenues. The FCC has initiated rulemaking proceedings
to consider proposals to relax its television ownership restrictions, including
proposals that would permit the ownership, in some circumstances, of two
television stations with overlapping service areas and relaxing the rules
prohibiting cross-ownership of radio and television stations in the same market.
The FCC is also considering whether to adopt new restrictions on television
LMAs. The "duopoly" rules currently prevent the Company from acquiring the FCC
licenses of its LMA stations, thereby preventing the Company from directly
fulfilling its obligations under put options held by the licensees of the
Company's LMA stations (which options had an aggregate exercise price of $9.1
million at December 31, 1997). If the Company is unable to fulfill its
obligation under a put option, it will be required to find an assignee who could
perform such obligation. There is no assurance that the Company could find an
assignee to fulfill the Company's obligations under the put options on favorable
terms. Under the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the "1996 Act"), the Company's
LMAs were "grandfathered." The precise extent to which the FCC may nevertheless
restrict existing LMAs or make them attributable ownership interests is
uncertain. The FCC has proposed for adoption rules that would make LMAs fully
attributable ownership interests, and thus prohibited, with a possibility of
case by case waivers for stations that meet specified criteria (e.g., VHF-UHF or
UHF-UHF station combinations, start-up stations and failed or failing stations).
Under the FCC's proposal, "grandfathering" rights for current LMAs which do not
qualify for conversion to ownership could be limited to the
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36
fulfillment of their current lease terms, and renewal and transferability rights
could be eliminated. All of the Company's LMAs involve stations which are UHF
stations and, at the time the LMAs were formed, were either start-up stations or
failing stations and therefore would appear to be strong candidates for
grandfathering and/or for conversion to ownership under the proposals.
Nevertheless, it is possible that the FCC could prohibit such conversion or
require the Company to modify its LMAs in ways which impair their viability.
Further, if the FCC were to find that the licensee of one of the Company's LMA
stations failed to maintain control over its operations, the licensee of the LMA
station and/or the Company could be sanctioned. Sanctions could include, among
other things, the short-term renewal or loss of the station's FCC license. The
Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of possible changes to these
FCC rules and the impact such FCC rules would have on its broadcasting
operations.
In accordance with FCC rules, regulations and policies, all of the
Company's LMAs allow preemption of the Company's programming by the
owner-operator and FCC licensee of each LMA station. Accordingly, there can be
no assurance that the Company will be able to air all of the programming it
expects to air on its LMA stations or that the Company will receive the
anticipated advertising revenue from the sale of advertising spots during such
programming. Although the Company believes that the terms and conditions of each
of its LMAs should enable the Company to air its programming and utilize the
programming and other non-broadcast license assets acquired for use at the LMA
stations, there can be no assurance that early terminations of the LMAs or
unanticipated preemptions of all or a significant portion of the programming by
the owner-operator and FCC licensee of such LMA stations will not occur. An
early termination of one of the Company's LMAs, or repeated and material
preemptions of programming thereunder, could adversely affect the Company's
operations.
The Company cannot predict what other proposals or changes might be
considered by the FCC in the future, nor can it predict what impact, if any, the
implementation of any such proposals or changes might have on its business.
FRAUDULENT CONVEYANCE
The incurrence of indebtedness (such as the Notes) in connection with the
Transactions and payments to consummate the Transactions with the proceeds
thereof are subject to review under relevant federal and state fraudulent
conveyance statutes in a bankruptcy or reorganization case or a lawsuit by or on
behalf of creditors of the Company or Holdings. Under these statutes, if a court
were to find that obligations (such as the Notes) were incurred with the intent
of hindering, delaying or defrauding present or future creditors, or that the
Company or Holdings received less than a reasonably equivalent value or fair
consideration for those obligations and, at the time of the occurrence of the
obligations, the obligor either (i) was insolvent or rendered insolvent by
reason thereof, (ii) was engaged or was about to engage in a business or
transaction for which its remaining unencumbered assets constituted unreasonably
small capital or (iii) intended to or believed that it would incur debts beyond
its ability to pay such debts as they matured or became due, such court could
void the Company's or Holdings' obligations under the Senior Subordinated Notes
or the Senior Discount Notes, respectively, subordinate the Senior Subordinated
Notes or the Senior Discount Notes to other indebtedness of the Company or
Holdings, respectively, or take other action detrimental to the holders of the
Notes. Some courts have held that an obligor's purchase of its own capital stock
does not constitute reasonably equivalent value or fair consideration for
indebtedness incurred to finance that purchase.
The measure of insolvency for purposes of a fraudulent conveyance claim
will vary depending upon the law of the applicable jurisdiction. Generally,
however, a company will be considered insolvent at a particular time if the sum
of its debts at that time is greater than the then fair value of its assets or
if the fair saleable value of its assets at that time is less than the amount
that would be required to pay its probable liability on its existing debts as
they become absolute and mature. The Company and Holdings believe that, after
giving effect to the Transactions, (i) neither the Company nor Holdings will be
insolvent or rendered insolvent by the incurrence of indebtedness in connection
with the Transactions, (ii) each of the Company and Holdings will be in
possession of sufficient capital to run its business effectively and (iii) each
of the Company and Holdings will have incurred debts within its ability to pay
as the same mature or become due.
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There can be no assurance, however, as to what standard a court would apply
to evaluate the Issuers' intents or to determine whether the Company or Holdings
was insolvent at the time of, or rendered insolvent upon, the consummation of
the Transactions or that, regardless of the standard, a court would not
determine that the Company or Holdings was insolvent at the time of, or rendered
insolvent upon, the consummation of the Transactions.
In addition, the Subsidiary Guarantees may be subject to review under
relevant federal and state fraudulent conveyance and similar statutes in a
bankruptcy or reorganization case or a lawsuit by or on behalf of creditors of
any of the Guarantors. In such a case, the analysis set forth above generally
would apply. A court could avoid a Guarantor's obligation under its Subsidiary
Guarantee, subordinate the Subsidiary Guarantee to other indebtedness of such
Guarantor or take other action detrimental to the holders of the New Senior
Subordinated Notes.
ORIGINAL ISSUE DISCOUNT CONSEQUENCES OF NEW SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES
The New Senior Discount Notes will be issued at a substantial discount from
their principal amount at maturity. Although cash interest will not accrue on
the New Senior Discount Notes prior to March 1, 2003, and there will be no
periodic payments of cash interest on the New Senior Discount Notes prior to
September 1, 2003, original issue discount (the difference between the stated
redemption price at maturity and the issue price of the Old Senior Discount
Notes) will accrue from the issue date of the Old Senior Discount Notes.
Consequently, purchasers of New Senior Discount Notes generally will be required
to include amounts in gross income for United States federal income tax purposes
in advance of their receipt of the cash payments to which the income is
attributable. Such amounts in the aggregate will be equal to the difference
between the stated redemption price at maturity (inclusive of stated interest on
the New Senior Discount Notes) and the issue price of the Senior Discount Notes.
See "Certain United States Federal Income Tax Consequences."
In the event a bankruptcy case is commenced by or against Holdings under
the United States Bankruptcy Code after the issuance of the New Senior Discount
Notes, the claim of a holder of New Senior Discount Notes may be limited to an
amount equal to the sum of (i) the initial offering price and (ii) that portion
of the original issue discount which is not deemed to constitute "unmatured
interest" for purposes of the Bankruptcy Code. Any original issue discount that
was not amortized as of the date of any such bankruptcy filing would constitute
"unmatured interest." To the extent that the Bankruptcy Code differs from the
Internal Revenue Code in determining the method of amortization of original
issue discount, a holder of New Senior Discount Notes may realize taxable gain
or loss on payment of such holder's claim in bankruptcy.
LACK OF PUBLIC MARKET FOR THE NEW NOTES
The Old Notes were issued on March 3, 1998 and the Issuers are not aware
that any active trading markets for the Old Notes have developed. The issuers do
not intend to apply for listings of the New Notes on a securities exchange or on
any automated dealer quotation system. There can be no assurances that markets
will develop for the New Notes or as to the liquidity of any markets that may
develop for the New Notes, the ability of the holders of the New Notes to sell
their New Notes or the prices at which such holders would be able to sell their
New Notes. If such markets were to exist, the New Notes could trade at prices
that may fluctuate significantly depending upon many factors, including
prevailing interest rates and the markets for similar securities.
The liquidity of, and trading markets, if any, for, the New Notes also may
be adversely affected by general declines in the markets for similar securities.
Such a decline may adversely affect such liquidity and trading markets
independent of the financial performance of, and prospects for, the Issuers.
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THE TRANSACTIONS AND OTHER MATTERS
The Acquisition. Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the
Merger Agreement, Holdings consummated the Acquisition by merging LIN
Acquisition, its wholly owned subsidiary, with and into LIN Television, with LIN
Television surviving the Merger and becoming a direct, wholly owned subsidiary
of Holdings. The total purchase price for the common equity of LIN Television
was approximately $1.7 billion. In addition, the Company refinanced $260.2
million of LIN Television indebtedness and incurred acquisition costs of
approximately $32.2 million.
The Financings. The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess
cash on the Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal
amount of Tranche A Term Loans; (iii) $120.0 million aggregate principal amount
of Tranche B Term Loans; (iv) $299.3 million gross proceeds from the issuance by
LIN Television of the $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of Old Senior
Subordinated Notes; (v) $199.6 million gross proceeds from the issuance by
Holdings of $325.0 million aggregate principal amount at maturity of Old Senior
Discount Notes, which proceeds were contributed by Holdings to the common equity
of the Company; (vi) $558.1 million of common equity provided by affiliates of
Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors to the equity of the corporate
parents of Holdings, which in turn, through Holdings, contributed such amount to
the common equity of the Company; and (vii) $815.5 million of proceeds of the
GECC Note.
The Joint Venture. In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC
formed the Joint Venture. The Joint Venture consists of KXAS-TV, formerly LIN
Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV, formerly NBC's San
Diego station. A wholly owned subsidiary of NBC is the general partner of the
Joint Venture and NBC operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture pursuant
to a management services agreement in exchange for a fee based on the BCF, less
capital expenditures, of the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The Company
will not be involved in the day-to-day operations of the stations owned by the
Joint Venture, but will have consent rights with respect to certain significant
transactions involving the Joint Venture. See "Risk Factors -- Lack of Control
Over Joint Venture."
GECC provided debt financing for the Joint Venture in the form of the GECC
Note. The difference between the value of assets contributed by the Company to
the Joint Venture and the GECC Note represents the Company's net equity
investment in the Joint Venture. The GECC Note was issued by LIN Texas, the
Company's wholly-owned partnership, which distributed the proceeds to the
Company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition. The obligations to
GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by the Joint Venture and LIN Texas was
simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC Note. Interest
payments under the GECC Note are payable quarterly, and no principal will be
payable until the maturity of the GECC Note in 2023. The GECC Note will bear
interest at a rate of 8.0% per annum for the first fifteen years of its term,
and at a rate of 9.0% per annum thereafter.
The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any of their
respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the Company's
equity interest therein and to the GECC Guarantor. The Company expects that the
interest payments on the GECC Note will be serviced solely by the cash flow of
the Joint Venture. In order to make a claim against the GECC Guarantor, GECC
must first exhaust all commercially reasonable remedies against the assets of
the Joint Venture (including during the pendency of any bankruptcy proceeding
involving the Joint Venture). In connection with the Transactions, the assets
contributed to the Joint Venture were attributed a value of $1.2 billion by the
parties thereto. The GECC Guarantor is not bound by any covenants or
restrictions in connection with its guaranty. The only events of default under
the GECC Note which would allow GECC to declare the entire principal and unpaid
interest under the GECC Note payable are (i) a failure to pay interest within
ninety days of the due date thereof (with the GECC Guarantor and NBC having the
right to make a shortfall loan to the Joint Venture for the purpose of enabling
the Joint Venture to make such interest payment) or (ii) a failure to pay
principal at maturity in 2023. See "Risk Factors -- Defaults Under the GECC
Note" and "-- Control of Holdings and the Company."
All Distributable Cash of the Joint Venture, if any, will be distributed to
the Company and NBC quarterly based on their respective equity interests in the
Joint Venture. For purposes of the Joint Venture,
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"Distributable Cash" is defined as all cash and cash equivalents on hand at the
end of each month after paying the operating expenses of the stations included
in the Joint Venture, interest payments on the GECC Note, and NBC's management
fee, and after providing for capital expenditures and operating reserves
determined by NBC. A cash reserve of $15.0 million for the payment of interest
on the GECC Note must be maintained (subject to waiver by the Company) by the
Joint Venture before any distributions of Distributable Cash may be made to the
members of the Joint Venture. Because the stations included in the Joint Venture
are managed by NBC, and NBC has discretion in determining certain elements of
Distributable Cash, the Company will not control the amount of Distributable
Cash produced by the Joint Venture. On a pro forma basis for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1997, the Company's portion of the Joint Venture's
Distributable Cash would have been $2.2 million (without giving effect to the
reserve of $15.0 million which must be established, subject to waiver by the
Company, prior to any distribution of Distributable Cash). See "Risk
Factors -- Lack of Control Over Joint Venture."
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of the Company's network affiliation agreements with NBC to 2010
and the option (exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the
NBC affiliate in Birmingham, Alabama for a fixed price.
The Grand Rapids Acquisition. The Company expects to consummate the Grand
Rapids Acquisition later this year. The Company currently provides services to
the Grand Rapids Stations pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. The
total purchase price for the Grand Rapids Acquisition will be approximately
$125.5 million (plus accretion thereon of 8% from March 1, 1998), which is
expected to be funded by $125.0 million of additional Tranche A Term Loans. For
the fiscal year ending December 31, 1997, the Grand Rapids Stations generated
net revenues and BCF of $28.4 million and $11.3 million, respectively. The
historical and pro forma financial information contained herein does not give
effect to the Grand Rapids Acquisition.
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USE OF PROCEEDS
The Issuers will not receive any proceeds for the exchange of New Notes for
the Old Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offers. The net proceeds of the Original
Offerings were used, together with the proceeds of the other Financings, to
consummate the Acquisition.
CAPITALIZATION
The following table sets forth the capitalization of the Company and
Holdings as of March 31, 1998. The information set forth below should be read in
conjunction with the "Selected Consolidated Financial and Operating Data,"
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the
related notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
AS OF MARCH 31, 1998
----------------------
COMPANY HOLDINGS
-------- --------
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
Cash and cash equivalents................................... $ 17.7 $ 17.7
======== ========
Long-term debt (including current maturities):
Tranche A Term Loans................................... $ 50.0 $ 50.0
Tranche B Term Loans................................... 120.0 120.0
Senior Subordinated Notes(a)........................... 299.3 299.3
Senior Discount Notes(b)............................... -- 201.3
-------- --------
Total long-term debt................................. 469.3 670.6
Total shareholders' equity(b)............................... 741.2 554.9
-------- --------
Total capitalization................................. $1,210.5 $1,225.5
======== ========
- ---------------
(a) Represents gross proceeds to the Company of the issuance of $300.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of the Senior Subordinated Notes.
(b) Certain affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors
contributed approximately $558.1 million to the equity of the corporate
parents of Holdings, which in turn, through Holdings, contributed such
amount to the common equity of the Company. Holdings issued $325.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of Senior Discount Notes and
contributed the $199.6 million gross proceeds thereof to the common equity
of the Company.
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SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA
The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial and
operating data of the Company as of and for each of the five years in the period
ended December 31, 1997 and for the three-month periods ended March 31, 1997 and
1998 and of Holdings as of and for the interim period ending March 31, 1998. The
historical statement of operations, cash flow and other data with respect to the
periods ended December 31, 1995, 1996, and 1997 and the balance sheet data at
December 31, 1996 and 1997, set forth below, are derived from, and are qualified
by reference to, the consolidated financial statements as audited by Ernst &
Young LLP, included elsewhere in this Prospectus and should be read in
conjunction with those financial statements and notes thereto. The historical
statement of operations, cash flow and other data with respect to December 31,
1993 and 1994 and the balance sheet data at December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995,
set forth below, are derived from the Company's audited financial statements not
included in this Prospectus. The interim financial data set forth below are
derived from the unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this
Prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those financial statements and
notes thereto. The following information should be read in conjunction with
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," and the consolidated financial statements of the Company and
Holdings, and the notes thereto, included elsewhere herein.
HOLDINGS COMPANY PREDECESSOR
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM PREDECESSOR
MARCH 3 MARCH 3 JANUARY 1 THREE MONTHS
THROUGH THROUGH THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, MARCH 31, MARCH 2, MARCH 31,
1998 1998 1998 1997
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenues..................... $ 16,211 $ 16,211 $43,804 $ 61,662
Operating costs and expenses:
Station operating expenses...... 8,026 8,026 22,818 32,393
Amortization of program
rights........................ 1,015 1,015 2,743 4,058
Depreciation and amortization of
intangible assets............. 4,474 4,474 4,581 6,396
Corporate expense............... 458 458 1,170 1,698
Tower write-offs(c)............. -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Operating income................. 2,238 2,238 12,492 17,117
Interest expense................. 5,270 3,535 2,764 5,718
Other (income) expense........... 412 412 146 16
Merger expense(d)................ -- -- 8,616 --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes and
extraordinary item.............. (3,444) (1,709) 966 11,383
Provision (benefit) for income
taxes........................... (215) 2,019 3,710 4,246
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item.............. (3,229) (3,728) (2,744) 7,137
Extraordinary item, net of income
tax benefit(e).................. -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ------- --------
Net income (loss)................ $ (3,229) $ (3,728) $(2,744) $ 7,137
========== ========== ======= ========
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents........ $ 17,722 $ 17,722 $ 28,493
Total assets..................... 1,802,940 1,790,270 595,789
Long-term debt................... 670,560 469,301 335,000
Total stockholders' equity
(deficit)....................... 554,894 741,249 147,099
CASH FLOW DATA:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities............ $ 8,626 $ 8,626 $ 8,416 $ 21,448
Investing activities............ (907,263) (907,263) (1,468) (7,421)
Financing activities............ 916,359 916,359 1,071 (13,486)
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents............ 17,722 17,722 8,019 541
OTHER DATA:
Capital expenditures............. 89 89 1,221 7,171
BCF(f)........................... 7,730 7,730 17,104 25,817
BCF margin(f).................... 47.7% 47.7% 39.0% 41.9%
BCF margin, excluding LMA
stations(f)..................... 50.5% 50.5% 42.7% 45.5%
EBITDA(f)........................ 7,272 7,272 15,934 24,119
Ratio of earnings to fixed
charges(g)...................... -- -- 1.4x 3.0x
PREDECESSOR
----------------------------------------------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995(a) 1994(b) 1993
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenues..................... $291,519 $273,367 $217,247 $150,523 $127,541
Operating costs and expenses:
Station operating expenses...... 134,219 128,928 96,988 66,001 57,587
Amortization of program
rights........................ 15,596 14,464 12,357 7,274 5,002
Depreciation and amortization of
intangible assets............. 24,789 23,817 17,127 8,849 7,920
Corporate expense............... 6,763 6,998 5,747 4,330 4,781
Tower write-offs(c)............. 2,697 -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income................. 107,455 99,160 85,028 64,069 52,251
Interest expense................. 21,340 26,582 26,262 13,451 13,678
Other (income) expense........... 200 (359) (938) (293) (797)
Merger expense(d)................ 7,206 -- -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes and
extraordinary item.............. 78,709 72,937 59,704 50,911 39,370
Provision (benefit) for income
taxes........................... 30,602 26,476 21,674 19,726 17,083
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item.............. 48,107 46,461 38,030 31,185 22,287
Extraordinary item, net of income
tax benefit(e).................. -- -- -- (2,925) --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)................ $ 48,107 $ 46,461 $ 38,030 $ 28,260 $ 22,287
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents........ $ 8,046 $ 27,952 $ 18,025 $ 17,907 $ 19,461
Total assets..................... 569,325 595,944 587,256 423,964 183,697
Long-term debt................... 260,000 350,000 387,000 295,000 176,447
Total stockholders' equity
(deficit)....................... 192,565 138,448 86,434 40,160 (99,115)
CASH FLOW DATA:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities............ $ 81,691 $ 70,799 $ 56,040 $ 49,654 $ 46,566
Investing activities............ (15,060) (27,864) (127,723) (142,168) (6,864)
Financing activities............ (86,537) (33,008) 71,801 90,960 (37,594)
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents............ (19,906) 9,927 118 (1,554) 2,108
OTHER DATA:
Capital expenditures............. $ 20,605 $ 27,557 $ 27,715 $ 20,406 $ 6,864
BCF(f)........................... 145,470 130,399 106,749 77,203 65,466
BCF margin(f).................... 49.9% 47.7% 49.1% 51.3% 51.3%
BCF margin, excluding LMA
stations(f)..................... 54.9% 55.0% 53.0% 53.0% 51.3%
EBITDA(f)........................ $138,707 $123,401 $101,002 $ 72,873 $ 60,685
Ratio of earnings to fixed
charges(g)...................... 4.6x 3.7x 3.2x 4.5x 3.8x
36
42
- ---------------
(a) On October 2, 1995, the Company purchased station WIVB-TV, Buffalo, New York
for approximately $100.7 million in cash.
(b) On December 28, 1994, the Company purchased station WTNH-TV, New
Haven-Hartford, Connecticut for approximately $120.2 million in cash plus
approximately 3.4 million shares of LIN Television common stock.
(c) During the second quarter of 1997, the Company disposed of towers and other
broadcast equipment that could no longer be used with digital technology.
(d) During the last half of 1997, the Company incurred financial, legal advisory
and regulatory filing fees in connection with the Merger.
(e) In 1994, the Company recorded a $4.5 million write-off of unamortized bank
fees and expenses related to its existing credit facility. This write-off
has been reflected as an extraordinary loss on extinguishment of debt of
$2.9 million, after the effect of an income tax benefit of $1.6 million, in
the Company's financial statements.
(f) The terms "broadcast cash flow" ("BCF") and "EBITDA" are referred to in
various places in this Prospectus. BCF is defined as operating income (loss)
plus corporate expenses plus depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets and amortization of program rights plus other non-cash expenses
(consisting of tower write-offs and non-cash pension expense), minus cash
program payments. EBITDA is defined as BCF minus corporate expenses. BCF and
EBITDA are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). However, management
believes that BCF is useful to a prospective investor because it is a
measure widely used in the broadcast industry to evaluate a television
broadcast company's operating performance and that EBITDA is useful to a
prospective investor because it is widely used in the broadcast industry to
evaluate a television broadcast company's ability to service debt. BCF and
EBITDA should not be considered in isolation of or as a substitute for net
income (loss), cash flows from operating activities and other income and
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of
liquidity or profitability. BCF and EBITDA as determined above may not be
comparable to the BCF and EBITDA measures reported by other companies. In
addition, these measures do not represent funds available for discretionary
use. On August 27, 1998, LIN Television of Texas, L.P. ("LIN Texas") and
Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SSG"), entered into
an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG Agreement") pursuant to which LIN
Texas will receive 500,000 shares of SSG's Series A Convertible Preferred
Stock, par value $100.00 per share ("SSG Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will
be entitled to receive dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value
prior to the payment by SSG of any dividend in respect of its common stock
("SSG Common Stock") or any other junior securities. In connection with the
SSG Agreement, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Television, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and an affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"), entered into a Sub-Programming
Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will provide certain
management, operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior to the
closing of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing such
services, SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate
revenue received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that
relate to the operation of KXTX-TV. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8
million. See "Recent Developments."
(g) For purposes of calculating the ratio of earnings to fixed charges,
"earnings" consist of income before provision for income taxes plus fixed
charges and losses from equity method joint ventures. "Fixed charges"
consist of interest expense, amortization of deferred financing costs and
the component of rental expense believed by management to be representative
of the interest factor thereon. Earnings were insufficient to cover fixed
charges by $3.0 million for Holdings for the period March 3 through March
31, 1998, and $1.2 million for the Company for the period March 3 through
March 31, 1998.
37
43
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following unaudited pro forma financial information (the "Unaudited Pro
Forma Financial Information") of the Company and Holdings is based on the
financial statements of the Company and Holdings, which are included elsewhere
in this Prospectus, and has been prepared to give pro forma effect to the
Transactions. The Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information and accompanying
notes should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of
the Company and Holdings and other financial information pertaining to the
Company and Holdings including "The Transactions and Other Matters,"
"Capitalization" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" included elsewhere herein.
The Acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting. The total purchase price for the Acquisition (approximately $2.0
billion, including debt assumed) was allocated to the tangible and intangible
assets and liabilities acquired based upon their respective fair values. The
allocation of the aggregate purchase price reflected in the Unaudited Pro Forma
Financial Information is preliminary. The final allocation of the purchase price
is contingent upon the receipt of final appraisals of the acquired assets;
however, that allocation is not expected to differ materially from the
preliminary allocation.
The following unaudited pro forma statements of operations for the year
ended December 31, 1997, and for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 give effect to
the Transactions as if they had occurred on January 1 of each of the periods
presented. The pro forma financial information contained herein does not give
effect to the Grand Rapids Acquisition.
The Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information is based on the historical
consolidated financial statements of the Company and Holdings and the
assumptions and adjustments described in the accompanying notes. The unaudited
pro forma statement of operations does not purport to represent what the results
of operations of the Company and Holdings actually would have been if the
Transactions had occurred as of the date indicated or what results will be for
any future periods. The Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information is based upon
assumptions that management believes are reasonable and should be read in
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes
thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
38
44
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
PRO FORMA PRO FORMA PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
HISTORICAL ADJUSTMENTS LIN TELEVISION ADJUSTMENTS LIN HOLDINGS, CORP.
---------- ----------- -------------- ----------- -------------------
Net revenues...................... $291,519 $ (95,404)(a) $196,115 $ -- $196,115
Operating costs and expenses:
Direct operating................ 70,746 (14,394)(b) 56,352 56,352
Selling, general and
administrative............... 63,473 (13,727)(c) 49,746 49,746
Corporate....................... 6,763 -- 6,763 6,763
Amortization of program
rights....................... 15,596 (2,030)(d) 13,566 13,566
Depreciation and amortization of
intangible assets............ 24,789 29,285(e) 54,074 54,074
Tower write-offs................ 2,697 -- 2,697 2,697
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Total operating costs and
expenses........................ 184,064 (866) 183,198 -- 183,198
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income.................. 107,455 (94,538) 12,917 -- 12,917
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense................ 21,340 21,772(f) 43,112 21,716(k) 64,828
Interest income................. (1,332) 1,332(g) -- -- --
Equity in joint venture......... 1,532 3,457(h) 4,989 4,989
Merger expenses................. 7,206 (7,206)(i) -- --
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Total other expense............... 28,746 19,355 48,101 21,716 69,817
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes...... 78,709 (113,893) (35,184) (21,716) (56,900)
Provision (benefit) for income
taxes 30,602 (36,486)(j) (5,884) (7,601)(l) (13,485)
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)................. $ 48,107 $ (77,407) $ 29,300) $(14,115) $(43,415)
======== ========= ======== ======== ========
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations.
39
45
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
(a) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (95,404)
(b) This adjustment relates to additional costs to be incurred
by KXTX-TV due to the services agreement with KXAS-TV and
the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from historical
operations
Additional costs incurred by KXTX-TV................... 499
Withdrawal of KXAS-TV from historical operations....... (14,893)
-------
(14,394)
=======
(c) This adjustment relates to additional costs to be incurred
by KXTX-TV due to the services agreement with KXAS-TV, and
the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from historical
operations
Additional costs incurred by KXTX-TV................... 96
Withdrawal of KXAS-TV from historical operations....... (13,823)
-------
(13,727)
=======
(d) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (2,030)
(e) To reflect additional amortization of intangible assets
recorded as a result of the Acquisition purchase price
allocation, additional depreciation expense and the
withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from historical
results
Amortization of intangible assets...................... 27,441
Additional depreciation expense related to the step-up
to estimated fair value of property and equipment..... 4,289
-------
Withdrawal of KXAS-TV from historical operations....... (2,445)
=======
29,285
(f) To reflect the additional interest expense and amortization
of deferred financing costs and commitment fees as a result
of borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities and the
Senior Subordinated Notes
Tranche A Term Loans ($50,000 @ 7.5%).................. 3,750
Tranche B Term Loans ($120,000 @ 8.0%)................. 9,600
Commitment Fees ($175,000 @ .375%)..................... 656
Senior Subordinated Notes ($300,000 @ 8.375%).......... 25,125
Amortization of Bond Discount.......................... 47
Amortization of Deferred Financing costs............... 3,934
Less historical interest expense....................... (21,340)
-------
Total adjustment to interest expense................... 21,772
=======
(g) To reflect the elimination of historical investment
income...................................................... 1,332
(h) To reflect the equity in Joint Venture...................... 3,457
(i) To reflect the elimination of Merger Expenses paid by the
company..................................................... (7,206)
40
46
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS -- (CONTINUED)
(j) To reflect the income tax benefit as a result of the
adjustments described above and the withdrawal of the
operations of KXAS-TV from historical results
Withdrawal of KXAS-TV from historical results.......... (21,121)
Adjustment to income taxes to reflect the
acquisition........................................... (15,365)
-------
(36,486)
=======
(k) To reflect interest expense and amortization of deferred
financing costs related to the Senior Discount notes........ 21,716
(l) To reflect income tax benefit of interest expense on LIN
Holdings Corp............................................... (7,601)
41
47
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
--------------- -----------------
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM
MARCH 3 THROUGH JANUARY 1 THROUGH PRO FORMA PRO FORMA PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 ADJUSTMENTS LIN TELEVISION ADJUSTMENTS LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
--------------- ----------------- ----------- -------------- ----------- -------------------
Net revenues........... $16,211 $43,804 $(13,253)(a) $ 46,762 $ -- $ 46,762
Operating costs and
expenses:
Direct operating..... 3,730 11,117 (2,246)(b) 12,601 12,601
Selling, general and
administrative.... 4,296 11,701 (2,750)(c) 13,247 13,247
Corporate............ 458 1,170 -- 1,628 1,628
Amortization of
program rights.... 1,015 2,743 (345)(d) 3,413 3,413
Depreciation and
amortization of
intangible
assets............ 4,474 4,581 4,542(e) 13,597 13,597
------- ------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Total operating costs
and expenses......... 13,973 31,312 (799) 44,486 44,486
------- ------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Operating income....... 2,238 12,492 (12,454) 2,276 2,276
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense..... 5,270 2,764 2,612(f) 10,646 5,748(k) 16,394
Interest income...... (50) (98) 148(g) -- -- --
Equity in joint
venture........... 462 244 1,474(h) 2,180 2,180
Merger expenses...... -- 8,616 (8,616)(i) -- --
------- ------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Total other expense.... 5,682 11,526 (4,382) 12,826 5,748 18,574
------- ------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Income (loss) before
provision (benefit)
for income taxes..... (3,444) 966 (8,072) (10,550) (5,748) (16,298)
Provision (benefit) for
income taxes......... (215) 3,710 (2,642)(j) 853 (2,012)(l) (1,159)
------- ------- -------- -------- ------- --------
Net income (loss)...... $(3,229) $(2,744) $ (5,430) $(11,403) $(3,736) $(15,139)
======= ======= ======== ======== ======= ========
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations.
42
48
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
(a) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (13,253)
(b) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (2,246)
(c) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (2,750)
(d) To reflect the withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from
historical operations....................................... (345)
(e) To reflect additional amortization of intangible assets
recorded as a result of the Acquisition purchase price
allocation, additional depreciation expense and the
withdrawal of the operations of KXAS-TV from historical
results
Amortization of intangible assets...................... 4,261
Additional depreciation expense related to the step-up
to estimated fair value of property and equipment..... 717
Withdrawal of KXAS-TV from historical operations....... (436)
-------
4,542
=======
(f) To reflect the additional interest expense and amortization
of deferred financing costs and commitment fees as a result
of borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities and the
Senior Subordinated Notes
Senior Credit Facilities ($170,000 @ 7.5429%).......... 3,206
Commitment Fees ($175,000@ .375%)...................... 164
Senior Subordinated Notes ($300,000 @ 8.375%).......... 6,281
Amortization of Bond Discount.......................... 12
Amortization of Deferred Financing costs............... 983
Less historical interest expense....................... (8,034)
-------
Total adjustment to interest expense................... 2,612
=======
(g) To reflect the elimination of historical investment
income...................................................... 148
(h) To reflect the equity in the Joint Venture.................. 1,474
(i) To reflect the elimination of merger expenses paid by the
Company..................................................... (8,616)
(j) To reflect the elimination of historical income tax expense
and to record the new expense as a result of the pro forma
changes
Withdrawal of historical income tax expense............ (3,495)
Adjustment to income taxes to reflect the
acquisition........................................... 853
-------
(2,642)
=======
(k) To reflect interest expense and amortization of deferred
financing costs related to the Senior Discount notes........ 5,748
(l) To reflect income tax benefit of interest expense on LIN
Holdings Corp............................................... (2,012)
43
49
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
GENERAL FACTORS AFFECTING THE COMPANY'S BUSINESS
The operating results of the Company depend primarily on advertising
revenues, which in turn depend on the economic conditions of the markets in
which the Company operates, the demographic makeup of those markets and the
marketing strategy and efforts of the Company's stations in those markets. The
Company experiences quarterly fluctuations in operating results, generally
reporting its highest revenues during the fourth quarter each year due to
advertisers' anticipation of higher consumer spending during the holiday season.
The Company also experiences annual fluctuations in operating results due
substantially to political spending in major election years, such as 1994 and
1996. The Olympic Games also cause cyclical fluctuations in the Company's
operating results, the size of such fluctuations depending on which network is
televising the Olympic Games and which of the Company's stations are affiliated
with that network. The Company also depends on automotive-related advertising.
Approximately 24% of the Company's gross advertising revenues for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 consisted of automotive advertising. A
significant decrease in such advertising could have a material adverse affect on
the Company's operating results. For other factors that may affect the Company's
business, see "Forward Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors."
Set forth below are the significant factors that contributed to the
operating results of the Company's stations for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1997 and for the three month periods ended March 31,
1998 and 1997. The 1995 results reported below, unless otherwise specifically
stated, include station WIVB-TV only from the date of its acquisition by the
Company (i.e., from October 2, 1995). The following commentary should be read in
conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and the notes
thereto presented elsewhere in this Prospectus. The WIVB-TV acquisition, and, to
a lesser extent, the start-up operations of the Company's four LMAs, affect the
year-to-year comparability of the Company's financial results reported below.
Except as otherwise noted, the following discussion of the results of
operations of LIN Television does not give effect to the Transactions. As a
result of the Transactions, the Company's capital structure is highly leveraged
and a significant portion of its cash flow will be used to service the Company's
debt obligations. The Company no longer owns and operates KXAS-TV, its former
Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate (which contributed 33%, 34%, and 36% of the
Company's 1997, 1996 and 1995 net revenues, respectively, and is now owned by
the Joint Venture and managed by a wholly owned subsidiary of NBC), and the
common equity of LIN Television is no longer publicly traded (but will be
controlled by affiliates of Hicks Muse). Consequently, the future results of
operations of the Company will not be comparable to LIN Television's results of
operations prior to the Transactions. See "The Transactions and Other Matters."
44
50
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Set forth below is a summary of the Company's operating results for each of
the fiscal years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, as well as for the
three-month periods ended March 31, 1997 and 1998 and of Holdings' operating
results for the interim period ending March 31, 1998.
HOLDINGS PERIOD COMPANY PERIOD PREDECESSOR PERIOD
FROM MARCH 3 FROM MARCH 3 FROM JANUARY 1 PREDECESSOR THREE
THROUGH THROUGH THROUGH MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 MARCH 31, 1997
------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------
% OF NET % OF NET % OF NET % OF NET
AMOUNT REVENUES AMOUNT REVENUES AMOUNT REVENUES AMOUNT REVENUES
------- -------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --------
Net revenues.................... $16,211 100.0% $16,211 100.0% $43,804 100.0% $61,662 100.0%
Operating costs and expenses:
Direct operating............... 3,730 23.0 3,730 23.0 11,117 25.4 16,068 26.1
Selling, general and
administrative............... 4,296 26.5 4,296 26.5 11,701 26.7 16,325 26.5
Corporate expense.............. 458 2.8 458 2.8 1,170 2.7 1,698 2.8
Amortization of program
rights....................... 1,015 6.3 1,015 6.3 2,743 6.3 4,058 6.6
Depreciation and amortization
of intangible assets......... 4,474 27.6 4,474 27.6 4,581 10.5 6,396 10.4
Tower write-offs............... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
------- ----- ------- ----- ------- ----- ------- -----
Total operating costs and
expenses.................... 13,973 86.2 13,973 86.2 31,312 71.6 44,545 72.4
------- ----- ------- ----- ------- ----- ------- -----
Operating income................ $ 2,238 13.8% $ 2,238 13.8% $12,492 28.4 $17,117 27.6%
======= ===== ======= ===== ======= ===== ======= =====
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
------------------- ------------------- -------------------
% OF NET % OF NET % OF NET
AMOUNT REVENUES AMOUNT REVENUES AMOUNT REVENUES
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net revenues.................... $291,519 100.0% $273,367 100.0% $217,247 100.0%
Operating costs and expenses:
Direct operating............... 70,746 24.3 68,954 25.2 49,342 22.7
Selling, general and
administrative............... 63,473 21.8 59,974 21.9 47,646 21.9
Corporate expense.............. 6,763 2.3 6,998 2.6 5,747 2.7
Amortization of program
rights....................... 15,596 5.3 14,464 5.3 12,357 5.7
Depreciation and amortization
of intangible assets......... 24,789 8.5 23,817 8.7 17,127 7.9
Tower write-offs............... 2,697 0.9 -- -- -- --
-------- ----- -------- ----- -------- -----
Total operating costs and
expenses.................... 184,064 63.1 174,207 63.7 132,219 60.9
-------- ----- -------- ----- -------- -----
Operating income................ $107,455 36.9% $ 99,160 36.3% $ 85,028 39.1%
======== ===== ======== ===== ======== =====
Quarter Ended March 31, 1998 Compared to Quarter Ended March 31, 1997
Net Revenues
Total net revenues consist primarily of national and local time sales, net
of sales adjustments and agency commissions, network compensation, barter
revenues, revenues from the production of local commercials and sports
programming, tower rental revenues, Local Weather Station revenues, and cable
retransmission income. Total net revenues decreased approximately 2.8% to $60.0
million for the three month period ended March 31, 1998 compared to $61.7
million for the same period last year, due primarily to the contribution of KXAS
to the Joint Venture in connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. On a same
station basis, net revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 increased
approximately 14% compared to the same period last year.
Approximately 87% of the Company's total net revenues for the three month
periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, were derived from net advertising time
sales. Advertising revenues for the first quarter of 1998 decreased 2.0% from
the same period last year due primarily to the contribution of KXAS to the Joint
Venture in connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. On a same station basis,
approximately 88% and 86% of the Company's total net revenues for the three
month periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively, were derived from net
advertising time sales. Same station advertising revenues for the first quarter
1998 increased approximately 16% over the same period last year. The increase
was attributable primarily to the broadcast of the 1998 Winter Olympics on the
Company's CBS affiliated stations, continued improvement in the local economy in
the market in which WTNH-TV operates, and to net advertising growth at the LMA
stations.
The Company's network revenue represents amounts paid to the Company for
broadcasting network programming provided by CBS, NBC, and ABC. On a same
station basis, network revenue for the period ended March 31, 1998 was
relatively flat when compared to the same period last year.
Revenues from the Local Weather Stations remained relatively flat when
compared to the same period last year. The Company provides Local Weather
Stations to cable operators in all of its markets except New Haven-Hartford and
Buffalo, to which markets it intends to provide this service in the future.
45
51
Operating Costs and Expenses
Direct operating expenses, consisting primarily of news, engineering,
programming and music licensing costs, decreased approximately 8.1% to $14.8
million for the three month period ended March 31, 1998 compared to $16.1
million for the same period in 1997, due primarily to the contribution of KXAS
to the Joint Venture in connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. On a same
station basis, direct operating expenses remained relatively flat for the three
month period ended March 31, 1998, compared to the same period last year.
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses consist primarily of
employee salaries and sales commissions, advertising and promotion expenses, and
other expenses such as rent, utilities, insurance and other employee benefit
costs. SG&A expenses decreased approximately 1.8% to $16.0 million for the three
month period ended March 31, 1998 compared to $16.3 million for the same period
in 1997, due primarily to the contribution of KXAS to the Joint Venture in
connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. On a same station basis, SG&A
expenses increased approximately 4.9% for the three month period ended March 31,
1998 over the same period in 1997, due in part to increased sales compensation
resulting from the increase in local revenues. The increase was also
attributable to higher payroll taxes related to increased employees in 1998
compared to 1997.
Total corporate expenses, which are comprised of costs associated with the
centralized management of the Company's stations, remained relatively flat for
the three month period ended March 31, 1998, compared to the same period in
1997.
Amortization of program rights reflect the expenses related to the
acquisition of syndicated programming, features and specials. Amortization of
program rights decreased approximately 7.3% to $3.8 million for the three month
period ended March 31, 1998 compared to $4.1 million for the same period in
1997, due primarily to the contribution of KXAS to the Joint Venture in
connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. On a same station basis,
amortization of program rights decreased approximately 4.8% for the three month
period ended March 31, 1998 compared to the same period in 1997 due primarily to
a change in the syndicated/ barter programming mix at WTNH-TV.
Depreciation and amortization of intangible assets increased approximately
41.6% for the three month period ended March 31, 1998 compared to the same
period last year primarily as a result of the acquisition of LIN Television on
March 3, 1998. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair market
value of the net tangible assets acquired was allocated to intangible assets,
primarily to FCC licenses and network affiliations.
Operating Income
For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported a decrease in
operating income of $2.4 million for the three month period ended March 31,
1998, compared to the same period last year. On a same station basis, operating
income increased $5.4 million for the three month period ended March 31, 1998
compared to the same period in 1997.
The Company's interest expense increased approximately 10.2% for the three
month period ended March 31, 1998, when compared to the same period last year,
as a result of the new borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities and the
issuance of the $300 million 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes in connection with
the Merger. In addition, Holdings incurred $1.7 million of non-cash interest
expense for the period from March 3, 1998 through March 31, 1998 due to the
issuance of its 10% Senior Discount Notes.
During the first quarter of 1998, the Company incurred financial and legal
advisory fees and regulatory filing fees in connection with the Merger. These
expenses of approximately $8.6 million are reflected on the Predecessor's
Consolidated Statements of Income as merger expense.
The Company's provision for income taxes increased approximately 34.9% for
the three month period ended March 31,1998, compared to the same period in 1997,
due to a change in the Company's effective annual tax rate as a result of a
substantial increase in non-deductible amortization relating to goodwill.
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Year Ended December 31, 1997 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1996
Net Revenues. Total net revenues consist of national and local time sales
(net of sales adjustments and agency commissions), network compensation, barter
revenues, revenue from the production of local commercials and sports
programming, tower rental revenues, Local Weather Station revenues and cable
retransmission revenues. Total net revenues increased approximately 7% for the
year ended December 31, 1997 compared to the same period in 1996. Nearly 87% and
89% of the Company's total net revenues for 1997 and 1996, respectively, were
derived from net national and net local advertising time sales.
The LMA stations and the continued ratings strength of the NBC-affiliated
stations accounted for approximately $3.7 million and $4.1 million of the net
national and net local advertising revenue increases, respectively, for the year
ended December 31, 1997. The advertising revenue increase for 1997 was also
attributable in part to local advertising revenue growth of approximately $2.5
million at station WTNH-TV due to continued improvement in economic conditions
in that station's market.
The Company's network revenue represents amounts paid to the Company for
broadcasting network programming provided by CBS, NBC and ABC. Network revenue
was relatively stable from 1996 to 1997.
Other broadcast revenues increased approximately $5.8 million for the year
ended December 31, 1997 due substantially to the sale of broadcast rights and
production services to outside parties. Increased revenues from the Local
Weather Stations also contributed to the increase in other broadcast revenues.
The Company provides Local Weather Stations to cable operators in all of its
markets except New Haven-Hartford and Buffalo, to which markets it intends to
provide this service in the future.
Operating Costs and Expenses. Direct operating expenses, consisting
primarily of news, engineering, programming and music licensing costs, increased
approximately $1.8 million for the year ended December 31, 1997 as compared with
the same period in 1996. Direct operating expenses at stations KXAN-TV and
KXAS-TV increased approximately $1.1 million as a result of expanded news
coverage. News costs also increased as a result of the acquisition of a
helicopter at station WISH-TV.
SG&A expenses consist primarily of employee salaries and sales commissions,
advertising and promotion expenses, and other expenses such as rent, utilities,
insurance and other employee benefit costs. SG&A expenses increased
approximately $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 1997, compared to the
same period in 1996, due in part to increased sales compensation resulting from
the increase in local revenues. The increase was also due in part to higher
promotional expenditures at stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.
Corporate expenses, which are comprised of costs associated with the
centralized management of the Company's stations, remained relatively flat for
the year ended December 31, 1997 compared to the same period in 1996.
Amortization of program rights reflect the expenses related to the
acquisition of syndicated programming, features and specials. Amortization of
program rights for the year ended December 31, 1997 rose approximately $1.1
million as a result of new programming purchases at station WTNH-TV and
programming write-offs at stations KNVA-TV and WBNE-TV.
Depreciation and the amortization of intangible assets increased
approximately $1.0 million for the year ended December 31, 1997 compared to the
same period in 1996. This increase is related primarily to an increase in
depreciation expense resulting from capital expenditures aimed at maintaining a
high quality on-air product at each of the Company's stations and, to a lesser
extent, to a full year of depreciation for a new production facility.
In 1995, the Company began to construct new facilities and purchase new
broadcast equipment to prepare for the transition to digital broadcasting.
During the second quarter of 1997, the Company disposed of towers and other
broadcast equipment that could no longer be used with digital technology. The
net book loss on this equipment of approximately $2.7 million is reflected on
the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income as tower write-offs.
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Operating Income. For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported an
increase in operating income of $8.3 million (approximately 8.0%) for the year
ended December 31, 1997, compared to the same period in 1996.
Interest expense, comprised primarily of interest payable on funds borrowed
under the Company's existing credit facility (the "Existing Credit Facility"),
decreased approximately 20% for the year ended December 31, 1997, compared to
the same period in 1996. The decrease was the result of the renegotiated terms
of the Existing Credit Facility and a reduction in the principal amount
outstanding. See "Note 4 -- Long Term Debt" of the Company's Consolidated
Financial Statements.
During the second half of 1997, the Company incurred financial and legal
advisory fees and regulatory filing fees in connection with the Merger. These
expenses of approximately $7.2 million are reflected on the Company's
Consolidated Statements of Income as merger expense.
The Company's provision for income taxes increased approximately 16% for
the year ended December 31, 1997, compared to the same period in 1996, due to
higher income before taxes and an increase in the Company's effective tax rate.
Year Ended December 31, 1996 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1995
Net Revenues. Total net revenues increased approximately 26% for the year
ended December 31, 1996 compared to the same period in 1995. Nearly 89% of the
Company's total net revenues for both 1996 and 1995 were derived from net
national and net local advertising time sales.
The WIVB-TV acquisition and the start-up operation of the LMAs accounted
for approximately $23.3 million of the net national and net local revenue
increase for the year ended December 31, 1996. The advertising revenue increase
for 1996 was also attributable to approximately $4.5 million in incremental
revenues resulting from the telecast of the 1996 Summer Olympics on the
NBC-affiliated stations, which led to a more complete sale of inventory and
increased advertising rates for those stations. The increase was also the result
of strong political sales growth of approximately $7.2 million in 1996.
Advertising revenue increases were also driven by the continued steady demand
for television advertising time since 1994, reflecting strong economic activity
in most of the Company's markets.
Increased network revenues of approximately $3.4 million for the year ended
December 31, 1996 also contributed to the total net revenue increase. The
Company negotiated a new network compensation agreement for the ABC affiliate
WTNH-TV in 1996 which was effective as of September 1995. WTNH-TV's network
compensation increased approximately $2.3 million in 1996 as a result of this
new agreement. Network revenues also increased as a result of the inclusion of a
full year of operations at station WIVB-TV.
Other broadcast revenues increased $1.8 million for the year ended December
31, 1996 due primarily to increases in sports programming production, local spot
production and Local Weather Station revenues. In connection with the
acquisition of the Texas Rangers baseball broadcast rights, the Company launched
a new production facility to produce these on-air broadcasts. A substantial
portion of the increase in other broadcast revenues resulted from this new
production facility. Increased revenues from Local Weather Stations also
contributed to the increase in other broadcast income.
Operating Costs and Expenses. Direct operating expenses for the year ended
December 31, 1996 increased approximately 40% over the same period in 1995 due
primarily to the WIVB-TV acquisition, an increase in the amortization of sports
programming rights, expansion of news coverage and a change in the
syndicated/barter programming mix. The increase in amortization of sports
programming rights resulted from the acquisition in 1996 of broadcasting rights
to Texas Rangers baseball games. Direct operating expenses at stations KXAS-TV
and WTNH-TV increased approximately $1.7 million as a result of expanded news
coverage and approximately $0.8 million as a result of increased barter
programming at station WTNH-TV.
SG&A expenses increased approximately 26% for the year ended December 31,
1996 compared to the same period in 1995. The increase was due to the WIVB-TV
acquisition, expenses associated with the new production facility, the operation
of the LMA stations and, to a lesser extent, to increased sales commissions at
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most of the stations related to the increase in net revenues in 1996. SG&A
expenses also increased approximately $1.0 million in 1996 as a result of
increased sales and promotional efforts at the Company's LMA stations.
Corporate expenses are comprised primarily of costs associated with the
centralized management of the stations. Corporate expenses increased
approximately $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 1996 compared to the
same period in 1995, due primarily to expenses associated with the Company's
continuing effort to seek out acquisition opportunities.
The amortization of programming rights for the year ended December 31, 1996
rose approximately $2.1 million as compared with the same period in 1995 as a
result of a $1.3 million increase due to the WIVB-TV acquisition as well as a
change in the syndicated/barter programming mix at WAVY-TV.
Depreciation and the amortization of intangible assets increased $6.7
million for the year ended December 31, 1996 compared to the same period in
1995. This increase is related primarily to the WIVB-TV acquisition, a $3.1
million increase in depreciation expense related to capital expenditures aimed
at maintaining a high quality on-air product at each of the Company's stations
and, to a lesser extent, the operation of the new production facility.
Operating Income. For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported an
increase in operating income of $14.1 million (approximately 17%) for the year
ended December 31, 1996 compared to the same period in 1995.
Interest expense increased moderately for the year ended December 31, 1996,
compared to the same period in 1995, due to interest on the additional funds
borrowed for the WIVB-TV acquisition, partially offset by lower interest rates.
See "Note 4 -- Long Term Debt" of the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements.
The Company's provision for income taxes increased approximately 22% for
the year ended December 31, 1996 compared to the same period in 1995, due to
higher income before taxes.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $17.0 million and $21.4
million for the three-month periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively,
and $81.7 million, $70.8 million, and $56.0 million for the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The decrease in net cash provided by
operating activities for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 compared to the same
period in 1997 was primarily due to the contribution of KXAS to the Joint
Venture in connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998. The increase in net cash
provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 1997 compared
to 1996 was primarily due to improved operating results and a reduction in
amounts paid for interest, offset by merger expenses. The increase for the year
ended December 31, 1996 compared to 1995 was due primarily to improved operating
results. Net cash used in investing activities totaled $908.7 million and $7.4
million for the three-month periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively,
and $15.1 million, $27.9 million and $127.7 million for the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increase in net cash used in
investing activities for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 compared to the same
period in 1997 was due primarily to the acquisition of LIN Television in March,
1998, the effects of which were offset by the contribution of KXAS to the Joint
Venture. The decrease in 1997 from 1996 was attributable to a reduction in
capital expenditures of $7.0 million coupled with proceeds of $7.0 million from
asset dispositions. Net cash used in investing activities decreased for the year
ended December 31, 1996 compared to 1995 due to costs related to acquisitions in
1995. Net cash provided by financing activities for the three-month period ended
March 31, 1998 totaled $917.4 million compared to $13.5 million used in the
three-months ended March 31, 1997. Net cash used in financing activities totaled
$86.5 million and $33.0 million for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. Net cash provided by financing activities totaled $71.8 million in
1995. The fluctuation for the three-month period ended March 31, 1998, compared
to the same period in 1997, was due primarily to the issuance of the 8 3/8%
Senior Subordinated Notes by the Company, the issuance of 10% Senior Discount
Notes by Holdings and the equity contribution by Hicks Muse in connection with
the
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Merger, the effects of which were partially offset by the principal payment of
$260.0 million to retire the old debt. Net cash used in financing activities
increased for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 due to an increase in
principal payments on long-term debt under the Existing Credit Facility. As of
March 31, 1998, the Company had a working capital surplus of $22.9 million,
compared to a working capital surplus of $50.7 million in 1997. The decrease in
the three-month period ended March 31, 1998, compared to the same period in
1997, was due primarily to the use of cash to fund the Acquisition and accrued
interest related to the Notes and the Senior Credit Facilities. As of December
31, 1997, the Company had a working capital surplus of $28.3 million, compared
to a working capital surplus of $56.6 million in 1996, and a working capital
surplus of $34.0 million in 1995. The decrease in 1997 compared to 1996 is
primarily due to principal payments on long term debt. The increase in 1996
compared to 1995 is primarily attributable to improved operating cash flows and
a reduction of programming liabilities.
Interest payments on the Notes and interest payments and amortization with
respect to the Senior Credit Facilities represent significant liquidity
requirements for the Company and Holdings. The Senior Subordinated Notes and the
Term Loans funded in connection with the Acquisition will require annual
interest payments of approximately $25.1 million and $13.4 million,
respectively. The Tranche A Term Loans funded in connection with the Acquisition
are repayable in quarterly principal payments over seven years in the amount of
approximately $1.8 million each. If funded in connection with the Grand Rapids
Acquisition, an additional $125.0 million of Tranche A Term Loans will be
repayable in quarterly principal installments of approximately $4.5 million
each. The Tranche B Term Loans are repayable over nine years in quarterly
principal payments, in the amount of $240,000 each in 1998, $480,000 each in
each of 1999 through 2004, $28,920,000 each in 2005, $68,400,000 each in 2006,
and $19,560,000 each in 2007. See "Description of the Senior Credit Facilities."
The Company's capital expenditures primarily include purchases of
broadcasting equipment, studio equipment, vehicles and office equipment to
improve the efficiency and quality of television broadcasting operations. The
Company's capital expenditures for the first three-months of 1998 were $1.3
million compared to $7.2 million for the same period in 1997. The Company's
capital expenditures for the full year of 1997 were $20.6 million compared to
$27.6 million in 1996 and $27.7 million in 1995. The Company has invested
approximately $13.0 million to fully prepare its towers and transmitter
buildings for the upcoming digital transition. The Company expects to spend
approximately $22 million per year on capital expenditures in 1998 and 1999.
After 1999, an additional $29.3 million will be required through 2002 to
complete the transition to digital broadcasting. The Company anticipates that it
will be able to meet its capital expenditure requirements with internally
generated funds and borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities.
In addition to the foregoing capital expenditures, the Company intends to
pursue selective acquisitions of television stations whose performance
management believes can be improved by applying management's business strategy.
In particular, the Company expects to consummate the Grand Rapids Acquisition
later in 1998 and the acquisition of WVTM-TV, the Birmingham, Alabama NBC
affiliate, in 1999. Although it is expected that the cost of the Grand Rapids
Acquisition and the WVTM-TV acquisition will be funded by additional Tranche A
Term Loans and the Incremental Term Loans, respectively, the cost of any
additional acquisitions may require additional debt and/or equity capital. There
can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain such additional
capital on attractive terms, if at all.
Based on the current level of operations and anticipated future growth
(both internally generated as well as through acquisitions), the Company
anticipates that its cash flow from operations, together with borrowings under
the Senior Credit Facilities should be sufficient to meet its anticipated
requirements for working capital, capital expenditures, interest payments and
scheduled principal payments. The Company's future operating performance and
ability to service or refinance the Notes and to extend or refinance the Senior
Credit Facilities will be subject to future economic conditions and to
financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's
control.
The Notes and the Senior Credit Facilities impose certain restrictions on
the Company's ability to make capital expenditures and limit the Company's
ability to incur additional indebtedness. Such restrictions could limit the
Company's ability to respond to market conditions, to provide for unanticipated
capital investments
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or to take advantage of business or acquisition opportunities. The covenants
contained in the Credit Agreement and the Indentures also, among other things,
limit the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, repay indebtedness or
amend other debt instruments, pay distributions, create liens on assets, enter
into sale and leaseback transactions, make investments, loans or advances and
make acquisitions. See "Description of the New Senior Subordinated Notes,"
"Description of the New Senior Discount Notes" and "Description of the Senior
Credit Facilities."
Holdings is a holding company whose only material asset is the capital
stock of the Company. Holdings does not have any business (other than in
connection with its ownership of the capital stock of the Company and the
performance of its obligations with respect to the Senior Discount Notes and the
Senior Credit Facilities) and will depend on the distributions from the Company
to meet its debt service obligations, including, without limitation, interest
and principal obligations with respect to the Senior Discount Notes. Because of
the substantial leverage of the Company, and the dependence of Holdings upon the
operating performance of the Company to generate distributions to Holdings with
respect to the Company's common stock, there can be no assurance that Holdings
will have adequate funds to fullfil its obligations with respect to the New
Senior Discount Notes when due. In addition, the Credit Agreement, the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture and applicable federal and state law will impose
restrictions on the payment of dividends and the making of loans by the Company
to Holdings.
Accordingly, Holdings' only source of cash to pay interest on and principal
of the Senior Discount Notes is distributions with respect to its ownership
interest in the Company and the Company's subsidiaries from the net earnings and
cash flow generated by the Company and its subsidiaries. Prior to March 1, 2003,
Holdings' interest expense on the Senior Discount Notes will consist solely of
non-cash accretion of principal interest and the Senior Discount Notes will not
require cash interest payments. On March 1, 2003, Holdings will be required to
pay the Mandatory Principal Redemption Amount. After such time, the Senior
Discount Notes will require annual cash interest payments of $20.0 million. In
addition, the Notes mature on March 1, 2008. See "Description of the New Senior
Discount Notes."
YEAR 2000 ISSUE
Some of the Company's older computer programs were written using two digits
rather than four to define the applicable year. As a result, those computer
programs have time-sensitive software that recognize a date using "00" as the
year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could cause a system failure or
miscalculations causing disruptions of operations, including, among other
things, a temporary inability to process transactions, send invoices, or engage
in similar normal business activities.
