10-K

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For The Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2012

OR

[  ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number 1-6227

LEE ENTERPRISES, INCORPORATED

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its Charter)

Delaware	42-0823980
(State of incorporation)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

201 N. Harrison Street, Suite 600, Davenport, Iowa 52801

(Address of principal executive offices)

(563) 383-2100

Registrant's telephone number, including area code

Title of Each Class	Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Stock - $0.01 par value	New York Stock Exchange
Preferred Share Purchase Rights	New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Class B Common Stock - $2 par value

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes [ ] No [X]

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes [ ] No [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this Chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (S 229.405 of this Chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:

Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [X] Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) [ ] Smaller Reporting Company [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes [ ] No [X]

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the Registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. Based on the closing price of the Registrant's Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange on March 25, 2012, such aggregate market value is approximately $57,507,000. For purposes of the foregoing calculation only, as required, the Registrant has included in the shares owned by affiliates the beneficial ownership of Common Stock of officers and directors of the Registrant and members of their families, and such inclusion shall not be construed as an admission that any such person is an affiliate for any purpose.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the Registrant's classes of common stock, as of November 30, 2012. Common Stock, $0.01 par value, 52,296,241 shares.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Lee Enterprises, Incorporated Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013 are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K.

TABLE OF CONTENTS			PAGE
Forward-Looking Statements			3
Part I
	Item 1	Business	3
	Item 1A	Risk Factors	12
	Item 1B	Unresolved Staff Comments	15
	Item 2	Properties	15
	Item 3	Legal Proceedings	16
	Item 4	Mine Safety Disclosures	16
Part II
	Item 5	Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	17
	Item 6	Selected Financial Data	19
	Item 7	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	20
	Item 7A	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	40
	Item 8	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	41
	Item 9	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	42
	Item 9A	Controls and Procedures	42
	Item 9B	Other Information	45
Part III
	Item 10	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	45
	Item 11	Executive Compensation	45
	Item 12	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	45
	Item 13	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	45
	Item 14	Principal Accountant Fees and Services	45
Part IV
	Item 15	Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules	46
Signatures			47
Consolidated Financial Statements			48
Exhibit Index			85

References to “we”, “our”, “us” and the like throughout this document refer to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the "Company"). References to 2012, 2011, 2010 and the like refer to the fiscal years ended the last Sunday in September.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. This report contains information that may be deemed forward-looking that is based largely on our current expectations, and is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Among such risks, trends and other uncertainties, which in some instances are beyond our control, are our ability to generate cash flows and maintain liquidity sufficient to service our debt, comply with or obtain amendments or waivers of the financial covenants contained in our credit facilities, if necessary, and to refinance our debt as it comes due.

Other risks and uncertainties include the impact and duration of continuing adverse economic conditions in certain aspects of the economy affecting our business, changes in advertising demand, potential changes in newsprint and other commodity prices, energy costs, interest rates, labor costs, legislative and regulatory rulings, difficulties in achieving planned expense reductions, maintaining employee and customer relationships, increased capital costs, maintaining our listing status on the NYSE, competition and other risks detailed from time to time in our publicly filed documents.

Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “may”, “will”, “would”, “could”, “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “plan”, “project”, “consider” and similar expressions) generally should be considered forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this report. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements.

PART I

On December 12, 2011, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries filed voluntary, prepackaged petitions in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (the "Bankruptcy Court") for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (the "U.S. Bankruptcy Code") (collectively, the "Chapter 11 Proceedings"). Our interests in TNI Partners and Madison Newspapers, Inc., as discussed more fully below, were not included in the filings. During the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we, and certain of our subsidiaries, continued to operate as "debtors in possession" under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. In general, as debtors-in-possession, we were authorized under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to continue to operate as an ongoing business, but were not to engage in transactions outside the ordinary course of business without the prior approval of the Bankruptcy Court.

On January 23, 2012, the Bankruptcy Court approved our Second Amended Joint Prepackaged Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and on January 30, 2012 (the "Effective Date") the Company emerged from the Chapter 11 Proceedings. On the Effective Date, the Plan became effective and the transactions contemplated by the Plan were consummated. Implementation of the Plan resulted primarily in a comprehensive refinancing of our debt. The Chapter 11 Proceedings did not adversely affect employees, vendors, contractors, customers or any aspect of Company operations. Stockholders retained their interest in the Company, subject to modest dilution.

We experienced significant net losses in 2012, 2011, 2009 and 2008, due primarily to reorganization costs in 2012 and non-cash charges for impairment of goodwill and other assets in 2011, 2009 and 2008. Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012. The information included herein should be evaluated in that context. See Item 1A, “Risk Factors”, and Notes 4 and 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein, for additional information.

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

We are a leading provider of local news and information, and a major platform for advertising, in the markets we serve, which are located primarily in the Midwest, Mountain West and West regions of the United States. With the exception

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of St. Louis, Missouri, our 51 markets, across 23 states, are principally midsize or small. Through our print and digital platforms, we reach an overwhelming majority of adults in our markets.

Our platforms include:

• 51 daily and 39 Sunday newspapers with circulation totaling 1.2 million and 1.4 million, respectively, for the six months ended September 2012, read by nearly four million people in print;

• Websites and mobile and tablet products in all of our markets that complement our newspapers and attracted 22.8 million unique visitors in September 2012 with 192.6 million page views; and

• Nearly 300 weekly newspapers and classified and niche publications.

Our markets have established retail bases, and most are regional shopping hubs. We are located in four state capitals. Six of our top ten markets by revenue include major universities, and seven are home to major corporate headquarters. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor of Statistics as of October 2012, the unemployment rate in all of our top ten markets by revenue was lower than the national average. We believe that all of these factors have had a positive impact on advertising revenue.

We do not face significant competition from other local daily newspapers in most of our markets, although there is significant competition for readers and viewers in those markets from other media. In our top ten markets by revenue, only two have significant local daily print competition. In the balance of our markets, we have little or no local daily print competition.

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated was founded in 1890, incorporated in 1950, and listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") in 1978. Until 2001, we also operated a number of network-affiliated and satellite television stations. We have acquired and divested a number of businesses since 2001. The acquisition of Pulitzer Inc., the most significant of these transactions, is discussed more fully below.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

We are focused on five broad strategic initiatives:

Build On Our Position As A Leading Source Of Local News And Information, And A Major Platform For Advertising, In Attractive, Geographically Diverse, Midsize And Small Markets

We are a leading provider of local news and information, and a major platform for advertising, in our markets and have been for many years. Our brands are well known in our markets. We believe we have more journalists than any other local news and information source in our markets and, in many cases, more than all of our local competitors combined. We believe our brand strength and the size of our news staff allow us to provide more comprehensive coverage of local news than our competitors in our markets.

We believe our longstanding commitment to our markets, leading news staffs and close relationships with advertisers in our markets serve as a platform from which to thrive in the future.

Drive Revenue

Revenue is a key imperative among our top priorities. We pursue revenue opportunities by gaining new local advertisers, introducing new products and increasing our share of advertising spending from existing clients. Our sales force is larger, and we believe of higher quality, than any local competitor, and we invest heavily in training, especially with respect to our expanding array of digital products. As a result of our focus on revenue, our advertising revenue since 2000 has outperformed the industry average in 43 of the last 47 quarters, as measured by the Newspaper Association of America ("NAA").

Expand Our Audiences

The number of customers we reach in our markets is critical to our value to advertisers. As measured in 11 of our top markets by independent, third-party research, we deliver unduplicated reach of print and digital readers and users of print products of an average of 81.5% of all adults over a seven-day period through our print and digital platforms. Our 2012 combined print and digital readership in percentage terms is comparable to 2007, the first time it was measured. Among those 18-29 years old, we reach an average of 83.7% of readers and users. We believe our non-daily print

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publications further expand our audiences.

We continually strive to increase our reach by creatively and energetically improving our content across print and digital platforms. Increasingly, we are also using various forms of social media to enhance our audiences.

Seize Digital Opportunities

We offer advertisers a wide array of digital products, including video, digital couponing, behavioral targeting, banner ads and social networking. Digital advertising revenue increased 9.7% in 2012 and we expect that digital revenue will continue to grow.

On our digital sites, we provide news stories 24 hours a day and post continual updates of developing stories, often including video. Customers access our stories digitally on websites, mobile devices and tablets. As a result, our digital audience has grown rapidly. In September 2012, unique visitors to our digital sites increased 10.1% from September 2011 to 22.8 million.

We have developed mobile sites in all of our markets as well as separate smart phone applications in all markets, and, as a result, we have enjoyed significant audience growth, with mobile page views increasing 146% in September 2012 from September 2011. In most of our markets, our websites are the leading local digital news source. As with mobile, we have moved quickly to develop applications for tablets, including the iPad, and with our mobile audience growth and high advertiser interest we expect mobile and tablet advertising revenue to increase in the next few years. As new digital technologies emerge, we expect to move rapidly to make our content available on them.

In 2011, we began to implement charges for digital access to to our content in certain of our markets using a metered model. By December 2012, that program will be rolled out in most of our markets, and is contributing to our circulation revenue.

