Note 4 - Debt and Other Financial Instruments (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments
Trading	$ 334	$ 281
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	881,400	917,000
Media General Credit Agreement [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	850,000	885,000
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	857,438	894,956
Shield Media Credit Agreement [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	31,400	32,000
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	$ 31,400	$ 32,000