The Company has completed an assessment of a majority of its systems and
expects to complete the review of all its systems by December 31, 1998, which is
prior to any anticipated impact on its operating systems. The Company has
initiated formal communications with all of its significant suppliers and large
customers to determine the extent to which the Company's interface systems are
vulnerable to the failure of those third parties' to address their own Year 2000
issues. A majority of the systems tested and third parties reviewed to date are
Year 2000 compliant. There is no guarantee that the systems of other companies
on which the Company's systems rely will be timely converted and would not have
an adverse effect on the Company's systems.
Based on management's best estimates, which were derived utilizing numerous
assumptions of future events, including the continued availability of certain
resources and other factors, the Company believes it will complete its Year 2000
modifications, the costs of which are immaterial, by mid-year 1999.
INFLATION
The Company believes that its businesses are affected by inflation to an
extent no greater than other businesses generally.
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RECENTLY-ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income" ("Statement 130") effective for years beginning after
December 15, 1997. Statement 130 requires that a public company report items of
other comprehensive income either below the total for net income in the income
statement, or in a statement of changes in equity, and to disclose the
accumulated balance of other comprehensive income separately from retained
earnings and additional paid-in-capital in the equity section of the balance
sheet. Statement 130 was adopted during the first quarter of 1998 and was
applied to prior period financial statements on a retroactive basis. The
adoption of Statement 130 did not have a material impact on the consolidated
financial statements.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of
an Enterprise and Related Information" ("Statement 131") effective for years
beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 131 requires that a public company
report financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating
segments pursuant to criteria that differ from current accounting practice.
Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which
separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the
chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in
assessing performance. The financial information to be reported includes segment
profit or loss, certain revenue and expense items and segment assets and
reconciliations to corresponding amounts in the general purpose financial
statements. Statement 131 also requires information about revenues from products
or services, countries where the company has operations or assets and major
customers. Management does not believe the implementation of Statement 131 will
have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits" ("Statement 132") effective
for years beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 132 revises employers'
disclosures about pension and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not
change the measurement or recognition of those plans. This Statement
standardizes the disclosure requirements for pensions and other postretirement
benefits to the extent practicable, requires additional information on changes
in the benefit obligations and fair values of plan assets that will facilitate
financial analysis, and eliminates certain disclosures that are no longer as
useful as they were when SFAS No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions", SFAS
No. 88, "Employers' Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined
Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits", and SFAS No. 106,
"Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions" were
issued. The Statement suggests combined formats for presentation of pension and
other postretirement benefit disclosures. Management does not believe the
implementation of Statement 132 will have a material impact on its consolidated
financial statements.
In April 1998, Accounting Standards Executive Committee ("AcSEC") issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities" ("SOP 98-5") effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,
1998. This SOP provides guidance on the financial reporting of start-up costs
and organization costs. It requires that costs of start-up activities and
organization costs be expensed as incurred. Initial application of SOP 98-5
should be reported as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle,
as described in Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 20, "Accounting
Changes". When adopting this SOP, entities are not required to report the pro
forma effects of retroactive application. Management does not believe the
implementation of SOP 98-5 will have a material impact on its consolidated
financial statements.
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BUSINESS
THE COMPANY
Overview. The Company is a leading television station group operator in the
United States that operates eleven television stations and provides consulting
services to two additional television stations. Twelve of these stations are
network affiliates and nine are in top forty DMAs, including: Indianapolis,
Indiana; New Haven-Hartford, Connecticut; Buffalo, New York; Norfolk-Portsmouth,
Virginia; Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, Michigan and Dallas-Fort Worth,
Texas. These stations have an aggregate United States household reach of
approximately 6.9%, ranking the Company among the top independent, "pureplay"
television station group operators in the United States.
The Company's Core Stations generated an aggregate pro forma BCF margin of
approximately 46% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, principally as a
result of their strong network affiliations, leading local news programming and
tight cost controls. In addition, the Company's management pioneered the
"multi-channel strategy," which involves the combination of an owned and
operated television station with a LMA station and/or a Local Weather Station in
the same market. The multi-channel strategy has enhanced the Company's revenue
market shares and increased its BCF by leveraging its fixed costs over a larger
revenue base.
History. Prior to 1994, the Company was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary
of LIN Broadcasting. LIN Broadcasting bought its first broadcasting property in
1965 and also entered into the cellular telephone business in the early 1980's.
McCaw Cellular purchased a majority stake in LIN Broadcasting in March 1990.
AT&T then acquired McCaw Cellular in September 1994 in a tax-free merger
transaction. On December 28, 1994, AT&T spun-off to public shareholders the
common stock of the Company (the "Spin-Off"), at which time AT&T Wireless, a
wholly-owned subsidiary of AT&T, became the Company's largest stockholder. In
connection with the Spin-Off, the Company acquired WTNH-TV (New Haven/Hartford,
CT) from Cook Inlet Communication, Inc. and AT&T retained the Grand Rapids
Stations, which theretofore had been owned by the Company. Since the Spin-Off,
the Company has continued to provide services to the Grand Rapids Stations
pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. AT&T Wireless holds approximately
45% of the outstanding shares of the Company's Common Stock.
THE STATIONS
The Company's station portfolio is well diversified in terms of its network
affiliations, geographic coverage, net revenues and cash flow. The Company owns
and operates three CBS affiliates, two NBC affiliates and two ABC affiliates
which accounted for 35%, 28% and 28%, respectively, of the Company's pro forma
BCF for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. The Company's LMA stations and
other revenue sources accounted for the remaining 9% of its BCF on the same
basis. The Company's Core Stations broadcast in seven different markets, with no
market representing more than 25% of the Company's pro forma net revenues or BCF
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997.
Core Stations. The Company owns and operates two NBC affiliates in the
Norfolk-Portsmouth and Austin markets. In the Norfolk-Portsmouth market, a very
competitive news market, WAVY-TV has regularly been a leader in attracting the
most favorable demographics. Its 11:00 p.m. newscast has consistently been
ranked first in the market. KXAN-TV operates in the Austin market, which is one
of the five fastest growing markets in the United States, has attractive
demographics and commands advertising rates comparable to rates in much larger
markets. Based on the foregoing factors and NBC's network leadership position,
management believes that WAVY-TV and KXAN-TV are well positioned for continued
strong performance.
The Company owns and operates three CBS affiliates in the Indianapolis,
Buffalo and Fort Wayne markets. The Company anticipates that CBS's recent
acquisition of the right to broadcast AFC football games will particularly
benefit the Company's CBS stations (Indianapolis, Indiana and Buffalo, New York
are home to the Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills football teams,
respectively, both of which are part of the American Football Conference (AFC)).
WISH-TV, a station operating in the Indianapolis market since 1954, is not
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only the ratings leader in its market, but also the highest-rated CBS affiliate
in a major metered market in the United States. WIVB-TV, the Company's Buffalo
station and most recent acquisition, has gained considerable momentum and had
among the highest advertising sales growth rates of the Company's Core Stations
during the fourth quarter of 1997. In the Fort Wayne market, WANE-TV was
recently rated first in news.
The Company owns and operates two ABC affiliates, including WTNH-TV in the
New Haven-Hartford market. WTNH-TV has recently begun to recognize the benefits
of its repositioning as a leading news source in its market. Management believes
that the station is now well positioned to reap the benefits of an important
1998 political season in Connecticut.
Local News. The Company's performance in local news is excellent,
consistently ranking first or second in news in all but its smallest market.
Local news remains a primary focus of management because it reaches a desirable
viewing audience and allows the Company to maintain its tight control over
programming costs. The Company historically has derived 35%-40% of its revenues,
and a higher percentage of its BCF, from news programming. Local news provides
product differentiation from cable television and some insulation from
over-reliance on national network programming.
Local Marketing Agreements. The Company has entered into 10-year local
marketing agreements pursuant to which it provides marketing services and
programming to LMA stations KNVA-TV, Austin, Texas, WBNE-TV, New Haven-Hartford,
Connecticut, WVBT-TV, Norfolk-Portsmouth, Virginia and KXTX-TV, Dallas-Fort
Worth, Texas. In addition to providing the Company with an enhanced revenue
stream, the Company's LMA strategy is intended to permit stations that otherwise
might "go dark," or operate with marginal profitability, to add local news and
public affairs programming and contribute to diversity in their respective
markets. The Company also benefits from the cross-marketing of programming, or
the ability to time-shift or double run certain programming.
Over the past few years, the Company has taken various steps to increase
its market penetration and broaden its demographics by developing its LMA
stations. As start-up stations, the Company's LMA stations historically have
generated revenues but produced negative BCF. However, the Company's LMA
stations contributed approximately $7.1 million to the Company's BCF in 1997.
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The following table provides information regarding the stations and other
programming outlets operated by the Company and the stations owned by the Joint
Venture:
COMMERCIAL STATION STATION
DMA, STATIONS AND OTHER DMA STATIONS IN RANK IN AUDIENCE
PROGRAMMING OUTLETS STATUS(a) AFFILIATION(b) RANK(c) DMA(d) DMA(e) SHARE(e)
----------------------- --------- -------------- ------- ----------- ------- --------
COMPANY STATIONS AND OTHER
PROGRAMMING OUTLETS:
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
WISH-TV.................................... O&O CBS 25 8 1 18%
WIIH-LP (Satellite)(f)..................... O&O CBS
Local Weather Station...................... O&O Cable
NEW HAVEN-HARTFORD, CT
WTNH-TV.................................... O&O ABC 27 8 2 14%
WBNE-TV.................................... LMA WB 5(tie) 2%
GRAND RAPIDS-KALAMAZOO-BATTLE CREEK, MI(g)
WOOD-TV.................................... CS NBC 37 8 1(tie) 18%
WOTV-TV.................................... CS ABC 4 5%
NORFOLK-PORTSMOUTH, VA
WAVY-TV.................................... O&O NBC 39 7 1(tie) 16%
WVBT-TV.................................... LMA WB/Fox(h) 5 2%
Local Weather Station...................... O&O Cable
BUFFALO, NY
WIVB-TV.................................... O&O CBS 40 7 2 17%
AUSTIN, TX
KXAN-TV.................................... O&O NBC 60 7 3 14%
KNVA-TV.................................... LMA WB 6 3%
KXAM-TV (Satellite)(i)..................... O&O NBC
Low Power Network.......................... O&O UPN
DECATUR-CHAMPAIGN, IL
WAND-TV.................................... O&O ABC 81 8 3 14%
Local Weather Station...................... O&O Cable
FORT WAYNE, IN
WANE-TV.................................... O&O CBS 102 6 2 19%
Local Weather Station...................... O&O Cable
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX
KXTX-TV(j)................................. LMA IND 8 13 9 3%
JOINT VENTURE STATIONS:
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX
KXAS-TV.................................... JV NBC 8 13 3 12%
SAN DIEGO, CA
KNSD-TV.................................... JV NBC 26 7 1 13%
- ---------------
(a) "O&O" refers to a station owned and operated by the Company. "LMA" refers to
a station operated by the Company pursuant to a local marketing agreement
and with respect to which the Company has a purchase option exercisable
under certain circumstances. "JV" refers to a station owned by the Joint
Venture and operated by NBC. "CS" refers to a station which the Company
provides services to pursuant to a consulting agreement. The Company's Core
Stations, all of which are CBS, NBC and ABC affiliates, are WISH-TV,
WANE-TV, WAND-TV, WAVY-TV, KXAN-TV, WTNH-TV and WIBV-TV.
(b) "IND" refers to an independent station with no network affiliation.
(c) Rankings are based on the relative size of the station's "market" among the
211 generally recognized television markets in the United States. Source:
Nielsen Station Index DMA Market Ratings -- November 1997, A.C. Nielsen
Company.
(d) The number of stations in a market excludes local weather stations, low
power networks and satellite broadcasting facilities.
(e) Source: Nielsen Station Index DMA Market Ratings -- November 1997, A.C.
Nielsen Company, Sunday-Saturday 6:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.
(f) Station WIIH-LP, Indianapolis, Indiana, is operated as a satellite station
of WISH-TV in order to increase WISH-TV's coverage.
(g) The Company currently provides services to WOOD-TV and WOTV-TV pursuant to a
consulting agreement with AT&T. It has agreed to acquire the assets of
WOOD-TV and the LMA rights related to WOTV-TV from AT&T for a purchase price
of
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approximately $125.5 million. The acquisition is expected to close later
this year. See "The Transactions and Other Matters -- The Grand Rapids
Acquisition" and "Business -- The Company -- History."
(h) WVBT-TV will become a Fox affiliate on August 31, 1998.
(i) Station KXAM-TV, Llano, Texas, is operated as a satellite station of KXAN-TV
in order to increase KXAN-TV's coverage.
(j) On August 27, 1998, LIN Television of Texas, L.P. ("LIN Texas") and
Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SSG"), entered into
an Asset Purchase Agreement pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell KXTX-TV to
SSG. See "Recent Developments."
The following are descriptions of the stations operated by the Company:
WISH-TV (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Station Profile. WISH-TV has been the leading station in Indianapolis,
ranked number one in audience share since 1990. In spite of increased
competition, recent investments by the Company in news gathering equipment,
including a helicopter, have reinforced WISH-TV's leading position in its
market. A recently completed tower and transmission facility has helped to
favorably position the station for the upcoming transition to digital
transmission. Approximately 51% of WISH-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time
consists of programming that is either locally produced or purchased from
non-network sources.
Market Overview. Indianapolis, Indiana is the twenty-fifth largest DMA in
the United States, with a population of approximately 2,386,000 and
approximately 957,050 television households. Cable penetration in the
Indianapolis market is estimated to be 65%. The Indianapolis market experienced
revenue growth of approximately 9.1% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a
compound annual rate of 5.6% through 2000. Average household income is estimated
to be $41,171.
The table below provides an overview of the competitive stations servicing
the Indianapolis market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
- ---- ------------ ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station
WISH-TV.................. Indianapolis VHF CBS LIN Television Corp. 18 17 17 18
Others
WTTV-TV.................. Bloomington VHF UPN Sinclair Comm Inc. 8 7 9 7
WRTV-TV.................. Indianapolis VHF ABC McGraw-Hill Bcstg. 12 13 13 12
WTHR-TV.................. Indianapolis UHF NBC Dispatch Bcstg. Group 17 16 16 15
WNDY-TV.................. Marion UHF WB Wabash Valley Bcstg. 3 3 3 4
WXIN-TV.................. Indianapolis UHF Fox Tribune Bcstg. Co. 8 8 9 8
WTNH-TV and WBNE-TV (New Haven-Hartford, Connecticut)
Station Profiles. WTNH-TV, acquired in 1994, has fully implemented the
Company's operating methods and, as a result thereof, has achieved a leading
position in late news and increased its share in all newscasts over the past
three years. The Company has heightened its commitment to news gathering and
weather forecasting and has set a goal of becoming the leading news and weather
station in Connecticut. As one of only two VHF signals in the market, WTNH-TV
has a competitive advantage in its market. WTNH-TV's market position provides a
measure of consistency in a market where other major stations have experienced a
change of control. The Company believes that this market activity should enable
WTNH-TV to strengthen its position as a market leader.
The Company's LMA station in the New Haven-Hartford market, WBNE-TV, will
also help to gain additional market share for the Company. Programming shared
between WTNH-TV and WBNE-TV, such as Boston Red Sox games, will further
differentiate the Company's stations in the market. Approximately 45% of
WTNH-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcast time and approximately 90% of WBNE-TV's
broadcast time consists of programming that is either locally produced or
purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. New Haven-Hartford, Connecticut is the twenty-seventh
largest DMA in the country with population of approximately 2,299,000 and
approximately 915,770 television households. Cable penetra-
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tion in the New Haven-Hartford market is estimated to be 87%. The New
Haven-Hartford market experienced revenue growth of approximately 4.5% in 1996
and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 5.3%
through 2000. Average household income is estimated to be $48,932.
The table below provides an overview of the competitive stations serving
the New Haven-Hartford market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ----------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station/LMA
WTNH-TV..................... New Haven VHF ABC LIN Television 15 15 15 14
Corp.
WBNE-TV..................... New Haven UHF WB K-W Television -- 2 2 2
Other
WFSB-TV..................... Hartford VHF CBS Meredith Corp. 16 17 16 16
WTXX-TV..................... Waterbury UHF UPN Counterpoint Comm. 2 2 2 2
WVIT-TV..................... New Britain UHF NBC NBC 14 13 13 13
WTIC-TV..................... Hartford UHF Fox Tribune Bcstg. Co. 9 8 9 8
WOOD-TV and WOTV-TV (Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, Michigan)
Station Profiles. WOOD-TV has long been a leading station in the Grand
Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market, partly as a result of its broad geographic
reach. It competes with stations that have less extensive signal coverage or
focus on serving the smaller cities in the DMA. The station has benefitted from
the strength of NBC, which has helped the station maintain its lead in news and
prime time. Some of WOOD-TV's competitors have focused their news coverage on
Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, leaving WOOD-TV with a powerful position in Grand
Rapids, the largest and most attractive segment of the market.
WOTV-TV, an LMA station affiliated with ABC, has a strong local presence in
Battle Creek. WOTV-TV provides the only local news for the Battle Creek
sub-market and significantly benefits from its LMA relationship with the
Company. Its signal is limited to the southern tier of the market as another ABC
affiliate has the rest of the market. 46% and 37% of WOOD-TV's and WOTV-TV's 24
hours of daily broadcasting time, respectively, consists of programming that is
either locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, Michigan is the
thirty-seventh largest DMA in the United States. The Grand
Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market has a population of approximately 1,727,000
and approximately 659,340 television households. Cable penetration in the Grand
Rapids market is estimated to be 62%. The Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek
market experienced revenue growth of approximately 7.0% in 1996 and is expected
to grow at a compound annual rate of 5.3% through 2000. Average household income
is estimated to be $39,023.
The table below provides an overview of the competitive stations serving
the Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ------------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Stations
WOOD-TV.................. Grand Rapids VHF NBC LIN Television Corp. 19 19 20 18
WOTV-TV.................. Battle Creek UHF ABC Channel 41 Inc. 4 4 4 5
Others
WWMT-TV.................. Kalamazoo VHF CBS Granite Bcstg Corp. 19 18 17 18
WZZM-TV.................. Grand Rapids UHF ABC Gannett Co Inc. 16 15 14 14
WXMI-TV.................. Grand Rapids UHF Fox Dudley Comm Corp. 8 8 9 9
WAVY-TV and WVBT-TV (Norfolk-Portsmouth, Virginia)
Station Profiles. The Company's share of revenues in the Norfolk-Portsmouth
market has grown from 24.8% in 1990 to an estimated 29% in 1997 principally as a
result of WAVY-TV's improvements in its news
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position over the past 5 years coupled with the creation of the WVBT-TV LMA.
During the same period, market revenue has grown more than 50% from $63.0
million to an estimated $96.0 million. These factors have combined to increase
BCF for WAVY-TV and WVBT-TV from approximately $6.5 million in 1990 to $14.1
million in 1997.
The Company has invested heavily in the Norfolk-Portsmouth market, making
an extensive commitment to enhanced weather service with radar and storm
trackers, important equipment in a highly volatile weather belt. This
positioning and commitment, together with the Company's ability to provide a
strong local newscast, helped the Company to obtain the Fox affiliation for
WVBT-TV beginning on September 1, 1998.
Approximately 43% of WAVY-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists
of programming that is either locally produced or purchased from non-network
sources. Approximately 87% of WVBT-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcast time
consists of programming that is either locally produced or purchased from
non-network sources. Network programming, which currently is supplied to WVBT-TV
by the WB Network, will be provided by Fox commencing on August 31, 1998.
Market Overview. Norfolk-Portsmouth, Virginia is the thirty-ninth largest
DMA in the country with a population of approximately 1,651,000 and
approximately 635,810 television households. Cable penetration in the
Norfolk-Portsmouth market is estimated to be 75%. The Norfolk-Portsmouth market
experienced revenue growth of approximately 6.0% in 1996 and is expected to grow
at a compound annual rate of 5.8% through 2000. Average household income is
estimated to be $36,548.
The table below provides an overview of the competitive stations serving
the Norfolk-Portsmouth market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station/LMA
WAVY-TV............... Portsmouth VHF NBC LIN Television Corp. 18 18 17 16
WVBT-TV............... Virginia Beach UHF WB Ulloa, Walter F. -- 2 2 2
Other
WTKR-TV............... Norfolk VHF CBS New York Times Co. 19 17 18 16
WVEC-TV............... Hampton UHF ABC Belo Corp. 17 18 18 16
WGNT-TV............... Portsmouth UHF UPN Paramount Stations 4 4 4 5
WTVZ-TV............... Norfolk UHF Fox Sinclair Comm. Inc. 7 5 7 7
WIVB-TV (Buffalo, New York)
Station Profile. Acquired by the Company in 1995, WIVB-TV is still in the
process of fully implementing the Company's operating methods. Recent
improvements in the station's operating performance have been aided by several
factors. One such factor is the slight improvement in the local economy which
has aided the station's sales efforts. The effects of these factors are seen in
the growth of second half 1997 advertising sales over the same period in 1996,
with respect to which WIVB-TV is among leaders of the Core Stations.
Finally, the station has a strong syndicated programming line-up. Other
programming was by the previous owners at prices somewhat higher than the
Company would typically pay for such programming. Accordingly, management
believes that programming costs may be reduced over time. Approximately 50% of
WIVB-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists of programming that is
either locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. Buffalo, New York is the fortieth largest DMA in the
United States with a population of approximately 1,570,000 and approximately
629,970 television households. Cable penetration in the Buffalo market is
estimated to be 75%. The Buffalo market experienced revenue decline of
approximately 2.0% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of
approximately 5.3% through 2000. Average household income is estimated to be
$33,913.
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The table below provides an overview of the competitive stations serving
the Buffalo market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station
WIVB-TV................... Buffalo VHF CBS LIN Television Corp. 20 19 18 17
Other
WGRZ-TV................... Buffalo VHF NBC Gannett Co. Inc. 15 13 15 15
WKBW-TV................... Buffalo VHF ABC Granite Bcstg. Corp. 22 22 22 20
WNYB-TV................... Jamestown UHF IND Tri-State Christian TV -- -- -- --
WUTV-TV................... Buffalo UHF Fox/UPN Sullivan Bcstg Co. Inc. 7 5 6 5
WNYO-TV................... Buffalo UHF WB Grant, Milton NR 3 2 3
KXAN-TV and KNVA (Austin, Texas)
Station Profile. KXAN-TV, the Company's NBC affiliate in Austin, is a
leader in the fast growing, highly competitive Austin market. Several unusual
factors shape the Austin competitive environment. There is only one VHF station
in the market and it is affiliated with Fox. There was an affiliation switch in
1995 by competitors in the Austin market which created some confusion among
viewers and enabled the Company to strategically manage the marketing of KXAN-TV
to move it into the number two market position. At the same time, the Company
established KNVA-TV as an LMA station. The Company also has relationships with
the San Antonio Spurs and Texas Rangers for local sports coverage. The Company's
syndicated programming schedule in Austin is very strong as well. Approximately
39% of KXAN-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists of programming
that is either locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Approximately 92% of KNVA-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists of
programming that is either locally produced or purchased from non-network
sources.
Market Overview. Austin, Texas is the sixtieth largest DMA in the country
with a population of approximately 1,113,000 and approximately 452,430
television households. Cable penetration in the Austin market is estimated to be
66%. The Austin market, which is one of the five fastest growing markets in the
United States, experienced revenue growth of 6.4% in 1996 and is expected to
grow at a compound annual rate of 6.3% through 2000. Average household income is
estimated to be $41,348.
The following table provides an overview of the competitive stations
serving the Austin market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station/LMA
KXAN-TV......................... Austin UHF NBC LIN Television Corp. 17 16 14 14
KNVA-TV......................... Austin UHF WB 54 Bcstg. Inc. 3 2 3 3
Other
KTBC-TV......................... Austin VHF Fox Fox Television 10 10 13 15
KVUE-TV......................... Austin UHF ABC Gannett Co. Inc. 16 15 17 16
KEYE-TV......................... Austin UHF CBS Granite Bcstg. Corp. 15 15 15 13
K13VC-TV........................ Austin UHF IND Fox Television -- -- -- --
WAND-TV (Decatur-Champaign, Illinois)
Station Profile. WAND-TV, the Company's ABC affiliate, is located in a
market that is unusual because it consists of three cities with very different
demographic profiles. Although WAND-TV is in the smallest of the three cities,
the station is a solid and consistent performer. Approximately 47% of WAND-TV's
24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists of programming that is either
locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. Decatur-Champaign, Illinois, is the eighty-first largest
DMA in the country with a population of approximately 807,000 and approximately
330,820 television households. Cable penetration in the Decatur-Champaign market
is estimated to be 76%. The Decatur-Champaign market experienced
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revenue growth of approximately 10.1% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a
compound annual rate of 5.5% through 2000. Average household income is estimated
to be $38,320.
The following table provides an overview of the competitive stations
serving the Decatur-Champaign market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF-UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
- ---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station
WAND-TV.................... Decatur UHF ABC LIN Television Corp. 14 15 14 14
Other
WCIA-TV.................... Champaign VHF CBS Midwest Television 24 22 22 21
WICS-TV.................... Springfield UHF NBC Guy Gannett Comm. 20 18 17 17
WFHL-TV.................... Decatur UHF IND Foursquare Bcstg. -- -- -- --
WRSP-TV.................... Springfield UHF Fox/UPN Bahakel Comm. 5 4 6 6
WANE-TV (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
Station Profile. The Company has the number two audience share in the Fort
Wayne market. Improvement in the station's performance should be driven by
improved programming at CBS. WANE-TV has a major commitment to news and is the
leading authority for weather, the market's most important news component. This
leadership position in weather should improve the station's overall news
position. Approximately 47% of WANE-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time
consists of programming that is either locally produced or purchased from
non-network sources.
Market Overview. Fort Wayne, Indiana is the one hundred second largest DMA
in the country with a population of approximately 630,000 and approximately
243,910 television households. Cable penetration in the Fort Wayne market is
estimated to be 57%. The Fort Wayne market experienced revenue growth of
approximately 3.2% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of
5.2% through 2002. Average household income is estimated to be $39,231.
The following table provides an overview of the competitive stations
serving the Fort Wayne market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
- ---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN Station
WANE-TV................... Fort Wayne UHF CBS LIN Television Corp. 18 19 19 19
Other
WPTA...................... Fort Wayne UHF ABC Granite Bcstg Corp. 21 21 22 20
WKJG-TV................... Fort Wayne UHF NBC Cloutier Trust 16 14 16 14
WFFT-TV................... Fort Wayne UHF Fox/UPN Great Trails Bcstg. 7 7 8 8
WINM...................... Angola UHF IND Tri-State Christian TV -- -- -- --
KXTX-TV (Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas)
Station Profile. KXTX-TV is uniquely positioned in the Dallas-Fort Worth
market as a leading local sports station. Since 1996, the station has
established a powerful sports franchise broadcasting Texas Rangers baseball,
Dallas Mavericks basketball, and Southwest Conference/Big 12 football and
basketball. KXTX-TV also provides popular western programming on weekends that
performs very well in this market. With this programming base, KXTX-TV is one of
the fastest growing independent stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.
Approximately 97% of KXTX-TV's 24 hours of broadcasting time consists of
programming that is locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
The momentum of the station was interrupted for nine months by an October
1996 tower collapse that affected signal coverage of the market and reduced the
station's household reach. The tower was rebuilt and full power restored in
June, 1997.
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On August 27, 1998, LIN Texas and SSG entered into the SSG Agreement,
pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas
will receive 500,000 shares of SSG Preferred Stock. LIN Texas will be entitled
to receive dividends at the per annum rate of 6% of par value ($100.00 per
share) prior to the payment by SSG of any dividend in respect of SSG Common
Stock or any other junior securities. At the option of SSG, dividends will be
payable either in kind or in cash. LIN Texas will have the right, upon the
earlier of (i) the third anniversary of the issuance of the SSG Preferred Stock
and (ii) an initial public offering of SSG Common Stock, to convert its shares
of SSG Preferred Stock into shares of SSG Common Stock at a conversion rate
equal to the par value per share of the SSG Preferred Stock (plus all accrued
and unpaid dividends thereon) divided by the fair market value per share of the
SSG Common Stock. SSG will have the right, at its sole option, to redeem the SSG
Preferred Stock at par value (plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) at
any time. In connection with the SSG Agreement, LIN Texas and SSTI entered into
a Sub-Programming Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will
provide certain management, operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior
to the closing of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing
such services, SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate
revenue received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate
to the operation of KXTX-TV.
Subject to the terms of the SSG Agreement and the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the receipt of National Hockey League and Major League
Baseball approvals and SSG's consummation of certain other business
acquisitions, it is expected that the sale of KXTX-TV will be consummated by the
end of 1998. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million. See "Risk
Factors -- Potential Conflicts of Interest."
Market Overview. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas is the eighth largest DMA in the
United States with a population of approximately 4,921,000 and approximately
1,899,330 television households. Cable penetration in the Dallas-Fort Worth
market is estimated to be 52%. The Dallas-Fort Worth market experienced revenue
growth of approximately 3.6% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a compound
annual rate of 5.8% through 2000. Average household income is estimated to be
$45,117.
The following table provides an overview of the competitive stations
serving the Dallas-Fort Worth market:
SHARE
CITY ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
- ---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN/Joint Venture Stations
KXTX-TV.................... Dallas UHF IND Christian Bcstg. 5 3 2 3
Network
KXAS-TV.................... Fort Worth VHF NBC NBC/LIN Television 16 14 15 12
Other
KDFW-TV.................... Dallas VHF Fox Fox Television 11 10 13 15
WFAA-TV.................... Dallas VHF ABC Belo Corp. 18 18 20 17
KTVT....................... Fort Worth VHF CBS Gaylord Bcstg. 11 10 10 9
KTXA....................... Fort Worth UHF UPN Paramount Stations 7 7 8 6
KUVN....................... Garland UHF IND Univision TV Group 2 2 3 3
KDFI-TV.................... Dallas UHF IND DMIC Corp. 3 3 3 4
KDAF....................... Dallas UHF WB Tribune Bcstg Co. 8 8 8 7
Below are descriptions of the stations to be owned by the Joint Venture and
managed by NBC:
KXAS-TV (Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas)
Station Profile. KXAS-TV, acquired by the Company in May 1974, is the NBC
affiliate in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas market. As described elsewhere herein,
KXAS-TV was contributed by the Company to the Joint Venture. Approximately 42%
of KXAS-TV's 24 hours of daily broadcasting time consists of programming that is
either locally produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. See "-- KXTX-TV (Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas) -- Market
Overview" above.
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KNSD-TV (San Diego, California)
Station Profile. KNSD-TV was formerly owned and operated by NBC, a wholly
owned subsidiary of GE. KNSD-TV had been acquired by NBC in 1996. As described
above, NBC contributed KNSD-TV to the Joint Venture. Approximately 35% of KNSD's
24 hours of daily broadcast time consists of programming that is either locally
produced or purchased from non-network sources.
Market Overview. San Diego, California is the country's twenty-sixth
largest DMA with a population of approximately 2,528,000 and approximately
924,190 television households. Cable penetration in the San Diego market is
estimated to be 82%. The San Diego market experienced revenue growth of
approximately 3.9% in 1996 and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of
5.3% through 2000. Average household income is estimated to be $42,316.
The following table provides an overview of the competitive stations
serving the San Diego market:
SHARE
CITY OF ---------------------------------
CALL LICENSE VHF/UHF AFFILIATION OWNER MAY 96 MAY 97 NOV 96 NOV 97
---- ------- ------- ----------- ----- ------ ------ ------ ------
LIN/Joint Venture
Station
KNSD-TV............... San Diego UHF NBC NBC/LIN Television 14 13 13 13
Other
KETV-TV............... Tijuana, Mexico VHF Fox Milmo, E.A. 7 7 8 7
KFMB-TV............... San Diego VHF CBS Midwest Television 13 12 12 12
KGTV-TV............... San Diego VHF ABC McGraw-Hill Bcstg. 12 10 13 11
XEWT-TV............... Tijuana, Mexico VHF IND Televisora DeCalimex -- --
KUSI-TV............... San Diego UHF UPN McKinnon Family 7 7 8 7
KITY-TV............... San Diego UHF WB Tribune Bcstg. Co. -- -- -- --
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
General Television Broadcasting
Commercial television broadcasting began in the United States on a regular
basis in the 1940s. Currently there are a limited number of channels available
for broadcasting in any one geographic area. Television stations can be
distinguished by the frequency on which they broadcast. Television stations
which broadcast over the very high frequency ("VHF") band (channels 2-13) of the
spectrum generally have some competitive advantage over television stations
which broadcast over the ultra-high frequency ("UHF") band (channels 13 and
higher) of the spectrum because the former usually have better signal coverage
and operate at a lower transmission cost. However, the improvement of UHF
transmitters and receivers, the complete elimination from the marketplace of
VHF-only receivers and carriage by cable television systems have virtually
equalized the reception of VHF and UHF signals. Nonetheless, based on historical
patterns, VHF stations continue to have a competitive advantage over UHF
stations.
Of the approximately 1,200 commercial stations in the United States,
approximately 850 are affiliated with one of the four major national networks
(ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox), with the remaining being affiliated with WB or UPN or
being "independents." The Company operates twelve network affiliated stations,
including 3 CBS affiliates, 2 NBC affiliates and 2 ABC affiliates owned by the
Company, and one independent station in Dallas-Fort Worth.
All television stations in the country are grouped by A.C. Nielsen, a
national audience measuring service, into approximately 211 DMAs that are ranked
in size according to various formulae based upon actual or potential audience.
Each DMA is determined as an exclusive geographic area consisting of all
counties in which the home-market commercial stations receive the greatest
percentage of total viewing hours. Nielsen periodically publishes data on
estimated audiences for the television stations in the various television
markets throughout the country. The estimates are expressed in terms of the
percentage of the total potential audience in the market viewing a station (the
station's "rating") and of their percentage of the audience actually watching
television (the station's "share"). The Company operates five network affiliated
stations and one
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independent station in top forty DMAs, which stations have an aggregate United
States household reach of 5.8%.
During a period of deregulation in the 1980s, inexpensive and abundant
capital allowed entrepreneurs to build television groups. In the late 1980s,
tighter lending practices began to shrink the size and volume of television
station acquisitions. In the early 1990s, a retail recession curtailed
advertising budgets and competition from cable and the emerging networks reduced
the value of traditional affiliate operators, triggering a new wave of
consolidation in the industry. Several other factors have influenced the
consolidation, the most significant of which has been the relaxation of
ownership restrictions pursuant to the 1996 Act. Prior to the 1996 Act, station
ownership was limited to 12 stations on a national level with a maximum coverage
of 25% of all U.S. households. As a result of the 1996 Act, the national limit
on television station ownership is now subject to a limitation of coverage of
35% of U.S. households (UHF station coverage is counted as 50% of the households
in each market).
LMAs have also changed the competitive profile of the television industry.
An LMA is a means of allowing a station owner to program and sell advertising
for a second station in the same market or for a single station for which it
does not hold the license. LMAs enable station operators to cut costs, broaden
audience reach through counterprogramming and improve their negotiating position
with programming distributors, networks and advertisers. Management estimates
that there are approximately 70 such operations in the United States. LIN was
one of the first operators to utilize LMAs and now has five such operations.
The FCC also recently finalized its allotment of new ATV channels to
existing broadcast stations. ATV is a digital television signal which delivers
improved video and audio signals and also has substantial multiplexing and data
transmission capabilities. The FCC and Congress have adopted a transition plan
which calls for stations to provide dual analog and digital transmissions for
the next eight years with broadcasters surrendering their analog channels in the
year 2006, at which time they will be auctioned by the government. Stations are
required to initiate digital transmissions as early as November 1998 in the
largest markets, with a rollout in all markets to be completed by approximately
2002.
Competition
Competition in the television broadcasting industry takes place on several
levels: competition for audience, competition for programming, and competition
for advertisers. Additional factors that are material to a television station's
competitive position include signal coverage and assigned frequency. The
television broadcasting industry is continuously faced with technological change
and innovation, the possible rise in popularity of competing forms of
entertainment and entertainment media, and restrictions imposed by or actions of
federal regulatory bodies, including the FCC and Federal Trade Commission, any
of which could have a material effect on television station operators.
Audience. Through the 1970s, network television broadcasting enjoyed
virtual dominance in viewership and television advertising revenue because
network-affiliated stations competed only with each other in most local markets.
Beginning in the 1980s, however, this level of dominance began to change as more
local stations were authorized by the FCC and marketplace choices for video
services expanded with the growth of independent stations, cable television
services and multipoint distribution services. Cable television systems, which
grew at a rapid rate beginning in the early 1970s, were initially used to
retransmit broadcast television programming to paying subscribers in areas with
poor broadcast signal reception.
In the aggregate, cable-originated programming has emerged as a significant
competitor for viewers of broadcast television programming, although no single
cable programming network regularly attains audience levels amounting to more
than a small fraction of any single major broadcast network. With the increase
in cable penetration in the 1980s, the advertising share of cable networks has
increased. However, broadcast television still commands an estimated 91.3% of
total television revenues and an estimated 70% of total viewership.
The audience shares of television stations affiliated with ABC, NBC and CBS
have declined during the 1980s and 1990s primarily because of the emergence of
Fox and certain strong independent stations and because of increased cable
penetration. In addition, there has been substantial growth in the number of
home
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satellite dish receivers and VCRs, which has further expanded the number of
programming alternatives for household audiences.
Despite the increased popularity in cable television, broadcast television
remains the dominant and most efficient medium to reach a mass audience. It can
be argued that the proliferation of cable networks has, in fact, diluted the
reach of individual cable networks and highlighted the mass reach of the
broadcast networks and their local affiliates.
Programming. A typical major network affiliate receives the majority of its
programming each day from the network. This programming, along with cash
payments ("network compensation"), is provided to the affiliate by the network
in exchange for a substantial majority of the advertising time during network
programs. The network then sells this advertising time and retains the revenues.
The affiliate retains the revenues from time sold during breaks in and between
network programs and programs the affiliate produces or purchases from
non-network sources.
A fully independent station purchases or produces all of the programming
which it broadcasts, generally resulting in higher programming costs, which
typically account for up to 20% of a station's net revenues. The independent
station is able to retain its entire inventory of advertising and all of the
revenue obtained therefrom. However, under increasingly popular barter
arrangements, a national program distributor may receive advertising time in
exchange for programming it supplies, with the station paying a reduced fee or
no cash fee at all for such programming.
For independent television stations, the largest non-payroll expense is
programming. Film costs for affiliates of the emerging networks (WB and UPN) are
generally lower than film costs for pure independents and have declined in
recent years as the number of hours of major network-supplied prime-time
programming has increased. Network affiliates typically have lower film costs
than independent stations because they receive a higher percentage of their
programming from the networks.
As a result of the above factors, BCF margins for network affiliate
stations historically have been higher than BCF margins for pure independents.
However, cash flow margins are converging as film costs dramatically decline.
Advertising. Television station revenues are derived primarily from local,
regional and national advertising and, to a lesser extent, from network
compensation revenues, studio rental and commercial production activities. For
the fiscal year ending December 31, 1997, on a pro forma basis, advertising
revenues accounted for approximately 86% of the Company's net revenues. With the
exception of 1991, television advertising revenue has increased every year since
1971, growing at a compound annual rate of 10.5%.
Advertising rates are based upon a variety of factors, including a
program's popularity among the viewers an advertiser wishes to attract, the
number of advertisers competing for the available time, the size and demographic
makeup of the market served by the station and the availability of alternative
advertising media in the market. Rates are also determined by a station's
overall ratings and share in its market, as well as the station's ratings and
share among particular demographic groups which an advertiser may be targeting.
LICENSING AND REGULATION
The following is a brief discussion of certain provisions of the
Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the "Communications Act"), and of FCC
regulations and policies that affect the business operations of television
broadcasting stations. Reference should be made to the Communications Act, FCC
rules and the public notices and rulings of the FCC on which this discussion is
based, for further information concerning the nature and extent of FCC
regulation of television broadcasting stations.
License Renewal, Assignments and Transfers. Television broadcast licenses
are granted for a maximum term of eight years (five years prior to 1996) and are
subject to renewal upon application to the FCC. The FCC prohibits the assignment
of a license or the transfer of control of a broadcasting licensee without prior
FCC approval. In determining whether to grant or renew a broadcasting license,
the FCC considers a number of factors pertaining to the applicant, including
compliance with a variety of ownership limitations and
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compliance with character and technical standards. During certain limited
periods when a renewal application is pending, petitions to deny a license
renewal may be filed by interested parties, including members of the public.
Such petitions may raise various issues before the FCC. The FCC is required to
hold evidentiary, trial-type hearings on renewal applications if a petition to
deny renewal of such license raises a "substantial and material question of
fact" as to whether the grant of the renewal application would be inconsistent
with the public interest, convenience and necessity. The FCC must grant the
renewal application if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, it finds
that the incumbent has served the public interest and has not committed any
serious violation of FCC requirements. If the incumbent fails to meet that
standard, and if it does not show mitigating factors warranting a lesser
sanction, the FCC has authority to deny the renewal application.
Failure to observe FCC rules and policies, including, but not limited to,
those discussed above, can result in the imposition of various sanctions,
including monetary forfeitures, the grant of short-term license renewals or, for
particularly egregious violations, the denial of a license renewal application
or revocation of a license.
Multiple and Cross-Ownership Rules. On a national level, the FCC rules
generally prevent an entity or individual from having an attributable interest
in television stations with an aggregate audience reach in excess of 35% of all
U.S. households. On a local level, the "duopoly" rules prohibit or restrict such
interests in two or more television stations with overlapping service areas.
Additional cross-ownership restrictions generally prohibit new television/radio,
broadcast/daily newspaper or television/cable combinations in the same market.
The FCC generally applies its ownership limits only to "attributable" interests
held by an individual, corporation, partnership or other association. In the
case of corporations holding broadcast licenses, the interest of officers,
directors and those who, directly or indirectly, have the right to vote 5% or
more of the corporation's voting stock (or 10% or more of such stock in the case
of insurance companies, mutual funds, bank trust departments and certain other
passive investors that are holding stock for investment purposes only) are
generally deemed to be attributable, as are positions as an officer or director
of a corporate parent of a broadcast licensee.
Because of these multiple and cross-ownership rules, a purchaser of the
Company's Common Stock who acquires an attributable interest in the Company may
violate the FCC's rules if that purchaser also has an attributable interest in
other television or radio stations, or in daily newspapers or cable systems,
depending on the number and location of those radio or television stations or
daily newspapers or cable systems. Such a purchaser also may be restricted in
the companies in which it may invest to the extent that those investments give
rise to an attributable interest. If an attributable stockholder of the Company
violates any of these ownership rules or if a proposed acquisition by the
Company would cause such a violation, the Company may be unable to obtain from
the FCC one or more authorizations needed to conduct its television station
business and may be unable to obtain FCC consents for certain future
acquisitions. Given Hicks Muse's extensive interests in radio and television
broadcasters, the Acquisition might limit future acquisition opportunities for
the Company.
The FCC has initiated rulemaking proceedings to consider proposals to relax
its television ownership restrictions, including proposals that would permit the
ownership, in some circumstances, of two television stations with overlapping
service areas and relaxing the rules prohibiting cross-ownership of radio and
television stations in the same market. The FCC is also considering in these
proceedings whether to adopt new restrictions on television LMAs. The "duopoly"
rules currently prevent the Company from acquiring the FCC licenses of its LMA
stations, thereby preventing the Company from directly fulfilling its
obligations under put options that such LMA stations have with the Company. If
the Company should be unable to fulfill its obligation under a put option, it
would be required to find an assignee who could perform such obligation. There
is no assurance that the Company could find an assignee to fulfill the Company's
obligations under the put options on favorable terms. Under the 1996 Act, the
Company's LMAs were "grandfathered." The precise extent to which the FCC may
nevertheless restrict existing LMAs or make them attributable ownership
interests is uncertain. The FCC has proposed to make LMAs fully attributable
ownership interests and thus prohibited with a possibility of case by case
waivers for stations that meet specified criteria (e.g., VHF-UHF or UHF-UHF
combinations; second station is a start-up, failed or failing station). Under
the FCC's proposal, "grandfathering" rights for current LMAs which do not
qualify for conversion to ownership could be limited to fulfilling the current
lease term, and renewal rights and transferability rights could be eliminated.
All of the
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Company's LMAs involve stations which are UHF stations and, at the time they
were formed, were either start-up stations or failing stations and therefore
would appear to be strong candidates for grandfathering and/or for conversion to
ownership under the proposals. Nevertheless, it is possible that the FCC could
prohibit such conversion or require the Company to modify its LMAs in ways which
impair their viability. Further, if the FCC were to find that the licensee of
one of the Company's LMA stations failed to maintain control over its
operations, the licensee of the LMA station and/or the Company could be
sanctioned. Sanctions could include, among other things, the short term renewal
or loss of the station's FCC license. The Company is unable to predict the
ultimate outcome of possible changes to these FCC rules and the impact such FCC
rules would have on its broadcasting operations.
The Congress and the FCC have under consideration, and in the future may
consider and adopt, other new laws, regulations and policies regarding a wide
variety of matters that could affect, directly or indirectly, the operation,
ownership and profitability of the Company's broadcast stations, result in the
loss of audience share and advertising revenues for the Company's broadcast
stations, and affect the ability of the Company to acquire additional broadcast
stations or finance such acquisitions.
Alien Ownership. Under the Communications Act, broadcast licenses may not
be granted to or held by any corporation having more than one-fifth of its
capital stock owned of record or voted by non-U.S. citizens (including a
non-U.S. corporation), foreign governments or their representatives
(collectively, "Aliens"). The Communications Act also prohibits a corporation
from holding a broadcast license if that corporation is controlled, directly or
indirectly, by another corporation, more than one-fourth of the capital stock of
which is owned of record or voted by Aliens, unless the FCC finds that such
ownership would be in the public interest. The FCC has issued interpretations of
existing law under which these restrictions in modified form apply to other
forms of business organizations, including general and limited partnerships. As
a result of these provisions, the Company, which serves as a holding company for
its various television station licensee subsidiaries, cannot have more than 25%
of its capital stock owned of record or voted by Aliens.
Programming and Operation. The Communications Act requires broadcasters to
serve "the public interest." Since the late 1970s, the FCC gradually has relaxed
or eliminated many of the more formalized procedures it had developed to promote
the broadcast of certain types of programming responsive to the needs of a
station's community of license. Broadcast station licensees continue, however,
to be required to present programming that is responsive to community problems,
needs and interests and to maintain certain records demonstrating such
responsiveness. Complaints from viewers concerning a station's programming may
be considered by the FCC when it evaluates license renewal applications,
although such complaints may be filed, and generally may be considered by the
FCC, at any time. Stations also must follow various rules promulgated under the
Communications Act that regulate, among other things, children's television
programming, political advertising, sponsorship identifications, contest and
lottery advertising, obscene and indecent broadcasts, and technical operations,
including limits on radio frequency radiation. In addition, broadcast licensees
must develop and implement affirmative action programs designed to promote equal
employment opportunities, and must submit reports to the FCC with respect to
these matters on an annual basis and in connection with a license renewal
application. As a result of a Report and Order effective September 1, 1997, the
FCC imposed revised rules and regulations increasing broadcasters' obligations
under its rules implementing the Children's Television Act of 1990. These rules
require television stations to present programming specifically directed to the
"educational and informational" needs of children. In addition, on August 25,
1997, the FCC adopted standards for the exposure of the public and workers to
potentially harmful radio frequency radiation emitted by broadcast station
transmitting facilities.
Syndicated Exclusivity/Territorial Exclusivity. Effective January 1, 1990,
the FCC reimposed syndicated exclusivity rules and expanded the existing network
nonduplication rules. The syndicated exclusivity rules allow local broadcast
stations to require that cable operators black out certain syndicated,
non-network programming carried on "distant signals" (i.e., signals of broadcast
stations, including so-called super stations, that serve areas substantially
removed from the cable system's local community). Under certain circumstances,
the network nonduplication rules allow local broadcast network affiliates to
demand that cable operators black out duplicative network broadcast programming
carried on more distant signals.
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Restrictions on Broadcast Advertising. The advertising of cigarettes on
broadcast stations has been banned for many years. The broadcast advertising of
smokeless tobacco products has more recently been banned by Congress. Certain
Congressional committees have examined legislative proposals to eliminate or
severely restrict the advertising of beer and wine. The Company cannot predict
whether any or all of the present proposals will be enacted into law and, if so,
what the final form of such law might be. The elimination of all beer and wine
advertising could have an adverse effect on the Stations' revenues and operating
profits as well as the revenues and operating profits of other stations that
carry beer and wine advertising. In 1996, some television stations began airing
hard liquor advertising. In the past, this group of advertisers had a
self-imposed ban on TV advertising. None of the Stations have aired this type of
advertising. The Company cannot predict the effect the airing of these
advertisements on competing stations will have on the Company's operating
results.
Other Programming Restrictions. The 1996 Act directs the FCC to establish,
if the broadcast industry does not do so on a voluntary basis, guidelines and
procedures for rating programming that contains sexual, violent, or other
indecent material so as to inform parents. A multi-industry task force has
developed a ratings plan which was submitted to the FCC in January 1997 and put
out for public comment by the FCC. The FCC could either ratify the industry
proposal or issue its own guidelines later this year. The 1996 Act also requires
the FCC to issue rules that require TV set manufacturers to include in the sets
that they manufacture appropriate technology (a "V-Chip" that can block
programming based on an electronically encoded rating) to facilitate the
implementation of the new rating guidelines.
Cable "Must-Carry" or Retransmission Consent Rights. The 1992 Cable Act,
enacted in October 1992, requires television broadcasters to make an election to
exercise either certain "must-carry" or retransmission consent rights in
connection with their carriage by cable television systems in the station's
local market. If a broadcaster chooses to exercise its must-carry rights, it may
demand carriage on a specified channel on cable systems within its DMA.
Must-carry rights are not absolute, and their exercise is dependent on variables
such as the number of activated channels on, and the location and size of, the
cable system and the amount of duplicative programming on a broadcast station.
Under certain circumstances, a cable system may decline to carry a given
station. If a broadcaster chooses to exercise its retransmission consent rights,
it may prohibit cable systems from carrying its signal, or permit carriage under
a negotiated compensation arrangement. Generally, the stations operated by the
Company have negotiated retransmission consent agreements with cable television
systems in their markets, with terms generally ranging from three to 10 years,
which provide for carriage of the stations' signals and the Local Weather
Station. The licensees of the Company's LMA stations generally have opted for
must-carry status.
Telecommunications Act of 1996. The 1996 Act made various changes in the
Communications Act that will affect the broadcast industry. Among other things
and in addition to matters previously mentioned, the Act (i) directs the FCC to
increase the national audience reach cap for television from 25% to 35% and to
eliminate the 12-station numerical limit; (ii) directs the FCC to review its
local broadcast ownership restrictions; (iii) clarifies that existing LMAs were
in compliance with applicable FCC regulations, are "grandfathered," and that
future LMAs are not inconsistent with the 1996 Act so long as they comply with
applicable FCC regulations; (iv) directs the FCC to extend its liberal policy of
permitting waivers of its television/radio cross-ownership restriction to
proposed combinations in the top 50 markets; (v) lifts the statutory ban on
cable-broadcast cross-ownership but does not direct the FCC to eliminate its
parallel FCC rule prohibition; (vi) repeals the statutory ban against telephone
companies providing video programming in their own service areas; and (vii)
permits but does not require the FCC to award to broadcasters a second channel
for ATV and other digital services and imposes a fee on subscription based
services.
Advanced Television Transmissions. The FCC has adopted rules for
implementing ATV in the United States. Implementation of ATV will improve the
technical quality of over-the-air broadcast television. Under certain
circumstances, however, conversion to ATV operations may reduce a station's
geographical coverage area. The FCC has adopted a plan which would allot a
second broadcast channel to each regular commercial television station for ATV
operation. Within the next five years, stations are required to phase in their
ATV operations on the second channel, build necessary ATV facilities and begin
operations, with certain stations in the largest markets, such as Dallas,
initiating transmissions by November 1998. Stations may be required to
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surrender their non-ATV channel by the year 2006. Implementation of ATV will
impose additional costs on television stations providing the new service due to
increased equipment costs. The Company estimates that the adoption of ATV will
require average capital expenditures of approximately $2 million per station to
provide facilities necessary to pass along an ATV signal. The conversion of a
station's equipment enabling it, for example, to produce and transmit ATV
programming will be substantially more expensive. The introduction of this new
technology will require that consumers purchase new receivers (television sets)
for ATV signals or, if available by that time, adapters for their existing
receivers. The FCC has also assigned to full-power ATV stations the channels
currently occupied by many LPTVs and has "cleared" a portion of the current
broadcast spectrum (e.g., channels 60-69) and has proposed to auction it off to
other users, proposals which could adversely affect a significant proportion of
the Company's LPTV channels. As required by the Telecommunications Act of 1996,
the FCC has also proposed to levy fees on broadcasters with respect to any
"ancillary" or "supplementary" uses they make of their ATV channels, including
data transmissions or subscriber services. The Company believes that it is
essential to the long-term viability of the Company and the broadcast industry
that the FCC authorize ATV in the United States, but the Company cannot
otherwise predict when such authorization might be given or the precise effect
such authorization might have on the Company's business.
Proposed Legislation and Regulations. The FCC has initiated a Notice of
Inquiry proceeding seeking comment on whether the public interest would be
served by establishing limits on the amount of commercial matter broadcast by
television stations. No prediction can be made at this time as to whether the
FCC will impose any commercial limits at the conclusion of its deliberations.
The Company is unable to determine what effect, if any, the imposition of limits
on the commercial matter broadcast by television stations would have on the
Company's operations. Other matters that could affect the Company's broadcast
properties include technological innovations affecting the mass communications
industry such as technical allocation matters, including assignment by the FCC
of channels for additional broadcast stations, LPTVs and wireless cable systems
and their relationship to and competition with full power television
broadcasting service.
Congress and the FCC also have under consideration, or may in the future
consider and adopt, new laws, regulations and policies regarding a wide variety
of matters that could, directly or indirectly, affect the operation, ownership
and profitability of the Company and the Stations, result in the loss of
audience share and advertising revenues of the Stations, and affect the
Company's ability to acquire additional broadcast stations or finance such
acquisitions. Such matters include, for example, (i) imposition of greater
spectrum use or other governmental imposed fees upon a licensee; (ii) changes in
the FCC's cross-interest multiple ownership, alien ownership and cross-ownership
policies; (iii) proposals to expand the FCC's equal employment opportunity rules
and other matters relating to minority and female involvement in broadcasting;
(iv) proposals to increase the benchmarks or thresholds for attributing
ownership interest in broadcast media; (v) proposals to change rules or policies
relating to political advertising and to require free advertising and/or program
time for political candidates; (vi) technical and frequency allocation matters,
including those relative to the implementation of ATV; (vii) proposals to
restrict or prohibit the advertising of beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages
on broadcast stations; (viii) changes to broadcast technical requirements; and
(ix) proposals to limit the tax deductibility of advertising expenses by
advertisers.
The Company cannot predict what other matters might be considered in the
future, nor can it judge in advance what impact, if any, the implementation of
any of these proposals or changes might have on its business.
The foregoing does not purport to be a complete discussion of all the
provisions of the Communications Act or other Congressional acts or the
regulations and policies of the FCC promulgated thereunder. Reference is made to
the Communications Act, other Congressional acts, such regulations, and the
public notices promulgated by the FCC, on which the foregoing discussion is
based, for further information. There are additional FCC regulations and
policies, and regulations and policies of other federal agencies, that govern
political broadcasts, public affairs programming, equal employment opportunities
and other areas affecting the Stations' businesses and operations.
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EMPLOYEES
As of March 31, 1998, the Company employed approximately 1,200 full-time
and 90 part-time employees in its broadcasting offices. Of these employees,
approximately 220 were represented by unions. The Company believes that its
employee relations are generally good.
PROPERTIES
The Company maintains its corporate headquarters in Providence, Rhode
Island. Each of the stations operated by the Company has facilities consisting
of offices, studios, sales offices and transmitter and tower sites. Transmitter
and tower sites are located to provide coverage of each station's market. The
Company owns substantially all of the offices where the stations are located and
owns all of the property where its towers and primary transmitters are located.
The Company leases the remaining properties, consisting primarily of sales
office locations and microwave transmitter sites. While none of the properties
owned or leased by the Company is individually material to the Company's
operations, if the Company were required to relocate any of its towers, the cost
could be significant because the number of sites in any geographic area that
permit a tower of reasonable height to provide good coverage of the market is
limited, and zoning and other land use restrictions, as well as Federal Aviation
Administration regulations, limit the number of alternative sites or increase
the cost of acquiring them for tower siting.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On September 4, 1997, the Company announced that it had learned of four
lawsuits regarding the then proposed merger. The Company and some or all of its
then present directors are defendants in all of the lawsuits. AT&T is a
defendant in three of the lawsuits, and an AT&T affiliate and Hicks Muse are
defendants in one of the lawsuits. Each of the lawsuits was filed by a purported
shareholder of the Company seeking to represent a putative class of all the
Company's public shareholders. Three of the four lawsuits were filed in Delaware
Chancery Court, while the fourth lawsuit was filed in New York Supreme Court.
While the allegations of the complaints are not identical, all of the
lawsuits basically assert that the terms of the original merger agreement were
not in the best interests of the Company's public shareholders. All of the
complaints allege breach of fiduciary duty in approving the merger agreement.
Two of the complaints also allege breach of fiduciary duty in connection with
the proposed sale of television station WOOD-TV by AT&T to Hicks Muse and the
amendment to a Private Market Value Guarantee Agreement that was entered into
simultaneously with the first merger agreement. The complaints seek the
preliminary and permanent enjoinment of the merger or alternatively seek damages
in an unspecified amount. The complaints have not been amended to reflect the
terms of the merger itself.
The plaintiffs in each of the actions have agreed to an indefinite
extension of time for each of the defendants served to respond to the respective
complaints. No discovery has taken place.
While the Company believes each lawsuit is without merit, the Company is
unable to determine the likelihood and possible impact on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations of unfavorable outcomes.
A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
In addition, the Company currently and from time to time is involved in
litigation incidental to the conduct of its business. In the opinion of the
Company's management, none of such litigation is likely to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows.