Aggressively Control Costs

Throughout the recent economic downturn, we have aggressively transformed our business model and carefully managed our costs to maintain our margins and profitability. Since 2007, we reduced cash costs of our continuing operations (i.e., compensation, newsprint and ink, other operating expenses and workforce adjustments) by $256 million, or 32%. We regionalized staff functions, selectively consolidated and/or outsourced printing, discontinued unprofitable niche publications, reduced newsprint volume 52%, and sharpened our focus on cost control in all areas. We have reduced personnel while protecting our strengths in news, sales and digital products.

Our cost actions allowed us to maintain significant cash flows and reduce debt, despite declining revenues. While future cost reductions will be more difficult to accomplish as a result of the significant reductions to our cost structure that we have achieved, we remain committed to maintaining strong cash flows. We expect 2013 operating expenses, excluding depreciation, amortization and unusual matters, to decrease 3.0-4.0% from their 2012 level.

PULITZER ACQUISITION

In 2005, we acquired Pulitzer Inc. (“Pulitzer”). Pulitzer published 14 daily newspapers and more than 100 weekly newspapers and specialty publications. Pulitzer also owned a 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), as discussed more fully below. The acquisition of Pulitzer increased our paid circulation by more than 50% and revenue by more than 60% at that time. The acquisition was financed primarily with debt.

Pulitzer newspaper operations include St. Louis, Missouri, where its subsidiary, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC (“PD LLC”), publishes the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the only major daily newspaper serving the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, and a variety of specialty publications, and supports its related digital products. St. Louis newspaper operations also include the Suburban Journals of Greater St. Louis, a group of weekly newspapers and niche publications that focus on separate communities within the metropolitan area.

Pulitzer and its subsidiaries and affiliates currently publish 12 daily newspapers and support the related digital products, as well as publish approximately 75 weekly newspapers, shoppers and niche publications that serve markets in the Midwest, Southwest and West.

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TNI Partners

As a result of the acquisition of Pulitzer, we own a 50% interest in TNI, the Tucson, Arizona newspaper partnership. TNI, acting as agent for our subsidiary, Star Publishing Company (“Star Publishing”), and the owner of the remaining 50%, Citizen Publishing Company (“Citizen”), a subsidiary of Gannett Co., Inc., (“Gannett”), is responsible for printing, delivery, advertising and circulation of the Arizona Daily Star and, until May 2009, the Tucson Citizen, as well as their related digital products and specialty publications. In May 2009, Citizen discontinued print publication of the Tucson Citizen.

TNI collects all receipts and income and pays substantially all operating expenses incident to the partnership's operations and publication of the newspapers and other media. Under the amended and restated operating agreement between Star Publishing and Citizen, the Arizona Daily Star remains the separate property of Star Publishing. Results of TNI are accounted for using the equity method. Income or loss of TNI (before income taxes) is allocated equally to Star Publishing and Citizen.

Until the May 2009 discontinuation of print publication of the Tucson Citizen, TNI was subject to the provisions of the Newspaper Preservation Act of 1970, which permits joint operating agreements between newspapers under certain circumstances without violation of the Federal antitrust laws. Agency agreements generally allow newspapers operating in the same market to share certain printing and other facilities and to pool certain revenue and expenses in order to decrease aggregate expenses and thereby allow the continuing operation of multiple newspapers in the same market.

The TNI agency agreement (“Agency Agreement”), which remains in effect, has governed the operation since 1940. Both the Company and Citizen incur certain administrative costs and capital expenditures that are reported by their individual companies. The Agency Agreement expires in 2015, but contains an option, which may be exercised by either party, to renew the agreement for successive periods of 25 years each. Star Publishing and Citizen also have a reciprocal right of first refusal to acquire the 50% interest in TNI owned by Citizen and Star Publishing, respectively, under certain circumstances.

MADISON NEWSPAPERS

We own 50% of the capital stock of Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 17% of the nonvoting common stock of The Capital Times Company (“TCT”). TCT owns the remaining 50% of the capital stock of MNI. MNI publishes daily and Sunday newspapers, and other publications in Madison, Wisconsin, and other Wisconsin locations, and supports their related digital products. MNI conducts business under the trade name Capital Newspapers. We have a contract to furnish the editorial and news content for the Wisconsin State Journal, which is published by MNI, and periodically provide other services to MNI. Results of MNI are accounted for using the equity method. Net income or loss of MNI (after income taxes) is allocated equally to the Company and TCT.

ADVERTISING

Approximately 70% of our 2012 revenue was derived from advertising. Our strategies are to increase our share of local advertising through increased sales activities in our existing markets and, over time, to increase our print and digital audiences through internal expansion into existing and contiguous markets and enhancement of digital products. Our advertising results since 2000 have benchmarked favorably to industry averages compiled by the NAA in 43 of the last 47 quarters.

Several of our businesses operate in geographic groups of publications, or “clusters,” which provide operational efficiencies and extend sales penetration. Operational efficiencies are obtained through consolidation of sales forces, back office operations such as finance, human resources, management and/or production of the publications. Sales penetration can improve if the sales effort is successful in cross-selling advertising into multiple publications and digital products. A table under the caption “Daily Newspapers and Markets” in Item 1, included herein, identifies those groups of our newspapers operating in clusters.

Our newspapers, classified and specialty publications, and digital products compete with newspapers having national or regional circulation, magazines, radio, network, cable and satellite television, other advertising media such as outdoor, mobile, and movie theater promotions, other classified and specialty publications, direct mail, yellow pages directories, as well as other information content providers such as digital sites. Competition for advertising is based on audience size and composition, circulation levels, readership demographics, distribution and display mechanisms, price and advertiser results. In addition, several of our daily and Sunday newspapers compete with other local daily

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or weekly newspapers. We believe we capture a substantial share of the total advertising dollars spent in each of our markets.

The number of competitors in any given market varies. However, all of the forms of competition noted above exist to some degree in our markets, including those listed in the table under the caption “Daily Newspapers and Markets” in Item 1, included herein.

The following broadly define major categories of advertising revenue:

Retail advertising is revenue earned from sales of display advertising space in the publication, or for preprinted advertising inserted in the publication, to local accounts or regional and national businesses with local retail operations.

Classified advertising, which includes employment, automotive, real estate for sale or rent, legal and other categories, is revenue earned from sales of advertising space in the classified section of the publication or from publications consisting primarily of such advertising. Classified publications are periodic advertising publications available in racks or delivered free, by carriers or third-class mail, to all, or selected, households in a particular geographic area. Classified publications offer advertisers a cost-effective local advertising vehicle and are particularly effective in larger markets with higher media fragmentation.

National advertising is revenue earned from display advertising space, or for preprinted advertising inserted in the publication, to national accounts, if there is no local retailer representing the account in the market.

Digital advertising consists of display, banner, behavioral targeting, search, rich media, directories, classified or other advertising on websites or mobile devices associated and integrated with our print publications, other digital applications, or on third party affiliated websites, such as Yahoo! Inc. (“Yahoo!”). Digital advertising is reported in combination with print advertising in the retail, classified and national categories.

Niche publications are specialty publications, such as lifestyle, business, health or home improvement publications that contain significant amounts of advertising.

The advertising environment is influenced by the state of the overall economy, including unemployment rates, inflation, energy prices and consumer interest rates. Our enterprises are primarily located in midsize and small markets. Historically these markets have been more stable than major metropolitan markets during downturns in advertising spending but may not experience increases in such spending as significant as those in major metropolitan markets in periods of economic improvement.

DIGITAL ADVERTISING AND SERVICES

Our digital activities include websites supporting each of our daily newspapers and certain of our other publications. Certain of our website content is also available through output to mobile devices, including telephones and tablet devices. In addition, we also support a number of discrete mobile applications, such as for high school, college and professional sports. Digital activities of the newspapers are reported and managed as a part of our publishing operations.

In 2007, in conjunction with several other major publishing organizations (“Consortium”), we entered into a strategic alliance with Yahoo!, in which the Consortium offered its classified employment advertising customer base the opportunity to also post job listings and other employment products on Yahoo!'s HotJobs national platform. The HotJobs platform was acquired in 2010 by Monster Worldwide, Inc., which has assumed the relationship with the Consortium under an amended contract. In addition, the Consortium and Yahoo! have worked together to provide new behavioral targeting, search, content and local applications across the newspapers' digital products, further enhancing the value of these sites as a destination for digital users. The Consortium currently includes more than 30 companies and more than 800 local newspapers across the United States.

We also own 82.5% of an Internet service company, INN Partners, L.C. (doing business as TownNews.com), which provides digital infrastructure and digital publishing services for nearly 1,500 daily and weekly newspapers and shoppers, including those of the Company.

Ourdigital businesses experienced rapid growth in the second half of 2010 and again in 2011 and 2012 after recession-related declines in 2008 and 2009. Digital advertising represented 13.0% of total advertising revenue in the 14 weeks

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ended September 30, 2012.

