Note 4 - Debt and Other Financial Instruments (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments
Trading	$ 427	$ 281
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	906,200	917,000
Media General Credit Agreement [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	876,000	885,000
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	867,240	894,956
Shield Media Credit Agreement [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term Debt, Carrying Amount	30,200	32,000
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	$ 30,200	$ 32,000