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MANAGEMENT
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF HOLDINGS AND THE COMPANY
The following table provides information concerning the directors and
executive officers of Holdings and the Company:
NAME AGE POSITION
---- ---- --------
Thomas O. Hicks........... 51 Chairman of the Board of Holdings and the Company
Michael J. Levitt......... 39 Director of Holdings and the Company
John R. Muse.............. 47 Director of Holdings and the Company
C. Dean Metropoulos....... 50 Director of Holdings and the Company
Eric C. Neuman............ 52 Director of Holdings and the Company
Gary R. Chapman........... 54 Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of
Holdings and the Company
James G. Babb, Jr......... 65 Vice President of Industry Relations of Holdings and
the Company
Deborah R. Jacobson....... 38 Vice President of Corporate Development and Treasurer
of Holdings and the Company
Paul Karpowicz............ 45 Vice President of Television of Holdings and the
Company
Peter E. Maloney.......... 43 Vice President of Finance of Holdings and the Company
C. Robert Ogren, Jr....... 54 Vice President of Engineering & Operations of
Holdings and the Company
Gregory M. Schmidt........ 48 Vice President of New Development, General Counsel
and Secretary of Holdings and the Company
Denise M. Parent.......... 35 Vice President-Deputy General Counsel of Holdings and
the Company
THOMAS O. HICKS is the Chairman of the Board of Holdings and the Company.
Mr. Hicks has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hicks Muse since
co-founding the Firm in 1989 and has over 25 years of experience in leveraged
acquisitions and private investments. Mr. Hicks serves as a director of
Chancellor Media, Capstar Broadcasting, Berg Electronics Corp., Sybron
International Corporation and Neodata Corporation and is Vice Chairman of the
Board of Regents of the University of Texas System.
MICHAEL J. LEVITT is a director of Holdings and the Company. Mr. Levitt is
a Managing Director and Principal of Hicks Muse. Before joining Hicks Muse, Mr.
Levitt was a Managing Director and Deputy Head of Investment Banking with Smith
Barney Inc. from 1993 through 1995. From 1986 through 1993, Mr. Levitt was with
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, most recently as a Managing Director
responsible for the New York-based Financial Entrepreneurs Group. Mr. Levitt
also serves as a director of Chancellor Media, Capstar Broadcasting, STC
Broadcasting, Inc., Atrium Companies, Inc. and International Home Foods, Inc.
JOHN R. MUSE has been a director of Holdings and the Company since May
1998. Mr. Muse is Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director and co-founder of
Hicks Muse. Prior to the formation of Hicks Muse in 1989, Mr. Muse headed the
merchant/investment banking operations of Prudential Securities in the
Southwestern region of the United States. Mr. Muse is Chairman of Arena Brands,
Inc., Atrium Companies, Inc., Sunrise Television Corp. and serves as Director of
International Home Foods, Inc., Olympus Real Estate Corporation, Arnold Palmer
Golf Management Co. and Suiza Foods Corporation. Mr. Muse also serves on the
Board of Directors for the SMU Edwin L. Cox School of Business, St. Philip's
School and Community Center, and Goodwill Industries.
C. DEAN METROPOULOS has been a director of Holdings and the Company since
May 1998. Mr. Metropoulos is the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief
Executive Officer of International Home Foods, Inc. and Chief Executive Officer
of C. Dean Metropoulos & Co., a management services
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company. From 1993 through 1997, Mr. Metropoulos served as Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer of the Morningstar Group, Inc. From 1983 through
1993, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Stella Foods, Inc.
Before then, Mr. Metropoulos served in a variety of U.S. and international
executive positions with GTE Corporation, including Vice President and General
Manager -- Europe and Vice President and Controller, GTE International. Mr.
Metropoulos also serves as a Director of Suiza Foods and Atrium Companies, Inc.
ERIC C. NEUMAN is a director of Holdings and the Company. Mr. Neuman has
served as an officer of Hicks Muse since 1993 and as a Senior Vice President
thereof since 1996. Before joining Hicks Muse, Mr. Neuman served for eight years
as Managing General Partner of Communications Partners, Ltd., a Dallas-based
private investment firm. Mr. Neuman also serves as a director of Chancellor
Media, Capstar Broadcasting, STC Broadcasting and Grupo MVS. Effective July 1,
1998, Mr. Neuman will become Senior Vice President of Strategic Development for
Chancellor Media.
GARY R. CHAPMAN has been President of the Company since 1989 and a director
and CEO since November 1994 and became a director, the President and CEO of
Holdings concurrently with the closing of the Acquisition. Mr. Chapman served as
Joint Chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters from 1991 to 1993 and
serves as a board member of the Advanced Television Test Center. Currently, Mr.
Chapman serves on the Board of Directors of the Association for Maximum Service
Television and is Co-Chairman of the Advisory Board of Governors for the
National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation.
JAMES G. BABB, JR. has been the Company's Vice President of Industry
Relations since April 1996 and became Holding's Vice President of Industry
Relations concurrently with the closing of the Acquisition. Prior to joining the
Company, Mr. Babb was Chairman, CEO and President of Outlet Communications, Inc.
from May 1991 to February 1996. Mr. Babb currently serves as the Chairman of the
Television Board of the National Association of Broadcasters.
DEBORAH R. JACOBSON has been Vice President of Corporate Development and
Treasurer of the Company since February 13, 1995. She became the Vice President
of Corporate Development and Treasurer of Holdings concurrently with the closing
of the Acquisition. From 1981 to 1995, Ms. Jacobson was employed by The Bank of
New York, where most recently she served as Senior Vice President and Division
Head of the Communications, Entertainment and Publishing Lending Division.
PAUL KARPOWICZ has served as Vice President of Television of the Company
since January 1994 and became the Vice President of Television of Holdings
concurrently with the closing of the Acquisition. Prior to January 1994, Mr.
Karpowicz served as a general manager of the Company's Indianapolis CBS
affiliate station, WISH-TV, from July 1989 through July 1995.
PETER E. MALONEY has been Vice President of Finance of the Company since
January 1995 and became the Vice President of Finance of Holding concurrently
with the closing of the Acquisition. Prior to January 1995, Mr. Maloney was
employed by LIN Broadcasting as Vice President of Tax from June 1990 to December
1994 and as Director of Taxation and Financial Planning from January 1983 to
June 1990.
C. ROBERT OGREN, JR. has been Vice President of Engineering and Operations
of the Company since November 1990 and became the Vice President of Engineering
and Operations of Holdings concurrently with the closing of the Acquisition.
Prior to November 1990, Mr. Ogren was Director of Engineering at WBAL-TV from
June 1989 to October 1990 and Director of Engineering for Freedom Newspapers,
Inc. from June 1984 to May 1989.
GREGORY M. SCHMIDT has been Vice President of New Development, General
Counsel and Secretary since March 1995. He became Vice President of New
Development, General Counsel and Secretary of Holdings concurrently with the
closing of the Acquisition. From 1985 to 1995, he was a partner at Covington &
Burling, a Washington law firm with a high-profile presence in regulatory and
communications law.
DENISE M. PARENT has been Vice President-Deputy General Counsel since March
1997 and became the Vice President-Deputy General Counsel of Holdings
concurrently with the closing of the Acquisition. From 1993 to 1997, she was
employed by The Providence Journal Company as Senior Corporate Counsel. Prior to
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1993, Ms. Parent was employed by Adler Pollock & Sheehan Incorporated, a law
firm in Providence, Rhode Island.
COMPENSATION FOR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the compensation earned or paid, including
deferred compensation, by the Company to the Chief Executive Officer of the
Company (the "CEO") and the five other most highly compensated executive
officers of the Company for services rendered for the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995.
LONG-TERM
ANNUAL COMPENSATION COMPENSATION
--------------------------- ---------------------------
OTHER ANNUAL
COMPENSATION OPTIONS/SARS
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY($) BONUS($) ($)(A) (#)(B)
--------------------------- ---- --------- -------- ------------ ------------
Gary R. Chapman................................ 1997 500,000 205,000 22,305 100,000
President & CEO 1996 475,000 146,250 48,632 75,000
1995 475,000 134,000 24,978 0
Gregory M. Schmidt(c).......................... 1997 320,000 100,000 11,559 47,000
Vice President -- New Development, 1996 310,000 95,000 21,764 39,500
General Counsel & Secretary 1995 251,539 85,000 8,526 90,000
Paul Karpowicz................................. 1997 300,000 110,000 237,708 47,000
Vice President -- Television 1996 237,000 150,000 237,840 39,500
1995 230,000 85,000 27,672 90,000
Deborah R. Jacobson(c)......................... 1997 180,000 65,000 11,665 35,000
Vice President -- Corporate 1996 175,000 78,000 11,400 29,000
Development & Treasurer 1995 150,385 75,000 34,228 70,000
Peter E. Maloney............................... 1997 165,000 80,000 6,898 35,000
Vice President -- Finance 1996 145,000 65,000 5,763 29,000
1995 140,000 45,000 118,457 55,000
C. Robert Ogren, Jr............................ 1997 165,000 80,000 10,701 35,000
Vice President -- Engineering & 1996 140,000 65,000 8,849 29,000
Operations 1995 122,000 40,000 6,636 55,000
- ---------------
(a) The amount set forth in Other Annual Compensation includes as to all named
executive officers the value of executive life and disability insurance and
to most named executive officers the personal use of Company automobiles and
nonqualified pension contributions. In addition, such amount includes
relocation expenses of $16,669, $19,878 and $111,053 for Mr. Karpowicz, Ms.
Jacobson and Mr. Maloney respectively in 1995, $196,345 for Mr. Karpowicz in
1996, and an additional $212,196 tax gross-up relocation payment for Mr.
Karpowicz in 1997.
(b) "Special grant" options have a longer vesting period than normal options.
The purpose of these options was to provide the Company's executive group
with a strong incentive to maximize stockholder value. Of the options
granted to Messrs. Karpowicz, Maloney and Ogren in January 1995, "special
grant" options accounted for 15,000, 10,000 and 10,000, respectively, of
their option grants. Of the options granted to Ms. Jacobson in February
1995, "special grant" options accounted for 15,000 of her option grant. Of
the options granted to Mr. Schmidt in March 1995, "special grant" options
accounted for 15,000 of his option grant. The "special grant" options become
exercisable in four equal annual installments beginning December 31, 1996.
(c) Ms. Jacobson and Mr. Schmidt commenced employment with the Company on
February 13, 1995 and March 1, 1995, respectively.
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The following table discloses for the CEO and the other named executive
officers information on options granted during the 1997 fiscal year:
OPTION GRANTS DURING THE 1997 FISCAL YEAR
INDIVIDUAL GRANTS(1) POTENTIAL REALIZABLE
------------------------------- VALUE AT ASSUMED
NUMBER OF PERCENT OF TOTAL ANNUAL RATES OF STOCK
SECURITIES OPTIONS/SARS PRICE APPRECIATION FOR
UNDERLYING GRANTED TO EXERCISE OR OPTION TERM(2)
OPTIONS/SARS EMPLOYEES IN BASE PRICE EXPIRATION ----------------------
NAME SHARES FISCAL YEAR(%) ($/SHARE) DATE 5%($) 10%($)
---- ------------ ---------------- ----------- ---------- --------- ---------
Gary R. Chapman......................... 100,000 15.1 41.44 1/2/07 2,606,139 6,604,469
Gregory M. Schmidt...................... 47,000 7.1 41.44 1/2/07 1,224,885 3,104,100
Paul Karpowicz.......................... 47,000 7.1 41.44 1/2/07 1,224,885 3,104,100
Deborah R. Jacobson..................... 35,000 5.3 41.44 1/2/07 912,149 2,311,564
Peter E. Maloney........................ 35,000 5.3 41.44 1/2/07 912,149 2,311,564
C. Robert Ogren Jr...................... 35,000 5.3 41.44 1/2/07 912,149 2,311,564
- ---------------
(1) All options granted to the named executive officers become exercisable in
four equal annual installments beginning one year after the grant date and
have an option term of ten years. In the event of a change in control, the
named executive officers may surrender their vested options to the Company
in exchange for a cash payment. See "-- Employment Contracts and Termination
and Change in Control Arrangements."
(2) The dollar amounts set forth under these columns are the result of
calculations at the 5% and 10% assumed rates set by the SEC and therefore
are not intended to forecast possible future appreciation, if any, of the
Company's Common Stock price. The assumed annual rates of appreciation of 5%
and 10% would result in the price of the Company's stock increasing to
$67.50 and $107.49, respectively, from a base price of $41.44.
The following table discloses, for the CEO and the other named executive
officers, individual exercises of options in the last fiscal year and the number
and value of options held by such named executive officer at December 31, 1997:
AGGREGATE EXERCISES DURING THE 1997 FISCAL YEAR
AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
VALUE OF
SHARES UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED
SHARES OPTION PRICE AT VALUE UNEXERCISED IN-THE-MONEY
ACQUIRED ON PRICE EXERCISE REALIZED OPTIONS AT OPTIONS AT
NAME EXERCISE(#) SHARE($) ($) ($) FISCAL YEAR END(#) FISCAL YEAR END($)
---- ----------- -------- -------- -------- ------------------ ------------------
Gary R. Chapman................ -- -- -- -- 571,110 14,782,843
Gregory M. Schmidt............. 9,000 29.375 54.281 224,154 167,500 3,606,820
Paul Karpowicz................. -- -- -- -- 182,957 4,337,539
Deborah R. Jacobson............ 3,500 30.25 53.315 80,728 127,500 2,700,225
Peter E. Maloney............... 917 5.466 42.00 35,501 129,889 3,126,101
83 9.024 42.00 2,737 -- --
1,000 9.024 38.375 29,351 -- --
C. Robert Ogren, Jr............ -- -- -- -- 122,985 2,852,744
- ---------------
(1) Messrs. Chapman, Karpowicz, Maloney and Ogren hold options with respect to
shares of AT&T Corp. common stock received as compensation from LIN
Broadcasting prior to the Spin-off, which amounts are not reflected in the
above chart.
EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS AND TERMINATION AND CHANGE IN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS
Employment Agreement with Gary Chapman. The Company has an employment
agreement with Mr. Chapman. The employment agreement provides for (i) a term
that ends on December 31, 1999, (ii) a minimum annual base salary of $475,000
and (iii) a target bonus of at least $150,000. The agreement also provides for
option grants, participation in certain of the Company's benefit programs,
additional severance benefits upon termination without cause, and the vesting of
unvested options in the event of certain changes in control of the Company.
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Severance Compensation Agreements. The Company has entered into Severance
Compensation Agreements with Mr. Chapman and the other named executive officers
of the Company. Under such agreements, if employment is terminated other than
for cause (as defined in the Severance Compensation Agreements), the employee is
entitled to certain severance benefits in addition to any compensation otherwise
payable. Such severance benefits include a lump sum payment designed to provide
the equivalent to the sum of (i) an amount equal to two times the employee's
annual base salary on the Date of Termination (as defined in the Severance
Compensation Agreements); (ii) an amount equal to two times the bonus
compensation paid to the employee with respect to the last complete fiscal year;
and (iii) the present value as of the Date of Termination, of the sum of (a) all
benefits which have accrued to the employee but have not vested under the LIN
Television Corporation Retirement Plan as of the Date of Termination and (b) all
additional benefits which would have accrued to the employee under the
Retirement Plan if the employee had continued to be employed by the Company on
the same terms the employee was employed on the Date of Termination, from the
Date of Termination to the date twelve months after the Date of Termination. In
addition to such cash payments, the employee is entitled to (i) life, health and
disability and accident insurance benefits substantially similar to those which
the employee was receiving prior to the Notice of Termination (as defined) (or,
if greater, immediately prior to a Change in Control, as defined in the
Severance Compensation Agreements) for a period of two years; (ii) acceleration
of all stock options granted under the Company's stock option plans; and (iii)
the right within one year following the later of the Change in Control or the
exercise of each stock option to sell to the Company shares of Common Stock that
have been acquired upon the exercise of stock options at a price equal to the
average market price of the Common Stock for the 30-day period prior to the
change in control.
The Company and Hicks Muse expect that the Company will enter into
continuing employment and severance agreements with Mr. Chapman and the other
named executive officers of the Company.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Directors of the Company and Holdings who are also employees of the
company, Holdings or Hicks Muse serve without additional compensation. At
present there are no independent directors of the Company or Holdings.
SECURITIES OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
The Company has 1,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share,
issued and outstanding, all of which are owned by Holdings. Holdings has 1,000
shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, issued and outstanding, 630
of which are owned by Ranger Equity Holdings B Corp. (the "GECC Guarantor") and
370 of which are owned by Ranger Equity Holdings A Corp. All of the shares of
capital stock of the GECC Guarantor and Ranger Equity Holdings A Corp. are held
by Ranger Equity Holdings Corporation, which is controlled by a limited
partnership controlled by a limited liability company which is in turn
controlled by Thomas O. Hicks. For a description of the relationship between
Hicks Muse and the Company, see "Certain Other Transactions."
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CERTAIN OTHER TRANSACTIONS
In connection with the Acquisition, Holdings, Company and certain of their
respective affiliates (collectively, the "Clients") entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Monitoring and Oversight Agreement") with Hicks, Muse & Co.
Partners, L.P., ("Hicks Muse Partners"), an affiliate of Hicks Muse, pursuant to
which the Clients have agreed to pay Hicks Muse Partners an annual fee (payable
quarterly) for oversight and monitoring services to the Clients. The aggregate
annual fee is adjustable on January 1 of each calendar year to an amount equal
to 1.0% of the budgeted consolidated annual EBITDA of Holdings and its
subsidiaries for the then-current fiscal year. Upon the acquisition by Holdings
and its subsidiaries of another entity or business, the fee shall be adjusted
prospectively in the same manner using the pro forma consolidated annual EBITDA
of Holdings and its subsidiaries. In no event shall the annual fee be less than
$1,000,000. Thomas O. Hicks, Chairman of Holdings and the Company, and Michael
J. Levitt, director of Holdings and the Company, are each principals of Hicks
Muse Partners. Hicks Muse Partners is also entitled to reimbursement for any
expenses incurred by it in connection with rendering services allocable to the
Clients. The Clients, jointly and severally, have agreed to indemnify Hicks Muse
Partners, its affiliates, and their respective directors, officers, controlling
persons, agents and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, losses,
damages, expenses and fees related to or arising out of or in connection with
the services rendered by Hicks Muse Partners under the Monitoring and Oversight
Agreement and not resulting primarily from the bad faith, gross negligence, or
willful misconduct of Hicks Muse Partners. The Monitoring and Oversight
Agreement makes available the resources of Hicks Muse Partners concerning a
variety of financial and operational matters. Holdings and the Company do not
believe that the services that have been and will continue to be provided to
them by Hicks Muse Partners could otherwise be obtained by them without the
addition of personnel or the engagement of outside professional advisors. In the
opinion of Holdings and the Company, the fees provided for under the Monitoring
and Oversight Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits received and to be
received by Holdings and the Company.
In connection with the Acquisition, the Clients entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Financial Advisory Agreement") with Hicks Muse Partners,
pursuant to which Hicks Muse Partners received a financial advisory fee at the
closing of the Acquisition as compensation for its services as financial advisor
to the Clients in connection with the Acquisition. Hicks Muse Partners also is
entitled to receive a fee equal to 1.5% of the "transaction value" (as defined)
for each "subsequent transaction" (as defined) in which a Client is involved.
The term "transaction value" means the total value of the subsequent transaction
including without limitation, the aggregate amount of the funds required to
complete the subsequent transaction (excluding any fees payable pursuant to the
Financial Advisory Agreement), including the amount of any indebtedness,
preferred stock or similar obligations assumed (or remaining outstanding). The
term "subsequent transaction" means any future proposal for a tender offer,
acquisition, sale, merger, exchange offer, recapitalization, restructuring or
other similar transaction directly involving the Holdings or any of its
subsidiaries, and any other person or entity. In addition, the Clients, jointly
and severally, have agreed to indemnify Hicks Muse Partners, its affiliates, and
their respective directors, officers, controlling persons, agents and employees
from and against all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, expenses and fees
related to or arising out of or in connection with the services rendered by
Hicks Muse Partners under the Financial Advisory Agreement and not resulting
primarily from the bad faith, gross negligence, or willful misconduct of Hicks
Muse Partners. The Financial Advisory Agreement makes available the resources of
Hicks Muse Partners concerning a variety of financial and operation matters.
Holdings and the Company do not believe that the services that will be provided
by Hicks Muse Partners could otherwise be obtained by them without the addition
of personnel or the engagement of outside professional advisors. In the opinion
of Holdings and the Company, the fees provided for under the Financial Advisory
Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits received and to be received by
Holdings and the Company.
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THE EXCHANGE OFFERS
PURPOSE AND EFFECT
The Old Notes were sold by the Issuers on March 3, 1998, in the Original
Offerings. In connection with the Original Offerings, the Company entered into
an Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated March 3, 1998 and Holdings
entered into an Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated March 3, 1998
(such agreements being collectively referred to herein as the "Registration
Rights Agreements"). The Registration Rights Agreements require that the Issuers
file a registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to the New
Notes and, upon the effectiveness of that registration statement, offer (the
"Exchange Offers") to the holders of the Old Notes the opportunity to exchange
their Old Notes for a like principal amount (or principal amount at maturity) of
New Notes, which will be issued without a restrictive legend and may be
reoffered and resold by the holder without registration under the Securities
Act. The Registration Rights Agreements further provide that the Issuers must
use their respective best efforts to cause the registration statement with
respect to the Exchange Offers to be declared effective on or before August 29,
1998. Except as provided below, upon the completion of the Exchange Offers, the
Issuers' obligations with respect to the registration of the Old Notes and the
New Notes will terminate. Copies of the Registration Rights Agreements have been
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus is a
part and although the Issuers believe that the summary herein of certain
provisions thereof describes all material elements of the Registration Rights
Agreements, such summary does not purport to be complete and is subject to, and
is qualified in its entirety by reference thereto. As a result of the filing and
the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, certain liquidated damages
provided for in the Registration Rights Agreements will not become payable by
the Issuers.
In order to participate in an Exchange Offer, a holder must represent to
the applicable Issuer, among other things, that (i) the New Notes acquired
pursuant to such Exchange Offer are being obtained in the ordinary course of
business of the person receiving such New Notes, whether or not such person is
the holder of the Old Notes, (ii) neither the holder nor any such other person
is engaging in or intends to engage in a distribution of the New Notes, (iii)
neither the holder nor any such other person has an arrangement or understanding
with any person to participate in the distribution of such New Notes, (iv)
neither the holder nor any such other person is an "affiliate," as defined under
Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act, of Holdings, the Company or any
Guarantor, and (v) if such holder or other person is a broker-dealer, that it
will receive New Notes for its own account in exchange for Old Notes that were
acquired as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities and
that it will be required to acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in
connection with any resale of such New Notes.
Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreements, each Issuer is required to
file a "shelf" registration statement for a continuous offering pursuant to Rule
415 under the Securities Act in respect of the Old Notes if (i) because of any
change in law or applicable interpretations of the staff of the Commission, such
Issuer is not permitted to effect its Exchange Offer, (ii) its Exchange Offer is
not consummated within 225 days of the applicable Original Offering, (iii) any
holder of Private Exchange Securities (as defined) requests within 60 days after
the Exchange Offer, (iv) any applicable law or interpretations do not permit any
holder of Old Notes to participate in the applicable Exchange Offer, (v) any
holder of Old Notes participates in the applicable Exchange Offer and does not
receive freely transferrable New Notes in exchange for Old Notes or (vi) the
applicable Issuer so elects. In the event that an Issuer is obligated to file a
"shelf" registration statement, it will be required to keep such "shelf"
registration statement effective for up to two years. Other than as set forth in
this paragraph, no holder will have the right to participate in the "shelf"
registration statement nor otherwise to require that the applicable Issuer
register such holder's shares of Old Notes under the Securities Act. See
"-- Procedures for Tendering."
Based on an interpretation by the Commission's staff set forth in no-action
letters issued to third-parties unrelated to the Issuers, the Issuers believe
that New Notes issued pursuant to the Exchange Offers in exchange for Old Notes
may be offered for resale, sold and otherwise transferred by any person
receiving such New Notes, whether or not such person is the holder (other than
any such holder or such other person which is an "affiliate" of Holdings, the
Company or any of the Guarantors within the meaning of Rule 405 under the
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Securities Act), without compliance with the registration and prospectus
delivery provisions of the Securities Act, provided that (i) the New Notes are
acquired in the ordinary course of business of that holder or such other person,
(ii) neither the holder nor such other person is engaging in or intends to
engage in a distribution of the New Notes, and (iii) neither the holder nor such
other person has an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate
in the distribution of the New Notes. Any holder who tenders in an Exchange
Offer for the purpose of participating in a distribution of New Notes cannot
rely on this interpretation by the Commission's staff and must comply with the
registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in
connection with a secondary resale transaction. Each broker-dealer that receives
New Notes for its own account in exchange for Old Notes, whether the Old Notes
were acquired by that broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or
other trading activities, must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in
connection with any resale of such New Notes. See "Plan of Distribution."
CONSEQUENCES OF FAILURE TO EXCHANGE
Following the completion of the Exchange Offers (except as set forth in the
third paragraph under "-- Purpose and Effect" above), holders of Old Notes not
tendered will not have any further registration rights and those Old Notes will
continue to be subject to certain restrictions on transfer. Accordingly, the
liquidity of the market for a holder's Old Notes could be adversely affected
upon completion of the Exchange Offers if the holder does not participate in the
Exchange Offers.
TERMS OF THE SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES EXCHANGE OFFER
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Prospectus
and in the Senior Subordinated Notes Letter of Transmittal, the Company will
accept any and all Old Senior Subordinated Notes validly tendered and not
withdrawn prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. The
Company will issue $1,000 principal amount of New Senior Subordinated Notes in
exchange for each $1,000 principal amount of outstanding Old Senior Subordinated
Notes accepted in the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer. Holders may
tender some or all of their Old Senior Subordinated Notes pursuant to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer. However, Old Senior Subordinated Notes may be
tendered only in integral multiples of $1,000 in principal amount.
The form and terms of the New Senior Subordinated Notes will be
substantially the same as the form and terms of the Old Senior Subordinated
Notes except that (i) interest on the New Senior Subordinated Notes will accrue
from the date of issuance of the Old Senior Subordinated Notes or the date of
the last periodic payment of interest on such Old Senior Subordinated Note,
whichever is later, and (ii) the New Senior Subordinated Notes have been
registered under the Securities Act and will not bear legends restricting their
transfer. The New Senior Subordinated Notes will evidence the same debt as the
Old Senior Subordinated Notes and will be issued pursuant to, and entitled to
the benefits of, the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture.
As of March 31, 1998, the Old Subordinated Notes representing $300,000,000
aggregate principal amount were outstanding. This Prospectus, together with the
Senior Subordinated Notes Letter of Transmittal, is being sent to registered
holders and to others believed to have beneficial interests in the Old Senior
Subordinated Notes. Holders of Old Senior Subordinated Notes do not have any
appraisal or dissenters' rights under the General Corporation Law of the State
of Delaware or the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture in connection with the
Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer. The Company intends to conduct the
Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer in accordance with the applicable
requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission
promulgated thereunder.
The Company shall be deemed to have accepted validly tendered Old Senior
Subordinated Notes when, as, and if the Company has given oral or written notice
thereof, to the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Agent. The Senior
Subordinated Notes Exchange Agent will act as agent for the tendering holders
for the purpose of receiving the New Senior Subordinated Notes from the Company.
If any tendered Old Senior Subordinated Notes are not accepted for exchange
because of an invalid tender, the occurrence of certain other events set forth
herein or otherwise, certificates for any such unaccepted Old Senior
Subordinated Notes
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will be returned, without expense, to the tendering holder thereof as promptly
as practicable after the Expiration Date.
Holders who tender Old Senior Subordinated Notes in the Senior Subordinated
Notes Exchange Offer will not be required to pay brokerage commissions or fees
or, subject to the instructions in the Senior Subordinated Notes Letter of
Transmittal, transfer taxes with respect to the exchange of Old Senior
Subordinated Notes pursuant to the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer, the
Company will pay all charges and expenses, other than certain applicable taxes,
in connection with the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Offer. See "The
Exchange Offers -- Fees and Expenses."
TERMS OF THE DISCOUNT NOTES EXCHANGE OFFER
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Prospectus
and in the Senior Discount Notes Letter of Transmittal, Holdings will accept any
and all Old Senior Discount Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn prior to
5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. Holdings will issue
$1,000 principal amount at maturity of New Senior Discount Notes in exchange for
each $1,000 principal amount at maturity of outstanding Old Senior Discount
Notes accepted in the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer. Holders may tender
some or all of their Old Senior Discount Notes pursuant to the Senior Discount
Notes Exchange Offer. However, Old Senior Discount Notes may be tendered only in
integral multiples of $1,000 in principal amount at maturity.
The form and terms of the New Senior Discount Notes will be substantially
the same as the form and terms of the Old Senior Discount Notes except that (i)
the Accreted Value of the New Senior Discount Notes will be calculated from the
date of issuance of the Old Senior Discount Notes and (ii) the New Senior
Discount Notes have been registered under the Securities Act and will not bear
legends restricting their transfer. The New Senior Discount Notes will evidence
the same debt as the Old Senior Discount Notes and will be issued pursuant to,
and entitled to the benefit of, the Senior Discount Notes Indenture.
As of March 31, 1998, Old Discount Notes representing $325,000,000
aggregate principal amount at maturity were outstanding. This Prospectus,
together with the Senior Discount Notes Letter of Transmittal, is being sent to
registered holders and to others believed to have beneficial interests in the
Old Senior Discount Notes. Holders of Old Senior Discount Notes do not have any
appraisal or dissenters' rights under the General Corporation Law of the State
of Delaware or the Senior Discount Notes Indenture in connection with the Senior
Discount Notes Exchange Offer. Holdings intends to conduct the Senior Discount
Notes Exchange Offer in accordance with the applicable requirements of the
Exchange Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated
thereunder.
Holdings shall be deemed to have accepted validly tendered Old Senior
Discount Notes when, as, and if Holdings has given oral or written notice
thereof to the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Agent. The Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Agent will act as agent for the tendering holders for the purpose of
receiving the New Senior Discount Notes from Holdings. If any tendered Old
Senior Discount Notes are not accepted for exchange because of an invalid
tender, the occurrence of certain other events set forth herein or otherwise,
certificates for any such unaccepted Old Senior Discount Notes will be returned,
without expense, to the tendering holder thereof as practicable after the
Expiration Date.
Holders who tender Old Senior Discount Notes in the Senior Discount Notes
Exchange Offer will not be required to pay brokerage commissions or fees or,
subject to the instructions in the Senior Discount Notes Letter of Transmittal,
transfer taxes with respect to the exchange of Old Senior Discount Notes
pursuant to the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer. Holdings will pay all
charges and expenses, other than certain applicable taxes, in connection with
the Senior Discount Notes Exchange Offer. See "The Exchange Offers -- Fees and
Expenses."
EXPIRATION DATE; EXTENSIONS; AMENDMENTS
The term "Expiration Date" shall mean, with respect to either Exchange
Offer, 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on October 1, 1998, unless an Issuer, in
its sole discretion, extends the Exchange Offer applicable
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to its Old Notes, in which case the term "Expiration Date" shall mean the latest
date and time to which such Exchange Offer is extended. In any event, each
Exchange Offer will be held open for at least thirty days. In order to extend
its Exchange Offer, the applicable Issuer will issue a notice of any extension
by press release or other public announcement prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City
time, on the next business day after the previously scheduled Expiration Date.
Each Issuer reserves the right, in its sole discretion (i) to delay accepting
any Old Notes, to extend its Exchange Offer, or, if any of the conditions set
forth under "The Exchange Offers -- Certain Conditions to Exchange Offers" shall
not have been satisfied, to terminate such Exchange Offer, by giving oral or
written notice of such delay, extension or termination to the applicable
Exchange Agent, as the case may be, or (ii) to amend the terms of its Exchange
Offer in any manner.
PROCEDURES FOR TENDERING
Only a holder of Old Notes may tender the Old Notes in an Exchange Offer.
Except as set forth under "The Exchange Offers -- Book Entry Transfer," to
tender in an Exchange Offer a holder must complete, sign and date the Letter of
Transmittal applicable to such Exchange Offer, or a copy thereof, have the
signature thereon guaranteed if required by such Letter of Transmittal, and mail
or otherwise deliver such Letter of Transmittal or copy to the Exchange Agent
for such Exchange Offer prior to the Expiration Date for such Exchange Offer. In
addition, either (i) certificates for such Old Notes must be received by the
Exchange Agent for such Exchange Offer along with the Letter of Transmittal
applicable to such Exchange Offer, or (ii) a timely confirmation of a book-entry
transfer (a "Book-Entry Confirmation") of such Old Notes, if that procedure is
available, into the account of the Exchange Agent for such Exchange Offer at the
DTC (the "Book-Entry Transfer Facility") pursuant to the procedure for
book-entry transfer described below, must be received by such Exchange Agent
prior to the Expiration Date, or (iii) the Holder must comply with the
guaranteed delivery procedures described below. To be tendered effectively, a
Letter of Transmittal and other required documents must be received by the
appropriate Exchange Agent at its address set forth under "The Exchange
Offers -- Exchange Agents" prior to the Expiration Date.
The tender by a holder that is not withdrawn before the Expiration Date
will constitute an agreement between that holder and the applicable Issuer in
accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein and in
the Letter of Transmittal applicable to such Issuer's Exchange Offer.
THE METHOD OF DELIVERY OF OLD NOTES, A LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL, AND ALL OTHER
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO AN EXCHANGE AGENT IS AT THE ELECTION AND RISK OF THE
HOLDER. INSTEAD OF DELIVERY BY MAIL, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT HOLDERS USE AN
OVERNIGHT OR HAND DELIVERY SERVICE. IN ALL CASES, SUFFICIENT TIME SHOULD BE
ALLOWED TO ASSURE DELIVERY TO AN EXCHANGE AGENT BEFORE THE EXPIRATION DATE. NO
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL OR OLD NOTES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE ISSUERS. HOLDERS MAY
REQUEST THEIR RESPECTIVE BROKERS, DEALERS, COMMERCIAL BANKS, TRUST COMPANIES, OR
NOMINEES TO EFFECT THESE TRANSACTIONS FOR SUCH HOLDERS.
Any beneficial owner whose Old Notes are registered in the name of a
broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company, or other nominee and who wishes
to tender should contact the registered holder promptly and instruct the
registered holder to tender on the beneficial owner's behalf. If the beneficial
owner wishes to tender on the owner's own behalf, the owner must, prior to
completing and executing a Letter of Transmittal and delivering the owner's Old
Notes, either make appropriate arrangements to register ownership of the Old
Notes in the beneficial owner's name or obtain a properly completed bond power
from the registered holder. The transfer of registered ownership may take
considerable time.
Signatures on a Letter of Transmittal or a notice of withdrawal, as the
case may be, must be guaranteed by an Eligible Institution (as defined below)
unless Old Notes tendered pursuant thereto are tendered (i) by a registered
holder who has not completed the box entitled "Special Registration
Instructions" or "Special Delivery Instructions" on such Letter of Transmittal
or (ii) for the account of an Eligible Institution. If signatures on a Letter of
Transmittal or a notice of withdrawal, as the case may be, are required to be
guaranteed, the guarantee must be by any eligible guarantor institution that is
a member of or participant in
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the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program, the New York Stock Exchange
Medallion Signature Program, the Stock Exchange Medallion Program, or an
"eligible guarantor institution" within the meaning of Rule 17Ad-15 under the
Exchange Act (an "Eligible Institution").
If a Letter of Transmittal is signed by a person other than the registered
holder of any Old Notes listed therein, the Old Notes must be endorsed or
accompanied by a properly completed bond power, signed by the registered holder
as that registered holder's name appears on the Old Notes.
If a Letter of Transmittal or any Old Notes or bond powers are signed by
trustees, executors, administrators, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, officers of
corporations, or others acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, such
persons should so indicate when signing, and evidence satisfactory to the
relevant Issuer of their authority to so act must be submitted with such Letter
of Transmittal unless waived by the relevant Issuer.
All questions as to the validity, form, eligibility (including time of
receipt), acceptance, and withdrawal of tendered Old Notes will be determined by
the Issuers in their sole discretion, which determination will be final and
binding. Each Issuer reserves the absolute right to reject any and all Old Notes
not properly tendered or any Old Notes the acceptance of which would, in the
opinion of counsel for such Issuer, be unlawful. Each Issuer also reserves the
right to waive any defects, irregularities, or conditions of tender as to
particular Old Notes. An Issuer's interpretation of the terms and conditions of
its Exchange Offer (including the instructions in a Letter of Transmittal) will
be final and binding on all parties. Unless waived, any defects or
irregularities in connection with tenders of Old Notes must be cured within such
time as the Issuer of such Old Notes shall determine. Although each Issuer
intends to notify holders of defects or irregularities with respect to tenders
of Old Notes, neither the Issuers, the Exchange Agents, nor any other person
shall incur any liability for failure to give such notification. Tenders of Old
Notes will not be deemed to have been made until such defects or irregularities
have been cured or waived. Any Old Notes received by an Exchange Agent that are
not properly tendered and as to which the defects or irregularities have not
been cured or waived will be returned by such Exchange Agent to the tendering
holders, unless otherwise provided in the Letter of Transmittal accompanying
such Old Notes, as soon as practicable following the Expiration Date.
In addition, each Issuer reserves the right in its sole discretion to
purchase or make offers for any Old Notes that remain outstanding after the
Expiration Date or, as set forth under "The Exchange Offers -- Conditions to the
Exchange Offer," to terminate its Exchange Offer and, to the extent permitted by
applicable law, purchase Old Notes in the open market, in privately negotiated
transactions, or otherwise. The terms of any such purchases or offers could
differ from the terms of such Issuer's Exchange Offer.
By tendering, each holder will represent that, among other things, (i) the
New Notes acquired pursuant to such Exchange Offer are being obtained in the
ordinary course of business of the person receiving such New Notes, whether or
not such person is the holder of the Old Notes, (ii) neither the holder nor any
such other person is engaging or intends to engage in a distribution of such New
Notes, (iii) neither the holder nor any such other person has an arrangement or
understanding with any person to participate in the distribution of such New
Notes within the meaning of the Securities Act, (iv) neither the holder nor any
such other person is an "affiliate," as defined under Rule 405 promulgated under
the Securities Act, of Holdings, the Company or any Guarantor, and (v) if such
holder or other person is a broker-dealer, that it will receive New Notes for
its own account in exchange for Old Notes that were acquired as a result of
market-making activities or other trading activities and that it will be
required to acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any
resale of such New Notes.
In all cases, issuance of New Notes for Old Notes that are accepted for
exchange pursuant to an Exchange Offer will be made only after timely receipt by
the Exchange Agent for such Exchange Offer of certificates for such Old Notes or
a timely Book-Entry Confirmation of such Old Notes into such Exchange Agent's
account at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility, a properly completed and duly
executed Letter of Transmittal (or, with respect to the DTC and its
participants, electronic instructions in which the tendering holder acknowledges
its receipt of and agreement to be bound by the Letter of Transmittal for such
Exchange Offer) and all other required documents. If any tendered Old Notes are
not accepted for any reason set forth in the terms and conditions of the
Exchange Offer for such Old Notes or if Old Notes are submitted for a
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greater principal amount than the holder desires to exchange, such unaccepted or
non-exchanged Old Notes will be returned without expense to the tendering Holder
thereof (or, in the case of Old Notes tendered by book-entry transfer into an
Exchange Agent's account at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility pursuant to the
book-entry transfer procedures described below, such non-exchanged Old Notes
will be credited to an account maintained with such Book-Entry Transfer
Facility) as promptly as practicable after the expiration or termination of the
Exchange Offer for such Old Notes.
BOOK-ENTRY TRANSFER
The Exchange Agents will make requests to establish accounts with respect
to the Old Notes at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility for purposes of the
Exchange Offers within two business days after the date of this Prospectus, and
any financial institution that is a participant in the Book-Entry Transfer
Facility's systems may make book-entry delivery of Old Notes being tendered by
causing the Book-Entry Transfer Facility to transfer such Old Notes into the
appropriate Exchange Agent's account at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility in
accordance with such Book-Entry Transfer Facility's procedures for transfer.
However, although delivery of Old Notes may be effected through book-entry
transfer at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility, a Letter of Transmittal or copy
thereof, with any required signature guarantees and any other required
documents, must, in any case other than as set forth in the following paragraph,
be transmitted to and received by the appropriate Exchange Agent at its address
set forth under "The Exchange Offers -- Exchange Agents" on or prior to the
Expiration Date or the guaranteed delivery below must be complied with.
DTC's Automated Tender Offer Program ("ATOP") is the only method of
processing exchange offers through DTC. To accept an Exchange Offer through
ATOP, participants in DTC must send electronic instructions to DTC through DTC's
communication system in place of sending a signed, hard copy Letter of
Transmittal. DTC is obligated to communicate those electronic instructions to
the Exchange Agents. To tender Old Notes through ATOP, the electronic
instructions sent to DTC and transmitted by DTC to an Exchange Agent must
contain the participant's acknowledgment of its receipt of and agreement to be
bound by the Letter of Transmittal for such Old Notes.
GUARANTEED DELIVERY PROCEDURES
If a registered holder of Old Notes desires to tender such Old Notes and
the Old Notes are not immediately available, or time will not permit such
holder's Old Notes or other required documents to reach the appropriate Exchange
Agent before the Expiration Date, or the procedure for book-entry transfer
cannot be completed on a timely basis, a tender may be effected if (i) the
tender if made through an Eligible Institution, (ii) prior to the Expiration
Date, such Exchange Agent received from such Eligible Institution a properly
completed and duly executed Letter of Transmittal (or a facsimile thereof) and
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, substantially in the form provided by the Issuer
of the Old Notes tendered (by telegram, telex, facsimile transmission, mail or
hand delivery), setting forth the name and address of the holder of such Old
Notes and the amount of Old Notes tendered, stating that the tender is being
made thereby and guaranteeing that within three New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE")
trading days after the date of execution of the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery,
the certificates for all physically tendered Old Notes, in proper form for
transfer, or a Book-Entry Confirmation, as the case may be, and any other
documents required by the applicable Letter of Transmittal will be deposited by
the Eligible Institution with the appropriate Exchange Agent, and (iii) the
certificates for all physically tendered Old Notes, in proper form for transfer,
or a Book-Entry Confirmation, as the case may be, and all other documents
required by the applicable Letter of Transmittal, are received by such Exchange
Agent within three NYSE trading days after the date of execution of the Notice
of Delivery.
WITHDRAWAL RIGHTS
Tenders of Old Notes may be withdrawn at any time prior to 5:00 p.m., New
York City time, on the Expiration Date.
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For a withdrawal of a tender of Old Notes to be effective, a written or
(for a DTC participant) electronic ATOP transmission notice of withdrawal must
be received by the appropriate Exchange Agent at its address set forth in this
Prospectus prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. Any
such notice of withdrawal must (i) specify the name of the person having
deposited the Old Notes to be withdrawn (the "Depositor"), (ii) identify the Old
Notes to be withdrawn (including the certificate number or numbers and principal
mount of such Old Notes), (iii) be signed by the holder in the same manner as
the original signature on the Letter of Transmittal by which such Old Notes were
tendered (including any required signature guarantees) or be accompanied by
documents of transfer sufficient to have the Trustee of such Old Notes register
the transfer of such Old Notes into the name of the person withdrawing the
tender, and (iv) specify the name in which any such Old Notes are to be
registered, if different from that of the holder who tendered such Old Notes.
All questions as to the validity, form, and eligibility (including time of
receipt) of such notices will be determined by the Issuer of the Old Notes
subject to such notice, whose determination shall be final and binding on all
parties. Any Old Notes so withdrawn will be deemed not to have been validly
tendered for exchange for purposes of the Exchange Offer relating to such Old
Notes. Any Old Notes which have been tendered for exchange but which are not
exchanged for any reason will be returned to the holder thereof without cost to
such holder as soon as practicable after withdrawal, rejection of tender, or
termination of the Exchange Offer relating to such Old Notes. Properly withdrawn
Old Notes may be retendered by following one of the procedures under "The
Exchange Offers -- Procedures for Tendering" at any time on or prior to the
Expiration Date.
CONDITIONS TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER
Notwithstanding any other provision of the Exchange Offers, an Issuer shall
not be required to accept for exchange, or to issue New Notes in exchange for,
any Old Notes and may terminate or amend such Issuer's Exchange Offer if at any
time before the acceptance of such Old Notes for exchange or the exchange of the
New Notes for such Old Notes, such Issuer determines that its Exchange Offer
violates applicable law, any applicable interpretation of the staff of the
Commission or any order of any governmental agency or court of competent
jurisdiction.
The foregoing conditions are for the sole benefit of the Issuers and may be
asserted by the Issuers regardless of the circumstances giving rise to any such
condition or may be waived by the Issuers in whole or in part at any time and
from time to time in their sole discretion. The failure by an Issuer at any time
to exercise any of the foregoing rights shall not be deemed a waiver of any such
right and each such right shall be deemed an ongoing right which may be asserted
at any time and from time to time.
In addition, an Issuer will not accept for exchange any Old Notes tendered,
and no New Notes will be issued in exchange for any such Old Notes, if at such
time any stop order shall be threatened or in effect with respect to the
Registration Statement of which this Prospectus constitutes a part or the
qualification of the indenture relating to such Issuer's Old Notes under the
Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended (the "TIA"). In any such event each
Issuer is required to use every reasonable effort to obtain the withdrawal of
any stop order at the earliest possible time.
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EXCHANGE AGENTS
All executed Letters of Transmittal should be directed to the applicable
Exchange Agent. The United States Trust Company of New York has been appointed
as both the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange Agent and the Discount Notes
Exchange Agent. Questions, requests for assistance and requests for additional
copies of the Prospectus or a Letter of Transmittal should be directed to the
applicable Exchange Agent addressed as follows:
To: THE UNITED STATES TRUST COMPANY OF NEW YORK,
By Overnight Courier: By Hand: By Registered or Certified
Mail:
United States Trust Company United States Trust Company United States Trust Company
of New York of New York of New York
770 Broadway, 13th Floor 111 Broadway, Lower Level P. O. Box 844
New York, New York 10003 New York, New York 10006 Cooper Station
Attn: Corporate Trust Services Attn: Corporate Trust Services New York, New York 10276-0844
Telephone: (800) 548-6565 Attn: Corporate Trust Services
Facsimile: (212) 420-6152 Telephone: (800) 548-6565
Facsimile: (212) 420-6152
FEES AND EXPENSES
The Issuers will not make any payments to brokers, dealers, or other
soliciting acceptances of the Exchange Offers. The principal solicitation is
being made by mail; however, additional solicitations may be made in person or
by telephone by officers and employees of the Issuers.
The estimated cash expenses to be incurred in connection with the Exchange
Offers will be paid by the Issuers and are estimated in the aggregate to be
$250,000, which includes fees and expenses of the Trustees for the Old Notes,
accounting, legal, printing, and related fees and expenses.
TRANSFER TAXES
Holders who tender their Old Notes for exchange will not be obligated to
pay any transfer taxes in connection except that holders who instruct an Issuer
to register New Notes in the name of, or request that Old Notes not tendered or
not accepted in an Exchange Offer be returned to, a person other than the
registered tendering holder will be responsible for the payment of any
applicable transfer tax thereon.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE NEW SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES
GENERAL
The New Senior Subordinated Notes are to be issued under the Indenture,
dated as of March 3, 1998 (the "Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture"), between
LIN Acquisition (as predecessor to the Company), the Guarantors and United
States Trust Company of New York, as trustee (the "Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee"), a copy of which is available upon request to the Company. The Old
Senior Subordinated Notes were also issued under the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture. The following summary of certain provisions of the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture and the Senior Subordinated Notes does not purport
to be complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference
to, all the provisions of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture (including the
definitions of certain terms therein and those terms made a part thereof by the
Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended) and the Senior Subordinated Notes.
Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings
given to them in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture. For definitions of
certain terms used in this section, see "-- Certain Definitions" below.
Principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Senior Subordinated
Notes will be payable, and the Senior Subordinated Notes may be exchanged or
transferred, at the office or agency of the Company in the Borough of Manhattan,
The City of New York (which initially shall be the corporate trust office of the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee in New York, New York), except that, at the
option of the Company, payment of interest may be made by check mailed to the
address of the holders as such address appears in the Senior Subordinated Notes
register.
The Senior Subordinated Notes will be issued in fully registered form only,
without coupons, in denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples thereof.
Initially, the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee will act as Paying Agent and
Registrar for the Senior Subordinated Notes. The Senior Subordinated Notes may
be presented for registration of transfer and exchange at the offices of the
Registrar, which initially will be the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee's
corporate trust office. The Company may change any Paying Agent and Registrar
without notice to holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes.
PRINCIPAL, MATURITY AND INTEREST
The Senior Subordinated Notes will be unsecured, senior subordinated
obligations of the Company and will be limited to $300,000,000 aggregate
principal amount, and will mature on March 1, 2008. Interest on the Senior
Subordinated Notes will accrue at a rate of 8 3/8% per annum and will be payable
in cash semi-annually on each March 1 and September 1, commencing on September
1, 1998, to the holders of record of Senior Subordinated Notes at the close of
business on February 15 and August 15, respectively, immediately preceding such
interest payment date. Interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes will accrue
from the most recent interest payment date to which interest has been paid or,
if no interest has been paid, from the date of original issuance. Interest will
be computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
OPTIONAL REDEMPTION
The Senior Subordinated Notes may be redeemed at any time on or after March
1, 2003, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at the redemption
prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof on the
applicable redemption date) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest,
if any, to the redemption date, if redeemed during the 12-month period beginning
on March 1 of each of the years set forth below:
YEAR PERCENTAGE
---- ----------
2003........................................................ 104.188%
2004........................................................ 102.792%
2005........................................................ 101.396%
2006 and thereafter......................................... 100.000%
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In addition, prior to March 1, 2001, the Company may, at its option, use
the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings to redeem up to 35% of the
principal amount of the Senior Subordinated Notes at a redemption price equal to
108.375% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest to the
redemption date; provided, however, that after any such redemption, at least 65%
of the aggregate principal amount of the Senior Subordinated Notes originally
issued would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such
redemption. Any such redemption will be required to occur on or prior to the
date that is one year after the receipt by the Company of the proceeds of an
Equity Offering. The Company shall effect such redemption on a pro rata basis.
In addition, prior to March 1, 2003, the Company may, at its option, redeem
the Senior Subordinated Notes upon a Change of Control. See "-- Change of
Control."
SELECTION AND NOTICE
If less than all of the Senior Subordinated Notes are to be redeemed at any
time, selection of Senior Subordinated Notes for redemption will be made by the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the
principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Senior Subordinated
Notes are listed or, in the absence of such requirements or if the Senior
Subordinated Notes are not so listed, on a pro rata basis, provided that no such
Senior Subordinated Notes of $1,000 or less shall be redeemed in part. Notice of
redemption shall be mailed by first class mail at least 30 but not more than 60
days before the redemption date to each holder of Senior Subordinated Notes to
be redeemed at its registered address. If any Senior Subordinated Note is to be
redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that relates to such Senior
Subordinated Note shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be
redeemed. A new Senior Subordinated Note in principal amount equal to the
unredeemed portion thereof will be issued in the name of the holder thereof upon
cancellation of the original Senior Subordinated Note. On and after the
redemption date, interest ceases to accrue on Senior Subordinated Notes or
portions of them called for redemption.
CHANGE OF CONTROL
Change of Control Offer. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides
that, upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder will have the
right to require that the Company purchase all or a portion of such holder's
Senior Subordinated Notes in cash pursuant to the offer described below (the
"Change of Control Offer"), at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal
amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
purchase.
The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that, prior to the mailing
of the notice referred to below, but in any event within 30 days following the
date on which the Company becomes aware that a Change of Control has occurred,
if the purchase of the Senior Subordinated Notes would violate or constitute a
default under any other Indebtedness of the Company, then the Company shall, to
the extent needed to permit such purchase of Senior Subordinated Notes, either
(i) repay all such Indebtedness and terminate all commitments outstanding
thereunder or (ii) obtain the requisite consents, if any, under such
Indebtedness to permit the purchase of the Senior Subordinated Notes as provided
below. The Company will first comply with the covenant in the preceding sentence
before it will be required to make the Change of Control Offer or purchase the
Senior Subordinated Notes pursuant to the provisions described below.
Within 30 days following the date on which the Company becomes aware that a
Change of Control has occurred, the Company must send, by first-class mail
postage prepaid, a notice to each holder of Senior Subordinated Notes, which
notice shall govern the terms of the Change of Control Offer. Such notice shall
state, among other things, the purchase date, which must be no earlier than 30
days nor later than 45 days from the date such notice is mailed, other than as
may be required by law (the "Change of Control Payment Date"). Holders electing
to have any Senior Subordinated Notes purchased pursuant to a Change of Control
Offer will be required to surrender such Senior Subordinated Notes to the Paying
Agent and Registrar for the Senior Subordinated Notes at the address specified
in the notice prior to the close of business on the business day prior to the
Change of Control Payment Date.
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Change of Control Redemption. In addition, the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture will provide that, prior to March 1, 2003, upon the occurrence of a
Change of Control, the Company will have the option to redeem the Senior
Subordinated Notes in whole but not in part (a "Change of Control Redemption")
at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus
accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date plus the Applicable Premium.
In order to effect a Change of Control Redemption, the Company must send a
notice to each holder of Senior Subordinated Notes, which notice shall govern
the terms of the Change of Control Redemption. Such notice must be mailed to
holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes within 30 days following the date the
Change of Control occurred (the "Change of Control Redemption Date") and state
that the Company is effecting a Change of Control Redemption in lieu of a Change
of Control Offer.
The Company will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), to the extent applicable
in connection with the purchase of Senior Subordinated Notes pursuant to a
Change of Control Offer.
These "Change of Control" covenants will not apply in the event of (a)
changes in a majority of the board of directors of the Company or Holdings so
long as a majority of such board of directors continues to consist of Continuing
Directors and (b) certain transactions with Permitted Holders (including Hicks
Muse, its officers and directors, and their respective Affiliates). In addition,
the Change of Control Offer requirement is not intended to afford holders of
Senior Subordinated Notes protection in the event of certain highly leveraged
transactions, reorganizations, restructurings, mergers and other similar
transactions that might adversely affect the holders of Senior Subordinated
Notes, but would not constitute a Change of Control. The Company could, in the
future, enter into certain transactions including certain recapitalizations of
the Company, that would not constitute a Change of Control with respect to the
Change of Control purchase feature of the Senior Subordinated Notes, but would
increase the amount of Indebtedness outstanding at such time. However, the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture will contain limitations on the ability of
the Company to incur additional Indebtedness and to engage in certain mergers,
consolidations and sales of assets, whether or not a Change of Control is
involved, subject, in each case, to limitations and qualifications. See "--
Certain Covenants -- Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and
Issuance of Capital Stock" and "-- Certain Covenants -- Merger, Consolidation
and Sale of Assets" below.
With respect to the sale of "all or substantially all" the assets of the
Company, which would constitute a Change of Control for purposes of the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture, the meaning of the phrase "all or substantially
all" varies according to the facts and circumstances of the subject transaction,
has no clearly established meaning under relevant law and is subject to judicial
interpretation. Accordingly, in certain circumstances there may be a degree of
uncertainty in ascertaining whether a particular transaction would involve a
disposition of "all or substantially all" of the assets of the Company and,
therefore, it may be unclear whether a Change of Control has occurred and
whether the Senior Subordinated Notes should be subject to a Change of Control
Offer.
The occurrence of certain of the events that would constitute a Change of
Control would constitute a default under the Senior Credit Facilities. Future
Senior Indebtedness of the Company and its Subsidiaries may also contain
prohibitions of certain events that would constitute a Change of Control or
require such Senior Indebtedness to be repurchased upon a Change of Control.
Moreover, the exercise by the holders of their right to require the Company to
repurchase the Senior Subordinated Notes could cause a default under such Senior
Indebtedness, even if the Change of Control itself does not, due to the
financial effect of such repurchase on the Company. Finally, the Company's
ability to pay cash to the holders upon a repurchase may be limited by the
Company's then existing financial resources. There can be no assurance that
sufficient funds will be available when necessary to make any required
repurchases. Even if sufficient funds were otherwise available, the terms of the
Senior Credit Facilities may prohibit the Company's prepayment of Senior
Subordinated Notes prior to their scheduled maturity. Consequently, if the
Company is not able to prepay the Indebtedness under the Senior Credit
Facilities and any other Senior Indebtedness containing similar restrictions or
obtain the requisite consents, as described above, the Company will be unable to
fulfill its repurchase obligations if holders of Senior Subordinated Notes
exercise their repurchase rights following a Change of Control, thereby
resulting in a default under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture.
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None of the provisions in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture relating
to a purchase of Senior Subordinated Notes upon a Change of Control is waivable
by the board of directors of the Company. Without the consent of each holder of
Senior Subordinated Notes affected thereby, after the mailing of the notice of a
Change of Control Offer, no amendment to the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
may, directly or indirectly, affect the Company's obligation to purchase the
outstanding Senior Subordinated Notes or amend, modify or change the obligation
of the Company to consummate a Change of Control Offer or waive any default in
the performance thereof or modify any of the provisions of the definitions with
respect to any such offer.
RANKING AND SUBORDINATION
The payment of the principal of, premium (if any), and interest on the
Senior Subordinated Notes, and any liquidated damages ("Additional Amounts")
under the Senior Subordinated Notes Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement
(as defined), is subordinated in right of payment, to the extent set forth in
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, to the payment when due of all existing
and future Senior Indebtedness of the Company. However, payment from the money
or the proceeds of U.S. Government Obligations held in any defeasance trust
described under "Satisfaction and Discharge of Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture; Defeasance" below is not subordinate to any Senior Indebtedness or
subject to the restrictions described herein. As of December 31, 1997 on a pro
forma basis, the Company would have had $170.0 million of Senior Indebtedness
outstanding (excluding unused commitments). Although the Senior Subordinated
Notes Indenture contains limitations on the amount of additional Indebtedness
that the Company and its subsidiaries may incur, under certain circumstances the
amount of such additional Indebtedness could be substantial and, in any case,
all or a portion of such Indebtedness may be Senior Indebtedness and may be
secured. See "-- Certain Covenants -- Limitation on Incurrence of Additional
Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock."
Only Indebtedness of the Company that is Senior Indebtedness will rank
senior to the Senior Subordinated Notes in accordance with the provisions of the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture. The Senior Subordinated Notes will in all
respects rank pari passu with all other Senior Subordinated Indebtedness of the
Company. The Company has agreed in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture that
it will not incur, directly or indirectly, any Indebtedness that is subordinate
or junior in ranking in any respect to Senior Indebtedness unless such
Indebtedness is Senior Subordinated Indebtedness or is contractually
subordinated in right of payment to Senior Subordinated Indebtedness. Unsecured
Indebtedness is not deemed to be subordinate or junior to Secured Indebtedness
merely because it is unsecured, nor is any Indebtedness deemed to be subordinate
or junior to other Indebtedness merely because it matures after such other
Indebtedness. Secured Indebtedness is not deemed to be Senior Indebtedness
merely because it is secured.