AUDIENCES

Based on independent research, we estimate that, in an average week, our newspapers and digital products reach approximately 81.5% of adults in our larger markets. Scarborough Research from 2011 ranks the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and STLtoday.com as the market with the 5th highest combination of newspaper and web reach of the 25 most populated U.S. markets. Readership by young adults is also significant in our larger markets. We are maintaining large audiences in our markets through the combination of rapid digital audience growth and strong newspaper readership, as illustrated in the table below, as well as through additional specialty and niche publications. In 2010, for the first time, we measured use of our daily newspapers by non-readers ("print users").

Audience reach is summarized as follows:

	All Adults						Age 18-29
(Percent, Past Seven Days)	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012
Print only	52.0	49.6	46.6	43.8	43.4	37.8	36.1	38.7	41.0	32.1	33.0	31.5
Print and digital	13.2	16.9	16.4	15.9	16.4	19.6	13.8	19.4	16.4	15.6	13.7	18.4
Digital only	4.6	6.1	6.6	8.4	7.9	9.4	6.4	9.5	8.3	9.5	11.6	9.3
Total readership	69.8	72.6	69.6	68.1	67.7	66.8	56.3	67.6	65.7	57.2	58.3	59.2
Print users (1)	NA	NA	NA	14.9	14.5	14.7	NA	NA	NA	21.8	21.1	24.5
Total reach	69.8	72.6	69.6	83.0	82.2	81.5	56.3	67.6	65.7	79.0	79.4	83.7
Total print reach (1)	65.2	66.5	63.0	74.6	74.3	72.1	49.9	58.1	57.4	69.5	67.8	74.4
Total digital reach	17.8	23.0	23.0	24.3	24.3	29.0	20.2	28.9	24.7	25.1	25.3	27.7

(1)	Print users were not measured prior to 2010. As a result, print reach in 2010-2012 is not comparable to 2007-2009.
Source:	Lee Enterprises Audience Report, Thoroughbred Research. January-June 2007-2012.
Markets:	11 largest markets in 2008-2012. 2007 data excludes Tucson, AZ and La Crosse, WI.
Margin of Error:	Total sample +/- 1.1%, Total digital sample +/- 1.3%

After advertising, print circulation is our largest source of revenue. In 2011 we began to implement charges for digital access to our content in certain of our markets using a metered model. By December 2012, that program will be rolled out in most of our markets, and is contributing to our circulation revenue. According to Editor and Publisher International Yearbook data as reported by the NAA, nationwide daily newspaper circulation unit sales peaked in 1984 and Sunday circulation unit sales peaked in 1990. For the six months ended September 2012, our daily circulation units, which include TNI and MNI, as measured by the Alliance for Audited Media ("AAM"), formerly known as the Audit Bureau of Circulations, were 1.2 million and Sunday circulation units were 1.4 million.

Growth in audiences can, over time, also positively impact advertising revenue. Our strategies to improve audiences include continuous improvement of content and promotional efforts. Content can include focus on local news, features, scope of coverage, accuracy, presentation, writing style, tone and type style. Promotional efforts include advertising, contests and other initiatives to increase awareness of our products. Customer service can also influence print circulation. The introduction in 2010, and expansion in 2011 and 2012, of new mobile and tablet applications positively impacted our digital audiences.

Our enterprises are also focused on increasing the number of subscribers who pay for their subscriptions via automated payment mechanisms, such as credit cards or bank account withdrawals. We have historically experienced higher retention of customers using these payment methods. Other initiatives vary from location to location and are determined principally by management at the local level in collaboration with our senior management. Competition for print circulation is generally based on the content, journalistic quality and price of the publication.

Audience competition exists in all markets, even from unpaid products, but is most significant in markets with competing local daily newspapers. These markets tend to be near major metropolitan areas, where the size of the population may be sufficient to support more than one daily newspaper.

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Our circulation sales channels continue to evolve through an emphasis on targeted direct mail and email to acquire new subscribers and retain current subscribers.

DAILY NEWSPAPERS AND MARKETS

The Company, TNI and MNI publish the following daily newspapers and maintain the following primary digital sites:

			Circulation (1)
Newspaper	Primary Website	Location	Daily (2)		Sunday
St. Louis Post-Dispatch	stltoday.com	St. Louis, MO	178,801		299,227
The Times	nwitimes.com	Munster, Valparaiso, and Crown Point, IN	86,841		91,627
Arizona Daily Star(3)	azstarnet.com	Tucson, AZ	82,305		133,558
Capital Newspapers (4)
Wisconsin State Journal	madison.com	Madison, WI	81,228		112,677
Daily Citizen	wiscnews.com/bdc	Beaver Dam, WI	8,113		—
Portage Daily Register	wiscnews.com/pdr	Portage, WI	4,102		—
Baraboo News Republic	wiscnews.com/bnr	Baraboo, WI	3,576		—
Lincoln Group
Lincoln Journal Star	journalstar.com	Lincoln, NE	50,171		62,909
Columbus Telegram	columbustelegram.com	Columbus, NE	7,321		8,318
Fremont Tribune	fremonttribune.com	Fremont, NE	6,647		—
Beatrice Daily Sun	beatricedailysun.com	Beatrice, NE	4,803		—
Quad-Cities Group
Quad-City Times	qctimes.com	Davenport, IA	41,705		53,528
Muscatine Journal	muscatinejournal.com	Muscatine, IA	5,430		—
Billings Gazette	billingsgazette.com	Billings, MT	38,901		44,702
Central Illinois Newspaper Group
The Pantagraph	pantagraph.com	Bloomington, IL	33,757		38,795
Herald & Review	herald-review.com	Decatur, IL	27,510		42,060
Journal Gazette & Times-Courier	jg-tc.com	Mattoon/Charleston, IL	12,268		—
The Courier	wcfcourier.com	Waterloo and Cedar Falls, IA	32,247		42,767
Sioux City Journal	siouxcityjournal.com	Sioux City, IA	30,997		34,445
The Post-Star	poststar.com	Glens Falls, NY	25,651		29,785
Missoula Group
Missoulian	missoulian.com	Missoula, MT	25,331		30,662
Ravalli Republic	ravallinews.com	Hamilton, MT	2,700	(5)	3,977	(5)
The Southern Illinoisan	thesouthern.com	Carbondale, IL	24,920		31,302
The Bismarck Tribune	bismarcktribune.com	Bismarck, ND	24,769		27,973
River Valley Newspaper Group
La Crosse Tribune	lacrossetribune.com	La Crosse, WI	24,601		34,339
Winona Daily News	winonadailynews.com	Winona, MN	8,798		10,065
The Chippewa Herald	chippewa.com	Chippewa Falls, WI	5,073		5,084
The Journal Times	journaltimes.com	Racine, WI	24,275		26,662
The Daily Herald	heraldextra.com	Provo, UT	23,886		37,257
Casper Star-Tribune	trib.com	Casper, WY	23,513		22,751
Rapid City Journal	rapidcityjournal.com	Rapid City, SD	23,202		27,743

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			Circulation(1)
Newspaper	Primary Website	Location	Daily (2)		Sunday
Northwest Group
The Daily News	tdn.com	Longview, WA	21,255		18,931
Albany Democrat-Herald	democratherald.com	Albany, OR	13,799		14,619
Corvallis Gazette-Times	gazettetimes.com	Corvallis, OR	9,815		9,844
Magic Valley Group
The Times-News	magicvalley.com	Twin Falls, ID	17,915		20,404
Elko Daily Free Press	elkodaily.com	Elko, NV	5,374	(5)	—
Globe Gazette	globegazette.com	Mason City, IA	13,374		17,590
Central Coast Newspapers
Santa Maria Times	santamariatimes.com	Santa Maria, CA	12,969		17,943
The Lompoc Record	lompocrecord.com	Lompoc, CA	3,424		3,319
Napa Valley Register	napavalleyregister.com	Napa, CA	12,547		12,530
Helena/Butte Group
Independent Record	helenair.com	Helena, MT	12,399		12,818
The Montana Standard	mtstandard.com	Butte, MT	11,695		11,770
The Sentinel	cumberlink.com	Carlisle, PA	12,395		13,598
The Times and Democrat	thetandd.com	Orangeburg, SC	11,494		11,711
The Garden Island	kauaiworld.com	Lihue, HI	11,257		8,413
Arizona Daily Sun	azdailysun.com	Flagstaff, AZ	9,246		9,651
The World	theworldlink.com	Coos Bay, OR	8,891		—
The Sentinel	hanfordsentinel.com	Hanford, CA	8,311		—
The Citizen	auburnpub.com	Auburn, NY	7,702		9,589
The Ledger Independent	maysville-online.com	Maysville, KY	6,315		—
Daily Journal	dailyjournalonline.com	Park Hills, MO	5,636		—
			1,189,255		1,444,943

(1)	Source: AAM: Six months ended September 2012, unless otherwise noted.
(2)	Not all newspapers are published Monday through Saturday
(3)	Owned by Star Publishing but published through TNI.
(4)	Owned by MNI.
(5)	Source: Company statistics.