The Company may not pay principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or
Additional Amounts with respect to, the Senior Subordinated Notes or make any
deposit pursuant to the provisions described under "-- Satisfaction and
Discharge of Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture; Defeasance" below and may not
otherwise redeem, purchase or retire any Senior Subordinated Notes
(collectively, "pay the Senior Subordinated Notes") if (i) any Senior
Indebtedness is not paid when due or (ii) any other default on Senior
Indebtedness occurs and the maturity of such Senior Indebtedness is accelerated
in accordance with its terms unless, in either case, the default has been cured
or waived and/or any such acceleration has been rescinded or such Senior
Indebtedness has been paid; provided, however, that the Company may pay the
Senior Subordinated Notes without regard to the foregoing if the Company and the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee receive written notice approving such payment
from the Representative of the Senior Indebtedness with respect to which either
of the events set forth in clause (i) or (ii) of the immediately preceding
sentence has occurred and is continuing. During the continuance of any default
(other than a default described in clause (i) or (ii) of the preceding sentence)
with respect to any Designated Senior Indebtedness pursuant to which the
maturity thereof may be accelerated immediately without further notice (except
such notice as may be required to effect such acceleration) or the expiration of
any applicable grace periods, the Company may not pay the Senior Subordinated
Notes (except (i) in Qualified Capital Stock issued by the Company to pay
interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes or issued in exchange for the Senior
Subordinated Notes, (ii) in
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securities substantially identical to the Senior Subordinated Notes issued by
the Company in payment of interest accrued thereon or (iii) in securities issued
by the Company which are subordinated to the Senior Indebtedness at least to the
same extent as the Senior Subordinated Notes and having a Weighted Average Life
to Maturity at least equal to the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of
the Senior Subordinated Notes) for a period (a "Payment Blockage Period")
commencing upon the receipt by the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee (with a
copy to the Company) of written notice (a "Blockage Notice") of such default
from the Representative of the holders of such Designated Senior Indebtedness
specifying an election to effect a Payment Blockage Period and ending 179 days
thereafter (or earlier if such Payment Blockage Period is terminated (i) by
written notice to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee and the Company from the
Person or Persons who gave such Blockage Notice, (ii) because the default giving
rise to such Blockage Notice has been cured or waived or is no longer continuing
or (iii) because such Designated Senior Indebtedness has been repaid in full).
Notwithstanding the provisions described in the immediately preceding sentence,
but subject to the provisions of the first sentence of this paragraph and the
provisions of the immediately succeeding paragraph, the Company may resume
payments on the Senior Subordinated Notes after the end of such Payment Blockage
Period. Not more than one Blockage Notice may be given, and not more than one
payment Blockage Period may occur, in any consecutive 360-day period,
irrespective of the number of defaults with respect to Designated Senior
Indebtedness during such period. However, if any Blockage Notice within such
360-day period is given by or on behalf of any holders of Designated Senior
Indebtedness (other than the agent under the Senior Credit Facilities), the
agent under the Senior Credit Facilities may give another Blockage Notice within
such period. In no event, however, may the total number of days during which any
Payment Blockage Period or Payment Blockage Periods is in effect exceed 179 days
in the aggregate during any 360-consecutive-day period. No nonpayment default
that existed or was continuing on the date of delivery of any Blockage Notice to
the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee shall be, or be made, the basis for a
subsequent Blockage Notice unless such default shall have been cured or waived
for a period of not less than 90 consecutive days.
Upon any payment or distribution of the assets of the Company upon a total
or partial liquidation or dissolution or reorganization or bankruptcy of or
similar proceeding relating to the Company or its property, the holders of
Senior Indebtedness will be entitled to receive payment in full, in cash or Cash
Equivalents, of the Senior Indebtedness before the holders of the Senior
Subordinated Notes are entitled to receive any payment or distribution, and
until the Senior Indebtedness is paid in full, in cash or Cash Equivalents, any
payment or distribution to which holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes would
be entitled but for the subordination provisions of the Senior Subordinated
Notes Indenture will be made to holders of the Senior Indebtedness as their
interests may appear. If a distribution is made to the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee or to holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes that, due to the
subordination provisions, should not have been made to them, the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee or such holders are required to hold it in trust for
the holders of Senior Indebtedness and pay it over to them as their interests
may appear.
If payment of the Senior Subordinated Notes is accelerated because of an
Event of Default, the Company or the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee shall
promptly notify the Representative (if any) of any issue of Designated Senior
Indebtedness which is then outstanding; provided, however, that the Company and
the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee shall be obligated to notify such a
Representative (other than with respect to the Senior Credit Facilities) only if
such Representative has delivered or caused to be delivered an address for the
service of such a notice to the Company and the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee (and the Company and the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee shall be
obligated only to deliver the notice to the address so specified). If a notice
is required pursuant to the immediately preceding sentence, the Company may not
pay the Senior Subordinated Notes (except payment (i) in Qualified Capital Stock
issued by the Company to pay interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes or issued
in exchange for the Senior Subordinated Notes), (ii) in securities substantially
identical to the Senior Subordinated Notes issued by the Company in payment of
interest accrued thereon or (iii) in securities issued by the Company which are
subordinated to the Senior Indebtedness at least to the same extent as the
Senior Subordinated Notes and have a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at least
equal to the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Senior
Subordinated Notes), until five Business Days after the respective
Representative of the Designated Senior Indebtedness receives notice (at the
address specified in the preceding sentence) of such acceleration and,
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thereafter, may pay the Senior Subordinated Notes only if the subordination
provisions of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture otherwise permit payment
at that time.
By reason of such subordination provisions contained in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture, in the event of liquidation or insolvency,
creditors of the Company who are holders of Senior Indebtedness may recover
more, ratably, than the holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes, and creditors
of the Company who are not holders of Senior Indebtedness (including holders of
the Senior Subordinated Notes) may recover less, ratably, than holders of Senior
Indebtedness. In addition, the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture does not
prohibit the transfer or contribution of assets of the Company to its Restricted
Subsidiaries. In the event of any such transfer or contribution, holders of the
Senior Subordinated Notes will be effectively subordinated to the claims of
creditors of such Restricted Subsidiaries with respect to such assets.
SUBSIDIARY GUARANTEES OF THE SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES
Each of the Guarantors will unconditionally guarantee on a joint and
several basis (the "Subsidiary Guarantees") all of the Company's obligations
under the Senior Subordinated Notes, including its obligations to pay principal,
premium, if any, and interest with respect to the Senior Subordinated Notes. The
Subsidiary Guarantees will be unsecured senior subordinated obligations of the
Guarantors. The obligations of each Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee
will be subordinated and junior in right of payment to the prior payment in full
of existing and future Senior Indebtedness of such Guarantor substantially to
the same extent as the Senior Subordinated Notes are subordinated to all
existing and future Senior Indebtedness of the Company. The Guarantors will also
guarantee all obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities, and each Guarantor
has granted a security interest in all or substantially all of its assets to
secure the obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities. The obligations of
each Guarantor are limited to the maximum amount which, after giving effect to
all other contingent and fixed liabilities of such Guarantor and after giving
effect to any collections or payments from or payments made by or on behalf of
any other Guarantor in respect of the obligations of such other Guarantor under
its Subsidiary Guarantee or pursuant to its contribution obligations under the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, will result in the obligations of such
Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee not constituting a fraudulent
conveyance or fraudulent transfer under federal or state law. Each Guarantor
that makes a payment or distribution under a Subsidiary Guarantee shall be
entitled to a contribution from each other Guarantor in a pro rata amount, based
on the net assets of each Guarantor determined in accordance with GAAP.
The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that the Company shall
cause each Restricted Subsidiary issuing a Subsidiary Guarantee after the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date pursuant to "Certain Covenants -- Subsidiary
Guarantees by Restricted Subsidiaries" to (i) execute and deliver to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably
satisfactory to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee pursuant to which such
Restricted Subsidiary shall become a party to the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture and thereby unconditionally guarantee all of the Company's obligations
under the Senior Subordinated Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
on the terms set forth therein and (ii) deliver to the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee an Opinion of Counsel that such supplemental indenture has been duly
authorized, executed and delivered by such Restricted Subsidiary and constitutes
a valid, binding and enforceable obligation of such Restricted Subsidiary (which
opinion may be subject to customary assumptions and qualifications). Thereafter,
such Restricted Subsidiary shall (unless released in accordance with the terms
of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture) be a Guarantor for all purposes of
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture.
Each Subsidiary Guarantee will be a continuing Guarantee and will (a)
remain in full force and effect until payment of all of the obligations covered
thereby, except as provided below, (b) be binding upon each Guarantor and (c)
inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee, holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes and their successors,
transferees and assigns.
The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that if the Senior
Subordinated Notes thereunder are defeased in accordance with the terms of the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, or if all or substantially all of the
assets of any Guarantor or all of the equity interest in any Guarantor are sold
(including through
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merger, consolidation, by issuance or otherwise) by the Company in a transaction
constituting an Asset Sale, and if (x) the Net Cash Proceeds from such Asset
Sale are used in accordance with the covenant described under "-- Certain
Covenants -- Limitation on Asset Sales" or (y) the Company delivers to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee an Officer's Certificate to the effect that
the Net Cash Proceeds from such Asset Sale shall be used in accordance with the
covenant described under "-- Certain Covenants -- Limitation on Asset Sales" and
within the time limits specified by such covenant, then such Guarantor (in the
event of a sale or other disposition of all of the equity interests of such
Guarantor) or the Person acquiring the assets (in the event of a sale or other
disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of such Guarantor) shall
be released and discharged of its Subsidiary Guarantee obligations in respect of
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture and the Senior Subordinated Notes.
Any Guarantor that is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall upon such
designation be released and discharged of its Subsidiary Guarantee obligations
in respect of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture and the Senior
Subordinated Notes and any Unrestricted Subsidiary that is redesignated as a
Restricted Subsidiary shall upon such redesignation be required to become a
Guarantor.
CERTAIN COVENANTS
Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital
Stock. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that (a) the Company
will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or
indirectly, create, incur, assume, guarantee or otherwise become directly or
indirectly liable, contingently or otherwise, with respect to (collectively,
"incur") any Indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) and the Company
will not issue any Disqualified Capital Stock and its Restricted Subsidiaries
will not issue any Preferred Stock (except Preferred Stock issued to the Company
or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company so long as it is so held); provided,
however, that the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries that are Guarantors
may incur Indebtedness or issue shares of such Capital Stock if, in either case,
the Company's Leverage Ratio at the time of incurrence of such Indebtedness or
the issuance of such Capital Stock, as the case may be, after giving pro forma
effect to such incurrence or issuance as of such date and to the use of proceeds
therefrom is less than 7.0 to 1.
(b) The Company will not incur or suffer to exist, or permit any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries to incur or suffer to exist, any Obligations with
respect to an Unrestricted Subsidiary that would violate the provisions set
forth in the definition of Unrestricted Subsidiary.
Limitation on Layering. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides
that the Company will not incur any Indebtedness if such Indebtedness is
subordinate or junior in ranking in any respect to any Senior Indebtedness
unless such Indebtedness is Senior Subordinated Indebtedness or is contractually
subordinated in right of payment to all Senior Subordinated Indebtedness
(including the Senior Subordinated Notes).
Limitation on Restricted Payments. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
provides that (a) the Company will not, and will not cause or permit any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries, to, directly or indirectly, make any Restricted Payment
if at the time of such Restricted Payment and immediately after giving effect
thereto:
(i) a Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be
continuing; or
(ii) the Company is not able to incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock"
covenant; or
(iii) the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made subsequent to
the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date (the amount expended for such
purposes, if other than in cash, being the fair market value of such
property as determined by the board of directors of the Company in good
faith) exceeds the sum of (a)(x) 100% of the aggregate Consolidated Cash
Flow of the Company (or, in the event such Consolidated Cash Flow shall be
a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit) accrued subsequent to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date to the most recent date for which financial
information is available to the Company, taken as one accounting period,
less (y) 1.4 times Consolidated Interest Expense for the same
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period, plus (b) 100% of the aggregate net proceeds, including the fair
market value of property other than cash as determined by the board of
directors of the Company in good faith, received subsequent to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date by the Company from any Person (other than a
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company) from the issuance and sale subsequent
to the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date of Qualified Capital Stock of
the Company (excluding (i) any net proceeds from issuances and sales
financed directly or indirectly using funds borrowed from the Company or
any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company, until and to the extent such
borrowing is repaid, but including the proceeds from the issuance and sale
of any securities convertible into or exchangeable for Qualified Capital
Stock to the extent such securities are so converted or exchanged and
including any additional proceeds received by the Company upon such
conversion or exchange and (ii) any net proceeds received from issuances
and sales that are used to consummate a transaction described in clause (2)
of paragraph (b) below), plus (c) without duplication of any amount
included in clause (iii)(b) above, 100% of the aggregate net proceeds,
including the fair market value of property other than cash (valued as
provided in clause (iii)(b) above), received by the Company as a capital
contribution subsequent to the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date, plus
(d) the amount equal to the net reduction in Investments (other than
Permitted Investments) made by the Company or any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries in any Person resulting from, and without duplication, (i)
repurchases or redemptions of such Investments by such Person, proceeds
realized upon the sale of such Investment to an unaffiliated purchaser and
repayments of loans or advances or other transfers of assets by such Person
to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or (ii) the
redesignation of Unrestricted Subsidiaries as Restricted Subsidiaries
(valued in each case as provided in the definition of "Investment") not to
exceed, in the case of any Restricted Subsidiary, the amount of Investments
previously made by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in
such Unrestricted Subsidiary, which amount was included in the calculation
of Restricted Payments; provided, however, that no amount shall be included
under this clause (d) to the extent it is already included in Consolidated
Cash Flow, plus (e) the aggregate net cash proceeds received by a Person in
consideration for the issuance of such Person's Capital Stock (other than
Disqualified Capital Stock) that are held by such Person at the time such
Person is merged with and into the Company in accordance with the "Merger,
Consolidation and Sale of Assets" covenant subsequent to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date; provided, however, that concurrently with or
immediately following such merger the Company uses an amount equal to such
net cash proceeds to redeem or repurchase the Company's Capital Stock, plus
(f) $15,000,000.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, these provisions do not prohibit: (1)
the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution within 60 days
after the date of its declaration if such dividend or distribution would have
been permitted on the date of declaration; (2) the purchase, redemption or other
acquisition or retirement of any Capital Stock of the Company or any warrants,
options or other rights to acquire shares of any class of such Capital Stock
either (x) solely in exchange for shares of Qualified Capital Stock or other
rights to acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (y) through the application of the
net proceeds of a substantially concurrent sale for cash (other than to a
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company) of shares of Qualified Capital Stock or
warrants, options or other rights to acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (z) in
the case of Disqualified Capital Stock, solely in exchange for, or through the
application of the net proceeds of a substantially concurrent sale for cash
(other than to a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company) of, Disqualified Capital
Stock; (3) payments made pursuant to any merger, consolidation or sale of assets
effected in accordance with the "Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets"
covenant; provided, however, that no such payment may be made pursuant to this
clause (3) unless, after giving effect to such transaction (and the incurrence
of any Indebtedness in connection therewith and the use of the proceeds
thereof), the Company would be able to incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant
such that after incurring that $1.00 of additional Indebtedness, the Leverage
Ratio would be less than 6.0 to 1; (4) payments to enable the Company or a
Holding Company (as hereinafter defined) to pay dividends on its Capital Stock
(other than Disqualified Capital Stock) after the first Public Equity Offering
in an annual amount not to exceed 6.0% of the gross proceeds (before deducting
underwriting discounts and commissions and other fees and expenses of the
offering) received from shares of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified
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Capital Stock) sold for the account of the issuer thereof (and not for the
account of any stockholder) in such initial Public Equity Offering; (5) payments
by the Company to fund the payment by any company as to which the Company is,
directly or indirectly, a Subsidiary (a "Holding Company") of audit, accounting,
legal or other similar expenses, to pay franchise or other similar taxes and to
pay other corporate overhead expenses, so long as such dividends are paid as and
when needed by its respective direct or indirect Holding Company and so long as
the aggregate amount of payments pursuant to this clause (5) does not exceed
$1,000,000 in any calendar year; (6) payments by the Company to repurchase, or
to enable a Holding Company to repurchase, Capital Stock or other securities
from employees of the Company or a Holding Company in an aggregate amount not to
exceed $15,000,000; (7) payments by the Company to redeem or repurchase, or to
enable a Holding Company to redeem or repurchase, stock purchase or similar
rights granted by the Company or a Holding Company with respect to its Capital
Stock in an aggregate amount not to exceed $500,000; (8) payments, not to exceed
$200,000 in the aggregate, to enable the Company or a Holding Company to make
cash payments to holders of its Capital Stock in lieu of the issuance of
fractional shares of its Capital Stock; (9) payments by the Company to fund
taxes of a Holding Company for a given taxable year in an amount equal to the
Company's "separate return liability," as if the Company were the parent of a
consolidated group (for purposes of this clause (9) "separate return liability"
for a given taxable year shall mean the hypothetical United States tax liability
of the Company defined as if the Company had filed its own U.S. federal tax
return for such taxable year); (10) the payment of any dividend or the making of
any distribution to a Holding Company in amounts sufficient to permit a Holding
Company (i) to pay interest when due on the Senior Discount Notes and (ii) to
make any mandatory redemptions or principal payments in respect of the Senior
Discount Notes; and (11) payments by the Company to Hicks Muse Partners in
accordance with the terms of the Financial Advisory Agreement and the Monitoring
and Oversight Agreement; provided, however, that in the case of clauses (3),
(4), (6), (7), (8) and (10), no Event of Default shall have occurred or be
continuing at the time of such payment or as a result thereof. In determining
the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made subsequent to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date, amounts expended pursuant to clauses (1), (4),
(6), (7) and (8) shall be included in such calculation.
Limitation on Liens. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that
the Company will not, and will not cause or permit any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create, incur or assume any Lien
securing Indebtedness on any asset now owned or hereafter acquired, or any
income or profits therefrom or assign or convey any right to receive income
therefrom, unless contemporaneously therewith effective provision is made, in
the case of the Company, to secure the Senior Subordinated Notes and all other
amounts due under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, and in the case of a
Restricted Subsidiary which is a Guarantor, to secure such Restricted
Subsidiary's Subsidiary Guarantee of the Senior Subordinated Notes and all other
amounts due under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, equally and ratably
with such Indebtedness (or, in the event that such Indebtedness is subordinated
in right of payment to the Senior Subordinated Notes or such Subsidiary's
Subsidiary Guarantee, prior to such Indebtedness) with a Lien on the same
properties and assets securing such Indebtedness for so long as such
Indebtedness is secured by such Lien, except for (i) Liens securing Senior
Indebtedness and Guarantor Senior Indebtedness and (ii) Liens securing
Indebtedness described in clause (xi) of the definition of Permitted
Indebtedness; provided that such Liens cover only the property referred to in
such definition.
Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets. The Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture provides that the Company shall not, in a single transaction or a
series of related transactions, consolidate with or merge with or into, or sell,
assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all
of the Company's or any Guarantor's assets determined on a consolidated basis
for the Company to another Person or adopt a plan of liquidation unless (i)
either (1) the Company is the Surviving Person or (2) the Person (if other than
the Company) formed by such consolidation or into which the Company is merged or
the Person that acquires by conveyance, transfer or lease the properties and
assets of the Company substantially as an entirety or in the case of a plan of
liquidation, the Person to which assets of the Company have been transferred,
shall be a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or trust
organized and existing under the laws of the United States or any State thereof
or the District of Columbia; (ii) such Surviving Person shall assume all of the
obligations of the Company under the Senior Subordinated Notes and the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture pursuant to a supplemental indenture in a form
reasonably satisfactory to the Senior Subordinated
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Notes Trustee; (iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction and the
use of the proceeds therefrom (on a pro forma basis, including giving effect to
any Indebtedness incurred or anticipated to be incurred in connection with such
transaction), (x) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be
continuing and (y) the Company (in the case of clause (1) of the foregoing
clause (i)) or such Person (in the case of clause (2) of the foregoing clause
(i)) shall be able to incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness (other than
Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on Incurrence of
Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant; and (iv) the
Company has delivered to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee prior to the
consummation of the proposed transaction an Officers' Certificate and an Opinion
of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger or transfer complies
with the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture and that all conditions precedent
in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture relating to such transaction have
been satisfied. For purposes of the foregoing, the transfer (by lease,
assignment, sale or otherwise, in a single transaction or series of related
transactions) of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of one or
more Restricted Subsidiaries, the Capital Stock of which constitutes all or
substantially all of the properties or assets of the Company, will be deemed to
be the transfer of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of the
Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses (ii) and (iii), (1) any
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company may consolidate with, merge into or
transfer all or part of its properties and assets to the Company and (2) the
Company may merge with an Affiliate thereof organized solely for the purpose of
reorganizing the Company in another jurisdiction in the U.S. to realize tax or
other benefits. Notwithstanding the foregoing, clauses (iii) and (iv) shall not
apply to the Merger.
In the event of any transaction (other than a lease) described in and
complying with the conditions listed in the immediately preceding paragraph in
which the Company, as the case may be, is not the Surviving Person and the
Surviving Person is to assume all the obligations of the Company under the
Senior Subordinated Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture pursuant
to a supplemental indenture, such Surviving Person shall succeed to, and be
substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of the Company, as the
case may be, and the Company shall be discharged from its Obligations under the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture and the Senior Subordinated Notes.
Limitation on Asset Sales. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides
that the Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries to, consummate an Asset Sale unless (i) the Company or the
applicable Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, receives consideration at
the time of such Asset Sale at least equal to the fair market value of the
assets sold or otherwise disposed of (as determined in good faith by management
of the Company or, if such Asset Sale involves consideration in excess of
$10,000,000, by the board of directors of the Company, as evidenced by a board
resolution), (ii) at least 75% of the consideration received by the Company or
such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, from such Asset Sale is in the
form of cash or Cash Equivalents and is received at the time of such disposition
and (iii) upon the consummation of an Asset Sale, the Company applies, or causes
such Restricted Subsidiary to apply, such Net Cash Proceeds within 180 days of
receipt thereof either (A) to repay any Senior Indebtedness of the Company or
any Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company (and, to the extent
such Senior Indebtedness relates to principal under a revolving credit or
similar facility, to obtain a corresponding reduction in the commitments
thereunder, except that the Company may temporarily repay Senior Indebtedness
using the Net Cash Proceeds from such Asset Sale and thereafter use such funds
to reinvest pursuant to clause (B) below within the period set forth therein
without having to obtain a corresponding reduction in the commitments
thereunder), (B) to reinvest, or to be contractually committed to reinvest
pursuant to a binding agreement, in Productive Assets and, in the latter case,
to have so reinvested within 360 days of the date of receipt of such Net Cash
Proceeds or (C) to purchase Senior Subordinated Notes and other Senior
Subordinated Indebtedness, pro rata tendered to the Company for purchase at a
price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof (or the accreted value of
such other Senior Subordinated Indebtedness, if such other Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness is issued at a discount) plus accrued interest thereon, if any, to
the date of purchase pursuant to an offer to purchase made by the Company as set
forth below (a "Net Proceeds Offer"); provided, however, that the Company may
defer making a Net Proceeds Offer until the aggregate Net Cash Proceeds from
Asset Sales not otherwise applied in accordance with this covenant equal or
exceed $15,000,000.
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Subject to the deferral right set forth in the final proviso of the
preceding paragraph, each notice of a Net Proceeds Offer will be mailed, by
first-class mail, to holders of Senior Subordinated Notes not more than 180 days
after the relevant Asset Sale or, in the event the Company or a Restricted
Subsidiary has entered into a binding agreement as provided in (B) above, within
180 days following the termination of such agreement but in no event later than
360 days after the relevant Asset Sale. Such notice will specify, among other
things, the purchase date (which will be no earlier than 30 days nor later than
45 days from the date such notice is mailed, except as otherwise required by
law) and will otherwise comply with the procedures set forth in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture. Upon receiving notice of the Net Proceeds Offer,
holders of Senior Subordinated Notes may elect to tender their Senior
Subordinated Notes in whole or in part in integral multiples of $1,000. To the
extent holders properly tender Senior Subordinated Notes in an amount which,
together with all other Senior Subordinated Indebtedness so tendered, exceeds
the Net Proceeds Offer, Senior Subordinated Notes and other Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness of tendering holders will be repurchased on a pro rata basis (based
upon the aggregate principal amount tendered, or, if applicable, the aggregate
accreted value tendered). To the extent that the aggregate principal amount of
Senior Subordinated Notes tendered pursuant to any Net Proceeds Offer, which,
together with the aggregate principal amount or aggregate accreted value, as the
case may be, of all other Senior Subordinated Indebtedness so tendered, is less
than the amount of Net Cash Proceeds subject to such Net Proceeds Offer, the
Company may use any remaining portion of such Net Cash Proceeds not required to
fund the repurchase of tendered Senior Subordinated Notes and other Senior
Subordinated Indebtedness for any purposes not otherwise prohibited by the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture. Upon the consummation of any Net Proceeds
Offer, the amount of Net Cash Proceeds subject to any future Net Proceeds Offer
from the Asset Sales giving rise to such Net Cash Proceeds shall be deemed to be
zero.
The Company will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the
Exchange Act to the extent applicable in connection with the repurchase of
Senior Subordinated Notes pursuant to a Net Proceeds Offer.
Limitation on Asset Swaps. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides
that the Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to,
engage in any Asset Swap unless: (i) at the time of entering into such Asset
Swap, and immediately after giving effect to such Asset Swap, no Default or
Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, (ii) in the event such
Asset Swap involves an aggregate amount in excess of $10,000,000, the terms of
such Asset Swap have been approved by a majority of the members of the board of
directors of the Company and (iii) in the event such Asset Swap involves an
aggregate amount in excess of $50,000,000, the Company has received a written
opinion from an independent investment banking firm of nationally recognized
standing that such Asset Swap is fair to the Company or such Restricted
Subsidiary, as the case may be, from a financial point of view.
Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Restricted
Subsidiaries. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that the Company
will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or
indirectly, create or otherwise cause to permit to exist or become effective, by
operation of the charter of such Restricted Subsidiary or by reason of any
agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, rule, order, statute or governmental
regulation, any encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any Restricted
Subsidiary to (a) pay dividends or make any other distributions on its Capital
Stock; (b) make loans or advances or pay any Indebtedness or other obligation
owed to the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; or (c) transfer any
of its property or assets to the Company, except for such encumbrances or
restrictions existing under or by reason of: (1) applicable law; (2) the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture; (3) customary non-assignment provisions of any
lease governing a leasehold interest of the Company or any Restricted
Subsidiary; (4) any instrument governing Acquired Indebtedness or Acquired
Preferred Stock, which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any
Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other than the Person, or the
property or assets of the Person, so acquired; (5) agreements existing on the
Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date (including the Credit Agreement) as such
agreements are from time to time in effect; provided, however, that any
amendments or modifications of such agreements that affect the encumbrances or
restrictions of the types subject to this covenant shall not result in such
encumbrances or restrictions being less favorable to the Company in any material
respect, as determined in good faith by the board of directors of the Company,
than the provisions as in effect before giving effect to the respective
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amendment or modification; (6) any restriction with respect to such a Restricted
Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an agreement entered into for the sale or
disposition of all or substantially all the Capital Stock or assets of such
Restricted Subsidiary pending the closing of such sale or disposition; (7) an
agreement effecting a refinancing, replacement or substitution of Indebtedness
issued, assumed or incurred pursuant to an agreement referred to in clause (2),
(4) or (5) above or any other agreement evidencing Indebtedness permitted under
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture; provided, however, that the provisions
relating to such encumbrance or restriction contained in any such refinancing,
replacement or substitution agreement or any such other agreement are no less
favorable to the Company in any material respect as determined in good faith by
the board of directors of the Company than the provisions relating to such
encumbrance or restriction contained in agreements referred to in such clause
(2), (4) or (5); (8) restrictions on the transfer of the assets subject to any
Lien imposed by the holder of such Lien; (9) a licensing agreement to the extent
such restrictions or encumbrances limit the transfer of property subject to such
licensing agreement; (10) restrictions relating to Subsidiary Preferred Stock
that require that due and payable dividends thereon to be paid in full prior to
dividends on such Subsidiary's common stock or (11) any agreement or charter
provision evidencing Indebtedness or Capital Stock permitted under the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture; provided, however, that the provisions relating to
such encumbrance or restriction contained in such agreement or charter provision
are not less favorable to the Company in any material respect as determined in
good faith by the board of directors of the Company than the provisions relating
to such encumbrance or restriction contained in the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture.
Limitations on Transactions with Affiliates. The Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture provides that the Company will not, and will not permit any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, enter into or permit to
exist any transaction (including, without limitation, the purchase, sale, lease,
contribution or exchange of any property or the rendering of any service) with
or for the benefit of any of its Affiliates (other than transactions between the
Company and a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or among Restricted
Subsidiaries of the Company) (an "Affiliate Transaction"), other than Affiliate
Transactions on terms that are no less favorable than those that might
reasonably have been obtained in a comparable transaction on an arm's-length
basis from a person that is not an Affiliate; provided, however, that for a
transaction or series of related transactions involving value of $5,000,000 or
more, such determination will be made in good faith by a majority of members of
the board of directors of the Company and by a majority of the disinterested
members of the board of directors of the Company, if any; provided, further,
that for a transaction or series of related transactions involving value of
$15,000,000 or more, the board of directors of the Company has received an
opinion from an independent investment banking firm of nationally recognized
standing that such Affiliate Transaction is fair, from a financial point of
view, to the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary. The foregoing restrictions
will not apply to (1) reasonable and customary directors' fees, indemnification
and similar arrangements and payments thereunder; (2) any obligations of the
Company under any employment agreement, noncompetition or confidentiality
agreement with any officer of the Company, as in effect on the Senior
Subordinated Notes Issue Date (provided that each amendment of any of the
foregoing agreements shall be subject to the limitations of this covenant); (3)
any Restricted Payment permitted to be made pursuant to the covenant described
under "Limitation on Restricted Payments"; (4) any issuance of securities, or
other payments, awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to,
or the funding of, employment arrangements, stock options and stock ownership
plans approved by the board of directors of the Company; (5) loans or advances
to employees in the ordinary course of business of the Company or any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries consistent with past practices; (6) payments made in
connection with the Transactions and the Grand Rapid Acquisition, including,
without limitation, fees to Hicks Muse, as described in the Prospectus; and (7)
payments by the Company to Hicks Muse Partners in accordance with the terms of
the Financial Advisory Agreement and the Monitoring and Oversight Agreement.
Subsidiary Guarantees by Restricted Subsidiaries. The Senior Subordinated
Notes Indenture provides that the Company will not create or acquire, nor cause
or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, directly or indirectly, to create
or acquire, any Subsidiary other than (A) an Unrestricted Subsidiary in
accordance with the other terms of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture or
(B) a Restricted Subsidiary that, simultaneously with such creation or
acquisition, executes and delivers a supplemental indenture to the Senior
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Subordinated Notes Indenture pursuant to which it will become a Guarantor under
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture in accordance with "-- Subsidiary
Guarantees of the Senior Subordinated Notes" above.
Reports. The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that so long as
any of the Senior Subordinated Notes are outstanding, the Company will provide
to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee and the holders of Senior Subordinated
Notes and file with the Commission, to the extent such submissions are accepted
for filing by the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the
information, documents and other reports that the Company would have been
required to file with the Commission pursuant to Sections 13 or 15(d) of the
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), regardless of whether the
Company is then obligated to file such reports.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT
The following events are defined in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
as "Events of Default": (i) the failure to pay interest on the Senior
Subordinated Notes when the same becomes due and payable and the Default
continues for a period of 30 days (whether or not such payment is prohibited by
the provisions described under "-- Ranking and Subordination" above); (ii) the
failure to pay principal of or premium, if any, on any Senior Subordinated Notes
when such principal or premium, if any, becomes due and payable, at maturity,
upon redemption or otherwise (whether or not such payment is prohibited by the
provisions described under "-- Ranking and Subordination" above); (iii) a
default in the observance or performance of any other covenant or agreement
contained in the Senior Subordinated Notes or the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture, which default continues for a period of 30 days after the Company
receives written notice thereof specifying the default from the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee or holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal
amount of outstanding Senior Subordinated Notes; (iv) the failure to pay at the
stated maturity (giving effect to any extensions thereof) the principal amount
of any Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company,
or the acceleration of the final stated maturity of any such Indebtedness, if
the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness, together with the aggregate
principal amount of any other such Indebtedness in default for failure to pay
principal at the final stated maturity (giving effect to any extensions thereof)
or which has been accelerated, aggregates $10,000,000 or more at any time in
each case after a 10-day period during which such default shall not have been
cured or such acceleration rescinded; (v) one or more judgments in an aggregate
amount in excess of $15,000,000 (which are not covered by insurance as to which
the insurer has not disclaimed coverage) being rendered against the Company or
any of its Significant Restricted Subsidiaries and such judgment or judgments
remain undischarged or unstayed for a period of 60 days after such judgment or
judgments become final and nonappealable; and (vi) certain events of bankruptcy,
insolvency or reorganization affecting the Company or any of its Significant
Restricted Subsidiaries.
Upon the happening of any Event of Default specified in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture, the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee may, and the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee upon the request of holders of 25% in
principal amount of the outstanding Senior Subordinated Notes shall, or the
holders of at least 25% in principal amount of outstanding Senior Subordinated
Notes may, declare the principal of all the Senior Subordinated Notes, together
with all accrued and unpaid interest and premium, if any, to be due and payable
by notice in writing to the Company and the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee
specifying the respective Event of Default and that it is a "notice of
acceleration" (the "Acceleration Notice"), and the same (i) shall become
immediately due and payable or (ii) if there are any amounts outstanding under
the Senior Credit Facilities, will become due and payable upon the first to
occur of an acceleration under the Senior Credit Facilities or five Business
Days after receipt by the Company and the agent under the Senior Credit
Facilities of such Acceleration Notice (unless all Events of Default specified
in such Acceleration Notice have been cured or waived). If an Event of Default
with respect to bankruptcy proceedings relating to the Company or any
Significant Restricted Subsidiaries occurs and is continuing, then such amount
will ipso facto become and be immediately due and payable without any
declaration or other act on the part of the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee or
any holder of the Senior Subordinated Notes.
At any time after a declaration of acceleration with respect to the Senior
Subordinated Notes as described in the preceding paragraph, the holders of a
majority in principal amount of the Senior Subordinated
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Notes then outstanding (by notice to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee) may
rescind and cancel such declaration and its consequences if (i) the rescission
would not conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent
jurisdiction, (ii) all existing Defaults and Events of Default have been cured
or waived except nonpayment of principal of or interest on the Senior
Subordinated Notes that has become due solely by such declaration of
acceleration, (iii) to the extent the payment of such interest is lawful,
interest (at the same rate specified in the Senior Subordinated Notes) on
overdue installments of interest and overdue payments of principal, which has
become due otherwise than by such declaration of acceleration has been paid,
(iv) the Company has paid the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee its reasonable
compensation and reimbursed the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee for its
reasonable expenses, disbursements and advances and (v) in the event of the cure
or waiver of a Default or Event of Default of the type described in clause (vi)
of the first paragraph of "-- Events of Default" above, the Senior Subordinated
Notes Trustee has received an Officers' Certificate and Opinion of Counsel that
such Default or Event of Default has been cured or waived. The holders of a
majority in principal amount of the Senior Subordinated Notes may waive any
existing Default or Event of Default under the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture, and its consequences, except a default in the payment of the
principal of or interest on any Senior Subordinated Notes.
The Company is required to deliver to the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee, within 120 days after the end of the Company's fiscal year, a
certificate indicating whether the signing officers know of any Default or Event
of Default that occurred during the previous year and whether the Company has
complied with its obligations under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture. In
addition, the Company will be required to notify the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee of the occurrence and continuation of any Default or Event of Default
promptly after the Company becomes aware of the same.
Subject to the provisions of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
relating to the duties of the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee in case an Event
of Default thereunder should occur and be continuing, the Senior Subordinated
Notes Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or
powers under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture at the request or direction
of any of the holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes unless such holders have
offered to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee reasonable indemnity or
security against any loss, liability or expense. Subject to such provision for
security or indemnification and certain limitations contained in the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture, the holders of a majority in principal amount of
the outstanding Senior Subordinated Notes have the right to direct the time,
method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on
the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee.
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE OF SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE
The Company may terminate its obligations under the Senior Subordinated
Notes Indenture at any time by delivering all outstanding Senior Subordinated
Notes to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee for cancellation and paying all
sums payable by it thereunder. The Company, at its option, (i) will be
discharged from any and all obligations with respect to the Senior Subordinated
Notes (except for certain obligations of the Company to register the transfer or
exchange of such Senior Subordinated Notes, replace stolen, lost or mutilated
Senior Subordinated Notes, maintain paying agencies and hold moneys for payment
in trust) or (ii) need not comply with certain of the restrictive covenants with
respect to the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, if the Company deposits with
the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee, in trust, U.S. legal tender or U.S.
Government Obligations or a combination thereof that, through the payment of
interest and premium thereon and principal in respect thereof in accordance with
their terms, will be sufficient to pay all the principal of and interest and
premium on the Senior Subordinated Notes on the dates such payments are due or
through any date of redemption, if earlier than the dates such payments are due,
in any case in accordance with the terms of such Senior Subordinated Notes, as
well as the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee's fees and expenses. To exercise
either such option, the Company is required to deliver to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee (A) an Opinion of Counsel or a private letter ruling
issued to the Company by the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") to the effect
that the holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes will not recognize income,
gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of the deposit and
related defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amount
and in the same manner and at the same times
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as would have been the case if such option had not been exercised and, in the
case of an Opinion of Counsel furnished in connection with a discharge pursuant
to clause (i) above, accompanied by a private letter ruling issued to the
Company by the IRS to such effect, (B) subject to certain qualifications, an
Opinion of Counsel to the effect that funds so deposited will not be subject to
avoidance under applicable bankruptcy law and (C) an Officers' Certificate and
an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that the Company has complied with all
conditions precedent to the defeasance. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Opinion of Counsel required by clause (A) above need not be delivered if all
Senior Subordinated Notes not theretofore delivered to the Senior Subordinated
Notes Trustee for cancellation (i) have become due and payable, (ii) will become
due and payable on the maturity date within one year or (iii) are to be called
for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Company.
MODIFICATION OF THE SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES INDENTURE
From time to time, the Company and the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee,
together, without the consent of the holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes,
may amend or supplement the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture for certain
specified purposes, including curing ambiguities, defects or inconsistencies.
Other modifications and amendments of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture
may be made with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of
the then outstanding Senior Subordinated Notes, except that, without the consent
of each holder of the Senior Subordinated Notes affected thereby, no amendment
may, directly or indirectly: (i) reduce the amount of Senior Subordinated Notes
whose holders must consent to an amendment; (ii) reduce the rate of or change
the time for payment of interest, including defaulted interest, on any Senior
Subordinated Notes; (iii) reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity
of any Senior Subordinated Notes, or change the date on which any Senior
Subordinated Notes may be subject to redemption or repurchase, or reduce the
redemption or repurchase price therefor; (iv) make any Senior Subordinated Notes
payable in money other than that stated in the Senior Subordinated Notes and the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture; (v) make any change in provisions of the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture protecting the right of each holder of a
Senior Subordinated Note to receive payment of principal of, premium on and
interest on such Senior Subordinated Note on or after the due date thereof or to
bring suit to enforce such payment or permitting holders of a majority in
principal amount of the Senior Subordinated Notes to waive a Default or Event of
Default; or (vi) after the Company's obligation to purchase the Senior
Subordinated Notes arises under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, amend,
modify or change the obligation of the Company to make or consummate a Change of
Control Offer or a Net Proceeds Offer or waive any default in the performance
thereof or modify any of the provisions or definitions with respect to any such
offers.
CONCERNING THE SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES TRUSTEE
The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture contains certain limitations on the
rights of the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee, should it become a creditor of
the Company, to obtain payment of claims in certain cases, or to realize on
certain property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise.
The Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee will be permitted to engage in other
transactions; however, if it acquires any conflicting interest, it must
eliminate such conflict within 90 days, apply to the Commission for permission
to continue or resign.
The holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding
Senior Subordinated Notes will have the right to direct the time, method and
place of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee, subject to certain exceptions. The Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default shall
occur (which shall not be cured), the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee will be
required, in the exercise of its power, to use the degree of care of a prudent
person in the conduct of such person's own affairs. Subject to such provisions,
the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise
any of its rights or powers under the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture at the
request of any holder of Senior Subordinated Notes, unless such holder shall
have offered to
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the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to it
against any loss, liability or expense.
GOVERNING LAW
The Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture provides that it and the Senior
Subordinated Notes will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of New York without giving effect to applicable principles of
conflicts of law to the extent that the application of the laws of another
jurisdiction would be required thereby.
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
Set forth below is a summary of certain of the defined terms used in the
Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture. Reference is made to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Indenture for the full definition of all such terms, as well
as any other terms used herein for which no definition is provided.
"Acquired Indebtedness" means Indebtedness of a Person or any of its
Subsidiaries existing at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of
the Company or at the time it merges or consolidates with the Company or any of
its Restricted Subsidiaries or assumed in connection with the acquisition of
assets from such Person and not incurred by such Person in connection with, or
in anticipation or contemplation of, such Person becoming a Restricted
Subsidiary of the Company or such acquisition, merger or consolidation.
"Acquired Preferred Stock" means the Preferred Stock of any Person at such
time as such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or at the
time it merges or consolidates with the Company or any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries and not issued by such Person in connection with, or in
anticipation or contemplation of, such acquisition, merger or consolidation.
"Affiliate" means, as to any Person, any other Person which, directly or
indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by,
or is under common control with, such Person. The term "control" means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the
direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the
ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise. Chase and its
Affiliates shall not be deemed Affiliates of the Company by reason of the Senior
Credit Facilities or their direct or indirect investments in any fund managed by
Hicks Muse or any Person in which any such fund is invested.
"Applicable Premium" means, with respect to a Senior Subordinated Note at
any Change of Control Redemption Date, the greater of (i) 1.0% of the principal
amount of such Senior Subordinated Note and (ii) the excess of (A) the present
value at such time of (1) the redemption price of such Senior Subordinated Note
at March 1, 2003 (such redemption price being described under "-- Optional
Redemption") plus (2) all semi-annual payments of interest through, March 1,
2003 computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate plus 75 basis
points over (B) the principal amount of such Senior Subordinated Note.
"Asset Acquisition" means (i) an Investment by the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company in any other Person pursuant to which such
Person shall become a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or shall be
consolidated or merged with the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the
Company or (ii) the acquisition by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of
the Company of assets of any Person comprising a division or line of business of
such Person.
"Asset Sale" means any direct or indirect sale, issuance, conveyance,
transfer, lease (other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course
of business), assignment or other transfer for value by the Company or any of
its Restricted Subsidiaries (excluding any sale and leaseback transaction or any
pledge of assets or stock by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries)
to any Person other than the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company
of (i) any Capital Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or (ii) any
other property or assets of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the
Company other than in the ordinary course of business; provided, however, that
for purposes of the "Limitation on Asset Sales" covenant, Asset Sales shall not
include (a) a transaction or series of related transactions in which the Company
or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries receive aggregate consideration of less
than $1,000,000,
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(b) transactions permitted under the "Limitation on Asset Swaps" covenant, (c)
transactions covered by the "Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets" covenant,
(d) a Restricted Payment that otherwise qualifies under the "Limitation on
Restricted Payments" covenant, (e) any disposition of obsolete or worn out
equipment or equipment that is no longer useful in the conduct of the business
of the Company and its Subsidiaries and that is disposed of, in each case, in
the ordinary course of business and (f) any transaction that constitutes a
Change of Control. Solely for purposes of the second to last paragraph of
"-- Subsidiary Guarantees of the Senior Subordinated Notes" an Asset Sale is
deemed to include a sale, conveyance or transfer by the Representative following
a foreclosure on such assets.
"Asset Swap" means the execution of a definitive agreement, subject only to
FCC approval, if applicable, and other customary closing conditions that the
Company in good faith believes will be satisfied, for a substantially concurrent
purchase and sale, or exchange, of Productive Assets between the Company or any
of its Restricted Subsidiaries and another Person or group of affiliated
Persons; provided that any amendment to or waiver of any closing condition that
individually or in the aggregate is material to the Asset Swap shall be deemed
to be a new Asset Swap; it being understood that an Asset Swap may include a
cash equalization payment made in connection therewith provided that such cash
payment, if received by the Company or its Subsidiaries, shall be deemed to be
proceeds received from an Asset Sale and shall be applied in accordance with
"Certain Covenants -- Limitation on Asset Sales."
"Business Day" means any day (other than a day which is a Saturday, Sunday
or legal holiday in State of New York) on which banks are open for business in
New York, New York.
"Capital Stock" means (i) with respect to any Person that is a corporation,
any and all shares, interests, participations or other equivalents (however
designated) of capital stock of such Person and (ii) with respect to any Person
that is not a corporation, any and all partnership or other equity interests of
such Person.
"Capitalized Lease Obligation" means, as to any Person, the obligation of
such Person to pay rent or other amounts under a lease to which such Person is a
party that is required to be classified and accounted for as a capital lease
obligation under GAAP, and for purposes of this definition, the amount of such
obligation at any date shall be the capitalized amount of such obligation at
such date, determined in accordance with GAAP.
"Cash Equivalents" means (i) marketable direct obligations issued by, or
unconditionally guaranteed by, the United States Government or issued by any
agency thereof and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, in
each case maturing within one year from the date of acquisition thereof; (ii)
marketable direct obligations issued by any state of the United States of
America or any political subdivision of any such state or any public
instrumentality thereof maturing within one year from the date of acquisition
thereof and, at the time of acquisition, having one of the two highest ratings
obtainable from either Standard & Poor's Corporation or Moody's Investors
Service, Inc.; (iii) commercial paper maturing no more than one year from the
date of creation thereof and, at the time of acquisition, having a rating of at
least A-1 from Standard & Poor's Corporation or at least P-1 from Moody's
Investors Service, Inc.; (iv) certificates of deposit or bankers' acceptances
maturing within one year from the date of acquisition thereof issued by any
commercial bank organized under the laws of the United States of America or any
state thereof or the District of Columbia or any U.S. branch of a foreign bank
having at the date of acquisition thereof combined capital and surplus of not
less than $200,000,000; (v) repurchase obligations with a term of not more than
seven days for underlying securities of the types described in clause (i) above
entered into with any bank meeting the qualifications specified in clause (iv)
above; and (vi) investments in money market funds that invest substantially all
their assets in securities of the types described in clauses (i) through (v)
above.
"Change of Control" means the occurrence of one or more of the following
events: (i) any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a
series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the
Company to any Person or group of related Persons for purposes of Section 13(d)
of the Exchange Act (a "Group") (whether or not otherwise in compliance with the
provisions of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture), other than to Hicks Muse
or any of its Affiliates, officers or directors (the "Permitted Holders"); or
(ii) a majority of the board of directors of the Company or Holdings shall
consist of Persons who are not Continuing Directors; or (iii) the acquisition by
any Person or Group (other than the
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Permitted Holders or any direct or indirect subsidiary of any Permitted Holder,
including without limitation Holdings) of the power, directly or indirectly, to
vote or direct the voting of securities having more than 50% of the ordinary
voting power for the election of directors of the Company.
"Commodity Agreement" means any commodity futures contract, commodity
option or other similar agreement or arrangement.
"Consolidated Cash Flow" means, with respect to any Person, for any period,
the sum (without duplication) of (i) Consolidated Net Income, (ii) to the extent
Consolidated Net Income has been reduced thereby, (a) all income taxes of such
Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries paid or accrued in accordance with GAAP
for such period (other than income taxes attributable to extraordinary or
nonrecurring gains or losses), (b) Consolidated Interest Expense and (c)
Consolidated Non-Cash Charges, all as determined on a consolidated basis for
such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries in conformity with GAAP and (iii)
the lesser of (x) dividends or distributions paid in cash to such Person or its
Restricted Subsidiary by another Person whose results are reflected as a
minority interest in the consolidated financial statements of such first Person
and (y) such Person's equity interest in the Consolidated Cash Flow of such
other Person (but in no event less than zero), except, that in the case of the
Joint Venture, (x) such amount shall not exceed 10% of the Consolidated Cash
Flow of the Company for such period and (y) such first Person shall be deemed to
have received by dividend its proportionate share of distributable cash retained
by the Joint Venture to fund the interest reserve.
"Consolidated Interest Expense" means, with respect to any Person for any
period, without duplication, the sum of (i) the interest expense of such Person
and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined on a consolidated
basis in accordance with GAAP, including, without limitation, (a) any
amortization of debt discount, (b) the net cost under Interest Swap Agreements
(including any amortization of discounts), (c) the interest portion of any
deferred payment obligation, (d) all commissions, discounts and other fees and
charges owed with respect to letters of credit, bankers' acceptance financing or
similar facilities, and (e) all accrued interest and (ii) the interest component
of Capitalized Lease Obligations paid or accrued by such Person and its
Subsidiaries during such period as determined on a consolidated basis in
accordance with GAAP.
"Consolidated Net Income" of any Person means, for any period, the
aggregate net income (or loss) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries
for such period on a consolidated basis, determined in accordance with GAAP;
provided, however, that there shall be excluded therefrom, without duplication,
(a) gains and losses from Asset Sales (without regard to the $1,000,000
limitation set forth in the definition thereof) or abandonments or reserves
relating thereto and the related tax effects, (b) items classified as
extraordinary or nonrecurring gains and losses, and the related tax effects
according to GAAP, (c) the net income (or loss) of any Person acquired in a
pooling of interests transaction accrued prior to the date it becomes a
Restricted Subsidiary of such first referred to Person or is merged or
consolidated with it or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, (d) the net income
of any Restricted Subsidiary to the extent that the declaration of dividends or
similar distributions by that Restricted Subsidiary of that income is restricted
by contract, operation of law or otherwise, and (e) the net income or loss of
any Person, other than a Restricted Subsidiary; and provided further, however,
that (i) there shall be added to net income in an amount equal to the
consolidated cash flow losses attributable to stations which the Company or any
of its Restricted Subsidiaries operates pursuant to local marketing agreements
provided that such addback shall not exceed $3,000,000 in any Four Quarter
Period and (ii) in determining net income, pro forma effect shall be given to
the reimbursement of promotional expenses as if such reimbursement obligation
were in effect for the entire period with respect to periods ending prior to
March 31, 1999 (but only if such reimbursement obligation is then in effect).
"Consolidated Non-Cash Charges" means, with respect to any Person for any
period, the aggregate depreciation, amortization and other non-cash expenses of
such person and its Restricted Subsidiaries (excluding any such charges
constituting an extraordinary or nonrecurring item) reducing Consolidated Net
Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period,
determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
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"Continuing Director" means, as of the date of determination, any Person
who (i) was a member of the board of directors of the Company or Holdings on the
Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date, (ii) was nominated for election or elected
to the board of directors of the Company or Holdings, as the case may be, with
the affirmative vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors who were members
of such board of directors at the time of such nomination or election or (iii)
is a representative of a Permitted Holder.
"Currency Agreement" means any foreign exchange contract, currency swap
agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement.
"Default" means an event or condition the occurrence of which is, or with
the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.
"Designated Senior Indebtedness" means (i) all obligations under the Senior
Credit Facilities and (ii) any other Senior Indebtedness of the Company which,
at the date of determination, has an aggregate principal amount outstanding of,
or under which, at the date of determination, the holders thereof are committed
to lend up to, at least $20,000,000 and is specifically designated by the
Company in the instrument evidencing or governing such Senior Indebtedness as
"Designated Senior Indebtedness" for purposes of the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture.
"Disposition" means, with respect to any Person, any merger, consolidation
or other business combination involving such Person (whether or not such Person
is the Surviving Person) or the sale, assignment, or transfer, lease, conveyance
or other disposition of all or substantially all of such Person's assets.
"Disqualified Capital Stock" means any Capital Stock that, by its terms (or
by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is
exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event, matures (excluding any
maturity as the result of an optional redemption by the issuer thereof) or is
mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or
is redeemable at the sole option of the holder thereof (except, in each case,
upon the occurrence of a Change of Control), in whole or in part, on or prior to
the final maturity date of the Senior Subordinated Notes; provided that only the
portion of Capital Stock which so matures or is mandatorily redeemable or is so
redeemable at the sole option of the holder thereof prior to March 1, 2008 shall
be deemed Disqualified Capital Stock.
"Equity Offering" means a private sale or public offering of Capital Stock
(other than Disqualified Capital Stock) of the Company or a Holding Company (to
the extent, in the case of a Holding Company, that the net cash proceeds thereof
are contributed to the common or non-redeemable preferred equity capital of the
Company).
"Financial Advisory Agreement" means the Financial Advisory Agreement by
and among the Company, Holdings and Hicks Muse Partners, as in effect on the
Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date.
"GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States
of America as in effect as of the date of the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture, including those set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the
Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting
Standards Board or the Commission or in such other statements by such other
entity as approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession. All
ratios and computations based on GAAP contained in the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture shall be computed in conformity with GAAP.
"Guarantee" means a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable
instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business), direct or
indirect, in any manner (including, without limitation, by way of a pledge of
assets or through letters of credit or reimbursement agreements in respect
thereof), of all or any part of any Indebtedness.
"Guarantor" means each of the Company's direct and indirect, existing and
future, Restricted Subsidiaries, other than a Subsidiary organized under the
laws of a jurisdiction other than the United States or any State thereof,
provided that such Subsidiary's assets and principal place of business are
located outside the United States.
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"Guarantor Senior Indebtedness" means, as to any Guarantor, Senior
Indebtedness of such Guarantor, it being understood that for the purpose of this
definition, all references to the Company in the definition of Senior
Indebtedness shall be deemed references to such Guarantor.
"Indebtedness" means with respect to any Person, without duplication, any
liability of such Person (i) for borrowed money, (ii) evidenced by bonds,
debentures, notes or other similar instruments, (iii) constituting Capitalized
Lease Obligations, (iv) incurred or assumed as the deferred purchase price of
property, or pursuant to conditional sale obligations and title retention
agreements (but excluding trade accounts payable arising in the ordinary course
of business), (v) for the reimbursement of any obligor on any letter of credit,
banker's acceptance or similar credit transaction, (vi) for Indebtedness of
others guaranteed by such Person, (vii) for Interest Swap Agreements, Commodity
Agreements and Currency Agreements and (viii) for Indebtedness of any other
Person of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (vii) which is secured by
any Lien on any property or asset of such first referred to Person, the amount
of such Indebtedness being deemed to be the lesser of the value of such property
or asset or the amount of the Indebtedness so secured. The amount of
Indebtedness of any Person at any date shall be (i) the outstanding principal
amount of all unconditional obligations described above, as such amount would be
reflected on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the maximum
liability at such date of such Person for any contingent obligations described
above, (ii) the accreted value thereof, in the case of any Indebtedness issued
with original issue discount and (iii) the principal amount thereof, together
with any interest thereon that is more than 30 days past due, in the case of any
other Indebtedness.
"Interest Swap Agreements" means any interest rate protection agreement,
interest rate future, interest rate option, interest rate swap, interest rate
cap or other interest rate hedge or arrangement.
"Investment" in any Person means any direct or indirect advance, loan or
other extension of credit (in each case, including by way of Guarantee or
similar arrangement, but excluding (i) any debt or extension of credit
represented by a bank deposit other than a time deposit and (ii) advances to
customers in the ordinary course of business) or capital contribution to (by
means of any transfer of cash or other property to others or any payment for
property or services for the account or use of others), or any purchase or
acquisition of Capital Stock, Indebtedness or other similar instruments issued
by such Person. For purposes of the "Limitation on Restricted Payments"
covenant, (A) "Investment" shall include the portion (proportionate to the
Company's equity interest in a Restricted Subsidiary to be designated as an
Unrestricted Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of such
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company at the time that such Restricted Subsidiary
is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon a
redesignation of such Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, the
Company shall be deemed to continue to have a permanent "Investment" (if
positive) equal to (1) the Company's "Investment" in such Unrestricted
Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation less (2) the portion (proportionate
to the Company's equity interest in such Unrestricted Subsidiary) of the fair
market value of the net assets of such Unrestricted Subsidiary at the time that
such Unrestricted Subsidiary is so redesignated from an Unrestricted Subsidiary
to a Restricted Subsidiary; and (B) any property transferred to or from an
Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its fair market value at the time of
such transfer, in each case as determined in good faith by the board of
directors of the Company.
"Leverage Ratio" means, as to any Person, the ratio of (i) the aggregate
outstanding amount of Indebtedness of such Person and its Restricted
Subsidiaries as of the date of calculation on a consolidated basis in accordance
with GAAP plus the aggregate liquidation preference of all Disqualified Capital
Stock of such Person and of all outstanding Preferred Stock of Restricted
Subsidiaries of such Person (other than any such Disqualified Capital Stock or
Preferred Stock held by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) to
(ii) the Consolidated Cash Flow of such Person for the four full fiscal quarters
(the "Four Quarter Period") ending on or prior to the date of determination.