NEWSPRINT

The basic raw material of newspapers, and classified and specialty publications, is newsprint. We purchase newsprint from U.S. and Canadian producers. We believe we will continue to receive a supply of newsprint adequate for our needs and consider our relationships with newsprint producers to be good. Newsprint purchase prices can be volatile and fluctuate based upon factors that include foreign currency exchange rates and both foreign and domestic production capacity and consumption. In 2012 and 2011, newsprint prices were stable after rising throughout 2010. Price fluctuations can have a significant effect on our results of operations. We have not entered into derivative contracts for newsprint. For the quantitative impacts of these fluctuations, see Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”, included herein.

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EXECUTIVE TEAM

The following table lists our executive team members as of November 30, 2012:

Name	Age	Service With The Company	Named To Current Position	Current Position
Mary E. Junck	65	June 1999	January 2002	Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
Joyce L. Dehli	54	August 1987	February 2006	Vice President - News
Suzanna M. Frank	42	December 2003	March 2008	Vice President - Audience
Michael R. Gulledge	52	October 1982	September 2012	Vice President - Sales and Marketing
Daniel K. Hayes	67	September 1969	September 2005	Vice President - Corporate Communications
Michele Fennelly White	50	June 1994	June 2011	Vice President - Information Technology and Chief Information Officer
Vytenis P. Kuraitis	64	August 1994	January 1997	Vice President - Human Resources
William T. Masterson Jr.	52	September 2000	September 2012	Vice President - Publishing
Kevin D. Mowbray	50	September 1986	November 2004	Vice President - Publishing
Gregory P. Schermer	58	February 1989	October 2012	Vice President - Strategy
Carl G. Schmidt	56	May 2001	May 2001	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Greg R. Veon	60	April 1976	November 1999	Vice President - Publishing

Mary E. Junck was elected Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer in 2002. She was elected to the Board of Directors of the Company in 1999.

Joyce L. Dehli was appointed Vice President - News in 2006.

Suzanna M. Frank was appointed Vice President - Audience in March 2008. From 2003 to March 2008 she served as Director of Research and Marketing.

Michael R. Gulledge was elected Vice President - Sales and Marketing in September 2012 and named Publisher of the Billings Gazette in 2000. From 2005 to September 2012 he served as a Vice President - Publishing.

Daniel K. Hayes was appointed Vice President - Corporate Communications in 2005.

Michele Fennelly White was appointed Vice President - Information Technology and Chief Information Officer in June 2011. From 1999 to June 2011, she served as Director of Technical Support.

Vytenis P. Kuraitis was elected Vice President - Human Resources in 1997.

William T. MastersonJr. was elected a Vice President - Publishing in September 2012 and was named Publisher of The Times in Northwest Indiana in 2006. From June 2011 to September 2012, he served as a Group Publisher.

Kevin D. Mowbray was elected a Vice President - Publishing in 2004 and named Publisher of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in 2006.

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Gregory P. Schermer was elected Vice-President - Interactive Media in 1997, and assumed new responsibilities as Vice President - Strategy in October 2012.  He was elected to the Board of Directors of the Company in 1999. 

Carl G. Schmidt was elected Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in 2001. Since 2007, he has also served as a Vice President - Publishing.

Greg R. Veon was elected a Vice President - Publishing in 1999 and named Publisher of the Quad-City Times in June 2011.

Elected officers are considered to be executive officers for United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") reporting purposes.

EMPLOYEES

At September 30, 2012, we had approximately 6,100 employees, including approximately 1,200 part-time employees, exclusive of TNI and MNI. Full-time equivalent employees in 2012 totaled approximately 5,200. We consider our relationships with our employees to be good.

Bargaining unit employees represent 450, or 68%, of the total employees of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, which has seven contracts with bargaining unit employees with expiration dates through 2015.

Approximately 49 employees in five additional locations are represented by collective bargaining units. A contract at one of these locations has expired and negotiations are ongoing.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND PUBLIC INFORMATION

We have a long, substantial history of sound corporate governance practices. The Board of Directors has a lead independent director, and has had one for many years. Currently, nine of eleven members of the Board of Directors are independent, as are all members of the Board's Audit, Executive Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance committees. The Audit Committee approves all services to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm and its affiliates.

At www.lee.net, one may access a wide variety of information, including news releases, SEC filings, financial statistics, annual reports, investor presentations, governance documents, newspaper profiles and digital links. We make available via our website all filings made by the Company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"), including Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K, and related amendments, as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. All such filings are available free of charge. The content of any website referred to in this Annual Report is not incorporated by reference unless expressly noted.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Risk exists that our past results may not be indicative of future results. A discussion of our risk factors follows. See also, “Forward-Looking Statements”, included herein. In addition, a number of other factors (those identified elsewhere in this document) may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations.

DEBT AND LIQUIDITY

We May Have Insufficient Earnings Or Liquidity To Meet Our Future Debt Obligations

We have a substantial amount of debt, as discussed more fully (and certain capitalized terms used below defined) in Item 7,"Liquidity" and Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein. In February 2009, we completed a comprehensive restructuring of our then-existing credit agreement and a refinancing of our Pulitzer Notes debt, substantially enhancing our liquidity and operating flexibility. Since February 2009, we have satisfied all interest payments and substantially all principal payments due under our debt facilities with our cash flows.

Substantially all of our debt was scheduled to mature in April 2012. We used a voluntary, prepackaged petition under the U. S. Bankruptcy Code to accomplish a comprehensive refinancing that extends the maturity to December 2015 for most of our debt, with the remainder maturing in April 2017. Interest expense has increased as a result of the refinancing and mandatory principal payments were reduced. Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness will

12

depend on our ability to generate future cash flows. This ability, to a certain extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control.

At December 14, 2012, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $919,100,000. This amount is already less than the $938,700,000 amount projected in the Plan in September 2013. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan.

There are numerous potential consequences under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements related to the Pulitzer Notes, if an event of default, as defined, occurs and is not remedied. Many of those consequences are beyond our control. The occurrence of one or more events of default would give rise to the right of the 1^st Lien Lenders, 2^nd Lien Lenders and/or the Noteholders, to exercise their remedies under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements, respectively, including, without limitation, the right to accelerate all outstanding debt and take actions authorized in such circumstances under applicable collateral security documents.

Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012.

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

General Economic Conditions May Continue To Impact Our Revenue And Operating Results

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the United States economy was in a recession from December 2007 until June 2009. It is widely believed that certain elements of the economy, such as housing, auto sales and employment, were in decline before December 2007, and have still not recovered to pre-recession levels. Revenue, operating results and cash flows were significantly impacted by the recession and its aftermath. The duration and depth of an economic recession, and pace of economic recovery, in markets in which we operate may influence our future results.

OPERATING REVENUE

Our Revenue May Not Return To Historical Levels

A significant portion of our revenue is derived from advertising. The demand for advertising is sensitive to the overall level of economic activity, both locally and nationally.

Operating revenue in most categories has decreased since 2007 and may decrease in the future. Such decreases may not be offset by growth in advertising in other categories, such as digital revenue which, until 2008, had been rising significantly and began to rise again in 2010. Historically, newspaper publishing has been viewed as a cost-effective method of delivering various forms of advertising. There can be no guarantee that this historical perception will guide future decisions on the part of advertisers. Web sites and applications for mobile devices distributing news and other content continue to gain popularity. As a result, audience attention and advertising spending are shifting and may continue to shift from traditional media to digital media. We expect that advertisers will allocate greater portions of their future budgets to digital media, which can offer more measurable returns than traditional print media through pay for performance and keyword-targeted advertising. If our efforts to adapt to evolving technological developments in the media industry are unsuccessful, or if we fail to correctly anticipate shifts in audience demand and digital media trends, we may be unable to provide the services, media and content that audiences and potential audiences in our markets prefer and we may be unable to provide the returns that our advertisers seek. To the extent that advertisers shift advertising expenditures to other media outlets, including those on the Internet, the profitability of our business may continue to be impacted.

The rates we charge for advertising are, in part, related to the size of the audience of our publications and digital products. There is significant competition for readers and viewers from other media. Our business may be adversely affected to the extent individuals decide to obtain news, entertainment, classified listings and local shopping information from Internet-based or other media, to the exclusion of our outlets for such information.

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Retail Advertising

Many advertisers, including major retail store chains, automobile manufacturers and dealers, banks and telecommunications companies, have experienced significant merger and acquisition activity over the last several years, and some have gone out of business, effectively reducing the number of brand names under which the merged entities operate. Our retail revenue is also being impacted by the pace of the current economic recovery. For example, a decline in the housing market negatively impacts retail advertising related to home improvement, furniture and home electronics.

Classified Advertising

Classified advertising is the category that has been most significantly impacted by changing advertising trends and the current economic environment. All categories of classified advertising have generally declined since 2007. Neither the unemployment rate, nor auto sales or the housing industry have, as yet, recovered to pre-recession levels.

See Item 1, “Advertising”, included herein, for additional information on the risks associated with advertising revenue.

Circulation

Although our overall audience is stable and our circulation unit results have historically benchmarked favorably to national averages, as compiled by the AAM, circulation unit sales have nonetheless been declining for several years. The possibility exists that future circulation price increases may be difficult to accomplish as a result of future declines in circulation unit sales, and that price decreases may be necessary to retain or grow circulation unit volume. We are maintaining our share of audience through rapid digital audience growth and strong newspaper readership.

In addition, as audience attention increasingly focuses on digital media, circulation of our newspapers may be adversely affected, which may decrease circulation revenue and exacerbate declines in print advertising. If we are not successful in growing our digital businesses to offset declines in revenues from our print products, our business, financial condition and prospects will be adversely affected. 

See Item 1, “Audiences”, included herein, for additional information on the risks associated with circulation revenue.

OPERATING EXPENSES

We May Not Be Able To Reduce Future Expenses To Offset Potential Revenue Declines

We reduced cash costs of our continuing operations (i.e., compensation, newsprint and ink, other operating expenses and workforce adjustments) by $256 million, or 32%, since 2007. Such expense reductions are not expected to significantly impact our ability to deliver advertising and content to our customers.

As a result of the significant reductions of our cost structure we have achieved since 2007, future cost reductions will be more difficult to accomplish. Cash costs are expected to decrease 3.0-4.0% in 2013 from their 2012 level.

Newsprint comprises a significant amount of our operating costs. See Item 1, “Newsprint” and Item 7A, “Commodities” included herein, for additional information on the risks associated with changes in newsprint costs.

In addition, technological developments and any changes we make to our business may require significant capital investments. We may be limited in our ability to invest funds and resources in digital products, services or opportunities and we may incur costs of research and development in building and maintaining the necessary and continually evolving technology infrastructure. As a result, our digital business could suffer.

We May Incur Additional Non-Cash Impairment Charges

We have significant amounts of goodwill and identified intangible assets. In 2011, 2009 and 2008, we recorded substantial impairment charges to reduce the value of certain of these assets. Should general economic, market or business conditions decline, and have a negative impact on our stock price or projected future cash flows, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future. Such charges would not impact our cash flows or debt covenant compliance. See Item 7, “Critical Accounting Policies”, included herein, for additional information on the risks associated with such assets.

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Sustained Increases In Funding Requirements Of Our Pension And Postretirement

Obligations May Reduce The Cash Available For Our Business

Our pension and postretirement plans invest in a variety of equity and debt securities, many of which were affected by the disruption in the credit and capital markets in 2008 and thereafter. Future volatility and disruption in the stock and bond markets could cause further declines in the asset values of our pension plans. In addition, a decrease in the discount rate used to determine the liability for pension obligations could result in increased future contributions. If either occurs, we may need to make additional cash contributions above what is currently estimated, which could reduce the cash available for our business. Moreover, under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, continued losses of asset values may necessitate accelerated funding of pension plans in the future to meet minimum federal statutory requirements. Legislation passed in 2012 temporarily reduced funding requirements for our pension plans, but those payments will eventually need to be restored unless discount rates and/or plan assets increase.

EQUITY CAPITAL

A Decrease In Our Stock Price May Limit The Ability To Trade Our Stock

Or For The Company To Raise Equity Capital

As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules.

OTHER

Cybersecurity Risks Could Harm Our Ability To Operate Effectively

In 2012, 12.8% of our advertising revenue was obtained from advertising in our digital products and one of our businesses provides digital infrastructure and digital publishing services for other companies. We use computers in substantially all aspects of our business operations. Such uses give rise to cybersecurity risks, including the misappropriation of personally identifiable information that we store and manage. We have preventive systems and processes in place to protect against the risk of cyber incidents. Prolonged system outages or a cyber incident that would be undetected for an extended period could reduce our digital revenue, increase our operating costs, disrupt our operations, harm our reputation, lead to legal exposure to customers or subject us to liability under laws that protect personal data.

We maintain insurance coverage against certain of such risks.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Our executive offices are located in leased facilities at 201 North Harrison Street, Suite 600, Davenport, Iowa. The initial lease term expires in 2019.

All of our principal printing facilities are owned, except Madison, Wisconsin (which is owned by MNI), Tucson (which is jointly owned by Star Publishing and Citizen), St. Louis (as described below) and leased land for the Helena, Montana and Lihue, Hawaii plants. All facilities are well maintained, in good condition, suitable for existing office and publishing operations, as applicable, and adequately equipped. With the exception of St. Louis, none of our facilities is individually significant to our business.

15

Information related to St. Louis facilities at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Square Feet)	Owned	Leased
PD LLC	749,000	15,000
Suburban Journals	41,000	16,000

Several of our daily newspapers, as well as many of our nearly 300 other publications, are printed at other Company facilities, or such printing is outsourced, to enhance operating efficiency. We are continuing to evaluate additional insourcing and outsourcing opportunities in order to more effectively manage our operating and capital costs.

Our newspapers and other publications have formal or informal backup arrangements for printing in the event of a disruption in production capability.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class certification ruling. This motion is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

16

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY,

RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Our Common Stock is listed on the NYSE. In March 2011, in accordance with the sunset provisions established in 1986, we effected conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock to Common Stock. The table below includes the high and low prices of Common Stock for each calendar quarter during the past three years and the closing price at the end of each quarter.

	Quarter Ended
(Dollars)	December	March	June	September
2012
High	0.91	1.73	1.99	1.67
Low	0.49	0.69	1.07	1.15
Closing	0.70	1.28	1.62	1.48
2011
High	2.94	3.41	3.47	1.15
Low	1.72	2.24	0.79	0.58
Closing	2.46	2.70	0.89	0.78
2010
High	4.50	4.77	4.52	3.15
Low	2.15	2.96	2.49	1.93
Closing	3.47	3.39	2.57	2.68

As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules.

At September 30, 2012, we had 7,309 holders of record of our Common Stock.

Our debt agreements require us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

17

Performance Presentation

The following graph compares the quarterly percentage change in the cumulative total return of the Company, the Standard & Poor's ("S&P") 500 Stock Index, and two peer group indices, in each case for the five years ended September 30, 2012 (with September 30, 2007 as the measurement point). Total return is measured by dividing (a) the sum of (i) the cumulative amount of dividends declared for the measurement period, assuming dividend reinvestment and (ii) the difference between the issuer's share price at the end and the beginning of the measurement period, by (b) the share price at the beginning of the measurement period.

Copyright©: 2012 S&P, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.

The value of $100 invested on September 30, 2007 in stock of the Company, the New Peer Group Index, the Old Peer Group Index and in the S&P 500 Stock Index, including reinvestment of dividends, is summarized in the table below.

	September 30
(Dollars)	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012
Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	100.00	25.06	19.69	19.19	5.59	10.60
New Peer Group Index	100.00	58.37	45.64	43.67	34.18	53.21
Old Peer Group Index	100.00	58.13	45.35	43.49	33.43	52.31
S&P 500 Stock Index	100.00	78.02	72.63	80.01	80.93	105.37

The S&P 500 Stock Index includes 500 U.S. companies in the industrial, transportation, utilities and financial sectors and is weighted by market capitalization. The New Peer Group Index is comprised of seven U.S. publicly traded companies with significant newspaper publishing operations (excluding the Company) and is weighted by market capitalization. The New Peer Group Index includes A.H. Belo Corp., Gannett, Journal Communications, Inc., The McClatchy Company, The New York Times Company, The E.W. Scripps Company and The Washington Post Company. Media General, Inc., which is included in the Old Peer Group Index, has been excluded from the New Peer Group Index due to the sale of its publishing business in 2012.

18

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

Selected financial data is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010		2009		2008
OPERATING RESULTS (1) (2)
Operating revenue	710,486		727,319		748,444		805,908		982,361
Operating expenses, excluding depreciation, amortization, and impairment of goodwill and other assets	547,592		564,296		579,382		641,439		775,901
Depreciation and amortization	65,917		70,306		71,924		78,207		88,123
Impairment of goodwill and other assets (3)	1,388		204,439		899		244,733		999,846
Curtailment gains	—		16,137		45,012		—		—
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231		6,151		7,746		5,120		10,212
Reduction in investment in TNI (3)	—		11,900		—		19,951		104,478
Operating income (loss)	102,820		(101,334	)	148,997		(173,302	)	(975,775	)
Financial income	236		296		411		1,886		5,857
Financial expense	(85,901	)	(65,308	)	(71,631	)	(92,892	)	(71,472	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(13,772	)	(145,435	)	47,297		(180,009	)	(825,747	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)	(58	)	(45,196	)
Net income (loss)	(16,299	)	(146,681	)	46,178		(180,067	)	(870,943	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105		(123,191	)	(880,316	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224		(123,133	)	(835,120	)
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06		(2.77	)	(18.64	)
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)	—		(1.01	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03		(2.77	)	(19.64	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05		(2.77	)	(18.64	)
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)	—		(1.01	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03		(2.77	)	(19.64	)
Weighted average common shares:
Basic	49,261		44,847		44,555		44,442		44,813
Diluted	49,261		44,847		44,955		44,442		44,813
Dividends per common share	—		—		—		—		0.76
BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION (End of Year)
Total assets	1,061,136		1,158,248		1,440,116		1,515,612		2,016,367
Debt, including current maturities (4)	945,850		994,550		1,081,590		1,168,335		1,332,375
Debt, net of cash, restricted cash and investments (4)	931,930		966,023		1,052,545		1,151,106		1,182,856
Stockholders' equity (deficit)	(114,633	)	(101,346	)	56,823		23,598		155,518

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(1 ) Results of discontinued operations have been restated for all periods presented.