For purposes of this definition, the aggregate outstanding principal amount
of Indebtedness of the Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for which such
calculation is made shall be determined on a pro forma basis as if the
Indebtedness giving rise to the need to perform such calculation had been
incurred and the proceeds therefrom had been applied, and all other transactions
in respect of which such Indebtedness is being incurred
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has occurred, on the last day of the Four Quarter Period. In addition to the
foregoing, for purposes of this definition, "Consolidated Cash Flow" shall be
calculated on a pro forma basis after giving effect to (i) the Transactions,
(ii) the incurrence of the Indebtedness of such Person and its Restricted
Subsidiaries (and the application of the proceeds therefrom) giving rise to the
need to make such calculation and any incurrence (and the application of the
proceeds therefrom) or repayment of other Indebtedness, other than the
incurrence or repayment of Indebtedness pursuant to working capital facilities,
at any time subsequent to the beginning of the Four Quarter Period and on or
prior to the date of determination, as if such incurrence (and the application
of the proceeds thereof), or the repayment, as the case may be, occurred on the
first day of the Four Quarter Period, (iii) any Asset Sales (including those
excluded from the definition thereof by clauses (b), (c) or (d) of the
definition thereof) or Asset Acquisitions (including, without limitation, any
Asset Acquisition giving rise to the need to make such calculation as a result
of such Person or one of its Subsidiaries (including any Person that becomes a
Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such Asset Acquisition) incurring, assuming
or otherwise becoming liable for Indebtedness) or Asset Swaps at any time on or
subsequent to the first day of the Four Quarter Period and on or prior to the
date of determination, as if such Asset Sale, Asset Acquisition (including the
incurrence, assumption or liability for any such Indebtedness and also including
any Consolidated Cash Flow associated with such Asset Acquisition) or Asset Swap
occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period and (iv) cost savings
resulting from employee termination, facilities consolidations and closings,
standardization of employee benefits and compensation practices, consolidation
of property, casualty and other insurance coverage and policies, standardization
of sales representation commissions and other contract rates, and reductions in
taxes other than income taxes (collectively, "Cost Savings Measures"), which
cost savings the Company reasonably believes in good faith could have been
achieved during the Four Quarter Period as a result of such Asset Acquisition or
Asset Swap (regardless of whether such cost savings could then be reflected in
pro forma financial statements under GAAP, Regulation S-X promulgated by the
Commission or any other regulation or policy of the Commission), less the amount
of any additional expenses that the Company reasonably estimates would result
from anticipated replacement of any items constituting Cost Savings Measures in
connection with such Asset Acquisitions or Asset Swap; provided, however, that
both (A) such cost savings and Cost Savings Measures were identified and such
cost savings were quantified in an officer's certificate delivered to the Senior
Subordinated Notes Trustee at the time of the consummation of the Asset
Acquisition or Asset Swap and (B) with respect to each Asset Acquisition or
Asset Swap completed prior to the 90th day preceding such date of determination,
actions were commenced or initiated by the Company within 90 days of such Asset
Acquisition or Asset Swap to effect the Cost Savings Measures identified in such
officer's certificate (regardless, however, of whether the corresponding cost
savings have been achieved). Furthermore, in calculating "Consolidated Interest
Expense" for purposes of the calculation of "Consolidated Cash Flow," (i)
interest on Indebtedness determined on a fluctuating basis as of the date of
determination (including Indebtedness actually incurred on the date of the
transaction giving rise to the need to calculate the Leverage Ratio) and which
will continue to be so determined thereafter shall be deemed to have accrued at
a fixed rate per annum equal to the rate of interest on such Indebtedness as in
effect on the date of determination and (ii) notwithstanding (i) above, interest
determined on a fluctuating basis, to the extent such interest is covered by
Interest Swap Agreements, shall be deemed to accrue at the rate per annum
resulting after giving effect to the operation of such agreements.
"Lien" means, with respect to any asset, any lien, mortgage, deed of trust,
pledge, security interest, charge or encumbrance of any kind (including any
conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature
thereof and any agreement to give any security interest).
"Monitoring and Oversight Agreement" means the Monitoring and Oversight
Agreement by and among the Company, Holdings and Hicks Muse Partners, as in
effect on the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date.
"Net Cash Proceeds" means, with respect to any Asset Sale, the proceeds in
the form of cash or Cash Equivalents (including payments in respect of deferred
payment obligations when received in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents)
received by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries from such Asset Sale net of
(i) reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and fees relating to such Asset Sale
(including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees
and sales commissions, recording fees, relocation costs, title
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insurance premiums, appraisers fees and costs reasonably incurred in preparation
of any asset or property for sale), (ii) taxes paid or reasonably estimated to
be payable (calculated based on the combined state, federal and foreign
statutory tax rates applicable to the Company or the Restricted Subsidiary
engaged in such Asset Sale), (iii) all distributions and other payments required
to be made to any Person owning a beneficial interest in the assets subject to
sale or minority interest holders in Subsidiaries or joint ventures as a result
of such Asset Sale, (iv) any reserves established in accordance with GAAP for
adjustment in respect of the sales price of the asset or assets subject to such
Asset Sale or for any liabilities associated with such Asset Sale and (v)
repayment of Indebtedness secured by assets subject to such Asset Sale;
provided, however, that if the instrument or agreement governing such Asset Sale
requires the transferor to maintain a portion of the purchase price in escrow
(whether as a reserve for adjustment of the purchase price or otherwise) or to
indemnify the transferee for specified liabilities in a maximum specified
amount, the portion of the cash or Cash Equivalents that is actually placed in
escrow or segregated and set aside by the transferor for such indemnification
obligation shall not be deemed to be Net Cash Proceeds until the escrow
terminates or the transferor ceases to segregate and set aside such funds, in
whole or in part, and then only to the extent of the proceeds released from
escrow to the transferor or that are no longer segregated and set aside by the
transferor.
"Obligations" means all obligations for principal, premium, interest,
penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements, damages and other liabilities
payable under the documentation governing, or otherwise relating to, any
Indebtedness.
"Opinion of Counsel" means a written opinion from legal counsel who is
reasonably acceptable to the Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee. The counsel may
be an employee of or counsel to the Company or the Senior Subordinated Notes
Trustee.
"Permitted Indebtedness" means, without duplication, (i) Indebtedness
outstanding on the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date (including the Senior
Discount Notes); (ii) Indebtedness of the Company and any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries that is a Guarantor (a) outstanding under the Senior Credit
Facilities (including letter of credit obligations); provided that the aggregate
principal amount at any time outstanding does not exceed $570,000,000; provided
that of such amount (x) $125,000,000 may be used under the Delayed Tranche A
Facility only to finance the Grand Rapids Acquisition (and refinancings of such
borrowings) and (y) $225,000,000 may be used under the Incremental Term Facility
only to finance acquisitions of Productive Assets or to make distributions to a
Holding Company to enable a Holding Company to make interest payments on the
Senior Discount Notes (and refinancings of such borrowings) or (b) incurred
under the Senior Credit Facilities pursuant to and in compliance with (x) clause
(v) of this definition or (y) the proviso in the covenant described under the
caption "-- Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of
Capital Stock" above; (iii) Indebtedness evidenced by or arising under the
Senior Subordinated Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture; (iv)
Interest Swap Agreements, Commodity Agreements and Currency Agreements;
provided, however, that such agreements are entered into for bona fide hedging
purposes and not for speculative purposes; (v) additional Indebtedness of the
Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries that is a Guarantor not to exceed
$20,000,000 in principal amount outstanding at any time (which amount may, but
need not, be incurred under the Senior Credit Facilities); (vi) Refinancing
Indebtedness; (vii) Indebtedness owed by the Company to any Restricted
Subsidiary of the Company or by any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company to the
Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company; (viii) guarantees by the
Company or Restricted Subsidiaries of any Indebtedness permitted to be incurred
pursuant to the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture; (ix) Indebtedness in
respect of performance bonds, bankers' acceptances and surety or appeal bonds
provided by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to their customers
in the ordinary course of their business; (x) Indebtedness arising from
agreements providing for indemnification, adjustment of purchase price or
similar obligations, or from guarantees or letters of credit, surety bonds or
performance bonds securing any obligations of the Company or any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to such agreements, in each case incurred in
connection with the disposition of any business assets or Restricted
Subsidiaries of the Company (other than guarantees of Indebtedness or other
obligations incurred by any Person acquiring all or any portion of such business
assets or Restricted Subsidiaries of the Company for the purpose of financing
such acquisition) in a principal amount not to exceed the gross proceeds
actually received by the Company or any
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of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with such disposition; provided,
however, that the principal amount of any Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this
clause (x), when taken together with all Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this
clause (x) and then outstanding, shall not exceed $20,000,000; and (xi)
Indebtedness represented by Capitalized Lease Obligations, mortgage financings
or purchase money obligations, in each case incurred for the purpose of
financing all or any part of the purchase price or cost of construction or
improvement of property or assets used in a related business or incurred to
refinance any such purchase price or cost of construction or improvement, in
each case incurred no later than 365 days after the date of such acquisition or
the date of completion of such construction or improvement; provided, however,
that the principal amount of any Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause
(xi) shall not exceed $7,500,000 at any time outstanding.
"Permitted Investments" means (i) Investments by the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company to acquire the stock or assets of any
Person (or Acquired Indebtedness or Acquired Preferred Stock acquired in
connection with a transaction in which such Person becomes a Restricted
Subsidiary of the Company) engaged in the broadcast business or businesses
reasonably related thereto; provided, however, that if any such Investment or
series of related Investments involves an Investment by the Company in excess of
$10,000,000, the Company is able, at the time of such Investment and immediately
after giving effect thereto, to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant,
(ii) Investments received by the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries as
consideration for a sale of assets made in compliance with the other terms of
the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture, (iii) Investments by the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary of the Company in any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company
(whether existing on the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date or created
thereafter) or any Person that after such Investments, and as a result thereof,
becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company and Investments in the Company or
any Restricted Subsidiary by any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company, (iv)
Investments in cash and Cash Equivalents, (v) Investments in securities of trade
creditors, wholesalers or customers received pursuant to any plan of
reorganization or similar arrangement, (vi) loans or advances to employees of
the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary thereof for purposes of purchasing the
Company's or a Holding Company's Capital Stock and other loans and advances to
employees made in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices
of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, (vii) Investments in the Sports
Joint Venture made at the time of the initial formation of the Sports Joint
Venture and (viii) additional Investments in an aggregate amount not to exceed
$5,000,000 at any time outstanding.
"Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability
company, unincorporated organization, trust or joint venture, or a governmental
agency or political subdivision thereof.
"Preferred Stock" of any Person means any Capital Stock of such Person that
has preferential rights to any other Capital Stock of such Person with respect
to dividends or redemptions or upon liquidation.
"Productive Assets" means assets of a kind used or usable by the Company
and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the broadcast business or businesses
reasonably related, ancillary or complementary thereto (including any
sports-related business acquired pursuant to the Sports Joint Venture), and
specifically includes assets acquired through Asset Acquisitions (it being
understood that "assets" may include Capital Stock of a Person that owns such
Productive Assets, provided that either (x) such assets consist of ownership
interests in the Sports Joint Venture or (y) after giving effect to such
transaction, such Person would be a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company).
"Public Equity Offering" means an underwritten public offering of Capital
Stock (other than Disqualified Capital Stock) of the Company or a Holding
Company (to the extent, in the case of a Holding Company, that the net cash
proceeds thereof are contributed to the common or non-redeemable preferred
equity capital of the Company), pursuant to an effective registration statement
filed with the Commission in accordance with the Securities Act.
"Qualified Capital Stock" means any Capital Stock that is not Disqualified
Capital Stock.
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"Refinancing Indebtedness" means any refinancing by the Company of
Indebtedness of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries incurred in
accordance with the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and
Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant (other than pursuant to clause (iii) or (iv)
of the definition of Permitted Indebtedness) that does not (i) result in an
increase in the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness (such principal
amount to include, for purposes of this definition, any premiums, penalties or
accrued interest paid with the proceeds of the Refinancing Indebtedness) of such
Person or (ii) create Indebtedness with (A) a Weighted Average Life to Maturity
that is less than the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness
being refinanced or (B) a final maturity earlier than the final maturity of the
Indebtedness being refinanced.
"Representative" means the indenture trustee or other trustee, agent or
representative in respect of any Senior Indebtedness; provided, however, that
if, and for so long as, any issue of Senior Indebtedness lacks such a
representative, then the Representative for such issue of Senior Indebtedness
shall at all times constitute the holders of a majority in outstanding principal
amount of such issue of Senior Indebtedness.
"Restricted Payment" means (i) the declaration or payment of any dividend
or the making of any other distribution (other than dividends or distributions
payable in Qualified Capital Stock or in options, rights or warrants to acquire
Qualified Capital Stock) on shares of the Company's Capital Stock, (ii) the
purchase, redemption, retirement or other acquisition for value of any Capital
Stock of the Company, or any warrants, rights or options to acquire shares of
Capital Stock of the Company, other than through the exchange of such Capital
Stock or any warrants, rights or options to acquire shares of any class of such
Capital Stock for Qualified Capital Stock or warrants, rights or options to
acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (iii) the making of any Investment (other
than a Permitted Investment).
"Restricted Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of the Company other than an
Unrestricted Subsidiary and includes all of the Subsidiaries of the Company
existing as of the Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date. The board of directors
of the Company may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary or any person that is
to become a Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary if immediately after giving
effect to such action (and treating any Acquired Indebtedness as having been
incurred at the time of such action), the Company could have incurred at least
$1.00 of additional indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) pursuant to
the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital
Stock" covenant.
"Secured Indebtedness" means any Indebtedness of the Company or a
Restricted Subsidiary secured by a Lien.
"Senior Credit Facilities" means the Senior Credit Facilities, under that
certain Credit Agreement dated as of March 3, 1998, among Holdings, the Company,
The Chase Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent and collateral agent, The Bank
of New York, as syndication agent, National Westminster Bank PLC, as
documentation agent, and the other financial institutions from time to time
party thereto, together with the related documents thereto (including, without
limitation, any guarantee agreements and security documents), in each case as
such agreements may be amended (including any amendment and restatement
thereof), supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, including any
agreement extending the maturity of, refinancing, replacing or otherwise
restructuring (including by way of adding Subsidiaries of the Company as
additional borrowers or guarantors thereunder) all or any portion of the
Indebtedness under such agreement or any successor or replacement agreement and
whether by the same or any other agent, lender or group of lenders (or other
institutions).
"Senior Indebtedness" means, whether outstanding on the Senior Subordinated
Notes Issue Date or thereafter issued, all Indebtedness of the Company,
including interest (including interest accruing on or after the filing of any
petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization relating to the Company or any
Restricted Subsidiary whether or not a claim for post-filing interest is allowed
in such proceeding) and premium, if any, thereon, and other monetary amounts
(including fees, expenses, reimbursement obligations under letters of credit and
indemnities) owing in respect thereof unless, in the instrument creating or
evidencing the same or pursuant to which the same is outstanding, it is provided
that the obligations in respect of such Indebtedness ranks pari passu with the
Senior Subordinated Notes; provided, however, that Senior Indebtedness will not
include (1) any obligation of the Company to any Restricted Subsidiary, (2) any
liability for federal, state,
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foreign, local or other taxes owed or owing by the Company, (3) any accounts
payable or other liability to trade creditors arising in the ordinary course of
business (including Guarantees thereof or instruments evidencing such
liabilities) (4) any Indebtedness, Guarantee or obligation of the Company that
is expressly subordinate or junior in right of payment to any other
Indebtedness, Guarantee or obligation of the Company, including any Senior
Subordinated Indebtedness or (5) obligations in respect of any Capital Stock.
"Senior Subordinated Indebtedness" means the Senior Subordinated Notes and
any other Indebtedness of the Company that specifically provides that such
Indebtedness is to rank pari passu with the Senior Subordinated Notes in right
of payment and is not subordinated by its terms in right of payment to any
Indebtedness or other obligation of the Company which is not Senior
Indebtedness.
"Senior Subordinated Notes Issue Date" means the date of original issuance
of the Old Senior Subordinated Notes.
"Significant Restricted Subsidiary" means, at any date of determination,
any Restricted Subsidiary that would be a "significant subsidiary" as defined in
Article I, Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X, promulgated under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, as such rule is in effect on the Senior Subordinated Notes
Issue Date.
"Sports Joint Venture" means any Hicks Muse affiliated entity to which the
Company contributes station KXTX-TV and related assets in exchange for a
minority ownership interest therein, cash or a combination thereof.
"Subsidiary," with respect to any Person, means (i) any corporation of
which the outstanding Capital Stock having at least a majority of the votes
entitled to be cast in the election of directors under ordinary circumstances
shall at the time be owned, directly or indirectly through one or more
intermediaries, by such Person or (ii) any other Person of which at least a
majority of the voting interest under ordinary circumstances is at the time,
directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, owned by such
Person. Notwithstanding anything in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture to
the contrary, all references to the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries or
to financial information prepared on a consolidated basis in accordance with
GAAP shall be deemed to include the Company and its Subsidiaries as to which
financial statements are prepared on a combined basis in accordance with GAAP
and to financial information prepared on such a combined basis. Notwithstanding
anything in the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture to the contrary, an
Unrestricted Subsidiary shall not be deemed to be a Restricted Subsidiary for
purposes of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture.
"Surviving Person" means, with respect to any Person involved in or that
makes any Disposition, the Person formed by or surviving such Disposition or the
Person to which such Disposition is made.
"Treasury Rate" means the yield to maturity at the time of computation of
United States Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and
published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15(519) that
has become publicly available at least two business days prior to the Change of
Control Redemption Date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published,
any publicly available source or similar market data)) most nearly equal to the
period from the Change of Control Redemption Date to March 1, 2003; provided,
however, that if the period from the Change of Control Redemption Date to March
1, 2003 is not equal to the constant maturity of a United States Treasury
security for which a weekly average yield is given, the Treasury Rate shall be
obtained by linear interpolation (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth of a
year) from the weekly average yields of United States Treasury securities for
which such yields are given except that if the period from the Change of Control
Redemption Date to March 1, 2003 is less than one year, the weekly average yield
on actually traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to a constant
maturity of one year shall be used.
"Unrestricted Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of the Company created after
the Issue Date and so designated by a resolution adopted by the board of
directors of the Company; provided, however, that (a) neither the Company nor
any of its other Restricted Subsidiaries (1) provides any credit support for any
Indebtedness or other Obligations of such Subsidiary (including any undertaking,
agreement or instrument evidencing such Indebtedness) or (2) is directly or
indirectly liable for any Indebtedness or other Obligations of such Subsidiary
and (b) at the time of designation of such Subsidiary, such Subsidiary has no
property or
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assets (other than de minimis assets resulting from the initial capitalization
of such Subsidiary). The board of directors may designate any Unrestricted
Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that immediately
after giving effect to such designation (x) the Company could incur $1.00 of
additional Indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with
the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of
Disqualified Capital Stock" covenant and (y) no Default or Event of Default
shall have occurred or be continuing. Any designation pursuant to this
definition by the board of directors of the Company shall be evidenced to the
Senior Subordinated Notes Trustee by the filing with the Senior Subordinated
Notes Trustee of a certified copy of the resolution of the Company's board of
directors giving effect to such designation and an Officers' Certificate
certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.
"U.S. Government Obligations" means direct obligations (or certificates
representing an ownership interest in such obligations) of the United States of
America (including any agency or instrumentality thereof) for the payment of
which the full faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged and
which are not callable or redeemable at the issuer's option.
"Weighted Average Life to Maturity" means, when applied to any Indebtedness
at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing (a) the then outstanding
aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness into (b) the total of the
product obtained by multiplying (i) the amount of each then remaining
installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or other required payment of
principal, including payment at final maturity, in respect thereof, by (ii) the
number of years (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) which will elapse
between such date and the making of such payment.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE NEW SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES
GENERAL
The New Senior Discount Notes are to be issued under the indenture, dated
as of March 3, 1998 (the "Senior Discount Notes Indenture"), between Holdings
and United States Trust Company of New York, as trustee (the "Senior Discount
Notes Trustee"), a copy of which is available upon request to Holdings. The Old
Senior Discount Notes were also issued under the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture. The following summary of certain provisions of the Senior Discount
Notes Indenture and the Senior Discount Notes does not purport to be complete
and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, all the
provisions of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture (including the definitions of
certain terms therein and those terms made a part thereof by the Trust Indenture
Act of 1939, as amended) and the Senior Discount Notes. Capitalized terms used
herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings given to them in the
Senior Discount Notes Indenture. For definitions of certain terms used in this
section, see "-- Certain Definitions" below.
Principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Senior Discount Notes
will be payable, and the Senior Discount Notes may be exchanged or transferred,
at the office or agency of Holdings in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New
York (which initially shall be the corporate trust office of the Senior Discount
Notes Trustee in New York, New York), except that, at the option of Holdings,
payment of interest may be made by check mailed to the address of the holders as
such address appears in the Senior Discount Notes register.
The Senior Discount Notes will be issued in fully registered form only,
without coupons, in denominations of $1,000 (in principal amount at maturity)
and integral multiples thereof. Initially, the Senior Discount Notes Trustee
will act as Paying Agent and Registrar for the Senior Discount Notes. The Senior
Discount Notes may be presented for registration of transfer and exchange at the
offices of the Registrar, which initially will be the Senior Discount Notes
Trustee's corporate trust office. Holdings may change any Paying Agent and
Registrar without notice to holders of the Senior Discount Notes.
PRINCIPAL, MATURITY AND INTEREST
The Senior Discount Notes will be unsecured, senior obligations of Holdings
and will be limited to $325,000,000 aggregate principal amount at maturity, and
will mature on March 1, 2008. The Senior Discount Notes will be issued at a
discount to their aggregate principal amount at maturity and will generate gross
proceeds to Holdings of $199,631,250. Based on the issue price thereof, the
yield to maturity of the Senior Discount Notes is 10.00% (computed on a
semi-annual bond equivalent basis), calculated from the original date of
issuance. Cash interest will not accrue or be payable on the Senior Discount
Notes prior to March 1, 2003. Thereafter, cash interest on the Senior Discount
Notes will accrue at a rate of 10% per annum and will be payable semi-annually
in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing on September 1,
2003 to the holder of record of Senior Discount Notes at the close of business
on February 15 and August 15, respectively, immediately preceding such interest
payment date. Interest on the Senior Discount Notes will accrue from the most
recent interest payment date to which interest has been paid or, if no interest
has been paid, from the date of original issuance. Interest will be computed on
the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
MANDATORY PRINCIPAL REDEMPTION
Except as described below, Holdings may not redeem the Senior Discount
Notes prior to March 1, 2003. On March 1, 2003, Holdings will be required to
redeem Senior Discount Notes with an aggregate principal amount at maturity
equal to (i) $125.0 million multiplied by (ii) the quotient obtained (other than
Senior Discount Notes then held by Holdings or its Subsidiaries or the entities
with respect to which Holdings is a direct or indirect Subsidiary) by dividing
(x) the aggregate principal amount at maturity of Senior Discount Notes then
outstanding by (y) $325.0 million, (the "Mandatory Principal Redemption Amount")
at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount at maturity of the
Senior Discount Notes so redeemed.
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OPTIONAL REDEMPTION
The Senior Discount Notes may be redeemed at any time on or after March 1,
2003, in whole or in part, at the option of Holdings, at the redemption prices
(expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof on the applicable
redemption date) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to
the redemption date, if redeemed during the 12-month period beginning on March 1
of each of the years set forth below:
YEAR PERCENTAGE
- ------------------------------------------------------------ ----------
2003........................................................ 105.000%
2004........................................................ 103.333%
2005........................................................ 101.667%
2006 and thereafter......................................... 100.000%
In addition, prior to March 1, 2001, Holdings may, at its option, use the
net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings to redeem up to 35% of the
principal amount at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes at a redemption price
equal to 110% of the Accreted Value at the date of redemption, provided,
however, that after any such redemption, at least 65% of the aggregate principal
amount at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes originally issued would remain
outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption. Any such
redemption will be required to occur on or prior to the date that is one year
after the receipt by Holdings of the proceeds of an Equity Offering. Holdings
shall effect such redemption on a pro rata basis.
In addition, prior to March 1, 2003, Holdings may, at its option, redeem
the Senior Discount Notes upon a Change of Control. See "-- Change of Control."
SELECTION AND NOTICE
If less than all of the Senior Discount Notes are to be redeemed at any
time, selection of Senior Discount Notes for redemption will be made by the
Senior Discount Notes Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the
principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Senior Discount
Notes are listed or, in the absence of such requirements or if the Senior
Discount Notes are not so listed, on a pro rata basis, provided that no such
Notes of $1,000 principal amount at maturity or less shall be redeemed in part.
Notice of redemption shall be mailed by first class mail at least 30 but not
more than 60 days before the redemption date to each holder of Senior Discount
Notes to be redeemed at its registered address. If any Senior Discount Note is
to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that relates to such Note
shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. A new
Senior Discount Note in principal amount at maturity equal to the unredeemed
portion thereof will be issued in the name of the holder thereof upon
cancellation of the original Senior Discount Note. On and after the redemption
date, interest ceases to accrue on Senior Discount Notes or portions of them
called for redemption.
CHANGE OF CONTROL
Change of Control Offer. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides that,
upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder will have the right to
require that Holdings purchase all or a portion of such holder's Senior Discount
Notes in cash pursuant to the offer described below (the "Change of Control
Offer"), at a purchase price equal to (a) 101% of the Accreted Value thereof if
redeemed on or before March 1, 2003 and (b) 101% of the principal amount thereof
plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon, if purchased after March 1,
2003.
Prior to the mailing of the notice referred to below, but in any event
within 30 days following the date on which Holdings becomes aware that a Change
of Control has occurred, if the purchase of the Senior Discount Notes would
violate or constitute a default under any other Indebtedness of Holdings or its
Subsidiaries, or not be permitted by (including because Subsidiaries of Holdings
could not provide adequate funds therefor), then Holdings shall and shall cause
its Subsidiaries, to the extent needed to permit such purchase of Senior
Discount Notes, either (i) to repay all such Indebtedness and terminate all
commitments outstanding thereunder or (ii) to obtain the requisite consents, if
any, under such Indebtedness to permit the purchase of
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the Senior Discount Notes as provided below. Holdings will first comply with the
covenant in the preceding sentence before it will be required to make the Change
of Control Offer or purchase the Senior Discount Notes pursuant to the
provisions described below.
Within 30 days following the date on which Holdings becomes aware that a
Change of Control has occurred, Holdings must send, by first-class mail postage
prepaid, a notice to each holder of Senior Discount Notes, which notice shall
govern the terms of the Change of Control Offer. Such notice shall state, among
other things, the purchase date, which must be no earlier than 30 days nor later
than 45 days from the date such notice is mailed, other than as may be required
by law (the "Change of Control Payment Date"). Holders electing to have any
Senior Discount Notes purchased pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will be
required to surrender such Senior Discount Notes to the Paying Agent and
Registrar for the Senior Discount Notes at the address specified in the notice
prior to the close of business on the business day prior to the Change of
Control Payment Date.
Change of Control Redemption. In addition, the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture provides that, prior to March 1, 2003, upon the occurrence of a Change
of Control, Holdings will have the option to redeem the Senior Discount Notes in
whole but not in part (a "Change of Control Redemption") at a redemption price
equal to 100% of the Accreted Value thereof plus the Applicable Premium. In
order to effect a Change of Control Redemption, Holdings must send a notice to
each holder of Senior Discount Notes, which notice shall govern the terms of the
Change of Control Redemption. Such notice must be mailed to holders of the
Senior Discount Notes within 30 days following the date the Change of Control
occurred (the "Change of Control Redemption Date") and state that Holdings is
effecting a Change of Control Redemption in lieu of a Change of Control Offer.
Holdings will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange
Act to the extent applicable in connection with the purchase of Senior Discount
Notes pursuant to a Change of Control Offer.
These "Change of Control" covenants will not apply in the event of (a)
changes in a majority of the board of directors of the Company or Holdings so
long as a majority of such board of directors continues to consist of Continuing
Directors and (b) certain transactions with Permitted Holders (including Hicks
Muse, its officers and directors, and their respective Affiliates). In addition,
the Change of Control Offer requirement is not intended to afford holders of
Senior Discount Notes protection in the event of certain highly leveraged
transactions, reorganizations, restructurings, mergers and other similar
transactions that might adversely affect the holders of Senior Discount Notes,
but would not constitute a Change of Control. Holdings could, in the future,
enter into certain transactions including certain recapitalizations of Holdings,
that would not constitute a Change of Control with respect to the Change of
Control purchase feature of the Senior Discount Notes, but would increase the
amount of Indebtedness outstanding at such time. However, the Senior Discount
Notes Indenture will contain limitations on the ability of Holdings to incur
additional Indebtedness and to engage in certain mergers, consolidations and
sales of assets, whether or not a Change of Control is involved, subject, in
each case, to limitations and qualifications. See "-- Certain
Covenants -- Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of
Capital Stock" and "-- Certain Covenants -- Merger, Consolidation and Sale of
Assets" below.
With respect to the sale of "all or substantially all" the assets of
Holdings, which would constitute a Change of Control for purposes of the Senior
Discount Notes Indenture, the meaning of the phrase "all or substantially all"
varies according to the facts and circumstances of the subject transaction, has
no clearly established meaning under relevant law and is subject to judicial
interpretation. Accordingly, in certain circumstances there may be a degree of
uncertainty in ascertaining whether a particular transaction would involve a
disposition of "all or substantially all" of the assets of Holdings and,
therefore, it may be unclear whether a Change of Control has occurred and
whether the Senior Discount Notes should be subject to a Change of Control
Offer.
The occurrence of certain of the events that would constitute a Change of
Control would constitute a default under the Senior Credit Facilities. Future
Senior Indebtedness of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries may also contain
prohibitions of certain events that would constitute a Change of Control or
require such Senior Indebtedness to be repurchased upon a Change of Control.
Moreover, the exercise by the
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holders of their right to require Holdings to repurchase the Senior Discount
Notes could cause a default under such Senior Indebtedness, even if the Change
of Control itself does not, due to the financial effect of such repurchase on
Holdings. Finally, Holdings' ability to pay cash to the holders upon a
repurchase may be limited by Holdings' then existing financial resources. There
can be no assurance that sufficient funds will be available when necessary to
make any required repurchases. Even if sufficient funds were otherwise
available, the terms of the Senior Credit Facilities may prohibit Holdings'
prepayment of Senior Discount Notes prior to their scheduled maturity.
Consequently, if Holdings is not able to prepay the Indebtedness under the
Senior Credit Facilities and any other Senior Indebtedness containing similar
restrictions or obtain the requisite consents, as described above, Holdings will
be unable to fulfill its repurchase obligations if holders of Senior Discount
Notes exercise their repurchase rights following a Change of Control, thereby
resulting in a default under the Senior Discount Notes Indenture.
None of the provisions in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture relating to a
purchase of Senior Discount Notes upon a Change of Control is waivable by the
board of directors of Holdings. Without the consent of each holder of Senior
Discount Notes affected thereby, after the mailing of the notice of a Change of
Control Offer, no amendment to the Senior Discount Notes Indenture may, directly
or indirectly, affect Holdings' obligation to purchase the outstanding Senior
Discount Notes or amend, modify or change the obligation of Holdings to
consummate a Change of Control Offer or waive any default in the performance
thereof or modify any of the provisions of the definitions with respect to any
such offer.
GUARANTEES OF THE SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES
The Senior Discount Notes will not be guaranteed by any present or future
Subsidiaries of Holdings. See "Risk Factors -- Ranking of the Notes and
Guarantees."
CERTAIN COVENANTS
Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital
Stock. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides that (a) Holdings will not,
and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or
indirectly, incur any Indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) and
Holdings will not issue any Disqualified Capital Stock and its Restricted
Subsidiaries will not issue any Preferred Stock (except Preferred Stock issued
to Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings so long as it is so held);
provided, however, that Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries may incur
Indebtedness or issue shares of such Capital Stock if, in either case, Holdings'
Leverage Ratio at the time of incurrence of such Indebtedness or the issuance of
such Capital Stock, as the case may be, after giving pro forma effect to such
incurrence or issuance as of such date and to the use of proceeds therefrom is
less than 8.75 to 1 and, provided further, that if such Indebtedness is
Indebtedness of Holdings, such Indebtedness is pari passu with the Senior
Discount Notes as to right of payment and such Indebtedness shall not have the
benefit of any security except to the extent that the New Senior Discount Notes
are equally and ratably secured therewith.
(b) Holdings will not incur or suffer to exist, or permit any of its
Subsidiaries to incur or suffer to exist, any Obligations with respect to an
Unrestricted Subsidiary that would violate the provisions set forth in the
definition of Unrestricted Subsidiary.
Limitation on Restricted Payments. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture
provides that: (a) Holdings will not, and will not cause or permit any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, make any Restricted Payment
if at the time of such Restricted Payment and immediately after giving effect
thereto:
(i) a Default or Event of Default shall have occurred; or
(ii) Holdings would be able to incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock"
covenant; or
(iii) the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made subsequent to
the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date (the amount expended for such
purposes, if other than in cash, being the fair market value of such
property as determined by the board of directors of Holdings in good faith)
exceeds the sum of
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(a) (x) 100% of the aggregate Consolidated Cash Flow of Holdings (or, in
the event such Consolidated Cash Flow shall be a deficit, minus 100% of
such deficit) accrued subsequent to the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date to
the most recent date for which financial information is available to
Holdings, taken as one accounting period, less (y) 1.4 times Consolidated
Interest Expense for the same period, plus (b) 100% of the aggregate net
proceeds, including the fair market value of property other than cash as
determined by the board of directors of the Company in good faith, received
subsequent to the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date by Holdings from any
Person (other than a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings) from the issuance
and sale subsequent to the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date of Qualified
Capital Stock of Holdings (excluding (i) any net proceeds from issuances
and sales financed directly or indirectly using funds borrowed from
Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings, until and to the extent
such borrowing is repaid, but including the proceeds from the issuance and
sale of any securities convertible into or exchangeable for Qualified
Capital Stock to the extent such securities are so converted or exchanged
and including any additional proceeds received by Holdings upon such
conversion or exchange and (ii) any net proceeds received from issuances
and sales that are used to consummate a transaction described in clause (2)
of paragraph (b) below), plus (c) without duplication of any amount
included in clause (iii)(b) above, 100% of the aggregate net proceeds,
including the fair market value of property other than cash (valued as
provided in clause (iii)(b) above), received by Holdings as a capital
contribution subsequent to the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date, plus (d)
the amount equal to the net reduction in Investments (other than Permitted
Investments) made by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in any
Person resulting from, and without duplication, (i) repurchases or
redemptions of such Investments by such Person, proceeds realized upon the
sale of such Investment to an unaffiliated purchaser and repayments of
loans or advances or other transfers of assets by such Person to Holdings
or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or (ii) the redesignation of
Unrestricted Subsidiaries as Restricted Subsidiaries (valued in each case
as provided in the definition of "Investment") not to exceed, in the case
of any Restricted Subsidiary, the amount of Investments previously made by
Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in such Unrestricted Subsidiary,
which amount was included in the calculation of Restricted Payments;
provided, however, that no amount shall be included under this clause (d)
to the extent it is already included in Consolidated Cash Flow, plus (e)
the aggregate net cash proceeds received by a Person in consideration for
the issuance of such Person's Capital Stock (other than Disqualified
Capital Stock) that are held by such Person at the time such Person is
merged with and into the Company in accordance with the "Merger,
Consolidation and Sale of Assets" covenant subsequent to the Senior
Discount Notes Issue Date; provided, however, that concurrently with or
immediately following such merger the Company uses an amount equal to such
net cash proceeds to redeem or repurchase the Company's Capital Stock, plus
(f) $15,000,000.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, these provisions do not prohibit: (1)
the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution within 60 days
after the date of its declaration if such dividend or distribution would have
been permitted on the date of declaration; (2) the purchase, redemption or other
acquisition or retirement of any Capital Stock of Holdings or any warrants,
options or other rights to acquire shares of any class of such Capital Stock
either (x) solely in exchange for shares of Qualified Capital Stock or other
rights to acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (y) through the application of the
net proceeds of a substantially concurrent sale for cash (other than to a
Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings) of shares of Qualified Capital Stock or
warrants, options or other rights to acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (z) in
the case of Disqualified Capital Stock, solely in exchange for, or through the
application of the net proceeds of a substantially concurrent sale for cash
(other than to a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings) of, Disqualified Capital
Stock; (3) payments made pursuant to any merger, consolidation or sale of assets
effected in accordance with the "Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets"
covenant; provided, however, that no such payment may be made pursuant to this
clause (3) unless, after giving effect to such transaction (and the incurrence
of any Indebtedness in connection therewith and the use of the proceeds
thereof), Holdings would be able to incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant
such that after incurring that $1.00 of Additional Indebtedness, the Leverage
Ratio would be less than 7.75 to 1; (4) payments to enable Holdings or any
holding company as to which Holdings is, directly or indirectly, a Restricted
Subsidiary (a
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"Holding Company") to pay dividends on its Capital Stock (other than
Disqualified Capital Stock) after the first Public Equity Offering in an annual
amount not to exceed 6.0% of the gross proceeds (before deducting underwriting
discounts and commissions and other fees and expenses of the offering) received
from shares of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Capital Stock) sold for
the account of the issuer thereof (and not for the account of any stockholder)
in such initial Public Equity Offering; (5) payments by Holdings to fund the
payment by any Holding Company of audit, accounting, legal or other similar
expenses, to pay franchise or other similar taxes and to pay other corporate
overhead expenses, so long as such dividends are paid as and when needed by its
respective direct or indirect Holding Company and so long as the aggregate
amount of payments pursuant to this clause (5) does not exceed $1,000,000 in any
calendar year; (6) payments by Holdings to repurchase, or to enable a Holding
Company to repurchase, Capital Stock or other securities from employees of the
Company or a Holding Company in an aggregate amount not to exceed $15,000,000;
(7) payments by Holdings to redeem or repurchase or to enable a Holding Company
to redeem or repurchase stock purchase or similar rights granted by Holdings
with respect to its Capital Stock in an aggregate amount not to exceed $500,000;
(8) payments, not to exceed $200,000 in the aggregate, to enable Holdings or a
Holding Company to make cash payments to holders of its Capital Stock in lieu of
the issuance of fractional shares of its Capital Stock; (9) payments by Holdings
to fund taxes of a Holding Company for a given taxable year in an amount equal
to Holdings' "separate return liability," as if the Company were the parent of a
consolidated group (for purposes of this clause (9) "separate return liability"
for a given taxable year shall mean the hypothetical United States tax liability
of Holdings defined as if Holdings had filed its own U.S. federal tax return for
such taxable year); and (10) payments by Holdings to Hicks Muse Partners in
accordance with the terms of the Financial Advisory Agreement and the Monitoring
and Oversight Agreement; provided, however, that in the case of clauses (3),
(4), (6), (7) and (8), no Event of Default shall have occurred or be continuing
at the time of such payment or as a result thereof. In determining the aggregate
amount of Restricted Payments made subsequent to the Senior Discount Notes Issue
Date, amounts expended pursuant to clauses (1), (4), (6), (7) and (8) shall be
included in such calculation.
Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets. The Senior Discount Notes
Indenture provides that Holdings shall not, in a single transaction or a series
of related transactions, consolidate with or merge with or into, or sell,
assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all
of its assets to, another Person or adopt a plan of liquidation unless (i)
either (1) Holdings is the surviving Person or (2) the Person (if other than
Holdings) formed by such consolidation or into which Holdings is merged or the
person that acquires by conveyance, transfer or lease the properties and assets
of Holdings substantially as an entirety or in the case of a plan of
liquidation, the Person to which assets of Holdings have been transferred, shall
be a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or trust organized and
existing under the laws of the United States or any State thereof or the
District of Columbia; (ii) such surviving person shall assume all of the
obligations of Holdings under the Senior Discount Notes and the Senior Discount
Notes Indenture pursuant to a supplemental indenture in a form reasonably
satisfactory to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee; (iii) immediately after
giving effect to such transaction and the use of the proceeds therefrom (on a
pro forma basis, including giving effect to any Indebtedness incurred or
anticipated to be incurred in connection with such transaction), (1) no Default
or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing and (2) Holdings (in
the case of clause (1) of the foregoing clause (i)) or such Person (in the case
of clause (2) of the foregoing clause (i)) shall have a Leverage Ratio that
would be less than 8.75 to 1; and (iv) Holdings has delivered to the Senior
Discount Notes Trustee prior to the consummation of the proposed transaction an
Officers' Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such
consolidation, merger or transfer complies with the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture and that all conditions precedent in the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture relating to such transaction have been satisfied. For purposes of the
foregoing, the transfer (by lease, assignment, sale or otherwise, in a single
transaction or series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of
the properties and assets of one or more Restricted Subsidiaries, the Capital
Stock of which constitutes all or substantially all of the properties or assets
of Holdings, will be deemed to be the transfer of all or substantially all of
the properties and assets of Holdings. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses
(ii) and (iii), (1) any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings may consolidate with,
merge into or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to Holdings and
(2) Holdings may merge with an Affiliate thereof organized solely for the
purpose of reorganizing Holdings in another jurisdiction in the U.S. to realize
tax or other benefits.
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In the event of any transaction (other than a lease) described in and
complying with the conditions listed in the immediately preceding paragraph in
which Holdings, as the case may be, is not the Surviving Person and the
Surviving Person is to assume all the obligations of Holdings under the Senior
Discount Notes and the Senior Discount Notes Indenture pursuant to a
supplemental indenture, such Surviving Person shall succeed to, and be
substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of Holdings, as the case
may be, and Holdings shall be discharged from its Obligations under the Senior
Discount Notes Indenture and the Senior Discount Notes.
Limitation on Asset Sales. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides
that Holdings will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries
to, consummate an Asset Sale unless (i) Holdings or the applicable Restricted
Subsidiary, as the case may be, receives consideration at the time of such Asset
Sale at least equal to the fair market value of the assets sold or otherwise
disposed of (as determined in good faith by management of Holdings or, if such
Asset Sale involves consideration in excess of $10,000,000, by the board of
directors of Holdings, as evidenced by a board resolution), (ii) at least 75% of
the consideration received by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the
case may be, from such Asset Sale is in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents and
is received at the time of such disposition and (iii) upon the consummation of
an Asset Sale, Holdings applies, or causes such Restricted Subsidiary to apply,
such Net Cash Proceeds within 180 days of receipt thereof either (A) to repay
any Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings (and, to the extent such
Indebtedness relates to principal under a revolving credit or similar facility,
to obtain a corresponding reduction in the commitments thereunder, except that
the Company may temporarily repay Senior Indebtedness using the Net Cash
Proceeds from such Asset Sale and thereafter use such funds to reinvest pursuant
to clause (B) below within the period set forth therein without having to obtain
a corresponding reduction in the commitments thereunder), (B) to reinvest, or to
be contractually committed to reinvest pursuant to a binding agreement, in
Productive Assets and, in the latter case, to have so reinvested within 360 days
of the date of receipt of such Net Cash Proceeds or (C) to purchase Senior
Discount Notes tendered to Holdings for purchase at a price equal to (a) 101% of
the Accreted Value thereof if redeemed on or before March 1, 2003, and (b) 100%
of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest thereon, if any, if
redeemed after March 1, 2003, pursuant to an offer to purchase made by Holdings
as set forth below (a "Net Proceeds Offer"); provided, however, that Holdings
may defer making a Net Proceeds Offer until the aggregate Net Cash Proceeds from
Asset Sales not otherwise applied in accordance with this covenant equal or
exceed $15,000,000. To the extent that the aggregate principal amount of Senior
Discount Notes tendered pursuant to any Net Proceeds Offer is less than the
amount of Net Cash Proceeds subject to such Net Proceeds Offer, Holdings may use
any remaining portion of such Net Cash Proceeds not required to fund the
repurchase of tendered Senior Discount Notes for any purposes not otherwise
prohibited by the Senior Discount Notes Indenture. Upon the consummation of any
Net Proceeds Offer, the amount of Net Cash Proceeds subject to any future Net
Proceeds Offer from the Asset Sales giving rise to such Net Cash Proceeds shall
be deemed to be zero.
Holdings will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange
Act to the extent applicable in connection with the repurchase of Senior
Discount Notes pursuant to a Net Proceeds Offer.
Limitation on Asset Swaps. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides
that Holdings will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, engage
in any Asset Swap, unless: (i) at the time of entering into such Asset Swap, and
immediately after giving effect to such Asset Swap, no Default or Event of
Default shall have occurred and be continuing, (ii) in the event such Asset Swap
involves an aggregate amount in excess of $10,000,000, the terms of such asset
Swap have been approved by a majority of the members of the board of directors
of Holdings and (iii) in the event such Asset Swap involves an aggregate amount
in excess of $50,000,000, Holdings has received a written opinion from an
independent investment banking firm of nationally recognized standing that such
Asset Swap is fair to Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may
be, from a financial point of view.
Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Restricted
Subsidiaries. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides that Holdings will
not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or
indirectly, create or otherwise cause to permit to exist or become effective, by
operation of the charter of such Restricted Subsidiary or by reason of any
agreement, instrument, judgment,
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decree, rule, order, statute or governmental regulation, any encumbrance or
restriction on the ability of any Restricted Subsidiary to (a) pay dividends or
make any other distributions on its Capital Stock; (b) make loans or advances or
pay any Indebtedness or other obligation owed to Holdings or any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries; or (c) transfer any of its property or assets to
Holdings, except for such encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by
reason of: (1) applicable law; (2) the Senior Discount Notes Indenture; (3)
customary non-assignment provisions of any lease governing a leasehold interest
of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary; (4) any instrument governing Acquired
Indebtedness or Acquired Preferred Stock, which encumbrance or restriction is
not applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other
than the Person, or the property or assets of the Person, so acquired; (5)
agreements existing on the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date (including the
Senior Subordinated Notes and the Credit Agreement) as such agreements are from
time to time in effect; provided, however, that any amendments or modifications
of such agreements that affect the encumbrances or restrictions of the types
subject to this covenant shall not result in such encumbrances or restrictions
being less favorable to Holdings in any material respect, as determined in good
faith by the board of directors of Holdings, than the provisions as in effect
before giving effect to the respective amendment or modification; (6) any
restriction with respect to such a Restricted Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an
agreement entered into for the sale or disposition of all or substantially all
the Capital Stock or assets of such Restricted Subsidiary pending the closing of
such sale or disposition; (7) an agreement effecting a refinancing, replacement
or substitution of Indebtedness issued, assumed or incurred pursuant to an
agreement referred to in clause (2), (4) or (5) above or any other agreement
evidencing Indebtedness permitted under the Senior Discount Notes Indenture;
provided, however, that the provisions relating to such encumbrance or
restriction contained in any such refinancing, replacement or substitution
agreement or any such other agreement are no less favorable to Holdings in any
material respect as determined in good faith by the board of directors of
Holdings than the provisions relating to such encumbrance or restriction
contained in agreements referred to in such clause (2), (4) or (5); (8)
restrictions on the transfer of the assets subject to any Lien imposed by the
holder of such Lien; (9) a licensing agreement to the extent such restrictions
or encumbrances limit the transfer of property subject to such licensing
agreement; (10) restrictions relating to Subsidiary Preferred Stock that require
that due and payable dividends thereon to be paid in full prior to dividends on
such Subsidiary's common stock; or (11) any agreement or charter provision
evidencing Indebtedness or Capital Stock permitted under the Senior Discount
Notes Indenture; provided, however, that the provisions relating to such
encumbrance or restriction contained in such agreement or charter provision are
not less favorable to Holdings in any material respect as determined in good
faith by the board of directors of Holdings than the provisions relating to such
encumbrance or restriction contained in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture.
Limitations on Transactions with Affiliates. The Senior Discount Notes
Indenture provides that Holdings will not, and will not permit any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, enter into or permit to
exist any transaction (including, without limitation, the purchase, sale, lease,
contribution or exchange of any property or the rendering of any service) with
or for the benefit of any of its Affiliates (other than transactions between
Holdings and a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or among Restricted
Subsidiaries of Holdings) (an "Affiliate Transaction"), other than Affiliate
Transactions on terms that are no less favorable than those that might
reasonably have been obtained in a comparable transaction on an arm's-length
basis from a person that is not an Affiliate; provided, however, that for a
transaction or series of related transactions involving value of $5,000,000 or
more, such determination will be made in good faith by a majority of members of
the board of directors of Holdings and by a majority of the disinterested
members of the board of directors of Holdings, if any; provided, further, that
for a transaction or series of related transactions involving value of
$15,000,000 or more, the board of directors of Holdings has received an opinion
from an independent investment banking firm of nationally recognized standing
that such Affiliate Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to
Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary. The foregoing restrictions will not
apply to (1) reasonable and customary directors' fees, indemnification and
similar arrangements and payments thereunder; (2) any obligations of Holdings
under any employment agreement, noncompetition or confidentiality agreement with
any officer of Holdings as in effect on the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date
(provided that each amendment of any of the foregoing agreements shall be
subject to the limitations of this covenant); (3) any Restricted Payment
permitted to be made pursuant to the covenant described under "Limitation on
Restricted
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Payments"; (4) any issuance of securities, or other payments, awards or grants
in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of, employment
arrangements, stock options and stock ownership plans approved by the board of
directors of Holdings; (5) loans or advances to employees in the ordinary course
of business of Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries consistent with
past practices; (6) payments made in connection with the Transaction and the
Grand Rapids Acquisition, including, without limitation, fees to Hicks Muse, as
described in the Prospectus; and (7) payments by Holdings to Hicks Muse Partners
in accordance with the terms of the Financial Advisory Agreement and the
Monitoring and Oversight Agreement.
Reports. The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides that so long as any
of the Senior Discount Notes are outstanding, Holdings will provide to the
Senior Discount Notes Trustee and the holders of Senior Discount Notes and file
with the Commission, to the extent such submissions are accepted for filing by
the Commission, copies of the annual reports and of the information, documents
and other reports that Holdings would have been required to file with the
Commission pursuant to Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the "Exchange Act"), regardless of whether Holdings is then obligated
to file such reports.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT
The following events are defined in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture as
"Events of Default": (i) the failure to pay interest on the Senior Discount
Notes when the same becomes due and payable and the Default continues for a
period of 30 days; (ii) the failure to pay principal of or premium, if any, on
any Senior Discount Notes when such principal or premium, if any, becomes due
and payable, at maturity, upon redemption or otherwise; (iii) a default in the
observance or performance of any other covenant or agreement contained in the
Senior Discount Notes or the Senior Discount Notes Indenture, which default
continues for a period of 30 days after Holdings receives written notice thereof
specifying the default from the Senior Discount Notes Trustee or holders of at
least 25% in aggregate principal amount of outstanding Senior Discount Notes;
(iv) the failure to pay at the stated maturity (giving effect to any extensions
thereof) the principal amount of any Indebtedness of Holdings or any Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings, or the acceleration of the final stated maturity of any
such Indebtedness, if the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness,
together with the aggregate principal amount of any other such Indebtedness in
default for failure to pay principal at the final stated maturity (giving effect
to any extensions thereof) or which has been accelerated, aggregates $10,000,000
or more at any time in each case after a 10-day period during which such default
shall not have been cured or such acceleration rescinded; (v) one or more
judgments in an aggregate amount in excess of $15,000,000 (which are not covered
by insurance as to which the insurer has not disclaimed coverage) being rendered
against Holdings or any of its Significant Restricted Subsidiaries and such
judgment or judgments remain undischarged or unstayed for a period of 60 days
after such judgment or judgments become final and nonappealable; (vi) Holdings
ceasing for any reason to own directly all of the outstanding capital stock
(including shares issuable upon conversion or exchange of other instruments or
obligations) of the Company; and (vii) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency
or reorganization affecting Holdings or any of its Significant Restricted
Subsidiaries.
Upon the happening of any Event of Default specified in the Senior Discount
Notes Indenture, the Senior Discount Notes Trustee may, and the Senior Discount
Notes Trustee upon the request of holders of 25% in principal amount at maturity
of the outstanding Senior Discount Notes shall, or the holders of at least 25%
in principal amount at maturity of outstanding Senior Discount Notes may,
declare (a) the Accreted Value of all the Senior Discount Notes, if on or before
March 1, 2003, and (b) the principal amount of all the Senior Discount Notes,
together with all accrued and unpaid interest and premium, if any, if after
March 1, 2003, to be due and payable by notice in writing to Holdings and the
Senior Discount Notes Trustee specifying the respective Event of Default and
that it is a "notice of acceleration" (the "Acceleration Notice"), and the same
shall become immediately due and payable. If an Event of Default with respect to
bankruptcy proceedings relating to Holdings or any Significant Restricted
Subsidiaries occurs and is continuing, then such amount will ipso facto become
and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the
part of the Senior Discount Notes Trustee or any holder of the Senior Discount
Notes.
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At any time after a declaration of acceleration with respect to the Senior
Discount Notes as described in the preceding paragraph, the holders of a
majority in principal amount at maturity of the Senior Discount Notes then
outstanding (by notice to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee) may rescind and
cancel such declaration and its consequences if (i) the rescission would not
conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, (ii)
all existing Defaults and Events of Default have been cured or waived except
nonpayment of principal of or interest on the Senior Discount Notes that has
become due solely by such declaration of acceleration, (iii) to the extent the
payment of such interest is lawful, interest (at the same rate specified in the
Senior Discount Notes) on overdue installments of interest and overdue payments
of principal, which has become due otherwise than by such declaration of
acceleration has been paid, (iv) Holdings has paid the Senior Discount Notes
Trustee its reasonable compensation and reimbursed the Senior Discount Notes
Trustee for its reasonable expenses, disbursements and advances and (v) in the
event of the cure or waiver of a Default or Event of Default of the type
described in clause (vi) of the first paragraph of "-- Events of Default" above,
the Senior Discount Notes Trustee has received an Officers' Certificate and
Opinion of Counsel that such Default or Event of Default has been cured or
waived. The holders of a majority in principal amount at maturity of the Senior
Discount Notes may waive any existing Default or Event of Default under the
Senior Discount Notes Indenture, and its consequences, except a default in the
payment of the principal of or interest on any Senior Discount Notes.
Holdings is required to deliver to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee,
within 120 days after the end of Holdings' fiscal year, a certificate indicating
whether the signing officers know of any Default or Event of Default that
occurred during the previous year and whether Holdings has complied with its
obligations under the Senior Discount Notes Indenture. In addition, Holdings
will be required to notify the Senior Discount Notes Trustee of the occurrence
and continuation of any Default or Event of Default promptly after Holdings
becomes aware of the same.
Subject to the provisions of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture relating
to the duties of the Senior Discount Notes Trustee in case an Event of Default
thereunder should occur and be continuing, the Senior Discount Notes Trustee
will be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers under the
Senior Discount Notes Indenture at the request or direction of any of the
holders of the Senior Discount Notes unless such holders have offered to the
Senior Discount Notes Trustee reasonable indemnity or security against any loss,
liability or expense. Subject to such provision for security or indemnification
and certain limitations contained in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture, the
holders of a majority in principal amount at maturity of the outstanding Senior
Discount Notes have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting
any proceeding for any remedy available to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee or
exercising any trust or power conferred on the Senior Discount Notes Trustee.
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE OF SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE
Holdings may terminate its obligations under the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture at any time by delivering all outstanding Senior Discount Notes to the
Senior Discount Notes Trustee for cancellation and paying all sums payable by it
thereunder. Holdings, at its option, (i) will be discharged from any and all
obligations with respect to the Senior Discount Notes (except for certain
obligations of Holdings to register the transfer or exchange of such Senior
Discount Notes, replace stolen, lost or mutilated Senior Discount Notes,
maintain paying agencies and hold moneys for payment in trust) or (ii) need not
comply with certain of the restrictive covenants with respect to the Senior
Discount Notes Indenture, if Holdings deposits with the Senior Discount Notes
Trustee, in trust, U.S. legal tender or U.S. Government Obligations or a
combination thereof that, through the payment of interest and premium thereon
and principal in respect thereof in accordance with their terms, will be
sufficient to pay all the principal of and interest and premium on the Senior
Discount Notes on the dates such payments are due or through any date of
redemption, if earlier than the dates such payments are due, in any case in
accordance with the terms of such Senior Discount Notes, as well as the Senior
Discount Notes Trustee's fees and expenses. To exercise either such option,
Holdings is required to deliver to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee (A) an
Opinion of Counsel or a private letter ruling issued to Holdings by the Internal
Revenue Service (the "IRS") to the effect that the holders of the Senior
Discount Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax
purposes as a result of the
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deposit and related defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the
same amount and in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the
case if such option had not been exercised and, in the case of an Opinion of
Counsel furnished in connection with a discharge pursuant to clause (i) above,
accompanied by a private letter ruling issued to Holdings by the IRS to such
effect, (B) subject to certain qualifications, an opinion of counsel to the
effect that funds so deposited will not be subject to avoidance under applicable
bankruptcy law and (C) an Officers' Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel to the
effect that Holdings has complied with all conditions precedent to the
defeasance. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Opinion of Counsel required by
clause (A) above need not be delivered if all Senior Discount Notes not
theretofore delivered to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee for cancellation (i)
have become due and payable, (ii) will become due and payable on the maturity
date within one year or (iii) are to be called for redemption within one year
under arrangements satisfactory to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee for the
giving of notice of redemption by the Senior Discount Notes Trustee in the name,
and at the expense, of Holdings.
MODIFICATION OF THE SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES INDENTURE
From time to time, Holdings and the Senior Discount Notes Trustee,
together, without the consent of the holders of the Senior Discount Notes, may
amend or supplement the Senior Discount Notes Indenture for certain specified
purposes, including curing ambiguities, defects or inconsistencies. Other
modifications and amendments of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture may be made
with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount at maturity of
the then outstanding Senior Discount Notes, except that, without the consent of
each holder of the Senior Discount Notes affected thereby, no amendment may,
directly or indirectly: (i) reduce the amount of Senior Discount Notes whose
holders must consent to an amendment; (ii) reduce the rate of or change the time
for payment of interest, including defaulted interest, on any Senior Discount
Notes; (iii) reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any Senior
Discount Notes, or change the date on which any Senior Discount Notes may be
subject to redemption or repurchase, or reduce the redemption or repurchase
price therefor; (iv) make any Senior Discount Notes payable in money other than
that stated in the Senior Discount Notes and the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture; (v) make any change in provisions of the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture protecting the right of each holder of a Senior Discount Note to
receive payment of principal of, premium on and interest on such Senior Discount
Note on or after the due date thereof or to bring suit to enforce such payment
or permitting holders of a majority in principal amount of the Senior Discount
Notes to waive a Default or Event of Default; or (vi) after Holdings' obligation
to purchase the Senior Discount Notes arises under the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture, amend, modify or change the obligation of Holdings to make or
consummate a Change of Control Offer or a Net Proceeds Offer or waive any
default in the performance thereof or modify any of the provisions or
definitions with respect to any such offers.
CONCERNING THE SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES TRUSTEE
The Senior Discount Notes Indenture contains certain limitations on the
rights of the Senior Discount Notes Trustee, should it become a creditor of
Holdings, to obtain payment of claims in certain cases, or to realize on certain
property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise. The
Senior Discount Notes Trustee will be permitted to engage in other transactions;
however, if it acquires any conflicting interest, it must eliminate such
conflict within 90 days, apply to the Commission for permission to continue or
resign.
The holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding
Senior Discount Notes will have the right to direct the time, method and place
of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the Senior
Discount Notes Trustee, subject to certain exceptions. The Senior Discount Notes
Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default shall occur (which shall not
be cured), the Senior Discount Notes Trustee will be required, in the exercise
of its power, to use the degree of care of a prudent person in the conduct of
such person's own affairs. Subject to such provisions, the Senior Discount Notes
Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers
under the Senior Discount Notes Indenture at the request of any holder of Senior
Discount Notes, unless such holder shall have offered to the Senior Discount
Notes Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss,
liability or expense.