(2 ) 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. All other years include 52 weeks.

(3 ) The Company recorded pretax, non-cash impairment charges to reduce the carrying value of assets as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010	2009	2008
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—	193,471	886,755
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—	12,835	10,444
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—	33,848	97,628
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899	4,579	5,019
	1,388	204,439	899	244,733	999,846
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—	19,951	104,478
	1,388	216,339	899	264,684	1,104,324
Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391	1,220	70,963

(4 ) Principal amount of debt, excluding fair value adjustments. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion includes comments and analysis relating to our results of operations and financial condition as of, and for each of the three years ended, September 30, 2012. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes thereto, included herein.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

No non-GAAP financial measure should be considered as a substitute for any related financial measure under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). However, we believe the use of non-GAAP financial measures provides meaningful supplemental information with which to evaluate our financial performance, or assist in forecasting and analyzing future periods. We also believe such non-GAAP financial measures are alternative indicators of performance used by investors, lenders, rating agencies and financial analysts to estimate the value of a publishing business or its ability to meet debt service requirements.

Operating Cash Flow and Operating Cash Flow Margin

Operating cash flow is defined as operating income (loss) before depreciation, amortization, impairment of goodwill and other assets, curtailment gains and equity in earnings of associated companies. Operating cash flow margin is defined as operating cash flow divided by operating revenue. Both represent non-GAAP financial measures that are used in the analysis below. We believe these measures provide meaningful supplemental information because of their focus on results from operations excluding such non-cash factors.

20

Reconciliations of operating cash flow and operating cash flow margin to operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) margin, the most directly comparable measures under GAAP, are included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		Percent of Revenue		2011		Percent of Revenue		2010		Percent of Revenue
Operating cash flow	162,894		22.9		163,023		22.4		169,062		22.6
Depreciation and amortization	(65,917	)	(9.3	)	(70,306	)	(9.7	)	(71,924	)	(9.6	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	(1,388	)	(0.2	)	(204,439	)	(28.1	)	(899	)	(0.1	)
Curtailment gains	—		—		16,137		2.2		45,012		6.0
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231		1.0		6,151		0.8		7,746		1.0
Reduction in investment in TNI	—		—		(11,900	)	(1.6	)	—		—
Operating income (loss)	102,820		14.5		(101,334	)	NM		148,997		19.9

Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Earnings Per Common Share

Adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per common share, which are defined as income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and earnings (loss) per common share adjusted to exclude both unusual matters and those of a substantially non-recurring nature, are non-GAAP financial measures that are used in the analysis below. We believe these measures provide meaningful supplemental information by identifying matters that are not indicative of core business operating results or are of a substantially non-recurring nature.

Reconciliations of adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per common share to income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and earnings (loss) per common share, respectively, the most directly comparable measures under GAAP, are set forth in Item 7, included herein, under the caption “Overall Results”.

SAME PROPERTY COMPARISONS

Certain information below, as noted, is presented on a same property basis, which is exclusive of acquisitions and divestitures, if any, consummated in the current or prior year. We believe such comparisons provide meaningful supplemental information for an understanding of changes in our revenue and operating expenses. Same property comparisons exclude TNI and MNI. We own 50% of TNI and also own 50% of the capital stock of MNI, both of which are reported using the equity method of accounting. Same property comparisons also exclude corporate office costs.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Additional information follows with regard to certain of the most critical of our accounting policies.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year.

We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating

21

or cash flow losses related to such assets.

Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value.

Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset.

The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results.

Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analyses. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011.

As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill, nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2010, 2011 and 2012. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges.

A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899
Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets.

We also periodically evaluate our determination of the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share.

Future decreases in our market value, or significant differences in revenue, expenses or cash flows from estimates used to determine fair value, could result in additional impairment charges in the future.

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Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

We evaluate our liability for pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit plans based upon computations made by consulting actuaries, incorporating estimates and actuarial assumptions of future plan service costs, future interest costs on projected benefit obligations, rates of compensation increases, employee turnover rates, anticipated mortality rates, expected investment returns on plan assets, asset allocation assumptions of plan assets, and other factors. If we used different estimates and assumptions regarding these plans, the funded status of the plans could vary significantly, resulting in recognition of different amounts of expense over future periods.

Increases in market interest rates, which may impact plan assumptions, generally result in lower service costs for current employees, higher interest expense and lower liabilities. Actual returns on plan assets that are lower than the plan assumptions will generally result in decreases in a plan's funded status and may necessitate additional contributions.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are provided using the liability method, whereby deferred income tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and loss carryforwards and deferred income tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the difference between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in our opinion, it is more likely than not some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. Changes in accounting for uncertain tax positions can result in additional variability in our effective income tax rate.

We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies, and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows.

Revenue Recognition

Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising.

Uninsured Risks

We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts.

Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry.

An increasing frequency of large claims, deterioration in overall claim experience or changes in federal or state laws affecting our liability for such claims could increase the volatility of expenses for such self-insured risks.

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CONTINUING OPERATIONS

2012 vs. 2011

Operating results, as reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements, are summarized below:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	2012		2011		Percent Change
Advertising revenue:
Retail	306,085		315,072		(2.9	)
Classified:
Employment	37,079		37,286		(0.6	)
Automotive	39,062		40,169		(2.8	)
Real estate	20,942		23,794		(12.0	)
All other	52,301		56,974		(8.2	)
Total classified	149,384		158,223		(5.6	)
National	29,173		31,639		(7.8	)
Niche publications	11,230		12,414		(9.5	)
Total advertising revenue	495,872		517,348		(4.2	)
Circulation	174,747		172,245		1.5
Commercial printing	12,768		11,303		13.0
Other	27,099		26,423		2.6
Total operating revenue	710,486		727,319		(2.3	)
Compensation	276,379		283,527		(2.5	)
Newsprint and ink	52,003		56,191		(7.5	)
Other operating expenses	214,570		220,656		(2.8	)
Workforce adjustments	4,640		3,922		18.3
	547,592		564,296		(3.0	)
Operating cash flow	162,894		163,023		(0.1	)
Depreciation	23,620		25,833		(8.6	)
Amortization	42,297		44,473		(4.9	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388		204,439		(99.3	)
Curtailment gains	—		16,137		NM
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231		6,151		17.6
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	—		11,900		NM
Operating income (loss)	102,820		(101,334	)	NM
Non-operating expense, net	(88,198	)	(64,417	)	36.9
Income (loss) from continuing operations before reorganization costs and income taxes	14,622		(165,751	)	NM
Reorganization costs	37,765		—		NM
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes	(23,143	)	(165,751	)	(86.0	)
Income tax benefit	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	(53.9	)
Net loss from continuing operations	(13,772	)	(145,435	)	(90.5	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	NM
Net loss	(16,299	)	(146,681	)	(88.9	)
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(399	)	(187	)	NM
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	(88.6	)
Other comprehensive loss, net	(7,348	)	(12,737	)	NM
Comprehensive loss	(24,046	)	(159,605	)	(84.9	)
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	(90.3	)
Loss per common share:
Basic	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	(89.6	)
Diluted	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	(89.6	)

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Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 includes 52 weeks. The analysis below includes only continuing operations, unless otherwise noted.

2012 total operating revenue decreased 2.3% compared to the prior year. Excluding the additional week of operations in 2012, total revenue decreased approximately 4.0%. We expect year over year revenue comparisons to improve as economic conditions in our markets also improve.

Advertising Revenue

In 2012, combined print and digital advertising revenue decreased $21,476,000, or 4.2%, compared to 2011. Retail advertising decreased 2.9%.Retail preprint insertion revenue decreased 2.5%. Digital retail advertising increased 15.9%, partially offsetting print declines.

On a combined basis, print and digital classified revenue decreased 5.6% in 2012. Employment revenue decreased 0.6% while automotive advertising decreased 2.8%, real estate decreased 12.0% and other classified decreased 8.2%. Digital classified revenue increased 3.8%, partially offsetting print declines.

National advertising decreased $2,466,000, or 7.8%. Digital national advertising decreased 8.9%. Advertising in niche publications decreased 9.5%.

On a stand-alone basis, digital advertising revenue increased 9.7% in 2012, representing 12.8% of total advertising revenue. Year-over-year total digital advertising has been rising steadily since December 2009. Print advertising revenue on a stand-alone basis decreased 5.9% in 2012.

Our total advertising results since 2000 have benchmarked favorably to industry averages reported by the NAA in 43 of the last 47 quarters.

Circulation and Other Revenue

Circulation revenue increased $2,502,000, or 1.5%, in 2012, resulting primarily from price increases, which were partially offset by unit declines.

Our average daily newspaper circulation units, including TNI and MNI, as measured by the AAM, decreased 5.8% and Sunday circulation decreased 7.3% in 2012 compared to 2011.

Our digital sites, including TNI and MNI, attracted 22.8 million unique visitors in the month of September 2012, an increase of 10.1% from a year ago, with 192.6 million page views. The number of mobile page views grew 146.0% to 53.6 million in September 2012. Research in our larger markets indicates we are maintaining our share of audience through the combination of rapid digital audience growth and strong newspaper readership.

Commercial printing revenue increased $1,465,000, or 13.0%, in 2012. Other revenue increased $676,000, or 2.6%, in 2012.

Operating Expenses

Costs other than depreciation, amortization and unusual matters decreased $17,422,000, or 3.1%, in 2012. Excluding the additional week of operations in 2012, costs excluding depreciation, amortization and unusual matters decreased approximately 4.6%.

Compensation expense decreased $7,148,000, or 2.5%, in 2012, driven by a decline in average full time equivalent employees of 7.2%.

Newsprint and ink costs decreased $4,188,000, or 7.5%, in 2012 as a result of a reduction in newsprint volume of 6.3%. See Item 7A, “Commodities”, included herein, for further discussion and analysis of the impact of newsprint on our business.

Other operating expenses, which are comprised of all operating costs not considered to be compensation, newsprint, depreciation, amortization, or unusual matters, decreased $6,086,000, or 2.8%, in 2012.

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Reductions in staffing resulted in workforce adjustment costs, primarily severance, totaling $4,640,000 and $3,922,000 in 2012 and 2011, respectively.

We are engaged in various efforts to contain future growth in our operating expenses. We expect 2013 operating expenses, excluding depreciation, amortization and unusual matters, to decrease 3.0-4.0% from their 2012 level.

Operating Cash Flow and Results of Operations

As a result of the factors noted above, operating cash flow decreased 0.1%, to $162,894,000, in 2012 compared to $163,023,000 in 2011. Operating cash flow margin increased to 22.9% in 2012 from 22.4% in 2011, reflecting a larger percentage decrease in operating expenses than the decrease in operating revenue.

Depreciation expense decreased $2,213,000, or 8.6%, in 2012 and amortization expense decreased $2,176,000, or 4.9%, in 2012.

Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analysis. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets.

As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2012 and 2011. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges.

A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199
Property and equipment	1,388	700
	1,388	204,439
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900
	1,388	216,339
Discontinued operations	3,606	700

In May 2011, a new bargaining unit contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for affected active employees and froze defined pension benefits. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $3,974,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical expense by $82,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $3,371,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits reduced 2011 net periodic pension expenses by $188,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $592,000.

In March 2011, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $1,991,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 27, 2011 by $3,030,000.

In November 2010, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $10,172,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $769,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 26, 2010 by $15,065,000.

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Increases in participant premium cost-sharing discussed more fully above were treated as negative plan amendments. Curtailment treatment was utilized in situations in which coverage was eliminated. Curtailment gains were calculated by revaluation of plan liabilities after consideration of other plan changes.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, along with its companion reconciliation legislation (together the “Affordable Care Act”), were enacted into law in 2010. The Affordable Care Act will be supported by a substantial number of underlying regulations, some of which have not been issued. Accordingly, a complete determination of the impact of the Affordable Care Act cannot be made at this time. However, we expect our future health care costs to increase more rapidly based on analysis published by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, input from independent advisors and our understanding of various provisions of the Affordable Care Act that differ from our current medical plans. We may be able to mitigate certain of these future cost increases through changes in plan design. We do not expect the Affordable Care Act will have a significant impact on our postretirement medical benefit obligation liability.

Equity in earnings in associated companies increased $1,080,000 in 2012.

The factors noted above resulted in operating income of $102,820,000 in 2012 compared to an operating loss of $101,334,000 in 2011.

Nonoperating Income and Expense

Financial expense increased $20,593,000, or 31.5%, to $85,901,000 in 2012 due primarily to higher interest rates on our debt. Our weighted average cost of debt was 9.2% at September 30, 2012, compared to 5.1% at September 25, 2011. Financial expense in 2012 includes $4,085,000 of non-cash amortization of a present value adjustment of debt.

The increase in financial expense from the refinancing of our debt in January 2012 will cycle in January 2013. Absent a significant increase in LIBOR, we expect financial expense to begin to decline after January 2013 due to lower debt balances, which decreased $48,410,000 in 2012 and have decreased an additional $26,750,000 since September 30, 2012.

Several of the plan changes noted above were the subject of litigation, or arbitration claims, under the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. In 2012, we settled all such claims with payments to plan participants totaling $2,802,000. These payments are classified as other, net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Overall Results

We recognized $37,765,000 of reorganization costs in 2012. We recognized income tax benefit of 40.5% of loss from continuing operations before income taxes in 2012 and income tax benefit of 12.3% of loss from continuing operations before income taxes in 2011. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein, for a reconciliation of the expected federal income tax rate to the actual tax rates.

27

As a result of the factors noted above, loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated (which includes discontinued operations) totaled $16,698,000 in 2012 compared to a loss of $146,868,000 in 2011. We recorded loss per diluted common share of $0.34 in 2012 and $3.27 in 2011. Excluding unusual matters, as detailed in the table below, diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted, were $0.42 in 2012, compared to $0.71 in 2011. Per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

	2012				2011
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Share Data)	Amount		Per Share		Amount		Per Share
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, as reported	(16,698	)	(0.34	)	(146,868	)	(3.27	)
Adjustments:
Curtailment gains	—				(16,137	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets, including TNI Partners	1,388				216,339
Debt financing and reorganization costs	45,378				12,612
Litigation settlement	2,802				—
Unusual matters related to discontinued operations	4,145				1,011
Other, net	4,789				5,502
	58,502				219,327
Income tax effect of adjustments, net, and other unusual tax matters	(20,940	)			(40,779	)
	37,562		0.76		178,548		3.98
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, as adjusted	20,864		0.42		31,680		0.71

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000, before income taxes. The transaction resulted in a gain of approximately $2,000,000, after income taxes, which was recorded in October 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Operating revenue	27,852		28,785
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)

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CONTINUING OPERATIONS

2011 vs. 2010

Operating results, as reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements, are summarized below:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	2011		2010		Percent Change
Advertising revenue:
Retail	315,072		325,929		(3.3	)
Classified:
Employment	37,286		34,895		6.9
Automotive	40,169		40,443		(0.7	)
Real estate	23,794		30,159		(21.1	)
All other	56,974		59,303		(3.9	)
Total classified	158,223		164,800		(4.0	)
National	31,639		34,234		(7.6	)
Niche publications	12,414		12,260		1.3
Total advertising revenue	517,348		537,223		(3.7	)
Circulation	172,245		171,155		0.6
Commercial printing	11,303		11,485		(1.6	)
Other	26,423		28,581		(7.6	)
Total operating revenue	727,319		748,444		(2.8	)
Compensation	283,527		298,873		(5.1	)
Newsprint and ink	56,191		51,707		8.7
Other operating expenses	220,656		227,603		(3.1	)
Workforce adjustments	3,922		1,199		NM
	564,296		579,382		(2.6	)
Operating cash flow	163,023		169,062		(3.6	)
Depreciation	25,833		26,716		(3.3	)
Amortization	44,473		45,208		(1.6	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	204,439		899		NM
Curtailment gains	16,137		45,012		(64.1	)
Equity in earnings of associated companies	6,151		7,746		(20.6	)
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	11,900		—		NM
Operating income (loss)	(101,334	)	148,997		NM
Non-operating expense, net	(64,417	)	(72,392	)	(11.0	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	(165,751	)	76,605		NM
Income tax expense (benefit)	(20,316	)	29,308		NM
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	(145,435	)	47,297		NM
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(1,246	)	(1,119	)	11.3
Net income (loss)	(146,681	)	46,178		NM
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(187	)	(73	)	NM
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(146,868	)	46,105		NM
Other comprehensive loss, net	(12,737	)	(14,704	)	(13.4	)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(159,605	)	31,401		NM
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(145,622	)	47,224		NM
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic	(3.27	)	1.03		NM
Diluted	(3.27	)	1.03		NM

29

2011 total operating revenue decreased 2.8% compared to the prior year. The analysis below includes only continuing operations, unless otherwise noted.

Advertising Revenue

In 2011, combined print and digital advertising revenue decreased $19,875,000, or 3.7%, compared to 2010. Retail advertising decreased 3.3%.Retail preprint insertion revenue decreased 3.7%. Digital retail advertising increased 43.9%, partially offsetting print declines.