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GOVERNING LAW
The Senior Discount Notes Indenture provides that it and the Senior
Discount Notes will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws
of the State of New York without giving effect to applicable principles of
conflicts of law to the extent that the application of the laws of another
jurisdiction would be required thereby.
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
Set forth below is a summary of certain of the defined terms used in the
Senior Discount Notes Indenture. Reference is made to the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture for the full definition of all such terms, as well as any other terms
used herein for which no definition is provided.
"Accreted Value" as of any date (the "Specified Date") means, with respect
to each $1,000 principal amount at maturity of Senior Discount Notes:
(i) if the Specified Date is one of the following dates (each a
"Semi-Annual Accretion Date"), the amount set forth opposite such date below:
ACCRETED
SEMI-ANNUAL ACCRETION DATE VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------ ---------
Issue Date.................................................. $ 614.25
September 1, 1998........................................... 644.61
March 1, 1999............................................... 676.84
September 1, 1999........................................... 710.68
March 1, 2000............................................... 746.22
September 1, 2000........................................... 783.53
March 1, 2001............................................... 822.70
September 1, 2001........................................... 863.84
March 1, 2002............................................... 907.03
September 1, 2002........................................... 952.38
March 1, 2003............................................... $1,000.00
(ii) if the Specified Date occurs between two Semi-Annual Accretion Dates,
the sum of (a) the Accreted Value for the Semi-Annual Accretion Date immediately
preceding the Specified Date and (b) an amount equal to the product of (x) the
Accreted Value for the immediately following Semi-Annual Accretion Date less the
Accreted Value for the immediately preceding Semi-Annual Accretion Date and (y)
a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days actually elapsed from
the immediately preceding Semi-Annual Accretion Date to the Specified Date and
the denominator of which is 180, and
(iii) if the Specified date is after March 1, 2003, $1000.00.
"Acquired Indebtedness" means Indebtedness of a Person or any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries existing at the time such Person becomes a Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings or at the time it merges or consolidates with Holdings or
any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or assumed in connection with the acquisition
of assets from such Person and not incurred by such Person in connection with,
or in anticipation or contemplation of, such Person becoming a Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings or such acquisition, merger or consolidation.
"Acquired Preferred Stock" means the Preferred Stock of any Person at such
time as such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or at the time
it merges or consolidates with Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries
and not issued by such Person in connection with, or in anticipation or
contemplation of, such acquisition, merger or consolidation.
"Affiliate" means, as to any Person, any other Person which, directly or
indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by,
or is under common control with, such Person. The term "control" means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the
direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the
ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise. Chase and its
Affiliates shall not be deemed Affiliates of the Company by reason of the Senior
Credit Facilities or
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their direct or indirect investments in any fund managed by Hicks Muse or any
Person in which such fund is invested.
"Applicable Premium" means, with respect to a Senior Discount Note at any
Change of Control Redemption Date, the greater of (i) 1.0% of the accreted value
of such Senior Discount Note and (ii) the excess of (A) the present value at
such time of the redemption price of such Senior Discount Note at March 1, 2003
(such redemption price being described under "-- Optional Redemption") computed
using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate plus 87.5 basis points over (B)
the accreted value of such Senior Discount Note.
"Asset Acquisition" means (i) an Investment by Holdings or any Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings in any other Person pursuant to which such Person shall
become a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or shall be consolidated or merged
with Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or (ii) the acquisition
by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings of assets of any Person
comprising a division or line of business of such Person.
"Asset Sale" means any direct or indirect sale, issuance, conveyance,
transfer, lease (other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course
of business), assignment or other transfer for value by Holdings or any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries (excluding any Sale and Leaseback Transaction or any
pledge of assets or stock by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) to
any Person other than Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings of (i) any
Capital Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or (ii) any other
property or assets of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings other
than in the ordinary course of business; provided, however, that for purposes of
the "Limitation on Asset Sales" covenant, Asset Sales shall not include (a) a
transaction or series of related transactions in which Holdings or its
Restricted Subsidiaries receive aggregate consideration of less than $1,000,000,
(b) transactions permitted under the "Limitation on Asset Swaps" covenant, (c)
transactions covered by the "Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets" covenant,
(d) a Restricted Payment that otherwise qualifies under the "Limitation on
Restricted Payment" covenant, (e) any disposition of obsolete or worn out
equipment or equipment that is no longer useful in the conduct of the business
of Holdings and its Subsidiaries and that is disposed of, in each case, in the
ordinary course of business and (f) any transaction that constitutes a Change of
Control.
"Asset Swap" means the execution of a definitive agreement, subject only to
FCC approval, if applicable, and other customary closing conditions that
Holdings in good faith believes will be satisfied for a substantially concurrent
purchase and sale, or exchange, of Productive Assets between Holdings and any of
its Restricted Subsidiaries and another Person or group of affiliated Persons;
provided that any amendment to or waiver of any closing condition that
individually or in the aggregate is material to the Asset Swap shall be deemed
to be a new Asset Swap; it being understood that an Asset Swap may include a
cash equalization payment made in connection therewith provided that such cash
payment, if received by Holdings or its Subsidiaries, shall be deemed to be
proceeds received from an Asset Sale and shall be applied in accordance with
"Certain Covenants -- Limitation on Asset Sales."
"Business Day" means any day (other than a day which is a Saturday, Sunday
or legal holiday in the State of New York) on which banks are open for business
in New York, New York.
"Capital Stock" means (i) with respect to any Person that is a corporation,
any and all shares, interests, participations or other equivalents (however
designated) of capital stock of such Person and (ii) with respect to any Person
that is not a corporation, any and all partnership or other equity interests of
such Person.
"Capitalized Lease Obligation" means, as to any Person, the obligation of
such Person to pay rent or other amounts under a lease to which such Person is a
party that is required to be classified and accounted for as a capital lease
obligation under GAAP, and for purposes of this definition, the amount of such
obligation at any date shall be the capitalized amount of such obligation at
such date, determined in accordance with GAAP.
"Cash Equivalents" means (i) marketable direct obligations issued by, or
unconditionally guaranteed by, the United States Government or issued by any
agency thereof and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, in
each case maturing within one year from the date of acquisition thereof; (ii)
marketable
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direct obligations issued by any state of the United States of America or any
political subdivision of any such state or any public instrumentality thereof
maturing within one year from the date of acquisition thereof and, at the time
of acquisition, having one of the two highest ratings obtainable from either
Standard & Poor's Corporation or Moody's Investors Service, Inc.; (iii)
commercial paper maturing no more than one year from the date of creation
thereof and, at the time of acquisition, having a rating of at least A-1 from
Standard & Poor's Corporation or at least P-1 from Moody's Investors Service,
Inc.; (iv) certificates of deposit or bankers' acceptances maturing within one
year from the date of acquisition thereof issued by any commercial bank
organized under the laws of the United States of America or any state thereof or
the District of Columbia or any U.S. branch of a foreign bank having at the date
of acquisition thereof combined capital and surplus of not less than
$200,000,000; (v) repurchase obligations with a term of not more than seven days
for underlying securities of the types described in clause (i) above entered
into with any bank meeting the qualifications specified in clause (iv) above;
and (vi) investments in money market funds that invest substantially all their
assets in securities of the types described in clauses (i) through (v) above.
"Change of Control" means the occurrence of one or more of the following
events: (i) any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a
series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of
Holdings to any Person or group of related Persons for purposes of Section 13(d)
of the Exchange Act (a "Group") (whether or not otherwise in compliance with the
provisions of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture), other than to Hicks Muse or
any of its Affiliates, officers or directors (the "Permitted Holders"); or (ii)
a majority of the board of directors of Holdings or Holdings shall consist of
Persons who are not Continuing Directors; or (iii) the acquisition by any Person
or Group (other than the Permitted Holders or any direct or indirect Subsidiary
of any Permitted Holder) of the power, directly or indirectly, to vote or direct
the voting of securities having more than 50% of the ordinary voting power for
the election of directors of Holdings or Holdings.
"Commodity Agreement" means any commodity futures contract, commodity
option or other similar agreement or arrangement.
"Consolidated Cash Flow" means, with respect to any Person, for any period,
the sum (without duplication) of (i) Consolidated Net Income, (ii) to the extent
Consolidated Net Income has been reduced thereby, (a) all income taxes of such
Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries paid or accrued in accordance with GAAP
for such period (other than income taxes attributable to extraordinary or
nonrecurring gains or losses), (b) Consolidated Interest Expense and (c)
Consolidated Non-Cash Charges, all as determined on a consolidated basis for
such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries in conformity with GAAP and (iii)
the lesser of (x) dividends or distributions paid to such first referred to
Person or its Restricted Subsidiary by another Person whose results are
reflected as a minority interest in the consolidated financial statements of
such Person and (y) such Person's equity interest in the Consolidated Cash Flow
of such other Person (but in no event less than zero), except, that in the case
of the Joint Venture, (x) such amount shall not exceed 10% of the Consolidated
Cash Flow of the Company for such period and (y) such first Person shall be
deemed to have received by dividend its proportionate share of distributable
cash retained by the Joint Venture to fund the interest reserve.
"Consolidated Interest Expense" means, with respect to any Person for any
period, without duplication, the sum of (i) the interest expense of such Person
and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined on a consolidated
basis in accordance with GAAP, including, without limitation, (a) any
amortization of debt discount, (b) the net cost under Interest Swap Agreements
(including any amortization of discounts), (c) the interest portion of any
deferred payment obligation, (d) all commissions, discounts and other fees and
charges owed with respect to letters of credit, bankers' acceptance financing or
similar facilities, and (e) all accrued interest and (ii) the interest component
of Capitalized Lease Obligations paid or accrued by such Person and its
Restricted Subsidiaries during such period as determined on a consolidated basis
in accordance with GAAP.
"Consolidated Net Income" of any Person means, for any period, the
aggregate net income (or loss) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries
for such period on a consolidated basis, determined in accordance with GAAP;
provided, however, that there shall be excluded therefrom, without duplication,
(a) gains and
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losses from Asset Sales (without regard to the $1,000,000 limitation set forth
in the definition thereof) or abandonments or reserves relating thereto and the
related tax effects, (b) items classified as extraordinary or nonrecurring gains
and losses, and the related tax effects according to GAAP, (c) the net income
(or loss) of any Person acquired in a pooling of interests transaction accrued
prior to the date it becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of such first referred to
Person or is merged or consolidated with it or any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries, (d) the net income of any Restricted Subsidiary to the extent that
the declaration of dividends or similar distributions by that Restricted
Subsidiary of that income is restricted by contract, operation of law or
otherwise and (e) the net income or loss of any Person, other than a Restricted
Subsidiary; and provided further, however, that (i) there shall be added to net
income Consolidated Cash Flow losses attributable to stations which Holdings or
any of its Restricted Subsidiaries operates pursuant to local market agreements
provided that such addback shall not exceed $3,000,000 in any four quarter
period and (ii) in determining net income, pro forma effect shall be given to
the reimbursement of promotional expenses as if such reimbursement obligation
were in effect for the entire period with respect to periods ending prior to
March 31, 1999 (but only if such reimbursement obligation is then in effect).
"Consolidated Non-Cash Charges" means, with respect to any Person for any
period, the aggregate depreciation, amortization and other non-cash expenses of
such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries (excluding any such charges
constituting an extraordinary or nonrecurring item) reducing Consolidated Net
Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period,
determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
"Continuing Director" means, as of the date of determination, any Person
who (i) was a member of the board of directors of the Company or Holdings on the
Senior Discount Notes Issue Date, (ii) was nominated for election or elected to
the board of directors of the Company or Holdings, as the case may be, with the
affirmative vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors who were members of
such board of directors at the time of such nomination or election or (iii) is a
Representative of a Permitted Holder.
"Currency Agreement" means any foreign exchange contract, currency swap
agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement.
"Default" means an event or condition the occurrence of which is, or with
the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.
"Disqualified Capital Stock" means any Capital Stock that, by its terms (or
by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is
exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event, matures (excluding any
maturity as the result of an optional redemption by the issuer thereof) or is
mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or
is redeemable at the sole option of the holder thereof (except, in each case,
upon the occurrence of a Change of Control), in whole or in part, on or prior to
the final maturity date of the Senior Discount Notes; provided that only the
portion of Capital Stock which so matures or is mandatorily redeemable or is so
redeemable at the sole option of the holder thereof prior to March 1, 2008 shall
be deemed Disqualified Capital Stock.
"Equity Offering" means a private sale or public offering of Capital Stock
(other than Disqualified Capital Stock) of Holdings or a Holding Company (to the
extent, in the case of a Holding Company, that the net cash proceeds thereof are
contributed to the common or non-redeemable preferred equity capital of
Holdings).
"Financial Advisory Agreement" means the Financial Advisory Agreement by
and among the Company, Holdings and Hicks Muse Partners, as in effect on the
Senior Discount Notes Issue Date.
"GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States
of America as in effect as of the date of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture,
including those set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting
Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and
statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or the
Commission or in such other statements by such other entity as approved by a
significant segment of the accounting profession. All ratios and computations
based on GAAP contained in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture shall be computed
in conformity with GAAP.
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"Guarantee" means a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable
instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business), direct or
indirect, in any manner (including, without limitation, by way of a pledge of
assets or through letters of credit or reimbursement agreements in respect
thereof), of all or any part of any Indebtedness.
"Guarantor" means a Guarantor under the Senior Subordinated Notes
Indenture.
"Indebtedness" means with respect to any Person, without duplication, any
liability of such Person (i) for borrowed money, (ii) evidenced by bonds,
debentures, notes or other similar instruments, (iii) constituting Capitalized
Lease Obligations, (iv) incurred or assumed as the deferred purchase price of
property, or pursuant to conditional sale obligations and title retention
agreements (but excluding trade accounts payable arising in the ordinary course
of business), (v) for the reimbursement of any obligor on any letter of credit,
banker's acceptance or similar credit transaction, (vi) for Indebtedness of
others guaranteed by such Person, (vii) for Interest Swap Agreements, Commodity
Agreements and Currency Agreements and (viii) for Indebtedness of any other
Person of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (vii) which is secured by
any Lien on any property or asset of such first referred to Person, the amount
of such Indebtedness being deemed to be the lesser of the value of such property
or asset or the amount of the Indebtedness so secured. The amount of
Indebtedness of any Person at any date shall be (i) the outstanding principal
amount of all unconditional obligations described above, as such amount would be
reflected on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the maximum
liability at such date of such Person for any contingent obligations described
above, (ii) the accreted value thereof, in the case of any Indebtedness issued
with original issue discount and (iii) the principal amount thereof, together
with any interest thereon that is more than 30 days past due, in the case of any
other Indebtedness.
"Interest Swap Agreements" means any interest rate protection agreement,
interest rate future, interest rate option, interest rate swap, interest rate
cap or other interest rate hedge or arrangement.
"Investment" in any Person means any direct or indirect advance, loan or
other extension of credit (in each case, including by way of Guarantee or
similar arrangement, but excluding (i) any debt or extension of credit
represented by a bank deposit other than a time deposit and (ii) advances to
customers in the ordinary course of business) or capital contribution to (by
means of any transfer of cash or other property to others or any payment for
property or services for the account or use of others), or any purchase or
acquisition of Capital Stock, Indebtedness or other similar instruments issued
by such Person. For purposes of the "Limitation on Restricted Payments"
covenant, (A) "Investment" shall include the portion (proportionate to Holdings'
equity interest in a Restricted Subsidiary to be designated as an Unrestricted
Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of such Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings at the time that such Restricted Subsidiary is designated
an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon a redesignation of such
Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, Holdings shall be deemed to
continue to have a permanent "Investment" (if positive) equal to (1) Holdings'
"Investment" in such Unrestricted Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation
less (2) the portion (proportionate to Holdings' equity interest in such
Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of such Unrestricted
Subsidiary at the time that such Unrestricted Subsidiary is so redesignated from
an Unrestricted Subsidiary to a Restricted Subsidiary; and (B) any property
transferred to or from an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its fair
market value at the time of such transfer, in each case as determined in good
faith by the board of directors of Holdings.
"Leverage Ratio" means, as to any Person, the ratio of (i) the aggregate
outstanding amount of Indebtedness of such Person and its Restricted
Subsidiaries as of the date of calculation on a consolidated basis in accordance
with GAAP plus the aggregate liquidation preference of all Disqualified Capital
Stock of such Person and of all outstanding Preferred Stock of Restricted
Subsidiaries of such Person (other than any such Disqualified Capital Stock or
Preferred Stock held by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) to
(ii) the Consolidated Cash Flow of such Person for the four full fiscal quarters
(the "Four Quarter Period") ending on or prior to the date of determination.
For purposes of this definition, the aggregate outstanding principal amount
of Indebtedness of the Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for which such
calculation is made shall be determined on a pro forma basis as if the
Indebtedness giving rise to the need to perform such calculation had been
incurred and the proceeds
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therefrom had been applied, and all other transactions in respect of which such
Indebtedness is being incurred has occurred, on the last day of the Four Quarter
Period. In addition to the foregoing, for purposes of this definition,
"Consolidated Cash Flow" shall be calculated on a pro forma basis after giving
effect to (i) the Transactions, (ii) the incurrence of the Indebtedness of such
Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries (and the application of the proceeds
therefrom) giving rise to the need to make such calculation and any incurrence
(and the application of the proceeds therefrom) or repayment of other
Indebtedness, other than the incurrence or repayment of Indebtedness pursuant to
working capital facilities, at any time subsequent to the beginning of the Four
Quarter Period and on or prior to the date of determination, as if such
incurrence (and the application of the proceeds thereof), or the repayment, as
the case may be, occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period, (iii) any
Asset Sales (including those excluded from the definitions thereof by clauses
(b), (c) or (d) of the definition thereof) or Asset Acquisitions (including,
without limitation, any Asset Acquisition giving rise to the need to make such
calculation as a result of such Person or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries
(including any Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such
Asset Acquisition) incurring, assuming or otherwise becoming liable for
Indebtedness) or Asset Swaps at any time on or subsequent to the first day of
the Four Quarter Period and on or prior to the date of determination, as if such
Asset Sale, Asset Acquisition (including the incurrence, assumption or liability
for any such Indebtedness and also including any Consolidated Cash Flow
associated with such Asset Acquisition) or Asset Swap occurred on the first day
of the Four Quarter Period and (iv) cost savings resulting from employee
terminations, facilities consolidations and closings, standardization of
employee benefits and compensation practices, consolidation of property,
casualty and other insurance coverage and policies, standardization of sales
representation commissions and other contract rates, and reductions in taxes
other than income taxes (collectively, "Cost Savings Measures"), which cost
savings such Person reasonably believes in good faith could have been achieved
during the Four Quarter Period as a result of such Asset Acquisition or Asset
Swap (regardless of whether such cost savings could then be reflected in pro
forma financial statements under GAAP, Regulation S-X promulgated by the
Commission or any other regulation or policy of the Commission), less the amount
of any additional expenses that such Person reasonably estimates would result
from anticipated replacement of any items constituting Cost Savings Measures in
connection with such Asset Acquisitions or Asset Swap; provided, however, that
both (A) such cost savings and Cost Savings Measures were identified and such
cost savings were quantified in an officer's certificate delivered to the Senior
Discount Notes Trustee at the time of the consummation of the Asset Acquisition
or Asset Swap and (B) with respect to each Asset Acquisition or Asset Swap
completed prior to the 90th day preceding such date of determination, actions
were commenced or initiated by Holdings within 90 days of such Asset Acquisition
or Asset Swap to effect the Cost Savings Measures identified in such officer's
certificate (regardless, however, of whether the corresponding cost savings have
been achieved). Furthermore, in calculating "Consolidated Interest Expense" for
purposes of the calculation of "Consolidated Cash Flow," (i) interest on
Indebtedness determined on a fluctuating basis as of the date of determination
(including Indebtedness actually incurred on the date of the transaction giving
rise to the need to calculate the Leverage Ratio) and which will continue to be
so determined thereafter shall be deemed to have accrued at a fixed rate per
annum equal to the rate of interest on such Indebtedness as in effect on the
date of determination and (ii) notwithstanding (i) above, interest determined on
a fluctuating basis, to the extent such interest is covered by Interest Swap
Agreements, shall be deemed to accrue at the rate per annum resulting after
giving effect to the operation of such agreements.
"Lien" means, with respect to any asset, any lien, mortgage, deed of trust,
pledge, security interest, charge or encumbrance of any kind (including any
conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature
thereof and any agreement to give any security interest).
"Monitoring and Oversight Agreement" means the Monitoring and Oversight
Agreement by and among the Company, Holdings and Hicks Muse Partners, as in
effect on the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date.
"Net Cash Proceeds" means, with respect to any Asset Sale, the proceeds in
the form of cash or Cash Equivalents (including payments in respect of deferred
payment obligations when received in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents)
received by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries from such Asset Sale
net of (i) reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and fees relating to such Asset
Sale (including, without limitation,
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relocation costs, legal, accounting and investment banking fees and sales
commissions, recording fees, relocation costs, title insurance premiums,
appraisers, fees and costs reasonably incurred in preparation of any asset or
property for sale), (ii) taxes paid or reasonably estimated to be payable
(calculated based on the combined state, federal and foreign statutory tax rates
applicable to Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiary engaged in such Asset Sale),
(iii) all distributions and other payments required to be made to any Person
owning a beneficial interest in the assets subject to sale or minority interest
holders in Subsidiaries or joint ventures as a result of such Asset Sale, (iv)
any reserves established in accordance with GAAP for adjustment in respect of
the sales price of the asset or assets subject to such Asset Sale or for any
liabilities associated with such Asset Sale and (v) repayment of Indebtedness
secured by assets subject to such Asset Sale; provided, however, that if the
instrument or agreement governing such Asset Sale requires the transferor to
maintain a portion of the purchase price in escrow (whether as a reserve for
adjustment of the purchase price or otherwise) or to indemnify the transferee
for specified liabilities in a maximum specified amount, the portion of the cash
or Cash Equivalents that is actually placed in escrow or segregated and set
aside by the transferor for such indemnification obligation shall not be deemed
to be Net Cash Proceeds until the escrow terminates or the transferor ceases to
segregate and set aside such funds, in whole or in part, and then only to the
extent of the proceeds released from escrow to the transferor or that are no
longer segregated and set aside by the transferor.
"Obligations" means all obligations for principal, premium, interest,
penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements, damages and other liabilities
payable under the documentation governing, or otherwise relating to, any
Indebtedness.
"Opinion of Counsel" means a written opinion from legal counsel who is
reasonably acceptable to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee. The counsel may be
an employee of or counsel to Holdings or the Senior Discount Notes Trustee.
"Permitted Indebtedness" means, without duplication, (i) Indebtedness
outstanding on the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date (including the Senior
Subordinated Notes); (ii) Indebtedness of Holdings, the Company and any of its
Restricted Subsidiaries that is a Guarantor (a) outstanding under the Senior
Credit Facilities (including letter of credit obligations); provided that the
aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding does not exceed $570,000,000;
provided that, of such amount (x) $125,000,000 may be used under the Delayed
Tranche A Facility only to finance the Grand Rapids Acquisition (and
refinancings of such borrowings) and (y) $225,000,000 may be used under the
Incremental Term Facility only to finance acquisitions of Productive Assets or
to make interest payments on the Senior Discount Notes (and refinancings of such
borrowings); or (b) incurred under the Senior Credit Facilities pursuant to and
in compliance with (x) clause (v) of this definition or (y) the proviso in the
covenant described under the caption "-- Limitation on Incurrence of Additional
Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital Stock" above; (iii) Indebtedness evidenced
by or arising under the Senior Discount Notes and the Senior Discount Notes
Indenture; (iv) Interest Swap Agreements, Commodity Agreements and Currency
Agreements; provided, however, that such agreements are entered into for bona
fide hedging purposes and not for speculative purposes; (v) additional
Indebtedness of Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries that is a
Guarantor not to exceed $20,000,000 in principal amount outstanding at any time
(which amount may, but need not, be incurred under the Senior Credit
Facilities); (vi) Refinancing Indebtedness; (vii) Indebtedness owed by Holdings
to any Subsidiary of Holdings or by any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings to
Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings; (viii) guarantees by Restricted
Subsidiaries of any Indebtedness permitted to be incurred pursuant to the Senior
Discount Notes Indenture; (ix) Indebtedness in respect of performance bonds,
bankers' acceptances and surety or appeal bonds provided by Holdings or any of
its Restricted Subsidiaries to their customers in the ordinary course of their
business; (x) Indebtedness arising from agreements providing for
indemnification, adjustment of purchase price or similar obligations, or from
guarantees or letters of credit, surety bonds or performance bonds securing any
obligations of Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to such
agreements, in each case incurred in connection with the disposition of any
business assets or Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings (other than guarantees of
Indebtedness or other obligations incurred by any Person acquiring all or any
portion of such business assets or Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings for the
purpose of financing such acquisition) in a principal amount not to
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exceed the gross proceeds actually received by Holdings or any of its Restricted
Subsidiaries in connection with such disposition; provided, however, that the
principal amount of any Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (x), when
taken together with all Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (x) and
then outstanding, shall not exceed $20,000,000; and (xi) Indebtedness
represented by Capitalized Lease Obligations, mortgage financings or purchase
money obligations, in each case incurred for the purpose of financing all or any
part of the purchase price or cost of construction or improvement of property or
assets used in a related business or incurred to refinance any such purchase
price or cost of construction or improvement, in each case incurred no later
than 365 days after the date of such acquisition or the date of completion of
such construction or improvement; provided, however, that the principal amount
of any Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (xi) shall not exceed
$7,500,000 at any time outstanding.
"Permitted Investments" means (i) Investments by Holdings or any Restricted
Subsidiary of Holdings to acquire the stock or assets of any Person (or Acquired
Indebtedness or Acquired Preferred Stock acquired in connection with a
transaction in which such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings)
engaged in the broadcast business or businesses reasonably related thereto;
provided, however, that if any such Investment or series of related Investments
involves an Investment by Holdings in excess of $10,000,000, at the time of such
Investment and immediately after giving effect thereto (1) Holdings has incurred
no additional Indebtedness and (2) Holdings is able to incur at least $1.00 of
additional Indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with
the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital
Stock" covenant, (ii) Investments received by Holdings or its Restricted
Subsidiaries as consideration for a sale of assets made in compliance with the
other terms of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture, (iii) Investments by
Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings in any Restricted Subsidiary
of Holdings (whether existing on the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date or created
thereafter) or any Person that after such Investments, and as a result thereof,
becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings and Investments in Holdings or any
Restricted Subsidiary by any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings, (iv) Investments
in cash and Cash Equivalents, (v) Investments in securities of trade creditors,
wholesalers or customers received pursuant to any plan of reorganization or
similar arrangement, (vi) loans or advances to employees of Holdings or any
Restricted Subsidiary thereof for purposes of purchasing Holdings' or a Holding
Company's Capital Stock and other loans and advances to employees made in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practices of Holdings or such
Restricted Subsidiary, (vii) Investments in the Sports Joint Venture made at the
time of the initial formation of the Sports Joint Venture, and (viii) additional
Investments in an aggregate amount not to exceed $5,000,000 at any time
outstanding.
"Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability
company, unincorporated organization, trust or joint venture, or a governmental
agency or political subdivision thereof.
"Preferred Stock" of any Person means any Capital Stock of such Person that
has preferential rights to any other Capital Stock of such Person with respect
to dividends or redemptions or upon liquidation.
"Productive Assets" means assets of a kind used or usable by Holdings and
its Restricted Subsidiaries in broadcast business or businesses reasonably
related, ancillary or complementary thereto (including any sports-related
business acquired pursuant to the Sports Joint Venture), and specifically
includes assets acquired through Asset Acquisitions (it being understood that
"assets" may include Capital Stock of a Person that owns such Productive Assets,
provided that either (x) such assets consist of ownership interests in the
Sports Joint Venture or (y) after giving effect to such transaction, such Person
would be a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings).
"Public Equity Offering" means an underwritten public offering of Capital
Stock (other than Disqualified Capital Stock) of Holdings or a Holding Company
(to the extent, in the case of a Holding Company, that the net cash proceeds
thereof are contributed to the common or non-redeemable preferred equity capital
of Holdings), pursuant to an effective registration statement filed with the
Commission in accordance with the Securities Act.
"Qualified Capital Stock" means any Capital Stock that is not Disqualified
Capital Stock.
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"Refinancing Indebtedness" means any refinancing of Indebtedness incurred
in accordance with the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and
Issuance of Capital Stock" covenant (other than pursuant to clause (iii) or (iv)
of the definition of Permitted Indebtedness) that does not (i) result in an
increase in the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness (such principal
amount to include, for purposes of this definition, any premiums, penalties or
accrued interest paid with the proceeds of the Refinancing Indebtedness) of such
Person or (ii) create Indebtedness with (A) a Weighted Average Life to Maturity
that is less than the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness
being refinanced or (B) a final maturity earlier than the final maturity of the
Indebtedness being refinanced.
"Representative" means the indenture Senior Discount Notes Trustee or other
Senior Discount Notes Trustee, agent or representative in respect of any Senior
Indebtedness; provided, however, that if, and for so long as, any issue of
Senior Indebtedness lacks such a representative, then the Representative for
such issue of Senior Indebtedness shall at all times constitute the holders of a
majority in outstanding principal amount of such issue of Senior Indebtedness.
"Restricted Payment" means (i) the declaration or payment of any dividend
or the making of any other distribution (other than dividends or distributions
payable in Qualified Capital Stock or in options, rights or warrants to acquire
Qualified Capital Stock) on shares of Holdings' Capital Stock, (ii) the
purchase, redemption, retirement or other acquisition for value of any Capital
Stock of Holdings, or any warrants, rights or options to acquire shares of
Capital Stock of Holdings, other than through the exchange of such Capital Stock
or any warrants, rights or options to acquire shares of any class of such
Capital Stock for Qualified Capital Stock or warrants, rights or options to
acquire Qualified Capital Stock or (iii) the making of any Investment (other
than a Permitted Investment).
"Restricted Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of Holdings other than an
Unrestricted Subsidiary and includes all of the Subsidiaries of Holdings
existing as of the Senior Discount Notes Issue Date. The board of directors of
Holdings may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary or any person that is to
become a Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary if immediately after giving
effect to such action (and treating any Acquired Indebtedness as having been
incurred at the time of such action), Holdings could have incurred at least
$1.00 of additional indebtedness (other than Permitted Indebtedness) pursuant to
the "Limitation on Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Capital
Stock" covenant.
"Senior Credit Facilities" means the Senior Credit Facilities under that
certain Credit Agreement, dated as of March 1, 1998, among Holdings, the
Company, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent and collateral agent,
The Bank of New York as syndication agent and National Westminster Bank PLC as
documentation agent, and any other financial institutions from time to time
party thereto, together with the related documents thereto (including, without
limitation, any guarantee agreements and security documents), in each case as
such agreements may be amended (including any amendment and restatement
thereof), supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, including any
agreement extending the maturity of, refinancing, replacing or otherwise
restructuring (including by way of adding Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings as
additional borrowers or guarantors thereunder) all or any portion of the
Indebtedness under such agreement or any successor or replacement agreement and
whether by the same or any other agent, lender or group of lenders (or other
institutions).
"Senior Discount Notes Issue Date" means the date of original issuance of
the Old Senior Discount Notes.
"Senior Indebtedness" means, whether outstanding on the Senior Discount
Notes Issue Date or thereafter issued, (x) the Senior Discount Notes and (y) all
other Indebtedness of Holdings, including interest (including interest accruing
on or after the filing of any petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization
relating to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary whether or not a claim for
post-filing interest is allowed in such proceeding) and premium, if any,
thereon, and other monetary amounts (including fees, expenses, reimbursement
obligations under letters of credit and indemnities) owing in respect thereof
unless, in the instrument creating or evidencing the same or pursuant to which
the same is outstanding, it is provided that the obligations in respect of such
Indebtedness ranks pari passu with the Senior Discount Notes; provided however,
that Senior Indebtedness will not include (1) any obligation of Holdings to any
Restricted
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Subsidiary, (2) any liability for federal, state, foreign, local or other taxes
owed or owing by Holdings, (3) any accounts payable or other liability to trade
creditors arising in the ordinary course of business (including Guarantees
thereof or instruments evidencing such liabilities), (4) any Indebtedness,
Guarantee, or obligation of Holdings that is expressly subordinate or junior in
right of payment to any other Indebtedness, guarantee or obligation of Holdings,
including any Senior Subordinated Indebtedness and any Subordinated Obligations
or (5) obligations in respect of any Capital Stock.
"Significant Restricted Subsidiary" means, at any date of determination,
any Restricted Subsidiary that would be a "significant subsidiary" as defined in
Article I, Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X, promulgated under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, as such rule is in effect on the Senior Discount Notes Issue
Date.
"Sports Joint Venture" means any Hicks Muse affiliated entity to which the
Company contributes station KXTX-TV and related assets in exchange for a
minority ownership interest therein, cash or a combination thereof.
"Subsidiary," with respect to any Person, means (i) any corporation of
which the outstanding Capital Stock having at least a majority of the votes
entitled to be cast in the election of directors under ordinary circumstances
shall at the time be owned, directly or indirectly through one or more
intermediaries, by such Person or (ii) any other Person of which at least a
majority of the voting interest under ordinary circumstances is at the time,
directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, owned by such
Person. Notwithstanding anything in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture to the
contrary, all references to Holdings and its consolidated Restricted
Subsidiaries or to financial information prepared on a consolidated basis in
accordance with GAAP shall be deemed to include Holdings and its Restricted
Subsidiaries as to which financial statements are prepared on a combined basis
in accordance with GAAP and to financial information prepared on such a combined
basis. Notwithstanding anything in the Senior Discount Notes Indenture to the
contrary, an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall not be deemed to be a Restricted
Subsidiary for purposes of the Senior Discount Notes Indenture.
"Treasury Rate" means the yield to maturity at the time of computation of
United States Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and
published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15(519) that
has become publicly available at least two business days prior to the Change of
Control Redemption Date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published,
any publicly available source or similar market data)) most nearly equal to the
period from the Change of Control Redemption Date to March 1, 2003; provided,
however, that if the period from the Change of Control Redemption Date to March
1, 2003 is not equal to the constant maturity of a United States Treasury
security for which a weekly average yield is given, the Treasury Rate shall be
obtained by linear interpolation (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth of a
year) from the weekly average yields of United States Treasury securities for
which such yields are given except that if the period from the Change of Control
Redemption Date to March 1, 2003 is less than one year, the weekly average yield
on actually traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to a constant
maturity of one year shall be used.
"Unrestricted Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of Holdings created after the
Issue Date and so designated by a resolution adopted by the board of directors
of Holdings; provided, however, that (a) neither Holdings nor any of its other
Restricted Subsidiaries (1) provides any credit support for any Indebtedness or
other Obligations of such Subsidiary (including any undertaking, agreement or
instrument evidencing such Indebtedness) or (2) is directly or indirectly liable
for any Indebtedness or other Obligations of such Subsidiary and (b) at the time
of designation of such Subsidiary, such Subsidiary has no property or assets
(other than de minimis assets resulting from the initial capitalization of such
Subsidiary). The board of directors may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to
be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that immediately after giving
effect to such designation (1)(x) Holdings has incurred no additional
Indebtedness and (y) the Company could incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness
(other than Permitted Indebtedness) in compliance with the "Limitation on
Incurrence of Additional Indebtedness and Issuance of Disqualified Capital
Stock" covenant and (2) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred or be
continuing. Any designation pursuant to this definition by the board of
directors of Holdings shall be evidenced to the Senior Discount Notes Trustee by
the filing with the Senior Discount Notes Trustee of a certified copy of the
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resolution of Holdings' board of directors giving effect to such designation and
an Officers' Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the
foregoing conditions.
"Unsubordinated Indebtedness" means the Senior Discount Notes and any other
Indebtedness of Holdings that specifically provides that such Indebtedness is to
rank pari passu with the Senior Discount Notes in right of payment and is not
subordinated by its terms in right of payment to any Senior Indebtedness of
Holdings.
"U.S. Government Obligations" means direct obligations (or certificates
representing an ownership interest in such obligations) of the United States of
America (including any agency or instrumentality thereof) for the payment of
which the full faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged and
which are not callable or redeemable at the issuer's option.
"Weighted Average Life to Maturity" means, when applied to any Indebtedness
at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing (a) the then outstanding
aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness into (b) the total of the
product obtained by multiplying (i) the amount of each then remaining
installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or other required payment of
principal, including payment at final maturity, in respect thereof, by (ii) the
number of years (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) which will elapse
between such date and the making of such payment.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE SENIOR CREDIT FACILITIES
Concurrently with the consummation of the Acquisition, Holdings and the
Company entered into a credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent (the "Agent"), and the lenders named
therein (the "Lenders") that provide term loans of $295.0 million, a revolving
credit facility of $50.0 million and an incremental term loan facility of $225.0
million. Chase Securities Inc. acted as advisor and arranger (the "Arranger") in
connection with the Senior Credit Facilities. The following is a summary
description of the principal terms of the Senior Credit Facilities and is
subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to the Credit Agreement.
Structure. Loans under the Credit Agreement consist of (i) initial Tranche
A term loans (the "Initial Tranche A Term Loans") in the amount of $50.0
million; (ii) delayed Tranche A term loans (the "Delayed Tranche A Term Loans"
and, together with the Initial Tranche A Term Loans, the "Tranche A Term Loans")
in the amount of $125.0 million to finance the Grand Rapids Acquisition (iii)
Tranche B term loans (the "Tranche B Term Loans" and, together with the Tranche
A Term Loans, the "Term Loans") in the amount of $120.0 million; (iv) a
revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility") in the amount of
$50.0 million (which will be available for letters of credit and in the form of
swingline loans); and (v) incremental term loans (the "Incremental Term Loans"
and, together with the Term Loans and the Revolving Credit Facility, the "Senior
Credit Facilities") under an incremental term loan facility (the "Incremental
Facility") in an amount up to $225.0 million. The Company used the Initial
Tranche A Term Loans and the Tranche B Term Loans to provide a portion of the
funding necessary to consummate the Acquisition and refinance $260.0 million of
LIN Television's then existing indebtedness. The Company will use the Delayed
Tranche A Term Loans to fund the Grand Rapids Acquisition and the Incremental
Term Loans to provide funding for permitted acquisitions, including the
acquisition of WVTM-TV in Birmingham, Alabama, or for the Mandatory Principle
Redemption in respect of the Senior Discount Notes on March 1, 2003. The Company
will use the Revolving Credit Facility for general corporate purposes including,
without limitation, permitted acquisitions.
Security; Guaranty. The obligations of the Company under the Senior Credit
Facilities are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed, jointly and
severally, by Holdings and by each existing and subsequently acquired or
organized subsidiary of the Company. In addition, the Senior Credit Facilities
and the guarantees thereunder are secured by substantially all of the assets of
the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Collateral"), including but
not limited to (i) a first priority pledge of all the capital stock of the
Company and of each existing and subsequently acquired or organized subsidiary
of the Company; (ii) a perfected first priority security interest in, and
mortgage on, substantially all tangible and intangible assets of the Company and
the guarantors (including but not limited to accounts receivable, documents,
inventory, equipment, intellectual property, investment property, general
intangibles, real property, cash and cash accounts and proceeds of the
foregoing), in each case subject to certain limited exceptions. The Credit
Agreement provides for the release of guarantees under certain limited
circumstances.
Availability. The availability of the Senior Credit Facilities will be
subject to various conditions precedent typical of bank loans including, among
other things, the absence of any material adverse effect on the part of the
Company. The full amount of the Initial Tranche A Term Loans and the Tranche B
Term Loans were drawn at the closing of the Acquisition. The full amount of the
Delayed Tranche A Term Loans must be drawn in a single drawing at a time not
later than June 3, 1999. Amounts under the Incremental Facility may be drawn in
up to five drawings before March 3, 2003 (subject to the consent of the lenders
after March 3, 2001). Amounts repaid or prepaid under the Term Loans and the
Incremental Facility may not be reborrowed. Amounts under the Revolving Credit
Facility will be available on a revolving basis.
Amortization, Interest. The Tranche A Term Loans are repayable in quarterly
principal payments over seven years, commencing on December 31, 1998. The
Tranche A Term Loans bear interest at a rate per annum equal (at the Company's
option) to: (i) an adjusted London inter-bank offered rate ("Adjusted LIBOR")
plus a percentage based on the Company's financial performance or (ii) a rate
equal to the highest of the Agent's prime rate, a certificate of deposit rate
plus 1.00% and the Federal Funds effective rate plus 1/2 of 1.00% (the
"Alternate Base Rate") plus a percentage based on the Company's financial
performance. The Tranche B Term Loans are repayable in quarterly principal
payments over nine years, in the aggregate amount
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of $240,000 in 1998, $480,000 in each of 1999 through 2004, $28,920,000 in 2005,
$68,400,000 in 2006 and $19,560,000 in 2007, and bear interest at a rate per
annum equal (at the Company's option) to: (i) Adjusted LIBOR plus a percentage
based on the Company's financial performance or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate
plus a percentage based on the Company's financial performance. The Incremental
Term Loans, if any, will be repayable based on an amortization schedule to be
determined at each time such loans are made; provided that such amortization
will be nominal prior to six months after final maturity of the Tranche B Term
Loans, and will bear interest at a rate per annum equal (at the Company's
option) to (i) Adjusted LIBOR plus an applicable margin to be determined or (ii)
the Alternate Base Rate plus an applicable margin to be determined, in each case
subject to certain reductions based on the Company's financial performance. The
Revolving Credit Facility is a seven year facility and outstanding balances
thereunder bear interest at a rate per annum equal (at the Company's option) to
(i) Adjusted LIBOR plus a percentage based on the Company's financial
performance or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate plus a percentage based on the
Company's financial performance. Amounts under the Senior Credit Facilities not
paid when due bear interest at a default rate equal to 2.00% above the otherwise
applicable rate.
Prepayments. The Senior Credit Facilities permit the Company to prepay
loans and to permanently reduce revolving credit commitments and Delayed Tranche
A Term Loan commitments, in whole or in part, at any time. In addition, the
Company is required to make mandatory prepayments of Term Loans, subject to
certain exceptions, in amounts equal to (i) 75% of Excess Cash Flow (as defined
in the Credit Agreement); and (ii) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain
dispositions of assets or issuances of debt or equity of Holdings, the Company
or any of its subsidiaries (in each case, subject to certain exceptions and
subject to a reduction to zero based upon the Company's financial performance).
Mandatory and optional prepayments of the Term Loans will be allocated pro rata
between the Tranche A Term Loans, the Tranche B Term Loan and the Incremental
Term Loans, as applicable, and applied ratably based on the number of remaining
installments under each, except that, so long as the Tranche A Term Loans are
outstanding, the Lenders participating in the Tranche B Term Loans and the
Incremental Term Loans, as applicable, will have the right to refuse mandatory
prepayments, in which case such prepayments will be applied to the Tranche A
Term Loans. Any prepayment of Adjusted LIBOR loans other than at the end of an
interest period will be subject to reimbursement of breakage costs.
Fees. The Company is required to pay the Lenders, on a quarterly basis, a
commitment fee equal to 1/2 of 1.00% per annum on the undrawn portion of the
unused commitments, subject to reductions based upon the Company's financial
performance. The Company is also be required to pay (i) a commission on the face
amount of all outstanding letters of credit equal to the applicable margin then
in effect for Adjusted LIBOR loans under the Revolving Credit Facility, less
amounts paid under clause (ii) below, (ii) a fronting fee in the amount of 0.25%
per annum on each letter of credit, to the issuing bank on a quarterly basis,
(iii) annual administration fees and (iv) agent, arrangement and other similar
fees.
Covenants. The Credit Agreement contains covenants that, among other
things, restrict the ability of Holdings, the Company and its subsidiaries to
dispose of assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur guarantee obligations,
prepay other indebtedness or amend other debt instruments, pay dividends, create
liens on assets, enter into sale and leaseback transactions, make investments,
loans or advances, make acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations,
change the business conducted by the Company, make capital expenditures, or
engage in certain transactions with affiliates and otherwise restrict certain
corporate activities. In addition, under the Credit Agreement, the Company will
be required to comply with specified financial ratios, including minimum
interest coverage ratios, maximum leverage ratios and minimum fixed charge
coverage ratios.
The Credit Agreement also contains provisions that prohibit any
modification of the Senior Subordinated Notes Indenture in any manner adverse to
the Lenders and that will limit the Company's ability to refinance or otherwise
prepay the Senior Subordinated Notes without the consent of such Lenders.
Events of Default. The Credit Agreement contains customary events of
default, including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties,
covenant defaults, cross-defaults to certain other indebtedness, certain events
of bankruptcy and insolvency, ERISA events, judgment defaults, actual or
asserted invalidity of any security interest and change of control.
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BOOK-ENTRY; DELIVERY AND FORM
Except as described in the next paragraph, both the New Senior Subordinated
Notes and the New Senior Discount Notes initially will be represented by one or
more permanent global certificates in definitive, duly registered form
(collectively, the "Global Notes"). The Global Notes will be deposited on their
date of issue with, or on behalf of, The Depository Trust Company, New York, New
York ("DTC") and registered in the name of a nominee of DTC.
The Global Notes. The Issuers expect that pursuant to procedures
established by DTC (i) upon the issuance of the Global Notes, DTC or its
custodian will credit, on its internal system, the principal amount of New Notes
of the individual beneficial interests represented by such Global Notes to the
respective accounts of persons who have accounts with such depositary and (ii)
ownership of beneficial interests in the Global Notes will be shown on, and the
transfer of such ownership will be effected only through, records maintained by
DTC or its nominee (with respect to interests of participants) and the records
of participants (with respect to interests of persons other than participants).
Ownership of beneficial interests in the Global Notes will be limited to persons
who have accounts with DTC ("participants") or persons who hold interests
through participants.
So long as DTC, or its nominee, is the registered owner or holder of the
New Notes, DTC or such nominee, as the case may be, will be considered the sole
owner or holder of the New Notes represented by such Global Notes for all
purposes under the Indentures. No beneficial owner of an interest in the Global
Notes will be able to transfer that interest except in accordance with DTC's
procedures.
Payments of the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on, the Global
Notes will be made to DTC or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered
owner thereof. None of the Company, Holdings, the Trustees or any Paying Agent
will have any responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating
to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in the Global
Notes or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such
beneficial ownership interest.
The Issuers expect that DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any payment of
principal, premium, if any, and interest on the Global Notes, will credit
participants' accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their
beneficial interests in the principal amount of the Global Notes as shown on the
records of DTC or its nominee. The Issuers also expect that payments by
participants to owners of beneficial owners in the Global Notes held through
such participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary
practice, as is now the case with securities held for the accounts of customers
registered in the names of nominees for such customers. Such payments will be
the responsibility of such participants.
Transfers between participants in DTC will be effected in the ordinary way
through DTC's same-day funds system in accordance with DTC rules and will be
settled in same-day funds. If a holder requires physical delivery of a
certificated Note for any reason, including to sell Notes to persons in states
in which require physical delivery of the Notes, or to pledge such securities,
such holder must transfer its interest in a Global Note, in accordance with the
normal procedures of DTC.
DTC has advised the Issuers that it will take any action permitted to be
taken by a holder of Notes (including the presentation of New Notes for exchange
as described below) only at the direction of one or more participants to whose
account the DTC interests in the Global Notes are credited and only in respect
of such portion of the aggregate principal amount of New Notes as to which such
participant or participants has or have given such direction.
DTC has advised the Issuers as follows: DTC is a limited purpose trust
company organized under the laws of the State of New York, a member of the
Federal Reserve System, a "clearing corporation" within the meaning of the
Uniform Commercial Code and a "Clearing Agency" registered pursuant to the
provisions of Section 17A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
DTC was created to hold securities for its participants and facilitate the
clearance and settlement of securities transactions between participants through
electronic book-entry changes in accounts of its participants, thereby
eliminating the need for physical movement of certificates. Participants include
securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies and clearing corporations
and certain other organizations. Indirect access to the DTC system is available
to others
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such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or
maintain a custodial relationship with a participant, either directly or
indirectly ("indirect participants").
Although DTC has agreed to the foregoing procedures in order to facilitate
transfers of interests in the Global Notes among participants of DTC, it is
under no obligation to perform such procedures, and such procedures may be
discontinued at any time. Neither of the Issuers nor the Trustee will have any
responsibility for the performance by DTC or its participants or indirect
participants of their respective obligations under the rules and procedures
governing their operations.
Certificated Notes. If DTC is at any time unwilling or unable to continue
as a depositary for the Global Notes and a successor depositary is not appointed
by the Issuer within 90 days, certificated Notes will be issued in exchange for
the Global Notes.
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PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
Each broker-dealer that receives New Notes for its own account pursuant to
the Exchange Offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in
connection with any resale of such New Notes. This Prospectus, as it may be
amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in
connection with resales of New Notes received in exchange for Old Notes where
such Old Notes were acquired as a result of market-making activities or other
trading activities. The Company has agreed that, for a period of 90 days after
the Expiration Date, it will make this Prospectus, as amended or supplemented,
available to any broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale. In
addition, until December 29, 1998, all dealers effecting transactions in the New
Notes may be required to deliver a Prospectus.
The Issuers will not receive any proceeds from any sale of New Notes by
broker-dealers. New Notes received by broker-dealers for their own account
pursuant to the Exchange Offer may be sold from time to time in one or more
transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions, through
the writing of options on the New Notes or a combination of such methods of
resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices related to
such prevailing market prices or negotiated prices. Any such resale may be made
directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers who may receive
compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any such
broker-dealer or the purchasers of any such New Notes. Any broker-dealer that
resells New Notes that were received by it for its own account pursuant to the
Exchange Offer and any broker or dealer that participates in a distribution of
such New Notes may be deemed to be an "underwriter" within the meaning of the
Securities Act, and any profit on any such resale of New Notes and any
commissions or concessions received by any such persons may be deemed to be
underwriting compensation under the Securities Act. The Letter of Transmittal
states that by acknowledging that it will deliver and by delivering a prospectus
meeting the requirements of the Securities Act, a broker-dealer will not be
deemed to admit that it is an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities
Act.
For a period of 90 days after the Expiration Date, the Company will
promptly send additional copies of this Prospectus and any amendment or
supplement to this Prospectus to any broker-dealer that requests such documents
in the applicable Letter of Transmittal. The Issuers have agreed to pay all
expenses incident to the Exchange Offers (including the expenses of one counsel
for the holders of the Notes) other than commissions or concessions of any
broker-dealers and will indemnify holders of the Old Notes (including any
broker-dealers) against certain liabilities, including certain liabilities under
the Securities Act.
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CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following discussion is based upon the provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), the applicable Treasury
Regulations promulgated and proposed thereunder, judicial authority and current
administrative rulings and practice, all of which are subject to change,
possibly with retroactive effect. Except as specifically provided below, the
following discussion is limited to the U.S. federal income tax consequences
relevant to a holder of a Note who or which is (i) an individual who is a
citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation created or
organized under the laws of the United States, or any political subdivision
thereof, (iii) an estate whose income is includable in gross income for United
States federal income tax purposes regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust if
a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of
the trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all
substantial decisions of the trust (each a "U.S. Holder"). For purposes of the
withholding tax on interest, a non-resident alien or other non-resident
fiduciary of an estate or trust will be considered to be a holder other than a
U.S. Holder (a "Non-U.S. Holder"). This discussion does not purport to deal with
all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that might be relevant to particular
holders in light of their personal investment circumstances or status, nor does
it discuss the U.S. federal income tax consequences to certain types of holders
subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax laws (for
example, financial institutions, insurance companies, dealers in securities,
tax-exempt organizations, or taxpayers holding the Notes as part of a
"straddle," "hedge" or "conversion transaction"). Moreover, the effect of any
applicable state, local or foreign tax laws is not discussed.
Except as otherwise indicated below, this discussion assumes that the Notes
are held as capital assets (as defined in Section 1221 of the Code) by the
holders thereof. This discussion is limited to the U.S. federal income tax
consequences to holders acquiring Notes on original issue for cash. The Issuers
will treat the Notes as indebtedness for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and
the balance of the discussion is based on the assumption that such treatment
will be respected.
Prospective holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding
the federal, state, local and other tax considerations of the acquisition,
ownership and disposition of the Notes.
U.S. HOLDERS
Stated Interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes. The stated interest on
the Senior Subordinated Notes will be included in income by a U.S. Holder in
accordance with such U.S. Holder's usual method of accounting. It is anticipated
that the Senior Subordinated Notes will be issued without any original issue
discount ("OID"), as described below.
Stated Interest on the Senior Discount Notes. The stated interest on the
Senior Discount Notes will be included in the amount of OID on such Senior
Discount Notes. A U.S. Holder will not be required to report separately as
taxable income actual payments of stated interest with respect to the Senior
Discount Notes.
Original Issue Discount on the Senior Discount Notes. For the reasons
discussed below, the Senior Discount Notes will be deemed to have been issued
with OID. Accordingly, each U.S. Holder will be required to include in income
(regardless of whether such U.S. Holder is a cash or accrual basis taxpayer) in
each taxable year, in advance of the receipt of cash payments on such Senior
Discount Notes, that portion of the OID, computed on a constant yield basis,
attributable to each day during such year on which the holder held the Senior
Discount Notes. See "Taxation of Original Issue Discount" below.
The amount of OID with respect to each Senior Discount Note will be equal
to the excess of (i) its "stated redemption price at maturity" over (ii) its
"issue price." The "issue price" of a Senior Discount Note will be equal to the
first price at which a substantial amount of the Senior Discount Notes are sold.
For purposes of determining the issue price of the Senior Discount Notes, sales
to bond houses, brokers, or similar persons or organizations acting in the
capacity of underwriters, placement agents or wholesalers are ignored.
Under the Treasury Regulations, the "stated redemption price at maturity"
of a Senior Note Note will equal the sum of all cash payments required to be
made on such Senior Discount Note (including principal
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and stated interest) and the excess of the aggregate of such amounts over the
issue price of a Senior Discount Note would be included in the holder's income
as OID.
Taxation of Original Issue Discount. A U.S. Holder of a debt instrument
issued with OID is required to include in gross income for U.S. federal income
tax purposes an amount equal to the sum of the "daily portions" of such OID for
all days during the taxable year on which such holder holds the debt instrument.
The daily portions of OID required to be included in a U.S. Holder's gross
income in a taxable year will be determined under a constant yield method by
allocating to each day during the taxable year on which the U.S. Holder holds
the debt instrument a pro rata portion of the OID on such debt instrument which
is attributable to the "accrual period" in which such day is included. The
amount of the OID attributable to each accrual period will be the product of the
"adjusted issue price" of the Senior Discount Note at the beginning of such
accrual period multiplied by the "yield to maturity" of the Senior Discount Note
(properly adjusted for the length of the accrual period). The Senior Discount
Note's "yield to maturity" is that discount rate which, when used in computing
the present value of all principal and stated interest payments to be made under
a Senior Discount Note, produces an amount equal to the issue price of a Senior
Discount Note. The "adjusted issue price" of the Senior Discount Note at the
beginning of an accrual period will generally be its issue price plus the
aggregate amount of OID that accrued in all prior accrual periods (determined
without regard to the rules described below concerning acquisition premium) less
any cash payments on the Senior Discount Note. An "accrual period" may be of any
length and may vary in length over the term of the debt instrument, provided
that each accrual period is not longer than one year and each scheduled payment
of principal or interest occurs either on the final day or the first day of an
accrual period.
Acquisition Premium on Senior Discount Notes. A U.S. Holder of a Senior
Discount Note who purchases such Senior Discount Note for an amount that is
greater than its then adjusted issue price but equal to or less than the sum of
all amounts payable on the Senior Discount Note after the purchase date will be
considered to have purchased such Senior Discount Note at an "acquisition
premium." Under the acquisition premium rules, the amount of OID which such U.S.
Holder must include in income with respect to such Senior Discount Note for any
taxable year will be reduced by the portion of such acquisition premium properly
allocable to such year.
Amortizable Bond Premium on Senior Subordinated Notes. If a U.S. Holder's
basis in the Notes exceeds the sum of all amounts payable on the bond after the
acquisition date (other than payments of qualified stated interest, which
includes interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes), such excess will be
deductible by the holder of the Senior Subordinated Notes (or, if it would
result in a smaller amortizable bond premium, an amount equal to the excess of
the U.S. Holder's adjusted basis in such bond over the amount payable upon the
exercise of an issuer call, over the period to such earlier call date) as
amortizable bond premium over the term of the Senior Subordinated Notes on a
constant yield basis, if an election by the holder under Section 171 of the Code
is made or is already in effect. An election under Section 171 of the Code is
available only if the Senior Subordinated Notes are held as capital assets. This
election is revocable only with the consent of the Internal Revenue Service and
applies to all obligations held by the holder during or after the taxable year
for which the election is made. To the extent the excess is deducted as
amortizable bond premium, the holder's adjusted tax basis in the Senior
Subordinated Notes will be reduced. The amortizable bond premium will be treated
as an offset to interest income on the Notes rather than as a separate deduction
item.
Market Discount on Notes. Generally, the market discount rules discussed
below will not apply to a U.S. Holder who acquired a Note when it was originally
issued. These rules would apply, however, to an original holder whose tax basis
in a Note is less than such Note's "issue price" (as defined above).
Gain recognized on the disposition (including a redemption) by a U.S.
Holder of a Note that has accrued market discount will be treated as ordinary
income, and not capital gain, to the extent of the accrued market discount,
provided that the amount of market discount exceeds a statutorily defined de
minimis amount. "Market discount" is defined as the excess, if any, of the
"revised issue price" (as defined below) in the case of the Senior Discount
Notes or the "stated redemption price at maturity" in the case of the Senior
Subordinated Notes over the tax basis of the debt obligation in the hands of the
holder immediately after its acquisition. The "revised issue price" of a debt
obligation generally equals the sum of its issue price and the
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total amount of OID includible in the gross income of all holders for periods
before the acquisition of the debt obligation by the current holder (without
regard to any reduction in such income resulting from any prior purchase at an
acquisition premium) and less any cash payments in respect of such debt
obligation. The "stated redemption price at maturity" of the Senior Subordinated
Notes will equal the stated principal amount thereof.
Unless the U.S. Holder elects otherwise, the accrued market discount would
be the amount calculated by multiplying the market discount by a fraction, the
numerator of which is the number of days the obligation has been held by the
U.S. Holder and the denominator of which is the number of days after the U.S.
Holder's acquisition of the obligation up to and including its maturity date.
A U.S. Holder of a Note acquired at a market discount also may be required
to defer the deduction of a portion of the interest on any indebtedness incurred
or maintained to carry such Note until it is disposed of in a taxable
transaction. Moreover, to the extent of any accrued market discount on such
Notes, any partial principal payment with respect such Notes will be includible
as ordinary income upon receipt as will such Note's fair market value on certain
otherwise non-taxable transfers (such as gifts).
A U.S. Holder of a Note acquired at market discount may elect to include
the market discount in income as it accrues (on either a straight-line or
constant yield to maturity basis). This election would apply to all market
discount obligations acquired by the electing U.S. Holder on or after the first
day of the first taxable year to which the election applies. The election may be
revoked only with the consent of the Internal Revenue Service. If a holder of a
Note so elects to include market discount in income currently, the
above-discussed rules with respect to ordinary income recognition resulting from
sales and certain other disposition transactions and to deferral of interest
deductions would not apply.
Election to Apply OID Principles. A U.S. Holder may generally, upon
election, include in income all interest (including stated interest, acquisition
discount, OID, de minimis OID, market discount, de minimis market discount, and
unstated interest, as adjusted by any amortizable bond premium or acquisition
premium) that accrues on a Note by using the constant yield method applicable to
OID obligations, subject to certain limitations and exceptions. The election is
to be made for the taxable year in which the U.S. Holder acquired such Note, and
may not be revoked without the consent of the Internal Revenue Service. If such
election to apply the constant yield method is made with respect to a bond that
bears market discount, the electing holder will be treated as having made the
election described above to include market discount in income currently.
Tax Basis. A U.S. Holder's initial tax basis in a Note will be equal to the
purchase price paid by such holder for such Note.
A U.S. Holder's tax basis in a Senior Discount Note will be increased by
the amount of OID that is included in such U.S. Holder's income pursuant to the
foregoing rules (taking into account acquisition premium) through the day
preceding the day of disposition (and the accruals of market discount, if any,
which the U.S. Holder elected to include in gross income on an annual basis) and
will be decreased by the amount of any cash payments received. A U.S. Holder's
tax basis in a Senior Subordinated Note will be increased by the amount of
accrued market discount, if any, which the U.S. Holder elected to include in
gross income on an annual basis and decreased by the amortizable bond premium,
if any, which the U.S. Holder has elected to offset against interest income.
Sale or Redemption. Unless a nonrecognition provision applies, the sale,
exchange, redemption or other disposition of Notes will be a taxable event for
U.S. federal income tax purposes. In such event, a U.S. Holder will recognize
gain or loss equal to the difference between (i) the amount of cash plus the
fair market value of any property received upon such sale, exchange, redemption
or other taxable disposition (except to the extent that amounts received are
attributable, in the case of the Senior Subordinated Notes, to accrued interest,
which portion of the consideration would be taxed as ordinary income if the
interest was previously untaxed) and (ii) the holder's adjusted tax basis
therein. Subject to the discussion above under the caption "Market Discount"
with respect to the Notes, such gain or loss should be capital gain or loss. In
the case of non-corporate U.S. Holders, any such gain will be long-term capital
gain if the Notes have been held for more than
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eighteen months at the time of such sale, exchange, redemption or other
disposition and will be mid-term capital gain if the Notes have been held for
more than one year but not more than eighteen months at the time of such sale,
exchange, redemption or other disposition.
Exchange Offer. The exchange of Old Notes for New Notes pursuant to the
Exchange Offers should not constitute a significant modification of the terms of
the Old Notes and, therefore, such exchange should not constitute an exchange
for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, such exchange should have no
U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders of Old Notes.
Upon the failure to comply with certain of its obligations with respect to
the Exchange Offers, the Company (in the case of the Senior Subordinated Notes)
or Holdings (in the case of the Senior Discount Notes) would be required to pay
additional cash interest (the "Additional Interest") on the Senior Subordinated
Notes or Senior Discount Notes, as the case may be. In general, the Additional
Interest should be recognized as ordinary income by U.S. Holders when paid.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting. Under the Code, U.S. Holders
of Notes may be subject, under certain circumstances, to information reporting
and "backup withholding" at a 31% rate with respect to cash payments in respect
of principal (and premium, if any), OID, interest, and the gross proceeds from
dispositions thereof. Backup withholding applies only if the U.S. Holder (i)
fails to furnish its social security or other taxpayer identification number
("TIN") within a reasonable time after a request therefor, (ii) furnishes an
incorrect TIN, (iii) fails to report properly interest or dividends, or (iv)
fails, under certain circumstances, to provide a certified statement, signed
under penalty of perjury, that the TIN provided is its correct number and that
it is not subject to backup withholding. Any amount withheld from a payment to a
U.S. Holder under the backup withholding rules is allowable as a credit (and may
entitle such holder to a refund) against such U.S. Holder's U.S. federal income
tax liability, provided that the required information is furnished to the
Service. Certain persons are exempt from backup withholding, including
corporations and financial institutions. U.S. Holders of Notes should consult
their tax advisors as to their qualification for exemption from backup
withholding and the procedure for obtaining such exemption.
Holdings and the Company will furnish annually to the Internal Revenue
Service and to record holders of the Notes (to whom it is required to furnish
such information) information relating to the amount of OID and interest.
Because this information will be based upon the adjusted issue price of the
Senior Discount Notes as if the holder were an original holder, purchasers who
purchase Senior Discount Notes for an amount other than the adjusted issue price
at the time of purchase will be required to determine for themselves the amount
of OID, if any, that they are required to report. See also " -- Acquisition
Premium on Senior Discount Notes" and "-- Market Discount on Notes."
THE FOREGOING DISCUSSION IS BASED ON THE PROVISIONS OF THE CODE,
REGULATIONS, RULINGS AND JUDICIAL DECISIONS NOW IN EFFECT, ALL OF WHICH ARE
SUBJECT TO CHANGE. ANY SUCH CHANGES MAY BE APPLIED RETROACTIVELY IN A MANNER
THAT COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT U.S. HOLDERS OF NOTES. EACH PURCHASER OF ANY OF THE
NOTES SHOULD CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO THE TAX CONSEQUENCES TO
IT, INCLUDING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES UNDER STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN AND OTHER TAX
LAWS, OF THE PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF THE NOTES.
NON-U.S. HOLDERS
The following discussion is limited to the U.S. federal income tax
consequences relevant to a Non-U.S. Holder of a Note.
For purposes of the following discussion, interest and gain on the sale,
exchange or other disposition of a Note will be considered to be "U.S. trade or
business income" if such income or gain is (i) effectively connected with the
conduct of a U.S. trade or business or (ii) in the case of a treaty resident,
attributable to a permanent establishment (or, in the case of an individual, a
fixed base) in the United States.
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Stated Interest and OID on Notes. Generally any interest or OID paid to a
Non-U.S. Holder of a Note that is not U.S. trade or business income will not be
subject to U.S. federal income tax if the interest or OID qualifies as
"portfolio interest." Generally interest and OID on the Notes will qualify as
portfolio interest if (i) the Non-U.S. Holder does not actually or
constructively own 10% or more of the total voting power of all voting stock of
the Company (in the case of the Senior Subordinated Notes) or Holdings (in the
case of the Senior Discount Notes) and (ii) such holder is not a "controlled
foreign corporation" with respect to which the Company or Holdings, as the case
may be, is a "related person" within the meaning of the Code, and (iii) either
the beneficial owner, under penalty of perjury, certifies that the beneficial
owner is not a United States person and such certificate provides the beneficial
owner's name and address, or a securities clearing organization, bank or other
financial institution that holds customers' securities in the ordinary course of
its trade or business and holds the Notes certifies under penalties of perjury,
that such statement has been received from the beneficial owner by it or by a
financial institution between it and the beneficial owner, and (iv) the Non-U.S.
Holder is not a bank receiving interest on the extension of credit made pursuant
to a loan agreement made in the ordinary course of its trade or business.
The gross amount of payments to a Non-U.S. Holder of interest or OID that
do not qualify for the portfolio interest exception and that are not effectively
connected with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business will be subject to U.S.
federal income tax at the rate of 30%, unless a U.S. income tax treaty applies
to reduce or eliminate withholding. U.S. trade or business income will be taxed
on a net basis at regular U.S. rates rather than the 30% gross rate. In the case
of a Non-U.S. Holder that is a corporation, such United States trade or business
income may also be subject to the branch profits tax (which is generally imposed
on a foreign corporation on the actual or deemed repatriation from the United
States of earnings and profits attributable to United States trade or business
income) at a 30% rate. The branch profits tax may not apply (or may apply at a
reduced rate) if a recipient is a qualified resident of certain countries with
which the United States has an income tax treaty. To claim the benefit of a tax
treaty or to claim exemption from withholding because the income is U.S. trade
or business income, the Non-U.S. Holder must provide a properly executed Form
1001 or 4224 (or such successor forms as the Internal Revenue Service
designates), as applicable, prior to the payment of interest. These forms must
be periodically updated. Also under these regulations, a Non-U.S. Holder who is
claiming the benefits of a treaty may be required in certain instances to obtain
a U.S. taxpayer identification number and to provide certain documentary
evidence issued by foreign governmental authorities to prove residence in the
foreign country. If the Senior Discount Notes are AHYDOs, the recharacterization
of a portion of OID as dividends as described above will not apply for purposes
of U.S. withholding tax.
Sale, Exchange or Redemption of Notes. A Non-U.S. Holder will generally not
be subject to U.S. federal income tax recognized on a sale, redemption or other
disposition of a Note unless (i) the gain is effectively connected with the
conduct of a trade or business within the United States by the Non-U.S. Holder;
(ii) in the case of a Non-U.S. Holder who is a nonresident alien individual and
holds such Note as a capital asset, such holder is present in the United States
for 183 or more days in the taxable year and certain other requirements are met;
or (iii) the Non-U.S. Holder is subject to the special rules applicable to
former citizens and residents of the United States
Federal Estate Tax. If interest on the Notes is exempt from withholding of
U.S. federal income tax as portfolio interest described above, the Notes will
not be included in the estate of a deceased Non-U.S. Holder for U.S. federal
estate tax purposes.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding. The Company and Holdings must
report annually to the Internal Revenue Service and to each Non-U.S. Holder any
interest or OID that is subject to withholding, or that is exempt from U.S.
withholding tax pursuant to a tax treaty, or interest or OID that is exempt from
United States tax under the portfolio interest exception. Copies of these
information returns may also be made available under the provisions of a
specific treaty or agreement to the tax authorities of the country in which the
Non-U.S. Holder resides.
In the case of payments of interest (including OID) to Non-U.S. Holders,
Treasury Regulations provide that information reporting and backup withholding
at a rate of 31% will not apply to such payments with respect to which either
the requisite certification has been received or an exemption has otherwise been
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established (provided that neither the payor nor its paying agent has actual
knowledge that the holder is a U.S. person or the conditions of any other
exemption are not, in fact, satisfied).
The Treasury Regulations provide that backup withholding and information
reporting will not apply to payments of principal on the Notes by the Company or
Holdings to a Non-U.S. Holder, if the Holder certifies as to its non-U.S. status
under penalties of perjury or otherwise establishes an exemption (provided that
neither the Company nor Holdings nor their paying agents has actual knowledge
that the holder is a United States person or that the conditions of any other
exemption are not, in fact, satisfied).
The payment of the proceeds from the disposition of the Notes to or through
the United States office of any broker, U.S. or foreign, will be subject to
information reporting and possible backup withholding unless the owner certifies
as to its non-U.S. status under penalty of perjury or otherwise establishes an
exemption, provided that the broker does not have actual knowledge that the
holder is a U.S. person or that the conditions of any other exemption are not,
in fact, satisfied. The payment of the proceeds from the disposition of a Note
to or through a non-U.S. office of a non-U.S. broker that is not a U.S. related
person will not be subject to information reporting or backup withholding. For
this purpose, a "U.S. related person" is (i) a "controlled foreign corporation"
for U.S. federal income tax purposes or (ii) a foreign person 50% or more of
whose gross income from all sources for the three-year period ending with the
close of its taxable year preceding the payment (or for such part of the period
that the broker has been in existence) is derived from activities that are
effectively connected with the conduct of a United States trade or business.
In the case of the payment of proceeds from the disposition of Notes to or
through a non-U.S. office of a broker that is either a U.S. person or a U.S.
related person, the regulations require information reporting on the payment
unless the broker has documentary evidence in its files that the owner is a
Non-U.S. Holder and the broker has no knowledge to the contrary. Backup
withholding will not apply to payments made through foreign offices of a broker
that is not a U.S. person or a U.S. related person (absent actual knowledge that
the payee is a U.S. person).
The Treasury Department recently promulgated final Treasury Regulations
regarding the withholding and information reporting rules discussed above. In
general, the final regulations do not significantly alter the substantive
withholding and information reporting requirements but rather unify current
certification procedures and forms and clarify reliance standards. The final
regulations are generally effective for payments made after December 31, 1998,
subject to certain transition rules. Non-U.S. Holders should consult their own
tax advisors with respect to the impact, if any, of the new final Treasury
Regulations.
Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a
Non-U.S. Holder will be allowed as a refund or a credit against such Non-U.S.
Holder's U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the requisite
procedures are followed.
THE PRECEDING DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX
CONSEQUENCES IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. ACCORDINGLY,
EACH INVESTOR SHOULD CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISER AS TO PARTICULAR TAX
CONSEQUENCES TO IT OF PURCHASING, HOLDING AND DISPOSING OF THE NOTES, INCLUDING
THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF ANY STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN TAX LAWS, AND OF ANY
PROPOSED CHANGES IN APPLICABLE LAWS.
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LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the Notes offered hereby will be passed upon for the
Issuers by Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP, New York, New York.
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTANT
The Company on March 27, 1998 changed its independent accountants from
Ernst & Young LLP ("Ernst & Young") to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Ernst &
Young's report on the consolidated financial statements of LIN Television for
fiscal years 1997 and 1996 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of
opinion and was not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or
accounting principles. Additionally, no reportable conditions as described in
Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K were identified during Ernst & Young's
audits of the consolidated financial statements. During Ernst & Young's
appointment as independent accountants, there were no disagreements on any
matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or
auditing scope or procedure which if not resolved to Ernst & Young's
satisfaction would have caused Ernst & Young to make reference to the subject
matter of the disagreement in their reports on LIN Television's consolidated
financial statements.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of LIN Television Corporation at
December 31, 1997 and 1996, and for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1997, appearing in this Prospectus and the Registration Statement
have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set forth in
their report thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and is included in reliance
upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as experts in accounting
and auditing.
The consolidated balance sheet of LIN Holdings Corp. as of December 31,
1997 included in this Prospectus and the Registration Statement, has been
included herein in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of that firm as experts in
accounting and auditing.
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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
Report of Independent Auditors.............................. F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and
1996...................................................... F-3
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995.................................................. F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of
the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.......... F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.................... F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................. F-7
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1998 (unaudited)
and December 31, 1997..................................... F-21
Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited)....................... F-22
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months
ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited)................. F-23
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)...... F-24
LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
Report of Independent Accountants........................... F-32
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 1997.......... F-33
Notes to Consolidated Balance Sheet......................... F-34
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1998 (unaudited)
and December 31, 1997..................................... F-37
Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited)....................... F-38
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months
ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited)................. F-39
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)...... F-40
F-1
150
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
LIN Television Corporation
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of LIN
Television Corporation as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform our audits to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
LIN Television Corporation at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the consolidated
results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Fort Worth, Texas
January 19, 1998, except for
Note 2, as to which the
date is March 3, 1998
F-2
151
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
DECEMBER 31,
-----------------------
1997 1996
-------- ---------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 8,046 $ 27,952
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts
(1997 -- $2,197; 1996 -- $1,960)....................... 57,645 52,666
Program rights............................................ 9,916 10,133
Other current assets...................................... 1,865 6,675
-------- ---------
Total current assets.............................. 77,472 97,426
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation....... 107,593 106,441
Program rights and other non current assets................. 14,199 10,427
Equity in joint venture..................................... 473 505
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization
(1997 -- $70,905;
1996 -- $59,348).......................................... 369,588 381,145
-------- ---------
Total assets...................................... $569,325 $ 595,944
======== =========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable.......................................... $ 7,553 $ 7,593
Program obligations....................................... 11,320 10,724
Accrued income taxes...................................... 3,444 2,518
Other accruals............................................ 26,891 20,023
-------- ---------
Total current liabilities......................... 49,208 40,858
Long-term debt.............................................. 260,000 350,000
Deferred income taxes....................................... 65,248 64,211
Other non current liabilities............................... 2,304 2,427
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- 15,000,000
Issued and outstanding shares -- none.................. -- --
Common stock, $0.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- 90,000,000
Issued and outstanding shares(1997 -- 29,857,000;
29,717,000 -- 1996)................................... 299 297
Treasury stock............................................ (3) --
Additional paid-in capital................................ 283,177 276,997
Accumulated deficit....................................... (90,908) (138,846)
-------- ---------
Total stockholders' equity........................ 192,565 138,448
-------- ---------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity........ $569,325 $ 595,944
======== =========
See accompanying notes.
F-3
152
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
--------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- --------
Net revenues............................................... $291,519 $273,367 $217,247
Operating costs and expenses:
Direct operating......................................... 70,746 68,954 49,342
Selling, general & administrative........................ 63,473 59,974 47,646
Corporate expense........................................ 6,763 6,998 5,747
Amortization of program rights........................... 15,596 14,464 12,357
Depreciation and amortization of intangible assets....... 24,789 23,817 17,127
Tower write-offs......................................... 2,697 -- --
-------- -------- --------
Total operating costs and expenses............... 184,064 174,207 132,219
-------- -------- --------
Operating income........................................... 107,455 99,160 85,028
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense......................................... 21,340 26,582 26,262
Investment income........................................ (1,332) (1,354) (1,258)
Other expense............................................ -- -- 320
Equity in loss of joint venture.......................... 1,532 995 --
Merger expense........................................... 7,206 -- --
-------- -------- --------
Total other expense.............................. 28,746 26,223 25,324
-------- -------- --------
Income before provision for income taxes................... 78,709 72,937 59,704
Provision for income taxes................................. 30,602 26,476 21,674
-------- -------- --------
Net income................................................. $ 48,107 $ 46,461 $ 38,030
======== ======== ========
Net income per share:
Net income............................................... $ 1.62 $ 1.57 $ 1.29
======== ======== ========
Net income-assuming dilution............................. $ 1.58 $ 1.54 $ 1.28
======== ======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding........................ 29,781 29,631 29,367
======== ======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding-assuming dilution...... 30,534 30,120 29,757
======== ======== ========
See accompanying notes.
F-4
153
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(DOLLARS AND SHARES IN THOUSANDS)
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL TOTAL
--------------- TREASURY PAID-IN ACCUMULATED STOCKHOLDERS'
SHARES AMOUNT STOCK CAPITAL DEFICIT EQUITY
------ ------ -------- ---------- ----------- -------------
Balance at January 1, 1995............ 29,183 $292 $ -- $263,205 $(223,337) $ 40,160
Net income.......................... -- -- -- -- 38,030 38,030
Proceeds from exercises of stock
options and issuance of Employee
Stock Purchase Plan shares....... 306 3 -- 5,144 -- 5,147
Adjustment of prior year LIN
Broadcasting corporate service
charges.......................... -- -- -- (365) -- (365)
Tax benefit from exercises of stock
options.......................... -- -- -- 3,462 -- 3,462
------ ---- ----- -------- --------- --------
Balance at December 31, 1995.......... 29,489 295 -- 271,446 (185,307) 86,434
Net income.......................... -- -- -- -- 46,461 46,461
Proceeds from exercises of stock
options and issuance of Employee
Stock Purchase Plan shares....... 228 2 -- 4,800 -- 4,802
Tax benefit from exercises of stock
options.......................... -- -- -- 751 -- 751
------ ---- ----- -------- --------- --------
Balance at December 31, 1996.......... 29,717 297 -- 276,997 (138,846) 138,448
Net income.......................... -- -- -- -- 48,107 48,107
Proceeds from exercises of stock
options and issuance of Employee
Stock Purchase Plan shares....... 140 2 -- 3,633 -- 3,635
Treasury stock purchases............ -- -- (816) -- -- (816)
Treasury stock reissuances.......... -- -- 813 -- (169) 644
Tax benefit from exercises of stock
options.......................... -- -- -- 2,547 -- 2,547
------ ---- ----- -------- --------- --------
Balance at December 31, 1997.......... 29,857 $299 $ (3) $283,177 $ (90,908) $192,565
====== ==== ===== ======== ========= ========
See accompanying notes.
F-5
154
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- ---------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income................................................. $ 48,107 $ 46,461 $ 38,030
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization (includes amortization of
financing costs)...................................... 25,688 24,818 18,242
LIN Broadcasting corporate service charges forgiven...... -- -- (365)
Tax benefit from exercises of stock options.............. 2,547 751 3,462
Deferred income taxes.................................... 54 3,127 2,719
Net loss (gain) on disposition of assets................. 3,067 (158) 422
Amortization of program rights........................... 15,596 14,464 12,357
Program payments......................................... (13,179) (15,536) (14,311)
Equity in joint venture.................................. 1,532 995 --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable................................... (4,979) (1,934) (4,954)
Other assets.......................................... (3,976) 3,514 (3,148)
Liabilities........................................... 7,234 (5,703) 3,586
-------- -------- ---------
Total adjustments................................ 33,584 24,338 18,010
-------- -------- ---------
Net cash provided by operating activities.................. 81,691 70,799 56,040
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures....................................... (20,605) (27,557) (27,715)
Asset dispositions......................................... 7,045 693 56
Investment in joint venture................................ (1,500) (1,000) (500)
Acquisitions............................................... -- -- (97,563)
Local Marketing Agreement expenditures..................... -- -- (2,001)
-------- -------- ---------
Net cash used in investing activities...................... (15,060) (27,864) (127,723)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and sale of
Employee Stock Purchase Plan shares...................... 4,279 4,802 5,147
Treasury stock purchases................................... (816) -- --
Principal payments on long-term debt....................... (90,000) (37,000) (25,000)
Proceeds from long-term debt............................... -- -- 92,000
Purchase of interest rate caps............................. -- -- (346)
Loan fees incurred on long-term debt....................... -- (810) --
-------- -------- ---------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities........ (86,537) (33,008) 71,801
-------- -------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents....... (19,906) 9,927 118
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year......... 27,952 18,025 17,907
-------- -------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year............... $ 8,046 $ 27,952 $ 18,025
======== ======== =========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid for:
Interest................................................. $ 20,608 $ 28,866 $ 21,733
Income taxes............................................. $ 26,092 $ 25,285 $ 14,175
See accompanying notes.
F-6
155
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION
On December 28, 1994, the Company became an independent public company when
its common stock was distributed to LIN Broadcasting Corp. ("LIN Broadcasting")
shareholders on a tax-free basis (the "Spin-Off"). The Company's common stock
was distributed to the LIN Broadcasting shareholders on the basis of one share
of the Company's common stock for every two shares of LIN Broadcasting common
stock held of record as of December 9, 1994.
The Company operates twelve television stations (including KXAS-TV) and
provides consulting services to two additional television stations. (See Note
8). Thirteen of these stations are network affiliates and ten are in the forty
largest domestic television markets. The twelve television stations operated by
the Company include four stations to which the Company provides programming and
marketing services pursuant to local marketing agreements. See Note 14. The
Company serves additional programming outlets through operation of low-power
television stations and satellite broadcasting facilities. The Company, with its
predecessors, has been engaged in commercial television broadcasting since 1966.
Stations in larger markets traditionally command higher revenues than
stations in smaller markets due to a larger audience. Station KXAS-TV, in the
Dallas-Fort Worth market, has generated a substantial portion of the Company's
net revenues. Approximately 33%, 34% and 36% of the Company's 1997, 1996 and
1995 net revenues, respectively, were attributable to KXAS-TV. A significant
downturn in the economy of that station's market could substantially affect the
operating results of the Company. The Company is also dependent on
automotive-related advertising. Approximately 24% of the Company's gross
advertising revenues for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
consisted of automotive advertising. A significant decrease in such advertising
could materially effect the Company's operating results.
The Company currently owns the following network-affiliated television
broadcasting stations:
STATION AND LOCATION CHANNEL NETWORK AFFILIATION
-------------------- ------- -------------------
KXAS-TV, Fort Worth-Dallas, TX.......................... 5(VHF) NBC
WISH-TV, Indianapolis, IN............................... 8(VHF) CBS
WTNH-TV, New Haven-Hartford, CT......................... 8(VHF) ABC
WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY.................................... 4(VHF) CBS
WAVY-TV, Portsmouth-Norfolk, VA......................... 10(VHF) NBC
KXAN-TV, Austin, TX..................................... 36(UHF) NBC
WAND-TV, Decatur, IL.................................... 17(UHF) ABC
WANE-TV, Fort Wayne, IN................................. 15(UHF) CBS
The Company also provides programming and marketing services to the
following stations pursuant to local marketing agreements ("LMAs"):
STATION AND LOCATION CHANNEL NETWORK AFFILIATION
-------------------- ------- -------------------
KXTX-TV, Fort Worth-Dallas, TX.......................... 39(UHF) Ind.
WBNE-TV, New Haven-Hartford, CT......................... 59(UHF) WB
WVBT-TV, Portsmouth-Norfolk, VA......................... 43(UHF) WB/Fox
KNVA-TV, Austin, TX..................................... 54(UHF) WB
2. SUBSEQUENT EVENT
The Company and two newly formed affiliates of Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst
Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"), the predecessors-in-interest of LIN Holdings Corp.
("Holdings") and LIN Acquisition Company ("LIN Acquisition"), entered into an
Agreement and Plan of Merger on August 12, 1997 (as amended, the
F-7
156
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
"Merger Agreement"). On January 7, 1998, the stockholders of the Company adopted
and approved the Merger Agreement.
Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the Merger Agreement,
Holdings acquired the Company (the "Acquisition") on March 3, 1998 by merging
LIN Acquisition, its wholly owned subsidiary, with and into the Company (the
"Merger"), with the Company surviving the merger and becoming a direct, wholly
owned subsidiary of Holdings. The total purchase price for the common equity of
the Company was approximately $1.7 billion (subject to the payment of 8.0% per
annum thereon from and including February 15, 1998 up to but excluding March 3,
1998, the date on which the Merger became effective). The Company incurred
additional financing and legal fees in connection with the closing of the
Merger.
The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess cash on the
Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior
secured Tranche A term loans ("Tranche A Term Loans"); (iii) $120.0 million
aggregate principal amount of senior secured Tranche B term loans ("Tranche B
Term Loans"); (iv) $299.3 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by LIN
Television of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of unregistered 8 3/8%
senior subordinated notes due 2008 (the "Old Senior Subordinated Notes"); (v)
$199.6 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by Holdings of $325.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of unregistered 10% senior discount notes
due 2008 (the "Old Senior Discount Notes"), which proceeds were contributed by
Holdings to the common equity of the Company; (vi) $815.5 million of proceeds of
the GECC Note (as defined below) and (vii) $558.1 million of common equity
provided by affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors to the
equity of the corporate parents of Holdings, which in turn, through Holdings,
contributed such amount to the common equity of the Company (collectively, the
"Financings").
In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC formed a television
station joint venture (the "Joint Venture"). The Joint Venture consists of
KXAS-TV, formerly the Company's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV,
formerly NBC's San Diego station. A wholly owned subsidiary of NBC is the
general partner of the Joint Venture (the "NBC General Partner") and NBC
operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The NBC General Partner holds
an approximate 80% equity interest and the Company holds an approximate 20%
equity interest in the Joint Venture. General Electric Capital Corporation
("GECC") provided debt financing for the Joint Venture in the form of an $815.5
million 25-year non-amortizing senior secured note bearing an interest rate of
8% per annum for the first fifteen years of its term, and at a rate of 9.0% per
annum thereafter (the "GECC Note") The Company expects that the interest
payments on the GECC Note will be serviced solely by the cash flow of the Joint
Venture.
The GECC Note was issued by LIN Television of Texas, L.P., the Company's
indirect wholly owned partnership ("LIN-Texas"), which distributed the proceeds
to the Company. The obligations to GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by a
limited liability company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition.
The obligations to GECC under the GECC note were assumed by the Joint Venture
and LIN Texas was simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC
Note. The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company, or any of
their respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the
Company's interest therein and to one of Holdings two corporate parents pursuant
to a guarantee.
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of its NBC network affiliation agreements to 2010 and the option
(exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the NBC affiliate
in Birmingham, Alabama.
Additionally, on August 12, 1997, the Company entered into an asset
purchase agreement with AT&T Corp. ("AT&T") pursuant to which it will acquire
WOOD-TV, a television station in Grand Rapids, and the LMA rights relating to
station WOTV-TV, for approximately $125.5 million (the "Grand Rapids
Acquisition"). The funding for this acquisition is expected to be provided under
the new credit facility arranged in connection with the Acquisition funding. The
Company expects to acquire the Grand Rapids stations from
F-8
157
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
AT&T in 1998. Management has been providing consulting services to the Grand
Rapids stations under a consulting agreement with AT&T since 1994.
The summarized unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations set
forth below for the year ended December 31, 1997, assume the Acquisition and the
Joint Venture had taken place on January 1, 1997. Such results do not give
effect to the Grand Rapids acquisition.
YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 1997
-----------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Net revenues.......................................... $196,115
Net loss.............................................. $(43,415)
The pro forma results do not necessarily represent results that would have
occurred if the Acquisition and Joint Venture had taken place on the dates
indicated nor are they necessarily indicative of the results of future
operations.
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All significant
intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates
The management of the Company is required, in certain instances, to use
estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial
statements, and the notes thereto, in order to conform with generally accepted
accounting principles. The Company's actual results could differ from these
estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid, short-term investments which
have a maturity of three months or less when purchased. The Company's excess
cash is invested primarily in commercial paper.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is recorded at cost and is depreciated by the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The Company
recorded depreciation expense of $13.2, $12.3 million, and $8.2 million during
1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
In 1997, the Company completed the upgrade of several of its analog
transmitter towers and transmitter buildings to digital equipment. In accordance
with Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") Statement No. 121,
Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to
be Disposed Of, the Company disposed of towers and other broadcast equipment
that could no longer be used with digital technology. The net book loss on this
equipment of approximately $2.7 million is reflected on the Company's
Consolidated Statements of Income as "tower write-off."
Revenue Recognition
Broadcast revenue is recognized during the period in which the advertising
is aired. Barter revenue is recognized based on the estimated fair value of the
product or service received.
F-9
158
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Advertising Expense
The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred. The Company incurred $5.6
million, $4.8 million, and $4.1 million in advertising costs during 1997, 1996,
and 1995, respectively.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets represent the excess of the purchase price over the
estimated fair value of identifiable assets acquired in business acquisitions,
and is attributable to FCC licenses, network affiliations, and goodwill.
Intangible assets acquired subsequent to October 31, 1970, the effective date of
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 17, are being amortized over 40 years.
Intangible assets of $5.8 million acquired prior to October 31, 1970 are not
being amortized. The carrying value of intangible assets will be evaluated, in
terms of undiscounted cash flows, if the facts and circumstances suggest that
they may be impaired. If this review indicates that intangible assets will not
be recoverable, the Company's carrying value of the intangible assets will be
reduced to their fair value.
Program Rights
Program rights are recorded as assets when the license period begins and
the programs are available for broadcasting. Costs incurred in connection with
the purchase of programs to be broadcast within one year are classified as
current assets, while costs of those programs to be broadcast subsequently are
considered non-current. The program costs are charged to expense over their
estimated broadcast periods using the straight-line method. Program obligations
are classified as current or non-current in accordance with the payment terms of
the license agreement.
Net Income Per Share
Net income per share is based on the average number of shares of common
stock outstanding during each year presented. Net income per share assuming
dilution is based on the average number of shares of common stock outstanding
during each year presented and the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents
of 753,000, 489,000 and 390,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively.
Reclassification
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period financial
statements to conform to the current period financial statement presentation.
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement
No. 128, Earnings Per Share (Statement 128), which is required to be adopted on
December 31, 1997. Statement 128 replaced the calculation of primary and fully
diluted earnings per share with basic and diluted earnings per share. Unlike
primary earnings per share, basic earnings per share excludes any dilutive
effect of options, warrants and convertible securities. Dilutive earnings per
share is calculated similarly to the previously recorded fully diluted earnings
per share using the average market price of the weighted-average shares
outstanding. All earnings per share amounts for all periods have been presented
and, where appropriate, restated to conform to the Statement 128 requirements.
In June 1997, the FASB issued Statement No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive
Income(Statement 130) effective for years beginning after December 15, 1997.
Statement 130 requires that a public company report items of other comprehensive
income either below the total for net income in the income statement, or in a
statement of changes in equity, and to disclose the accumulated balance of other
comprehensive income separately from retained earnings and additional
paid-in-capital in the equity section of the balance sheet. The
F-10
159
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Company does not expect the adoption of Statement 130 to have a material impact
on financial statement disclosures.
In June 1997, the FASB issued Statement No. 131, Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information (Statement 131) effective for years
beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 131 requires that a public company
report financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating
segments pursuant to criteria that differ from current accounting practice.
Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which
separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the
chief operating decision-maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in
assessing performance. The financial information to be reported includes segment
profit or loss, certain revenue and expense items and segment assets and
reconciliations to corresponding amounts in the general-purpose financial
statements. SFAS 131 also requires information about revenues from products or
services, countries where the company has operations or assets and major
customers. The Company does not expect the adoption of Statement 131 to have a
material impact on financial statement disclosures.
4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
The major classifications of property and equipment for the years ended
December 31 were as follows:
1997 1996
-------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Land........................................................ $ 10,550 $ 11,533
Buildings................................................... 39,977 34,677
Broadcasting equipment...................................... 129,238 122,807
-------- --------
179,765 169,017
Less accumulated depreciation............................... 72,172 62,576
-------- --------
$107,593 $106,441
======== ========
5. LONG-TERM DEBT
In August 1996, the Company renegotiated the terms of its existing $305
million bank credit facility (the "Credit Facility") primarily to reduce the
interest attributable to outstanding debt. The Credit Facility, as amended,
permits the Company to borrow up to $600 million of an eight-year, reducing
revolving credit facility. In August 1997, the Company decided to reduce the
available borrowing under the Credit Facility to $305 million. The Company has
indebtedness outstanding of $260 million and funds of $45 million available
under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 1997 (see Note 2 -- "Subsequent
Events" for a discussion of the financing related to the Merger).
The Company incurred financing and legal fees totaling approximately $7.1
million in connection with the Credit Facility in 1994 and an additional $0.8
million in financing and legal fees associated with the amendment to the Credit
Facility in 1996 which are being amortized over the contractual term of the
Credit Facility.
Under the renegotiated terms of the Credit Facility, interest is payable at
the higher of the prevailing prime rate or an adjusted Federal Funds Rate, or
LIBOR, plus an applicable margin that varies from 0.4% to 1.0% based upon the
ratio of the Company's consolidated total debt to consolidated operating cash
flow.
The commitment of the Credit Facility will begin to reduce in semi-annual
installments commencing June 30, 1999 such that the annual commitment reduction
will be $15.25 million in 1999, $61.0 million per year in years 2000-2003, and
the remaining $45.75 million in 2004. As of December 31, 1997, the Company would
be required, in 2000, to begin making payments to the extent that the balance
outstanding under the Credit Facility exceeded the reduced commitment available
and continue making semi-annual installments
F-11
160
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
under the revolving facility through December 31, 2004, at which time the debt
will be fully repaid. The Company is required to apply cash proceeds from
certain sales of assets which are not reinvested in similar assets to the
prepayment of loans. The Credit Facility, as amended, also permits the Company
to solicit commitments for an incremental $300 million, eight-year, reducing
revolving credit facility (the "Incremental Facility"). Aggregate commitments to
the Incremental Facility, if any, will reduce in eight equal semi-annual amounts
beginning 2001 and ending 2004. The weighted average interest rate on
outstanding borrowings was 6.4%, 6.16% and 6.64% at December 31, 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively. The Company is also required to pay quarterly commitment
fees ranging from 0.1875% to 0.2500%, based upon the Company's leverage ratio
for that particular quarter, on any unused portion of the Credit Facility. The
Company incurred commitment fees of approximately $343,724, $449,000 and
$811,000 for the three years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995,
respectively. In order to comply with covenants under the Credit Facility, prior
to the renegotiated terms, and to provide interest rate protection, the Company
purchased interest rate caps at a cost of $346,000 during the year ended
December 31, 1995. The interest rate caps cover notional amounts totaling $190.0
million, are based on three-month LIBOR, and have strike rates of 9%. Each of
these interest rate cap agreements terminated on December 31, 1997. The costs of
the interest rate caps were capitalized and charged to interest expense over the
lives of the caps. During the past three years, the prevailing market rates have
been below the rate caps in effect. Therefore, the only effect on the Company's
interest expense from such transactions has been the amortization of the cost of
these caps of $124,588, $124,588 and $187,073 during the years ended December
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Under the renegotiated terms of the
Credit Facility the Company is no longer required to purchase interest rate
caps.
The Credit Facility contains covenants restricting or limiting certain
activities, including (i) acquisitions and investments, including treasury
stock, (ii) incurrence of debt, (iii) distributions and dividends to
stockholders, (iv) mergers and sales of assets, (v) prepayments and subordinated
indebtedness, and (vi) creations of liens. The Company is required to apply cash
proceeds from certain sales of assets which are not reinvested in similar assets
and excess cash flow to the prepayment of loans. As security under the Credit
Facility, the Company has given a negative pledge on the assets and capital
stock of each of its subsidiaries, which own all of the Company's television
properties. Such subsidiaries are restricted from making certain distributions
or payments to the Company. Under the Credit Facility, the Company must remain
in compliance with a series of financial covenants, which compare the levels of
the Company's indebtedness to its cash flows as of the end of each quarter. As
of December 31, 1997, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.
The aggregate amounts of principal maturities under the Credit Facility
subsequent to December 31, 1997 are as follows:
YEAR AMOUNT
---- --------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
1998-1999.............................................. $ --
2000................................................... 31,250
2001................................................... 61,000
2002................................................... 61,000
Thereafter............................................. 106,750
--------
$260,000
========
6. PRIVATE MARKET VALUE GUARANTEE
AT&T through its wholly-owned subsidiary, AT&T Wireless Services Inc.
("AT&T Wireless"), currently owns approximately 45% of the outstanding common
stock of the Company. AT&T Wireless has agreed, pursuant to a Private Market
Value Guarantee ("PMVG"), to either offer to purchase the remaining shares of
the Company in 1998 for the private market value (as defined) or put the Company
up for sale. If
F-12
161
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
AT&T Wireless does not agree to acquire such remaining shares, the Company will
be sold in its entirety in a manner intended to maximize shareholder value.
There is no assurance that AT&T Wireless will agree to acquire shares of the
Company's Common Stock for private market value. If AT&T Wireless does not offer
to acquire such shares, there is no assurance that the Company will be sold in
its entirety, or, if sold, that the consideration obtained will be considered
favorable to holders of shares of the Company's Common Stock. The PMVG also
provides for the selection of three independent directors who serve on the
Company's Board of Directors.
As previously mentioned, on August 12, 1997, the Company entered into the
Merger Agreement pursuant to which newly formed affiliates of Hicks Muse will
acquire the Company (See Note 2 -- "Subsequent Events"). The total purchase
price for the Company's Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, will be
approximately $1.7 billion (subject to the payment of 8% per annum thereon from
and including February 15, 1998 up to but excluding the date on which the Merger
becomes effective). In addition the Company will refinance the $260 million of
LIN Television indebtedness outstanding as of December 31, 1997.
7. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Pursuant to the Company's 1994 Adjustment Stock Incentive Plan,
nonqualified options have been granted to officers and key employees of the
Company and LIN Broadcasting who held options to purchase LIN Broadcasting stock
at the date of the Spin-Off. On December 28, 1994, one option to purchase stock
of the Company was granted for every two LIN Broadcasting options held,
resulting in 701,175 options to purchase common stock of the Company being
granted at exercise prices ranging from $2.74 to $20.02.
The Company and LIN Broadcasting have agreed to divide the income tax
benefits of such stock option exercises between the two companies with such
benefits accruing to the company whose employee exercises an option. A total of
4,701,175 options to purchase common stock are authorized to be granted under
the Company's 1994 Adjustment Stock Incentive Plan, 1994 Amended and Restated
Stock Incentive Plan and the 1994 Non-employee Director Stock Incentive Plan.
Options are generally not exercisable until one year after grant, have vesting
terms of four years or less, and expire ten years from date of grant.
Pursuant to the Company's stock option plans, in the event of a "change in
control" (as defined in the plans) of the Company, vested options at the time of
the change in control may be surrendered by officers of the Company, subject to
Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, in exchange for a
cash payment per share by the Company equal to the difference between the
exercise price for the option and the greater of the highest amount paid to any
holder of common stock by the acquirer in connection with the resulting change
in control or the highest selling price of the common stock during the 90-day
period prior to the date of surrender of the option. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, if a change in control results in the consolidation or merger of the
Company with AT&T or a successor to AT&T under the PMVG and AT&T or any
successor is the surviving company, or if AT&T becomes the beneficial owner of
80% or more of the Company's stock (other than pursuant to a private market
sale, as defined in the Company's PMVG with AT&T), each outstanding option shall
be converted into an option to purchase AT&T's Class A Common Stock. If a change
in control results from a private market sale, upon a vote by a majority of the
Company's Independent Directors (as defined in the plans), each outstanding
option will be converted into an option to purchase the common stock of the
acquirer. If the Independent Directors do not approve the conversion, the
Company may (but is not required to) cancel each such option in exchange for a
payment per share in cash equal to the excess of the purchase price per share in
the private market sale over the exercise price of such option.
The Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP") allows eligible
employees to purchase shares of the Company's common stock, through regular
payroll deductions, at 85% of the closing market price of the stock as of the
last trading day of each month. The ESPP restricts a participant to purchase no
F-13
162
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
more than $25,000 of stock in any calendar year. A total of 300,000 shares have
been authorized under the ESPP. Common shares of 38,156, 48,280 and 48,823 were
purchased and distributed to employees participating in the plan during 1997,
1996 and 1995, respectively, at prices ranging from $30.65 to $46.22 per share
in 1997, $26.56 to $35.38 per share in 1996 and $21.89 to $31.98 per share in
1995.
The Company has elected to follow Opinion 25 and the related
Interpretations in accounting for these plans. There has been no compensation
expense associated with these fixed-option plans recognized under Opinion 25
because the exercise price of the Company's employee stock options equals the
market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant.
Pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share is
required by Statement 123, and has been determined as if the Company had
accounted for its employee stock options under the fair value method of that
Statement. The fair value for these options was estimated at the date of grant
using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions for grants in 1997, 1996 and 1995: risk-free interest rates of
5.92%, 5.48% and 7.63% for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively; volatility factors
of the expected market price of the Company's Common Stock of 0.30; and a
weighted-average expected life of the option of seven years. For purposes of pro
forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the options is amortized to
expense over the options' vesting period.
Because the rules for pro forma disclosure under Statement 123 expressly
prohibit retroactive recognition of compensation expense, the following
disclosures will not be indicative of future compensation expense until the new
rules are applied to all outstanding non-vested awards. The Company's pro forma
information follows (in thousands except for earnings per share information):
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- -------
Pro forma net income.......................... $45,532 $43,611 $36,447
Pro forma per share amounts:
Net income.................................. 1.53 1.47 1.24
Net income-assuming dilution................ 1.49 1.45 1.22
A summary of the Company's stock option activity, and related information
for the years ended December 31 follows:
1997 1996 1995
-------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------
WEIGHTED WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE
OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE
--------- -------------- --------- -------------- --------- --------------
Outstanding -- beginning of
year........................... 1,859,798 $26.75 1,621,305 $24.43 1,282,169 $20.23
Granted.......................... 662,400 41.08 581,311 30.44 714,600 28.05
Exercised........................ (120,995) 23.32 (179,604) 18.61 (257,257) 16.37
Canceled or Expired.............. (28,770) 22.28 (163,214) 25.93 (118,207) 21.68
--------- --------- ---------
Outstanding -- end of year....... 2,372,433 31.02 1,859,798 26.75 1,621,305 24.43
========= ========= =========
Exercisable at end of year....... 1,013,187 25.96 722,833 23.44 552,195 19.95
Weighted-average fair value of
options granted during the
year........................... 18.61 13.49 13.85
Exercise prices for options outstanding as of December 31, 1997 range from
$7.88 to $44.125 with approximately 92% of those options ranging in exercise
price from $26.63 to $44.125. The weighted-average remaining contractual life of
those options is eight years. Exercise prices for options exercised during 1997
F-14
163
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
ranged from $4.05 to $34.25. As of December 31, 1997, there were 1,681,867
options available for future grants.
8. INCOME TAXES
Deferred taxes are determined based on the estimated future tax effects of
differences between the financial statement and the tax basis of assets and
liabilities given the provisions of enacted tax laws.
The components of the deferred tax liability are as follows at December 31:
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Intangible assets........................................... $52,957 $50,353
Property and equipment...................................... 14,389 12,164
Other....................................................... (2,098) 1,694
------- -------
$65,248 $64,211
======= =======
Income tax expense included in the accompanying consolidated statements of
income consisted of the following:
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Current:
Federal........................................... $29,325 $22,439 $18,816
State............................................. 1,223 910 139
------- ------- -------
30,548 23,349 18,955
Deferred:
Federal........................................... 210 3,258 2,220
State............................................. (156) (131) 499
------- ------- -------
54 3,127 2,719
------- ------- -------
$30,602 $26,476 $21,674
======= ======= =======
The following table reconciles the amount that would be provided by
applying the 35% federal statutory rate to income before income tax expense to
the actual income tax expense:
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Expense assuming federal statutory rate............. $27,548 $25,528 $20,896
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit............. 846 962 793
Amortization........................................ 1,077 1,077 740
Other............................................... 1,131 (1,091) (755)
------- ------- -------
$30,602 $26,476 $21,674
======= ======= =======
9. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
On December 28, 1994, the Company entered into an agreement with LCH
Communications, Inc. ("LCH") and LIN Michigan Broadcasting Corporation
(collectively the "Companies") to provide certain management and operations
consulting for WOOD-TV and WOTV-TV. The agreement had an initial eighteen month
term and granted the Companies the right to renew the agreement for an
additional twelve months. In accordance with that provision, the Companies
renewed the consulting agreement for an additional twelve months, until June 28,
1997. At that date the Company and the Companies entered into a new
F-15
164
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
consulting agreement for a period equal to the shorter of (i) from the date of
June 28, 1997 until a date which is ninety days after the transfer of control of
WOOD-TV from LCH to an unrelated third party; or (ii) an additional twenty four
month term, from June 28, 1997 to June 28, 1999 at a revised consulting fee of
$360,000 per year. The Company received $304,500 for these services in 1997 and
$250,000 during each of the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995. In addition,
WOOD-TV participates in the Company's programming joint ventures. Costs are
allocated to WOOD-TV based on relative market size. Programming and service
purchases are directly charged to WOOD-TV and WOTV-TV based on the actual
contract or a relative-market-size allocation.
In addition, on August 12, 1997, the Company entered into an asset purchase
agreement with AT&T pursuant to which it will acquire WOOD-TV, a television
station in Grand Rapids, and its LMA station WOTV-TV, for approximately $125.5
million. The funding for this acquisition is expected to be provided under the
new credit facility arranged in connection with the Acquisition funding. The
Company expects to acquire the Grand Rapids stations from AT&T in 1998.
10. RETIREMENT PLANS
The Retirement Plan is a defined benefit retirement plan covering employees
of the Company who meet eligibility requirements, including length of service
and age. Pension benefits vest on completion of five years of service and are
computed, subject to certain adjustments, by multiplying 1.25% of the employee's
last three years' average annual compensation by the number of years of credited
service. The assets of the pension plan are invested primarily in long-term
fixed income securities, large and small cap U.S. equities, and international
equities. The Company's policy is to fund at least the minimum requirement and
is further based on legal requirements and tax considerations. No funding was
required for the Retirement Plan during 1997 and 1996.
As a result of the WIVB-TV Acquisition, LIN Television Corporation assumed
sponsorship of the Buffalo Broadcasting Company Retirement Plan. On January 1,
1996, the Buffalo Broadcasting Company Retirement Plan was merged into the LIN
Television Retirement Plan.
The Company's net pension expense is based on actuarial valuations of the
Company's employees participating in the Retirement Plan. The components of net
pension expense were as follows for the years ended December 31:
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Service cost of current period........................ $ 963 $ 891 $ 573
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation......... 3,511 3,312 2,887
Actual return on plan assets.......................... (5,883) (5,960) (9,609)
Net amortization of unrecognized net transition assets
and deferral of variance from actual return on
assets.............................................. 2,758 3,253 7,017
------- ------- -------
Net pension expense................................... 1,349 1,496 868
Net pension expense allocated to LIN Broadcasting..... -- -- 16
------- ------- -------
Net pension expense allocated to the Company.......... $ 1,349 $ 1,496 $ 852
======= ======= =======
F-16
165
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The following table sets forth the Retirement Plans' funded status and
amounts recognized in the Company's balance sheet at December 31:
1997 1996
------------------- -------------------
FUNDED UNFUNDED FUNDED UNFUNDED
------- -------- ------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
Actuarial present value of accumulated plan
benefits, including vested benefits of
$49,636 and $44,948 in 1997 and 1996,
respectively.............................. $49,843 $ 823 $45,222 $ 651
======= ======= ======= =======
Plan assets at fair value, primarily
publicly traded stocks and bonds.......... $58,015 $ -- $50,631 $ --
Less projected benefit obligation for
service rendered to date.................. 52,440 1,801 47,338 1,167
------- ------- ------- -------
Plan assets in excess of (less than)
projected benefit obligation.............. 5,575 (1,801) 3,293 (1,167)
Unrecognized prior service cost............. 1,123 12 2,435 14
Unrecognized net (gain) loss................ (8,912) 665 (6,641) 330
Unrecognized net transition asset being
recognized over 15 years.................. (1,253) (65) (1,567) (81)
------- ------- ------- -------
Accrued pension cost included in balance
sheet..................................... $(3,467) $(1,189) $(2,480) $ (904)
======= ======= ======= =======
The assumptions used in accounting for the Retirement Plan are as follows:
1997 1996 1995
----- ----- -----
Weighted average assumed discount rate...................... 7.0% 7.25% 7.0%
Assumed rate of increases in future compensation levels..... 5.0% 5.0% 5.0%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets............ 8.0% 8.0% 8.0%
11. COMMITMENTS
The Company leases land, buildings, vehicles, and equipment under operating
lease agreements that expire at various dates through the year 2007. Commitments
for these non-cancelable operating lease payments subsequent to December 31,
1997 are as follows:
YEAR AMOUNT
---- --------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
1998.................................................... $ 957
1999.................................................... 612
2000.................................................... 353
2001.................................................... 290
2002.................................................... 153
Thereafter.............................................. 294
------
$2,659
======
Rent expense included in the consolidated statements of income was $1.2
million, $1.2 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995, respectively.
F-17
166
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The Company has also entered into commitments for future syndicated news,
entertainment, and sports programming. Future payments associated with these
commitments subsequent to December 31, 1997 are as follows:
YEAR AMOUNT
---- --------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
1998................................................. $13,317
1999................................................. 19,128
2000................................................. 17,070
2001................................................. 3,655
2002................................................. 2,328
Thereafter........................................... --
-------
$55,498
=======
12. CONTINGENCIES
On September 4, 1997, the Company announced that it had learned of four
lawsuits regarding the Merger. The Company and its directors are defendants in
all of the lawsuits. AT&T is a defendant in three of the lawsuits, and Hicks
Muse is a defendant in one of the lawsuits. Each of the lawsuits was filed by a
shareholder seeking to represent a putative class of all the Company's public
shareholders. Three of the four lawsuits were filed in Delaware Chancery Court,
New Castle County, while the fourth lawsuit was filed in New York Supreme Court,
New York County.
While the allegations of each complaint are not identical, all of the
lawsuits basically assert that the Merger is not in the interests of the
Company's public shareholders. All of the complaints allege breach of fiduciary
duty in approving the Merger. Two of the complaints also allege breach of
fiduciary duty in connection with the proposed sale of the television station
WOOD-TV by AT&T to Hicks Muse and the amendment to a Private Market Value
Guarantee Agreement that was entered into simultaneously with the Merger
Agreement. The complaints seek the preliminary and permanent enjoinment of the
Merger or alternatively seek damages in an undetermined amount.
While the Company intends to vigorously defend against the allegations in
each complaint and believes each lawsuit is without merit, these lawsuits are in
their early stages and the Company is unable to determine the likelihood and
possible impact on the Company's financial condition or results of operations of
unfavorable outcomes.
In addition, the Company currently and from time to time is involved in
litigation incidental to the conduct of its business. In the opinion of the
Company's management, none of such litigation is likely to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows.
13. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Concentrations of credit risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant
concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash investments and
unsecured trade accounts receivable.
The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents at various financial
institutions. These financial institutions are located throughout the country.
The Company's cash equivalents consist of investments in the commercial paper of
various companies. The Company performs periodic evaluations of the relative
credit standing of these entities.
F-18
167
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable are
limited due to the large number of agencies comprising the Company's accounts
receivable. Trade receivables are generally not collateralized. The Company
performs credit evaluations of its customers' financial condition.
14. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Cash and cash equivalents
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents reported in the Company's
Balance Sheet approximates fair value.
Accounts receivable and accounts payable
The carrying amounts reported in the Company's Balance Sheet for accounts
receivable and accounts payable approximates their fair value.
Long-term debt
Interest rates associated with the Company's long-term debt are based on
the prevailing prime rate or LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin. Interest is
fixed for a period ranging from one month to 12 months, depending on
availability of the interest basis selected, except if the Company selects a
prime-based loan, in which case the interest rate will fluctuate during the
period as the prime rate fluctuates. Due to the frequent re-pricing of the
borrowings, the book values of the liabilities at December 31, 1997 approximate
market values.
15. LOCAL MARKETING AGREEMENTS
The Company entered into Local Marketing Agreements ("LMAs") with the
owners of KXTX-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas in June 1994, KNVA-TV in Austin,
Texas in August 1994, WBNE-TV in New Haven-Hartford, Connecticut in December
1994 and WVBT-TV in Norfolk-Portsmouth, Virginia in December 1994. Under the
LMAs, the Company is required to pay fixed periodic fees and incur programming
and operating costs relating to the LMA stations, but retains all advertising
revenues.
In connection with the KXTX-TV and KNVA-TV LMAs, the Company purchased
4.49% ownership interests in the licensees of the stations and entered into
option and put agreements that would enable or require the Company to purchase
the stations for a fixed amount under certain conditions, including a change by
the FCC in its "duopoly" rules to permit such acquisitions. The aggregate
purchase price for these interests and the purchase options was approximately
$1.6 million. The "duopoly" rules currently prevent the Company from acquiring
its LMA stations, thereby preventing the Company from directly fulfilling its
obligations under put options that such LMAs have with the Company. Should
future legislation amend the current single-market ownership limits, the
Company, at the option of the parties involved in the LMA contracts, could be
required to purchase certain of the LMA stations. Potential commitments for
fulfilling these put options totaled a maximum of $9.1 million at December 31,
1997.
LMA rent expense included in the consolidated statements of income was $1.4
million, $1.5 million and $1.4 million for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995, respectively.
F-19
168
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Future minimum rental payments required under all four of these LMAs
(assuming that the put options relating to these LMAs are not exercised) for the
years ending December 31 are as follows:
YEAR AMOUNT
---- --------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
1998................................................. $ 2,096
1999................................................. 2,054
2000................................................. 2,079
2001................................................. 1,533
2002................................................. 1,404
Thereafter........................................... 2,381
-------
$11,547
=======
16. UNAUDITED QUARTERLY DATA
The first three quarters of 1997, 1996 and 1995 per share amounts have been
restated to comply with Statement 128.
FIRST QUARTER SECOND QUARTER THIRD QUARTER FOURTH QUARTER
------------- -------------- ------------- --------------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
1997
Net revenues............................ $61,662 $83,305 $71,911 $74,641
Operating income........................ 17,117 30,468 25,129 34,741
Net income.............................. 7,137 15,550 9,935 15,485
Per share amounts:
Net income........................... $ 0.24 $ 0.52 $ 0.34 $ 0.52
Net income-assuming dilution......... $ 0.23 $ 0.51 $ 0.34 $ 0.50
1996
Net revenues............................ $57,539 $75,576 $68,780 $71,472
Operating income........................ 15,990 28,274 22,378 32,518
Net income.............................. 5,952 13,841 9,745 16,923
Per share amounts:
Net income........................... $ 0.20 $ 0.47 $ 0.33 $ 0.57
Net income-assuming dilution......... $ 0.20 $ 0.46 $ 0.32 $ 0.56
1995
Net revenues............................ $48,417 $55,861 $49,066 $63,903
Operating income........................ 14,912 24,601 18,502 27,013
Net income.............................. 5,312 11,157 7,913 13,648
Per share amounts:
Net income........................... $ 0.18 $ 0.38 $ 0.27 $ 0.46
Net income-assuming dilution......... $ 0.18 $ 0.37 $ 0.27 $ 0.46
F-20
169
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
COMPANY PREDECESSOR
---------- ------------
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
---------- ------------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 17,722 $ 8,046
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts
(1998 - $2,067; 1997 - $2,197)......................... 34,769 57,645
Program rights............................................ 5,736 9,916
Other current assets...................................... 21,276 1,865
---------- --------
Total current assets.............................. 79,503 77,472
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation....... 123,575 107,593
Program rights and other non current assets................. 4,490 8,778
Deferred financing costs.................................... 37,589 5,421
Equity in joint venture..................................... 76,017 473
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization
(1998 - $3,208;
1997 - $70,905)........................................... 1,469,096 369,588
---------- --------
Total assets...................................... $1,790,270 $569,325
========== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable.......................................... $ 9,904 $ 7,553
Program obligations....................................... 6,179 11,320
Accrued income taxes...................................... 3,263 3,444
Current portion of long-term debt......................... 3,931 --
Other accruals............................................ 33,319 26,891
---------- --------
Total current liabilities......................... 56,596 49,208
Long-term debt, excluding current portion................... 465,370 260,000
Deferred income taxes....................................... 525,242 65,248
Other non current liabilities............................... 1,813 2,304
---------- --------
Total liabilities................................. 1,049,021 376,760
Stockholder's equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- (1998 - none; 1997 - 5,000,000)
Issued and outstanding shares -- none.................. -- --
Common stock, $0.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- (1998 - 1,000; 1997 - 90,000,000)
Issued and outstanding shares -- (1998 - 1,000;
1997 - 29,857,000).................................... -- 299
Treasury stock.............................................. -- (3)
Additional paid-in capital.................................. 744,977 283,177
Accumulated deficit......................................... (3,728) (90,908)
---------- --------
Total stockholder's equity........................ 741,249 192,565
---------- --------
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity........ $1,790,270 $569,325
========== ========
See accompanying notes.
The December 31, 1997 information was derived from the audited financial
statements at that date.
F-21
170
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
COMPANY PREDECESSOR PREDECESSOR
--------------- ----------------- -----------------
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM THREE MONTHS
MARCH 3 THROUGH JANUARY 1 THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 MARCH 31, 1997
--------------- ----------------- -----------------
Net revenues.................................... $16,211 $43,804 $61,662
Operating costs and expenses
Direct operating.............................. 3,730 11,117 16,068
Selling, general and administrative........... 4,296 11,701 16,325
Corporate..................................... 458 1,170 1,698
Amortization of program rights................ 1,015 2,743 4,058
Depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets..................................... 4,474 4,581 6,396
------- ------- -------
Total operating costs and expenses.... 13,973 31,312 44,545
------- ------- -------
Operating income................................ 2,238 12,492 17,117
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense.............................. 3,535 2,764 5,718
Investment income............................. (50) (98) (387)
Equity in joint venture....................... 462 244 403
Merger expenses............................... -- 8,616 --
------- ------- -------
Total other expense................... 3,947 11,526 5,734
------- ------- -------
Income (loss) before provision for income
taxes......................................... (1,709) 966 11,383
Provision for income taxes...................... 2,019 3,710 4,246
------- ------- -------
Net income (loss)............................... $(3,728) $(2,744) $ 7,137
======= ======= =======
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic income (loss) per share................. $ (0.09) $ 0.24
======= =======
Diluted income (loss) per share............... $ (0.09) $ 0.23
======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding............. 29,875 29,745
======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding -- assuming
dilution...................................... -- 30,379
======= =======
See accompanying notes.
F-22
171
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
COMPANY PREDECESSOR PREDECESSOR
--------------- ------------------ --------------
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM THREE MONTHS
MARCH 3 THROUGH JANUARY 1 THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 MARCH 31, 1997
--------------- ------------------ --------------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)............................... $ (3,728) $(2,744) $ 7,137
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization (includes
amortization of financing costs and notes
discounts)................................. 4,804 4,714 6,621
Tax benefit from exercises of stock options... -- 10,714 --
Deferred income taxes......................... 1,693 149 957
Net loss on disposition of assets............. -- 19 --
Amortization of program rights................ 1,015 2,743 4,058
Program payments.............................. (546) (4,157) (3,838)
Equity in joint venture....................... 462 244 403
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable........................ (1,773) 7,793 5,586
Other assets............................... (265) (19,147) (8,021)
Liabilities................................ 6,964 8,088 8,545
----------- ------- --------
Total adjustments..................... 12,354 11,160 14,311
----------- ------- --------
Net cash provided by operating activities....... 8,626 8,416 21,448
----------- ------- --------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures............................ (89) (1,221) (7,171)
Asset dispositions.............................. -- 3 --
Investment in joint venture..................... -- (250) (250)
Contribute KXAS-TV to station joint venture..... 815,500 -- --
Acquisition of LIN Television Corporation....... (1,722,674) -- --
----------- ------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities........... (907,263) (1,468) (7,421)
----------- ------- --------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from exercises of stock options and
from sale of Employee Stock Purchase Plan
shares........................................ -- 1,071 1,514
Principal payments on long-term debt............ (260,000) -- (15,000)
Proceeds from long-term debt.................... 469,298 -- --
Loan fees incurred on long-term debt............ (37,916) -- --
Equity contribution............................. 744,977 -- --
----------- ------- --------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities.................................... 916,359 1,071 (13,486)
----------- ------- --------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents....... 17,722 8,019 541
----------- ------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of
the period.................................... -- 8,046 27,952
----------- ------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
period........................................ $ 17,722 $16,065 $ 28,493
=========== ======= ========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION:
Cash paid for:
Interest...................................... $ 167 $ 2,895 $ 5,492
Income taxes.................................. $ 432 $ 46 $ 46
See accompanying notes.
F-23
172
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MARCH 31, 1998
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 1 -- BASIS OF PRESENTATION
LIN Holdings Corp. ("Holdings") was formed on July 18, 1997. On the same
date, LIN Acquisition Company ("LIN Acquisition") was formed as a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Holdings to acquire LIN Television Corporation ("LIN Television"
or the "Predecessor" prior to the Merger and the "Company" following the Merger
(as defined)) pursuant to the Merger Agreement as defined. (See Note 2)
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared without audit,
pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial
statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations.
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited interim financial
statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments)
necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and
cash flows of the Company and its subsidiaries for the periods presented. The
results of operations for the three month period ended March 31, 1998 are not
necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. It is
suggested that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the
consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in
this Prospectus.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned. All significant
intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Holdings and the Company conduct their business through their subsidiaries,
and have no operations or assets other than their investment in their
subsidiaries. All of the Company's direct and indirect consolidated subsidiaries
fully and unconditionally guarantee the Company's Senior Subordinated Notes (as
defined) on a joint and several basis. Accordingly, no separate or additional
financial information about the subsidiaries is provided.
NOTE 2 -- SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Holdings and LIN Acquisition, two newly formed affiliates of Hicks, Muse,
Tate & Furst Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger with LIN Television on August 12, 1997 (as amended, the "Merger
Agreement").
Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the Merger Agreement,
Holdings acquired LIN Television (the "Acquisition") on March 3, 1998 by merging
LIN Acquisition, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with and into LIN Television (the
"Merger"), with LIN Television surviving the merger and becoming a direct,
wholly-owned subsidiary of Holdings. The total purchase price for the common
equity of LIN Television was approximately $1.7 billion in cash. In addition,
the Company refinanced $260.2 million of LIN Television's indebtedness and
incurred acquisition costs of approximately $32.2 million.
The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess cash on the
Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior
secured Tranche A term loans ("Tranche A Term Loans"); (iii) $120.0 million
aggregate principal of senior secured Tranche B term loans ("Tranche B Term
Loans"); (iv) $299.3 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by LIN
Television of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of unregistered 8 3/8%
senior subordinated notes due 2008 (the "Old Senior Subordinated Notes"); (v)
$199.6 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by Holdings of $325.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of unregistered 10% senior discount notes
due 2008 (the "Old Senior Discount Notes"), which proceeds were contributed by
Holdings to the common equity of the Company; (vi) $815.5 million of proceeds of
the GECC Note (as defined below); and (vii) $558.1 million of common
F-24
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LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
equity provided by affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors
to the equity of the corporate parents of Holdings, which in turn, through
Holdings, contributed such amount to the common equity of the Company
(collectively, the "Financings").
In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC formed a television
station joint venture (the "Joint Venture"). The Joint Venture consists of
KXAS-TV, formerly LIN Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV,
formerly NBC's San Diego station. A wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC is the
general partner of the Joint Venture (the "NBC General Partner") and NBC
operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The NBC General Partner holds
an approximate 80% equity interest and the Company holds an approximate 20%
equity interest in the Joint Venture (see Note 6). General Electric Capital
Corporation ("GECC") provided debt financing for the Joint Venture in the form
of an $815.5 million 25-year non-amortizing senior secured note bearing an
initial interest rate of 8.0% per annum for the first fifteen years of its term,
and at a rate of 9.0% per annum thereafter (the "GECC Note"). The Company
expects that the interest payments on the GECC Note will be serviced solely by
the cash flow of the Joint Venture.
The GECC Note was issued by LIN Television of Texas, L.P., the Company's
indirect wholly owned partnership ("LIN Texas"), which distributed the proceeds
to the Company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition. The
obligations to GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by the Joint Venture and
LIN Texas was simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC Note.
The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any of their
respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the Company's
equity interest therein and to one of Holdings two corporate parents ("GECC Note
Guarantor") pursuant to a guarantee.
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of its NBC network affiliation agreements to 2010 and the option
(exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the NBC affiliate
in Birmingham, Alabama.
The Acquisition was accounted for as a purchase and accordingly, the
purchase price has been allocated to the assets and liabilities acquired based
upon their fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess of purchase price
over the fair value of net tangible assets acquired is allocated to intangible
assets, primarily to FCC licenses, network affiliations, and goodwill. The
results of operations associated with the acquired assets have been included in
the accompanying statements from the date of acquisition on March 3, 1998
through March 31, 1998.
The Acquisition is summarized as follows:
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed (dollars in thousands):
Working capital, including cash of $9,185................... $ 23,646
Property and equipment...................................... 124,752
Other noncurrent assets..................................... 81,114
Intangible assets........................................... 1,472,304
Deferred tax liability...................................... (523,549)
Other noncurrent liabilities................................ (1,908)
----------
Total acquisition................................. $1,176,359
==========
F-25
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LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The following summarizes pro forma consolidated results of operations for
the three month periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 as if the Acquisition and
the Joint Venture had taken place on January 1, 1997 (dollars in thousands).
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31,
-------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
Net revenues............................................ $ 46,762 $ 41,018
Operating income (loss)................................. 2,276 (3,089)
Net loss................................................ (11,403) (12,978)
The pro forma results do not necessarily represent results that would have
occurred if the Acquisition and Joint Venture had taken place on the dates
indicated nor are they necessarily indicative of the results of future
operations.
Later this year, the Company expects to acquire from AT&T Corporation
("AT&T") the assets of WOOD-TV and the LMA rights related to WOTV-TV
(collectively, the "Grand Rapids Stations"), both of which stations are located
in the Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market (the "Grand Rapids
Acquisition"). The Company currently provides services to the Grand Rapids
Stations pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. The total purchase price
for the Grand Rapids Acquisition will be approximately $125.5 million, plus
accretion of 8.0% interest which commenced on March 1, 1998. The Grand Rapids
Acquisition is expected to be funded by $125.0 million of additional Tranche A
Term Loans. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 the Grand Rapids
Stations generated net revenues and operating income of $28.4 million and $8.2
million, respectively. The historical and pro forma financial information
provided above does not give effect to the Grand Rapids Acquisition.
Chancellor Media Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Chancellor") and
Ranger Equity Holdings Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Ranger"), the
indirect parent company of Holdings and the Company, entered into an Agreement
and Plan of Merger, dated July 7, 1998 (the "Chancellor Merger Agreement").
Pursuant to, and subject to the prior satisfaction or waiver of certain
customary conditions (including, without limitation, the approval of
Chancellor's and the Company's respective shareholders, the receipt of necessary
FCC approvals, and the termination or expiration of the applicable waiting
periods under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended) set forth in, the Chancellor Merger Agreement, Ranger will be merged
with and into Chancellor (the "Chancellor Merger"), with Chancellor continuing
as the surviving corporation following the Chancellor Merger. As a result of the
Chancellor Merger, (i) each share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Ranger
Common Stock"), of Ranger will be converted into the right to receive 0.0300 of
a share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Chancellor Common Stock"), of
Chancellor, other than shares of Ranger Common Stock for which appraisal rights
have been exercised pursuant to Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware. In addition, Chancellor, as the surviving corporation,
will assume certain outstanding options to purchase shares of Ranger Common
Stock held by certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of Ranger
and its subsidiaries. Following the Chancellor Merger, Holdings and the Company
will become indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Chancellor.
A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
On August 27, 1998, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("SSG"), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG
Agreement") pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell
F-26
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LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas will receive 500,000 shares of SSG's
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $100.00 per share ("SSG
Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will be entitled to receive dividends at the per
annum rate of 6% of par value prior to the payment by SSG of any dividend in
respect of its common stock ("SSG Common Stock") or any other junior securities.
At the option of SSG, dividends will be payable either in kind or in cash. LIN
Texas will have the right, upon the earlier of (i) the third anniversary of the
issuance of the SSG Preferred Stock and (ii) an initial public offering of SSG
Common Stock, to convert its shares of SSG Preferred Stock into shares of SSG
Common Stock at a conversion rate equal to the par value per share of the SSG
Preferred Stock (plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) divided by the
fair market value per share of the SSG Common Stock. SSG will have the right, at
its sole option, to redeem the SSG Preferred Stock at par value (plus all
accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) at any time. In connection with the SSG
Agreement, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Television, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and an affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"), entered into a Sub-Programming
Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will provide certain
management, operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior to the closing
of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing such services,
SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate revenue
received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate to the
operation of KXTX-TV.
Subject to the terms of the SSG Agreement and the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the receipt of National Hockey League and Major League
Baseball approvals and SSG's consummation of certain other business
acquisitions, it is expected that the sale of KXTX-TV will be consummated by the
end of 1998. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million.
NOTE 3 -- RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In connection with the Acquisition, Holdings, Company and certain of their
respective affiliates (collectively, the "Clients") entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Monitoring and Oversight Agreement") with Hicks, Muse & Co.
Partners, L.P., ("Hicks Muse Partners"), an affiliate of Hicks Muse, pursuant to
which the Clients have agreed to pay Hicks Muse Partners an annual fee (payable
quarterly) for oversight and monitoring services to the Clients. The aggregate
annual fee is adjustable on January 1 of each calendar year to an amount equal
to 1.0% of the budgeted consolidated annual EBITDA of Holdings and its
subsidiaries for the then-current fiscal year. Upon the acquisition by Holdings
and its subsidiaries of another entity or business, the fee shall be adjusted
prospectively in the same manner using the pro forma consolidated annual EBITDA
of Holdings and its subsidiaries. In no event shall the annual fee be less than
$1,000,000. Hicks Muse Partners is also entitled to reimbursement for any
expenses incurred by it in connection with rendering services allocable to the
Company and Holdings.
In connection with the Acquisition, the Clients entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Financial Advisory Agreement") with Hicks Muse Partners,
pursuant to which Hicks Muse Partners received a financial advisory fee at the
closing of the Acquisition as compensation for its services as financial advisor
to the Clients in connection with the Acquisition. Hicks Muse Partners also is
entitled to receive a fee equal to 1.5% of the "transaction value" (as defined)
for each "subsequent transaction" (as defined) in which a Client is involved.
F-27
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LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
NOTE 4 -- INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangibles consist of the following at March 31, 1998 and December 31,
1997 (dollars in thousands):
COMPANY PREDECESSOR
---------- ------------
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
---------- ------------
FCC licenses and network affiliations....................... $ 807,029 $312,450
Goodwill.................................................... 665,275 128,043
---------- --------
1,472,304 440,493
Less accumulated amortization............................. (3,208) (70,905)
---------- --------
$1,469,096 $369,588
========== ========
Intangible assets represent the excess of the purchase price over the
estimated fair value of identifiable assets acquired in business acquisitions,
and are being amortized straight-line over 40 years. The Company periodically
evaluates intangible assets for potential impairment. At this time, in the
opinion of the management, no impairment has occurred.
NOTE 5 -- LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consisted of the following at March 31, 1998 and December
31, 1997 (dollars in thousands):
COMPANY PREDECESSOR
--------- ------------
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
--------- ------------
Senior Credit Facilities.................................... $170,000 $260,000
8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008................... 299,301 --
-------- --------
Total long-term debt.............................. 469,301 260,000
Less current portion...................................... (3,931) --
-------- --------
$465,370 $260,000
======== ========
Senior Credit Facilities
On March 3, 1998, Holdings and the Company entered into a credit agreement
(the "Credit Agreement") with the Chase Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent
(the "Agent"), and the lenders named therein. Under the Credit Agreement, the
Company established a $295 million term loan facility, a $50 million revolving
facility, and a $225 million incremental term loan facility (collectively, the
"Senior Credit Facilities"). Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities and
part of the proceeds from the 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes were used to
repay LIN Television's existing debt.
Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities bear interest at a rate
based, at the option of the Company, on an adjusted London interbank offered
rate ("Adjusted LIBOR"), or the highest of the Agent's prime rate, a certificate
of deposit rate plus 1.00%, or the Federal Funds effective rate plus 1/2 of
1.00% (the "Alternate Base Rate"), plus an incremental rate based on the
Company's financial performance. At March 31, 1998, the interest rates on the
$50 million Tranche A term loan and the $120 million Tranche B term loan were
7.19% and 7.69%, respectively, based on the Adjusted LIBOR. The Company is
required to pay quarterly commitment fees ranging from 0.25% to 0.50%, based
upon the Company's leverage ratio for that particular quarter on the unused
portion of the loan commitment, in addition to annual agency and other
administration fees.
F-28
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LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The obligations of the Company under the Senior Credit Facilities will be
unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed, jointly and severally, by Holdings
and by each existing and subsequently acquired or organized subsidiary of the
Company. In addition, substantially all of the assets of the Company and its
subsidiaries are pledged to secure the performance of these obligations.
Required principal repayments of amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit
Facilities commence on December 31, 1998. The Company's ability to make
additional borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities is subject to
compliance with certain financial covenants and other conditions set forth in
the Senior Credit Facilities. As of March 31, 1998, the Company was in
compliance with all covenants.
Senior Subordinated Notes
On March 3, 1998, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal
amount of 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008 ("Senior Subordinated
Notes") in a private placement for net proceeds of $290.3 million. The Senior
Subordinated Notes are unsecured obligations of the Company, subordinated in
right of payment to all existing and any future senior indebtedness of the
Company. The Senior Subordinated Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed,
on a joint and several basis, by all wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company.
The effective interest rate of the Senior Subordinated Notes is 8.9% on an
annual basis. Interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes accrues at a rate of
8 3/8% per annum and is payable in cash semi-annually in arrears commencing on
September 1, 1998.
NOTE 6 -- SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE JOINT VENTURE
The Company owns approximately 20% of the Joint Venture, and accounts for
its equity interest in the Joint Venture using the equity method. The following
presents the summarized financial information of the Joint Venture for the
period from March 3, 1998 through March 31, 1998 (dollars in thousands).
FOR THE PERIOD
FROM MARCH 3 THROUGH
MARCH 31, 1998
--------------------
Net Revenues.............................................. $10,536
Operating Income.......................................... 2,858
Net Loss.................................................. (2,035)
NOTE 7 -- INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense (benefit) differs from the amount computed by applying
the federal statutory income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes due
to the effects of state income taxes and permanent book/ tax differences,
primarily non-deductible goodwill.
The current and deferred income taxes of the Company are calculated by
applying SFAS No. 109 "Accounting for Income Taxes" to the Company as if it were
a separate taxpayer.
NOTE 8 -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
On September 4, 1997, the Company announced that it had learned of four
lawsuits regarding the then proposed merger. The Company and some or all of its
then present directors are defendants in all of the lawsuits. AT&T is a
defendant in three of the lawsuits, and an AT&T affiliate and Hicks Muse are
defendants in one of the lawsuits. Each of the lawsuits was filed by a purported
shareholder of the Company seeking to represent a putative class of all the
Company's public shareholders. Three of the four lawsuits were filed in Delaware
Chancery Court, while the fourth lawsuit was filed in New York Supreme Court.
While the allegations of the complaints are not identical, all of the
lawsuits basically assert that the terms of the original merger agreement were
not in the best interests of the Company's public shareholders. All of
F-29
178
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
the complaints allege breach of fiduciary duty in approving the merger
agreement. Two of the complaints also allege breach of fiduciary duty in
connection with the proposed sale of the television station WOOD-TV by AT&T to
Hicks Muse and the amendment to a Private Market Value Guarantee Agreement that
was entered into simultaneously with the first merger agreement. The complaints
seek the preliminary and permanent enjoinment of the merger or alternatively
seek damages in an unspecified amount. The complaints have not been amended to
reflect the terms of the merger itself.
The plaintiffs in each of the actions have agreed to an indefinite
extension of time for each of the defendants served to respond to the respective
complaints. No discovery has taken place.
While the Company believes each lawsuit is without merit, the Company is
unable to determine the likelihood and possible impact on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations of unfavorable outcomes.
A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
In addition, the Company currently and from time to time is involved in
litigation incidental to the conduct of its business. In the opinion of the
Company's management, none of such litigation is likely to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows.
NOTE 9 -- IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income" ("Statement 130") effective for years beginning after
December 15, 1997. Statement 130 requires that a public company report items of
other comprehensive income either below the total for net income in the income
statement, or in a Statement of changes in equity, and to disclose the
accumulated balance of other comprehensive income separately from retained
earnings and additional paid-in-capital in the equity section of the balance
sheet. Statement 130 was adopted during the first quarter of 1998 and was
applied to prior period financial statements on a retroactive basis. The
adoption of Statement 130 did not have a material impact on the consolidated
financial statements.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of
an Enterprise and Related Information" ("Statement 131") effective for years
beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 131 requires that a public company
report financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating
segments pursuant to criteria that differ from current accounting practice.
Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which
separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the
chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in
assessing performance. The financial information to be reported includes segment
profit or loss, certain revenue and expense items and segment assets and
reconciliations to corresponding amounts in the general purpose financial
statements. Statement 131 also requires information about revenues from products
or services, countries where the company has operations or assets and major
customers. Management does not believe the implementation of Statement 131 will
have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits" ("Statement 132") effective
for years beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 132 revises employers'
disclosures about pension and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not
change the measurement or recognition of those plans. This Statement
standardizes the disclosure require-
F-30
179
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
ments for pensions and other postretirement benefits to the extent practicable,
requires additional information on changes in the benefit obligations and fair
values of plan assets that will facilitate financial analysis, and eliminates
certain disclosures that are no longer as useful as they were when SFAS No. 87,
"Employers' Accounting for Pensions", SFAS No. 88, "Employers' Accounting for
Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for
Termination Benefits", and SFAS No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions" were issued. The Statement suggests
combined formats for presentation of pension and other postretirement benefit
disclosures. Management does not believe the implementation of Statement 132
will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In April 1998, Accounting Standards Executive Committee ("AcSEC") issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities" ("SOP 98-5") effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,
1998. This SOP provides guidance on the financial reporting of start-up costs
and organization costs. It requires that costs of start-up activities and
organization costs be expensed as incurred. Initial application of SOP 98-5
should be reported as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle,
as described in Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 20, "Accounting
Changes". When adopting this SOP, entities are not required to report the pro
forma effects of retroactive application. Management does not believe the
implementation of SOP 98-5 will have a material impact on its consolidated
financial statements.
F-31
180
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors
LIN Holdings Corp.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of LIN Holdings
Corp. (the "Company") as of December 31, 1997. This balance sheet is the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on this balance sheet based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the balance sheet is free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the balance sheet. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall balance sheet presentation. We
believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the balance sheet referred to above presents fairly, in all
material respects, the consolidated financial position of LIN Holdings Corp. as
of December 31, 1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
/s/ PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP
Dallas, Texas
May 22, 1998
F-32
181
LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1997
ASSETS
Current assets:
Stock purchase receivable................................. $1,000
------
Total current assets.............................. 1,000
------
Total assets...................................... $1,000
======
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value:
Authorized shares, 1,000
Issued and outstanding shares, 1,000................... $ 10
Additional paid-in capital................................ 990
------
Total stockholders' equity........................ 1,000
------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity........ $1,000
======
See accompanying notes.
F-33
182
LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
1. ORGANIZATION:
LIN Holdings Corp. ("Holdings") was formed on July 18, 1997. Holdings
issued 1,000 shares of its common stock, $.01 par value per share, to the
corporate parents of Holdings, owned by affiliates of Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst
("Hicks Muse") and other co-investors, in exchange for a $1,000 stock purchase
receivable.
On the same date, LIN Acquisition Company ("LIN Acquisition") was formed as
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Holdings. LIN Acquisition issued 1,000 shares of
its common stock, $.01 par value per share, to Holdings. LIN Acquisition was
formed to acquire LIN Television Corporation ("LIN Television" or the
"Predecessor" prior to the Merger and the "Company" following the Merger)
pursuant to the Merger Agreement as defined (see Note 2).
Neither Holdings nor LIN Acquisition had other significant operations or
assets separate from those disclosed above from July 18, 1997 to December 31,
1997.
Following the Merger (see Note 2), Holdings and the Company conduct their
business through their subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, and have no
operations or assets other than their investment in their subsidiaries. All of
the Company's direct and indirect consolidated subsidiaries fully and
unconditionally guarantee the Company's senior subordinated notes on a joint and
several basis. The senior discount notes issued by Holdings in connection with
the Merger are unsecured senior obligations of Holdings, and are not guaranteed.
Accordingly, no separate or additional financial information about the
subsidiaries is provided.
2. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:
Holdings and LIN Acquisition, two newly formed affiliates of Hicks, Muse,
Tate & Furst Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger with LIN Television on August 12, 1997 (as amended, the "Merger
Agreement").
Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the Merger Agreement,
Holdings acquired LIN Television (the "Acquisition") on March 3, 1998 by merging
LIN Acquisition, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with and into LIN Television (the
"Merger"), with LIN Television surviving the merger and becoming a direct,
wholly-owned subsidiary of Holdings. The total purchase price for the common
equity of LIN Television was approximately $1.7 billion in cash. In addition,
the Company refinanced $260.2 million of LIN Television's indebtedness and
incurred acquisition costs of approximately $32.2 million.
The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess cash on the
Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior
secured Tranche A term loans ("Tranche A Term Loans"); (iii) $120.0 million
aggregate principal of senior secured Tranche B term loans ("Tranche B Term
Loans"); (iv) $299.3 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by LIN
Television of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of unregistered 8 3/8%
senior subordinated notes due 2008 (the "Old Senior Subordinated Notes"); (v)
$199.6 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by Holdings of $325.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of unregistered 10% senior discount notes
due 2008 (the "Old Senior Discount Notes"), which proceeds were contributed by
Holdings to the common equity of the Company; (vi) $815.5 million of proceeds of
the GECC Note (as defined below); and (vii) $558.1 million of common equity
provided by affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors to the
equity of the corporate parents of Holdings, which in turn, through Holdings,
contributed such amount to the common equity of the Company (collectively, the
"Financings").
In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC formed a television
station joint venture (the "Joint Venture"). The Joint Venture consists of
KXAS-TV, formerly LIN Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV,
formerly NBC's San Diego station. A wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC is the
general partner of the Joint Venture (the "NBC General Partner") and NBC
operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The NBC General Partner holds
an approximate 80% equity interest and the Company
F-34
183
LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET -- (CONTINUED)
holds an approximate 20% equity interest in the Joint Venture (see Note 6).
General Electric Capital Corporation ("GECC") provided debt financing for the
Joint Venture in the form of an $815.5 million 25-year non-amortizing senior
secured note bearing an initial interest rate of 8.0% per annum for the first
fifteen years of its term, and at a rate of 9.0% per annum thereafter (the "GECC
Note"). The Company expects that the interest payments on the GECC Note will be
serviced solely by the cash flow of the Joint Venture.
The GECC Note was issued by LIN Television of Texas, L.P., the Company's
indirect wholly owned partnership ("LIN Texas"), which distributed the proceeds
to the Company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition. The
obligations to GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by the Joint Venture and
LIN Texas was simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC Note.
The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any of their
respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the Company's
equity interest therein and to one of Holdings two corporate parents ("GECC Note
Guarantor") pursuant to a guarantee.
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of its NBC network affiliation agreements to 2010 and the option
(exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the NBC affiliate
in Birmingham, Alabama.
3. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
On September 4, 1997, the Company announced that it had learned of four
lawsuits regarding the then proposed merger. The Company and some or all of its
then present directors are defendants in all of the lawsuits. AT&T is a
defendant in three of the lawsuits, and an AT&T affiliate and Hicks Muse are
defendants in one of the lawsuits. Each of the lawsuits was filed by a purported
shareholder of the Company seeking to represent a putative class of all the
Company's public shareholders. Three of the four lawsuits were filed in Delaware
Chancery Court, while the fourth lawsuit was filed in New York Supreme Court.
While the allegations of the complaints are not identical, all of the
lawsuits basically assert that the terms of the original merger agreement were
not in the best interests of the Company's public shareholders. All of the
complaints allege breach of fiduciary duty in approving the merger agreement.
Two of the complaints also allege breach of fiduciary duty in connection with
the proposed sale of the television station WOOD-TV by AT&T to Hicks Muse and
the amendment to a Private Market Value Guarantee Agreement that was entered
into simultaneously with the first merger agreement. The complaints seek the
preliminary and permanent enjoinment of the merger or alternatively seek damages
in an unspecified amount. The complaints have not been amended to reflect the
terms of the merger itself.
The plaintiffs in each of the actions have agreed to an indefinite
extension of time for each of the defendants served to respond to the respective
complaints. No discovery has taken place.
While the Company believes each lawsuit is without merit, the Company is
unable to determine the likelihood and possible impact on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations of unfavorable outcomes.
4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
In connection with the Acquisition, Holdings, Company and certain of their
respective affiliates (collectively, the "Clients") entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Monitoring and Oversight Agreement") with Hicks, Muse & Co.
Partners, L.P., ("Hicks Muse Partners"), an affiliate of Hicks Muse, pursuant to
which the Clients have agreed to pay Hicks Muse Partners an annual fee (payable
quarterly) for oversight and monitoring services to the Clients. The aggregate
annual fee is adjustable on January 1 of each calendar year to an amount equal
to 1.0% of the budgeted consolidated annual EBITDA of Holdings and its
subsidiaries for the then-current fiscal year. Upon the acquisition by Holdings
and its subsidiaries of another entity or
F-35
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LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET -- (CONTINUED)
business, the fee shall be adjusted prospectively in the same manner using the
pro forma consolidated annual EBITDA of Holdings and its subsidiaries. In no
event shall the annual fee be less than $1,000,000. Hicks Muse Partners is also
entitled to reimbursement for any expenses incurred by it in connection with
rendering services allocable to the Company and Holdings.
In connection with the Acquisition, the Clients entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Financial Advisory Agreement") with Hicks Muse Partners,
pursuant to which Hicks Muse Partners received a financial advisory fee at the
closing of the Acquisition as compensation for its services as financial advisor
to the Clients in connection with the Acquisition. Hicks Muse Partners also is
entitled to receive a fee equal to 1.5% of the "transaction value" (as defined)
for each "subsequent transaction" (as defined) in which a Client is involved.
F-36
185
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
------------------------- ------------
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
ASSETS 1998 1997 1997
- ------ ---------- ------------ ------------
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents............................. $ 17,722 $ -- $ 8,046
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
accounts (1998 -- $2,067, 1997 -- $2,197).......... 34,769 -- 57,645
Program rights........................................ 5,736 -- 9,916
Other current assets.................................. 21,276 1 1,865
---------- ---------- ----------
Total current assets.......................... 79,503 1 77,472
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation... 123,575 -- 107,593
Program rights and other non current assets............. 4,490 -- 8,778
Deferred financing costs................................ 50,259 -- 5,421
Equity in joint venture................................. 76,017 -- 473
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization
(1998 -- $3,208, 1997 -- $70,905)..................... 1,469,096 -- 369,588
---------- ---------- ----------
Total assets.................................. $1,802,940 $ 1 $ 569,325
========== ========== ==========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable...................................... $ 9,904 $ -- $ 7,553
Program obligations................................... 6,179 -- 11,320
Accrued income taxes.................................. 2,659 -- 3,444
Current portion of long-term debt..................... 3,931 -- --
Other accruals........................................ 33,319 -- 26,891
---------- ---------- ----------
Total current liabilities..................... 55,992 -- 49,208
Long-term debt, excluding current portion............... 666,629 -- 260,000
Deferred income taxes................................... 523,612 -- 65,248
Other non current liabilities........................... 1,813 -- 2,304
---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities............................. 1,248,046 -- 376,760
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- (1998 -- none;
1997 -- 15,000,000)
Issued and outstanding shares -- none.............. -- -- --
Common stock, $0.01 par value:
Authorized shares -- (1998 -- 1,000; 1997 -- 1,000,
1997 -- 90,000,000)
Issued and outstanding shares -- (1998 -- 1,000;
1997 -- 1,000, 1997 -- 29,857,000)............... -- -- 299
Treasury stock.......................................... -- -- (3)
Additional paid-in capital.............................. 558,123 1 283,177
Accumulated deficit..................................... (3,229) -- (90,908)
---------- ---------- ----------
Total stockholders' equity.................... 554,894 1 192,565
---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.... $1,802,940 $ 1 $ 569,325
========== ========== ==========
See accompanying notes.
The December 31, 1997 information was derived from the audited financial
statements at that date.
F-37
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LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
--------------- ----------------------------------
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM THREE MONTHS
MARCH 3 THROUGH JANUARY 1 THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 MARCH 31, 1997
--------------- ----------------- --------------
Net revenues.................................... $16,211 $43,804 $61,662
Operating costs and expenses
Direct operating.............................. 3,730 11,117 16,068
Selling, general and administrative........... 4,296 11,701 16,325
Corporate..................................... 458 1,170 1,698
Amortization of program rights................ 1,015 2,743 4,058
Depreciation and amortization of intangible
assets..................................... 4,474 4,581 6,396
------- ------- -------
Total operating costs and expenses.... 13,973 31,312 44,545
------- ------- -------
Operating income................................ 2,238 12,492 17,117
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense.............................. 5,270 2,764 5,718
Investment income............................. (50) (98) (387)
Equity in joint venture....................... 462 244 403
Merger expenses............................... -- 8,616 --
------- ------- -------
Total other expense................... 5,682 11,526 5,734
------- ------- -------
Income (loss) before provision for income
taxes......................................... (3,444) 966 11,383
Provision (benefit) for income taxes............ (215) 3,710 4,246
------- ------- -------
Net income (loss)............................... $(3,229) $(2,744) $ 7,137
======= ======= =======
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic income (loss) per share................. $ (0.09) $ 0.24
======= =======
Diluted income (loss) per share............... $ (0.09) $ 0.23
======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding............. 29,875 29,745
======= =======
Weighted average shares outstanding -- assuming
dilution...................................... -- 30,379
======= =======
See accompanying notes.
F-38
187
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
---------------- ----------------------------------
PERIOD FROM PERIOD FROM THREE MONTHS
MARCH 3 THROUGH JANUARY 1 THROUGH ENDED
MARCH 31, 1998 MARCH 2, 1998 MARCH 31, 1997
---------------- ----------------- --------------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)............................... $ (3,229) $ (2,744) $ 7,137
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization (includes
amortization of deferred financing costs
and notes discounts)....................... 6,539 4,714 6,621
Tax benefit from exercises of stock options... -- 10,714 --
Deferred income taxes......................... 63 149 957
Net loss (gain) on disposition of assets...... -- 19 --
Amortization of program rights................ 1,015 2,743 4,058
Program payments.............................. (546) (4,157) (3,838)
Equity in joint venture....................... 462 244 403
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable........................ (1,773) 7,793 5,586
Other assets............................... (265) (19,147) (8,021)
Liabilities................................ 6,360 8,088 8,545
----------- -------- --------
Total adjustments..................... 11,855 11,160 14,311
----------- -------- --------
Net cash provided by operating activities....... 8,626 8,416 21,448
----------- -------- --------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures............................ (89) (1,221) (7,171)
Asset dispositions.............................. -- 3 --
Investment in Joint Venture..................... -- (250) (250)
Contribute KXAS-TV to station joint venture..... 815,500 -- --
Acquisition of LIN Television Corporation....... (1,722,674) -- --
----------- -------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities........... (907,263) (1,468) (7,421)
----------- -------- --------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from exercises of stock options and
from sale of Employee Stock Purchase Plan
shares........................................ -- 1,071 1,514
Principal payments on long-term debt............ (260,000) -- (15,000)
Proceeds from long-term debt.................... 668,929 -- --
Loan fees incurred on long-term debt............ (50,693) -- --
Proceeds from sale of common stock.............. 558,123 -- --
----------- -------- --------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities.................................... 916,359 1,071 (13,486)
----------- -------- --------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents....... 17,722 8,019 541
----------- -------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of
the period.................................... -- 8,046 27,952
----------- -------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
period........................................ $ 17,722 $ 16,065 $ 28,493
=========== ======== ========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION:
Cash paid for:
Interest...................................... $ 167 $ 2,895 $ 5,492
Income taxes.................................. $ 432 $ 46 $ 46
See accompanying notes.
F-39
188
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MARCH 31, 1998
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 1 -- BASIS OF PRESENTATION
LIN Holdings Corp. ("Holdings") was formed on July 18, 1997. On the same
date, LIN Acquisition Company ("LIN Acquisition") was formed as a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Holdings to acquire LIN Television Corporation ("LIN Television"
or the "Predecessor" prior to the Merger and the "Company" following the Merger
(as defined)) pursuant to the Merger Agreement as defined. (See Note 2)
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared without audit,
pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial
statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations.
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited interim financial
statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments)
necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and
cash flows of Holdings and its subsidiaries for the periods presented. The
results of operations for the three month period ended March 31, 1998 are not
necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. It is
suggested that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the
consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in
this Prospectus.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Holdings and
its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned. All significant intercompany
balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Holdings and the Company conduct their business through their subsidiaries,
and have no operations or assets other than their investment in their
subsidiaries. All of the Company's direct and indirect consolidated subsidiaries
fully and unconditionally guarantee the Company's Senior Subordinated Notes (as
defined) on a joint and several basis. Accordingly, no separate or additional
financial information about the subsidiaries is provided.
NOTE 2 -- SUBSEQUENT EVENT
Holdings and LIN Acquisition, two newly formed affiliates of Hicks, Muse,
Tate & Furst Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger with LIN Television on August 12, 1997 (as amended, the "Merger
Agreement").
Pursuant to, and upon the terms and conditions of, the Merger Agreement,
Holdings acquired LIN Television (the "Acquisition") on March 3, 1998 by merging
LIN Acquisition, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with and into LIN Television (the
"Merger"), with LIN Television surviving the merger and becoming a direct,
wholly-owned subsidiary of Holdings. The total purchase price for the common
equity of LIN Television was approximately $1.7 billion in cash. In addition,
the Company refinanced $260.2 million of LIN Television's indebtedness and
incurred acquisition costs of approximately $32.2 million.
The Acquisition was funded by (i) $6.9 million of excess cash on the
Company's balance sheet; (ii) $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior
secured Tranche A term loans ("Tranche A Term Loans"); (iii) $120.0 million
aggregate principal of senior secured Tranche B term loans ("Tranche B Term
Loans"); (iv) $299.3 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by LIN
Television of $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of unregistered 8 3/8%
senior subordinated notes due 2008 (the "Old Senior Subordinated Notes"); (v)
$199.6 million of gross proceeds from the issuance by Holdings of $325.0 million
aggregate principal amount at maturity of unregistered 10% senior discount notes
due 2008 (the "Old Senior Discount Notes"), which proceeds were contributed by
Holdings to the common equity of the Company; (vi) $815.5 million of proceeds of
the GECC Note (as defined below); and (vii) $558.1 million of common
F-40
189
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
equity provided by affiliates of Hicks Muse, management and other co-investors
to the equity of the corporate parents of Holdings, which in turn, through
Holdings, contributed such amount to the common equity of the Company
(collectively, the "Financings").
In connection with the Acquisition, Hicks Muse and NBC formed a television
station joint venture (the "Joint Venture"). The Joint Venture consists of
KXAS-TV, formerly LIN Television's Dallas-Fort Worth NBC affiliate, and KNSD-TV,
formerly NBC's San Diego station. A wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC is the
general partner of the Joint Venture (the "NBC General Partner") and NBC
operates the stations owned by the Joint Venture. The NBC General Partner holds
an approximate 80% equity interest and the Company holds an approximate 20%
equity interest in the Joint Venture (see Note 6). General Electric Capital
Corporation ("GECC") provided debt financing for the Joint Venture in the form
of an $815.5 million 25-year non-amortizing senior secured note bearing an
interest rate of 8.0% per annum for the first fifteen years of its term, and at
a rate of 9.0% per annum thereafter (the "GECC Note"). The Company expects that
the interest payments on the GECC Note will be serviced solely by the cash flow
of the Joint Venture.
The GECC Note was issued by LIN Television of Texas, L.P., the Company's
indirect wholly-owned partnership ("LIN Texas"), which distributed the proceeds
to the Company to finance a portion of the cost of the Acquisition. The
obligations to GECC under the GECC Note were assumed by the Joint Venture and
LIN Texas was simultaneously released from all obligations under the GECC Note.
The GECC Note is not an obligation of Holdings, the Company or any of their
respective subsidiaries and is recourse only to the Joint Venture, the Company's
equity interest therein and to one of Holdings two corporate parents ("GECC Note
Guarantor") pursuant to a guarantee.
In connection with the formation of the Joint Venture, the Company received
an extension of its NBC network affiliation agreements to 2010 and the option
(exercisable through December 31, 1999) to purchase WVTM-TV, the NBC affiliate
in Birmingham, Alabama.
The Acquisition was accounted for as a purchase and accordingly, the
purchase price has been allocated to the assets and liabilities acquired based
upon their fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess of purchase price
over the fair value of net tangible assets acquired is allocated to intangible
assets, primarily to FCC licenses, network affiliations, and goodwill. The
results of operations associated with the acquired assets have been included in
the accompanying statements from the date of acquisition on March 3, 1998
through March 31, 1998.
The Acquisition is summarized as follows:
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed (dollars in thousands):
Working capital, including cash of $9,185................... $ 23,646
Property and equipment...................................... 124,752
Other noncurrent assets..................................... 81,114
Intangible assets........................................... 1,472,304
Deferred tax liability...................................... (523,549)
Other noncurrent liabilities................................ (1,908)
----------
Total acquisition................................. $1,176,359
==========
F-41
190
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The following summarizes pro forma consolidated results of operations for
the three month periods ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 as if the Acquisition and
the Joint Venture had taken place on January 1, 1997 (dollars in thousands).
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31,
--------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
Net revenues................................................ $ 46,762 $ 41,018
Operating income (loss)..................................... 2,276 (3,089)
Net loss.................................................... (15,139) (16,386)
The pro forma results do not necessarily represent results that would have
occurred if the Acquisition and Joint Venture had taken place on the dates
indicated nor are they necessarily indicative of the results of future
operations.
Later this year, the Company expects to acquire from AT&T Corporation
("AT&T") the assets of WOOD-TV and the LMA rights related to WOTV-TV
(collectively, the "Grand Rapids Stations"), both of which stations are located
in the Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek market (the "Grand Rapids
Acquisition"). The Company currently provides services to the Grand Rapids
Stations pursuant to a consulting agreement with AT&T. The total purchase price
for the Grand Rapids Acquisition will be approximately $125.5 million, plus
accretion of 8.0% interest which commenced on March 1, 1998. The Grand Rapids
Acquisition is expected to be funded by $125.0 million of additional Tranche A
Term Loans. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 the Grand Rapids
Stations generated net revenues and operating income of $28.4 million and $8.2
million, respectively. The historical and pro forma financial information
provided above does not give effect to the Grand Rapids Acquisition.
Chancellor Media Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Chancellor") and
Ranger Equity Holdings Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Ranger"), the
indirect parent company of Holdings and the Company, entered into an Agreement
and Plan of Merger, dated July 7, 1998 (the "Chancellor Merger Agreement").
Pursuant to, and subject to the prior satisfaction or waiver of certain
customary conditions (including, without limitation, the approval of
Chancellor's and the Company's respective shareholders, the receipt of necessary
FCC approvals, and the termination or expiration of the applicable waiting
periods under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended) set forth in, the Chancellor Merger Agreement, Ranger will be merged
with and into Chancellor (the "Chancellor Merger"), with Chancellor continuing
as the surviving corporation following the Chancellor Merger. As a result of the
Chancellor Merger, (i) each share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Ranger
Common Stock"), of Ranger will be converted into the right to receive 0.0300 of
a share of common stock, $0.01 par value ("Chancellor Common Stock"), of
Chancellor, other than shares of Ranger Common Stock for which appraisal rights
have been exercised pursuant to Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware. In addition, Chancellor, as the surviving corporation,
will assume certain outstanding options to purchase shares of Ranger Common
Stock held by certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of Ranger
and its subsidiaries. Following the Chancellor Merger, Holdings and the Company
will become indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Chancellor.
A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
On August 27, 1998, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Group, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("SSG"), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the "SSG
Agreement") pursuant to which LIN Texas will sell
F-42
191
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
KXTX-TV to SSG. In exchange, LIN Texas will receive 500,000 shares of SSG's
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $100.00 per share ("SSG
Preferred Stock"). LIN Texas will be entitled to receive dividends at the per
annum rate of 6% of par value prior to the payment by SSG of any dividend in
respect of its common stock ("SSG Common Stock") or any other junior securities.
At the option of SSG, dividends will be payable either in kind or in cash. LIN
Texas will have the right, upon the earlier of (i) the third anniversary of the
issuance of the SSG Preferred Stock and (ii) an initial public offering of SSG
Common Stock, to convert its shares of SSG Preferred Stock into shares of SSG
Common Stock at a conversion rate equal to the par value per share of the SSG
Preferred Stock (plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) divided by the
fair market value per share of the SSG Common Stock. SSG will have the right, at
its sole option, to redeem the SSG Preferred Stock at par value (plus all
accrued and unpaid dividends thereon) at any time. In connection with the SSG
Agreement, LIN Texas and Southwest Sports Television, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and an affiliate of SSG ("SSTI"), entered into a Sub-Programming
Agreement on August 27, 1998 pursuant to which SSTI will provide certain
management, operating and programming services to KXTX-TV prior to the closing
of the sale of KXTX-TV to SSG. In consideration for providing such services,
SSTI will receive a management fee equal to the total aggregate revenue
received, less all fees and expenses incurred, by LIN Texas that relate to the
operation of KXTX-TV.
Subject to the terms of the SSG Agreement and the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the receipt of National Hockey League and Major League
Baseball approvals and SSG's consummation of certain other business
acquisitions, it is expected that the sale of KXTX-TV will be consummated by the
end of 1998. In 1997, KXTX-TV generated BCF of $6.8 million.
NOTE 3 -- RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In connection with the Acquisition, Holdings, Company and certain of their
respective affiliates (collectively, the "Clients") entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Monitoring and Oversight Agreement") with Hicks, Muse & Co.
Partners, L.P., ("Hicks Muse Partners"), an affiliate of Hicks Muse, pursuant to
which the Clients have agreed to pay Hicks Muse Partners an annual fee (payable
quarterly) for oversight and monitoring services to the Clients. The aggregate
annual fee is adjustable on January 1 of each calendar year to an amount equal
to 1.0% of the budgeted consolidated annual EBITDA of Holdings and its
subsidiaries for the then-current fiscal year. Upon the acquisition by Holdings
and its subsidiaries of another entity or business, the fee shall be adjusted
prospectively in the same manner using the pro forma consolidated annual EBITDA
of Holdings and its subsidiaries. In no event shall the annual fee be less than
$1,000,000. Hicks Muse Partners is also entitled to reimbursement for any
expenses incurred by it in connection with rendering services allocable to the
Company and Holdings.
In connection with the Acquisition, the Clients entered into a ten-year
agreement (the "Financial Advisory Agreement") with Hicks Muse Partners,
pursuant to which Hicks Muse Partners received a financial advisory fee at the
closing of the Acquisition as compensation for its services as financial advisor
to the Clients in connection with the Acquisition. Hicks Muse Partners also is
entitled to receive a fee equal to 1.5% of the "transaction value" (as defined)
for each "subsequent transaction" (as defined) in which a Client is involved.
F-43
192
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
NOTE 4 -- INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangibles consist of the following at March 31, 1998 and December 31,
1997 (dollars in thousands):
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
---------- ------------
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
---------- ------------
FCC licenses and network affiliations....................... $ 807,029 $312,450
Goodwill.................................................... 665,275 128,043
---------- --------
1,472,304 440,493
Less accumulated amortization............................... (3,208) (70,905)
---------- --------
$1,469,096 $369,588
========== ========
Intangible assets represent the excess of the purchase price over the
estimated fair value of identifiable assets acquired in business acquisitions,
and are being amortized straight-line over 40 years. The Company periodically
evaluates intangible assets for potential impairment. At this time, in the
opinion of the management, no impairment has occurred.
NOTE 5 -- LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consisted of the following at March 31, 1998 and December
31, 1997 (dollars in thousands):
HOLDINGS PREDECESSOR
-------- -----------
Senior Credit Facilities.................................... $170,000 $ 260,000
8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008................... 299,301 --
10% Senior Discount Notes due 2008 (net of discount of
$123,741)................................................. 201,259 --
-------- ---------
Total long-term debt.............................. 670,560 260,000
Less current portion........................................ (3,931) --
-------- ---------
$666,629 $ 260,000
======== =========
Senior Credit Facilities
On March 3, 1998, Holdings and the Company entered into a credit agreement
(the "Credit Agreement") with the Chase Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent
(the "Agent"), and the lenders named therein. Under the Credit Agreement, the
Company established a $295 million term loan facility, a $50 million revolving
facility, and a $225 million incremental term loan facility (collectively, the
"Senior Credit Facilities"). Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities and
part of the proceeds from the 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes were used to
repay LIN Television's existing debt.
Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities bear interest at a rate
based, at the option of the Company, on an adjusted London interbank offered
rate ("Adjusted LIBOR"), or the highest of the Agent's prime rate, a certificate
of deposit rate plus 1.00%, or the Federal Funds effective rate plus 1/2 of
1.00% (the "Alternate Base Rate"), plus an incremental rate based on the
Company's financial performance. At March 31, 1998, the interest rates on the
$50 million Tranche A term loan and the $120 million Tranche B term loan were
7.19% and 7.69%, respectively, based on the Adjusted LIBOR. The Company is
required to pay quarterly commitment fees ranging from 0.25% to 0.50%, based
upon the Company's leverage ratio for that particular quarter on the unused
portion of the loan commitment, in addition to annual agency and other
administration fees.
The obligations of the Company under the Senior Credit Facilities will be
unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed, jointly and severally, by Holdings
and by each existing and subsequently acquired or organized
F-44
193
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
subsidiary of the Company. In addition, substantially all of the assets of the
Company and its subsidiaries are pledged to secure the performance of these
obligations. Required principal repayments of amounts outstanding under the
Senior Credit Facilities commence on December 31, 1998. The Company's ability to
make additional borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities is subject to
compliance with certain financial covenants and other conditions set forth in
the Credit Agreement. As of March 31, 1998, the Company was in compliance with
all covenants under the Credit Agreement.
Senior Subordinated Notes
On March 3, 1998, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal
amount of 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008 ("Senior Subordinated
Notes") in a private placement for net proceeds of $290.3 million. The Senior
Subordinated Notes are unsecured obligations of the Company, subordinated in
right of payment to all existing and any future senior indebtedness of the
Company. The Senior Subordinated Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed,
on a joint and several basis, by all wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company.
The effective interest rate of the Senior Subordinated Notes is 8.9% on an
annual basis. Interest on the Senior Subordinated Notes accrues at a rate of 8
3/8% per annum and is payable in cash semi-annually in arrears commencing on
September 1, 1998.
Senior Discount Notes
In connection with the Merger on March 3, 1998, Holdings issued $325
million aggregate principal amount at maturity of 10% Senior Discount Notes due
2008 ("Senior Discount Notes") in a private placement. The Senior Discount Notes
were issued at a discount and generated net proceeds of $192.6 million to
Holdings. The Senior Discount Notes are unsecured senior obligations of
Holdings, and are not guaranteed. The effective interest rate of the Senior
Discount Notes is 11.0% on an annual basis. Cash interest will not accrue or be
payable on the Senior Discount Notes prior to March 1, 2003. Thereafter, cash
interest will accrue at a rate of 10% per annum and will be payable
semi-annually in arrears commencing September 1, 2003.
NOTE 6 -- SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE JOINT VENTURE
The Company owns approximately 20% of the Joint Venture, and accounts for
its equity interest in the Joint Venture using the equity method. The following
presents the summarized financial information of the Joint Venture for the
period from March 3, 1998 through March 31, 1998 (dollars in thousands).
FOR THE PERIOD
FROM MARCH 3
THROUGH
MARCH 31, 1998
--------------
Net Revenues................................................ $10,536
Operating Income............................................ 2,858
Net Loss.................................................... (2,035)
NOTE 7 -- INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense (benefit) differs from the amount computed by applying
the federal statutory income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes due
to the effects of state income taxes and permanent book / tax differences,
primarily non-deductible goodwill.
NOTE 8 -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
On September 4, 1997, the Company announced that it had learned of four
lawsuits regarding the then proposed merger. The Company and some or all of its
then present directors are defendants in all of the
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194
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
lawsuits. AT&T is a defendant in three of the lawsuits, and an AT&T affiliate
and Hicks Muse are defendants in one of the lawsuits. Each of the lawsuits was
filed by a purported shareholder of the Company seeking to represent a putative
class of all the Company's public shareholders. Three of the four lawsuits were
filed in Delaware Chancery Court, while the fourth lawsuit was filed in New York
Supreme Court.
While the allegations of the complaints are not identical, all of the
lawsuits basically assert that the terms of the original merger agreement were
not in the best interests of the Company's public shareholders. All of the
complaints allege breach of fiduciary duty in approving the merger agreement.
Two of the complaints also allege breach of fiduciary duty in connection with
the proposed sale of the television station WOOD-TV by AT&T to Hicks Muse and
the amendment to a Private Market Value Guarantee Agreement that was entered
into simultaneously with the first merger agreement. The complaints seek the
preliminary and permanent enjoinment of the merger or alternatively seek damages
in an unspecified amount. The complaints have not been amended to reflect the
terms of the merger itself.
The plaintiffs in each of the actions have agreed to an indefinite
extension of time for each of the defendants served to respond to the respective
complaints. No discovery has taken place.
While the Company believes each lawsuit is without merit, the Company is
unable to determine the likelihood and possible impact on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations of unfavorable outcomes.
A Chancellor shareholder has filed a shareholders derivative lawsuit in a
chancery court in the State of Delaware, purportedly on behalf of Chancellor,
naming Chancellor, Chancellor's directors and the Company as defendants. The
lawsuit seeks, among other things, money damages and an injunction prohibiting
the consummation of the Chancellor Merger. The Company believes that the lawsuit
is without substantial merit and intends to vigorously defend the action.
In addition, the Company currently and from time to time is involved in
litigation incidental to the conduct of its business. In the opinion of the
Company's management, none of such litigation is likely to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows.
NOTE 9 -- IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income" ("Statement 130") effective for years beginning after
December 15, 1997. Statement 130 requires that a public company report items of
other comprehensive income either below the total for net income in the income
statement, or in a statement of changes in equity, and to disclose the
accumulated balance of other comprehensive income separately from retained
earnings and additional paid-in-capital in the equity section of the balance
sheet. Statement 130 was adopted during the first quarter of 1998 and was
applied to prior period financial statements on a retroactive basis. The
adoption of Statement 130 did not have a material impact on the consolidated
financial statements.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of
an Enterprise and Related Information" ("Statement 131") effective for years
beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 131 requires that a public company
report financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating
segments pursuant to criteria that differ from current accounting practice.
Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which
separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the
chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in
assessing performance. The financial information to be reported includes segment
profit or loss, certain revenue and expense items and segment assets and
reconciliations to corresponding amounts in the general purpose financial
statements. Statement 131 also requires information about revenues from products
or services, countries where the company has operations or assets and major
customers. Management does not
F-46
195
LIN HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
believe the implementation of Statement 131 will have a material impact on its
consolidated financial statements.
In February 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits" ("Statement 132") effective
for years beginning after December 15, 1997. Statement 132 revises employers'
disclosures about pension and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not
change the measurement or recognition of those plans. This Statement
standardizes the disclosure requirements for pensions and other postretirement
benefits to the extent practicable, requires additional information on changes
in the benefit obligations and fair values of plan assets that will facilitate
financial analysis, and eliminates certain disclosures that are no longer as
useful as they were when SFAS No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions", SFAS
No. 88, "Employers' Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined
Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits", and SFAS No. 106,
"Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions" were
issued. The Statement suggests combined formats for presentation of pension and
other postretirement benefit disclosures. Management does not believe the
implementation of Statement 132 will have a material impact on its consolidated
financial statements.
In April 1998, Accounting Standards Executive Committee ("AcSEC") issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities" ("SOP 98-5") effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,
1998. This SOP provides guidance on the financial reporting of start-up costs
and organization costs. It requires that costs of start-up activities and
organization costs be expensed as incurred. Initial application of SOP 98-5
should be reported as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle,
as described in Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 20, "Accounting
Changes". When adopting this SOP, entities are not required to report the pro
forma effects of retroactive application. Management does not believe the
implementation of SOP 98-5 will have a material impact on its consolidated
financial statements.
F-47
196
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NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS, AND, IF GIVEN OR
MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN
AUTHORIZED. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES OTHER THAN THE SECURITIES TO
WHICH IT RELATES OR ANY OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY
SUCH SECURITIES IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS
UNLAWFUL. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY OFFER OR SALE MADE
HEREUNDER SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE AN IMPLICATION THAT THERE HAS
BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE ISSUERS SINCE THE DATE HEREOF OR THAT THE
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
----
Available Information....................... ii
Forward Looking Statements.................. ii
Certain Definitions and Market and
Industry Data............................. iv
Summary..................................... 1
Risk Factors................................ 23
The Transactions and Other Matters.......... 33
Use of Proceeds............................. 35
Capitalization.............................. 35
Selected Consolidated Financial and
Operating Data............................ 36
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information... 38
Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of
Operations................................ 44
Business.................................... 53
Management.................................. 70
Securities Ownership of Certain Beneficial
Owners.................................... 74
Certain Other Transactions.................. 75
The Exchange Offers......................... 76
Description of the New Senior Subordinated
Notes..................................... 84
Description of the New Senior Discount
Notes..................................... 110
Description of the Senior Credit
Facilities................................ 132
Book-Entry; Delivery and Form............... 134
Plan of Distribution........................ 136
Certain United States Federal Income Tax
Considerations............................ 137
Legal Matters............................... 143
Change in Accountants....................... 143
Experts..................................... 143
Index to Financial Statements............... F-1
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UNTIL DECEMBER 29, 1998, ALL DEALERS EFFECTING TRANSACTIONS IN THE NEW
NOTES, WHETHER OR NOT PARTICIPATING IN THIS DISTRIBUTION, MAY BE REQUIRED TO
DELIVER A PROSPECTUS. THIS IS IN ADDITION TO THE OBLIGATION OF DEALERS TO
DELIVER A PROSPECTUS WHEN ACTING AS UNDERWRITERS AND WITH RESPECT TO THEIR
UNSOLD ALLOTMENTS OR SUBSCRIPTIONS.
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LOGO
OFFER FOR ALL OUTSTANDING
8 3/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 2008
IN EXCHANGE FOR
8 3/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 2008
OF
LIN TELEVISION CORPORATION
OFFER FOR ALL OUTSTANDING
10% SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES DUE 2008
IN EXCHANGE FOR
10% SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES DUE 2008
OF
LIN HOLDINGS CORP.
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PROSPECTUS
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SEPTEMBER 2, 1998
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