On a combined basis, print and digital classified revenue decreased 4.0% in 2011. Employment revenue increased 6.9% while automotive advertising decreased 0.7%, real estate decreased 21.1% and other classified decreased 3.9%. Digital classified revenue decreased 0.2%.

National advertising decreased $2,595,000, or 7.6%. Digital national advertising increased 162.6%. Advertising in niche publications increased 1.3%.

On a stand-alone basis, digital advertising revenue increased 27.5% in 2011, representing 11.2% of total advertising revenue. Year-over-year total digital advertising has been rising steadily since December 2009. Print advertising revenue on a stand-alone basis decreased 6.6% in 2011.

Circulation and Other Revenue

Circulation revenue increased $1,090,000, or 0.6%, in 2011.

Our average daily newspaper circulation units, including TNI and MNI, as measured by the AAM, were 1.3 million daily and 1.6 million Sunday for the six months ended September 2011. Comparable amounts for 2010 are not available due to extensive changes made by the AAM to the measurement of circulation units.

Our digital sites, including TNI and MNI, attracted 20.7 million unique visitors in the month of September 2011, an increase of 12.1% from a year ago, with 187.6 million page views. The number of mobile page views grew 228.7% to 21.8 million in September 2011. Research in our larger markets indicates we are maintaining our share of audience through the combination of rapid digital audience growth and strong newspaper readership.

Commercial printing revenue decreased $182,000, or 1.6%, in 2011. Other revenue decreased $2,158,000, or 7.6%, in 2011.

Operating Expenses

Costs other than depreciation, amortization and unusual matters decreased $17,809,000, or 3.1%, in 2011.

Compensation expense decreased $15,346,000, or 5.1%, in 2011, driven by a decline in average full time equivalent employees of 4.6%.

Newsprint and ink costs increased $4,484,000, or 8.7%, in 2011 as a result of higher average unit prices partially offset by a 4.5% reduction in newsprint volume. See Item 7A, “Commodities”, included herein, for further discussion and analysis of the impact of newsprint on our business.

Other operating expenses, which are comprised of all operating costs not considered to be compensation, newsprint, depreciation, amortization, or unusual matters, decreased $6,947,000, or 3.1%, in 2011.

Reductions in staffing resulted in workforce adjustment costs totaling $3,922,000 and $1,199,000 in 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Operating Cash Flow and Results of Operations

As a result of the factors noted above, operating cash flow decreased 3.6%, to $163,023,000, in 2011 compared to $169,062,000 in 2010. Operating cash flow margin decreased to 22.4% in 2011 from 22.6% in 2010, reflecting a larger percentage decrease in operating revenue than the decrease in operating expenses.

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Depreciation expense decreased $883,000, or 3.3%, in 2011 and amortization expense decreased $735,000, or 1.6%, in 2011.

Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analysis. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets.

As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2011 and 2010. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges.

A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2011	2010
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	4,199	—
Property and equipment	700	899
	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	11,900	—
	216,339	899
Discontinued operations	700	2,391

In May 2011, a new bargaining unit contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for affected active employees and froze defined pension benefits. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $3,974,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical expense by $82,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $3,371,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits reduced 2011 net periodic pension expenses by $188,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $592,000.

In March 2011, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $1,991,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 27, 2011 by $3,030,000.

In November 2010, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $10,172,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $769,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 26, 2010 by $15,065,000.

In March 2010, members of the St. Louis Newspaper Guild voted to approve a new 5.5 year contract, effective in April

2010. The new contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for active employees and defined pension benefits were frozen. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $11,878,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $6,576,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $2,004,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, reduced 2010 net periodic pension expenses by $668,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $2,004,000.

In December 2009, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The

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changes resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $31,130,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2009, reduced 2010 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $1,460,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 27, 2009 by $28,750,000.

Increases in participant premium cost-sharing discussed more fully above were treated as negative plan amendments. Curtailment treatment was utilized in situations in which coverage was eliminated. Curtailment gains were calculated by revaluation of plan liabilities after consideration of other plan changes.

Equity in earnings in associated companies decreased $1,595,000 in 2011.

The factors noted above resulted in an operating loss of $101,334,000 in 2011 compared to operating income of $148,997,000 in 2010.

Nonoperating Income and Expense

Financial expense, including amortization of debt financing costs, decreased $6,323,000, or 8.8%, to $65,308,000 in 2011 due to lower debt balances and lower interest rates partially offset by $5,120,000 of debt financing costs associated with the termination of a notes offering in May 2011.

Overall Results

In 2010, as a result of the Affordable Care Act we wrote off $2,012,000 of deferred income tax assets due to the loss of future tax deductions for providing retiree prescription drug benefits. We recognized income tax benefit of 12.3% of loss from continuing operations before income taxes in 2011 and income tax expense of 38.3% of income from continuing operations before income taxes in 2010. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein, for a reconciliation of the expected federal income tax rate to the actual tax rates.

As a result of the factors noted above, loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated (which includes discontinued operations) totaled $146,868,000 in 2011 compared to income of $46,105,000 in 2010. We recorded loss per diluted common share of $3.27 in 2011 and earnings per diluted common share of $1.03 in 2010. Excluding unusual matters, as detailed in the table below, diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted, were $0.71 in both 2011 and 2010. Per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

	2011				2010
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Share Data)	Amount		Per Share		Amount		Per Share
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, as reported	(146,868	)	(3.27	)	46,105		1.03
Adjustments:
Curtailment gains	(16,137	)			(45,012	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets, including TNI Partners	216,339				899
Debt financing and reorganization costs	12,612				8,514
Unusual matters related to discontinued operations	1,011				2,612
Other, net	5,502				1,739
	219,327				(31,248	)
Income tax effect of adjustments, net, and other unusual tax matters	(40,779	)			17,167
	178,548		3.98		(14,081	)	(0.31	)
Income attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, as adjusted	31,680		0.71		32,024		0.71

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DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000, before income taxes. The transaction resulted in a gain of approximately $2,000,000, after income taxes, which was recorded in October 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2011		2010
Operating revenue	28,785		32,203
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $80,520,000 in 2012, $101,542,000 in 2011 and $104,100,000 in 2010. We recorded a net loss of $16,299,000 in 2012 and $146,681,000 in 2011 and net income of $46,178,000 in 2010. Increased financial expense accounts for the decline in cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2012. Depreciation and amortization decreased as discussed more fully under "Results of Operations". We also recognized non-cash curtailment gains totaling $16,137,000 and $45,012,000 in 2011 and 2010, respectively. Operating losses in 2011 were caused primarily by non-cash charges for impairment of goodwill and other assets and reduction of our investment in TNI, net of the related deferred income tax benefit. Changes in deferred income taxes, operating assets and liabilities and the timing of income tax payments accounted for the bulk of the remainder of the changes in cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in all years.

Investing Activities

Cash required for investing activities of continuing operations totaled $981,000 in 2012 and $7,638,000 in 2010 and cash provided by investing activities totaled $905,000 in 2011. Capital spending totaled $8,040,000 in 2012, $7,479,000 in 2011 and $8,835,000 in 2010. Restricted cash was reduced $4,972,000 in 2012 and $4,651,000 in 2011 and increased $862,000 in 2010.

We anticipate that funds necessary for capital expenditures, which are expected to total approximately $12,000,000 in 2013, and other requirements, will be available from internally generated funds, or availability under our revolving credit facility.

Financing Activities

Cash required for financing activities totaled $93,068,000 in 2012, $99,136,000 in 2011 and $87,364,000 in 2010. We paid $32,408,000, $11,601,000 and $453,000 of debt financing and reorganization costs in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The increase in 2012 is due to the Chapter 11 Proceedings. Debt reduction accounted for the majority of the remaining usage of funds in all years.

The Plan requires us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015.

As discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), in January 2012, in conjunction with the effectiveness of the Plan, we refinanced all of our debt. The Plan refinanced our then-existing credit agreement and extended the April 2012 maturity in a structure of first and second lien debt with the existing lenders. We also amended the Pulitzer Notes, and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders.

1^st Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a credit agreement (the “1^st Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “1^st

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Lien Lenders”). The 1^st Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $689,510,000, and a new $40,000,000 revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility also supports issuance of letters of credit.

Interest Payments

Debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement bears interest, at our option, at either a base rate or an adjusted Eurodollar rate (“LIBOR”), plus an applicable margin. The base rate for the facility is the greater of (a) the prime lending rate of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at such time; (b) 0.5% in excess of the overnight federal funds rate at such time; or (c) 30 day LIBOR plus 1.0%. LIBOR loans are subject to a minimum rate of 1.25%. The applicable margin for term loan base rate loans is 5.25%, and 6.25% for LIBOR loans. The applicable margin for revolving credit facility base rate loans is 4.5%, and is 5.5% for LIBOR loans. At September 30, 2012, all borrowing under the 1^st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance outstanding under the term loan is $661,850,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1^st Lien Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments.

We are required to repay principal amounts, on a quarterly basis until maturity, under the 1st Lien Agreement. Principal payments are required quarterly beginning in June 2012, and total $11,000,000 in 2013, $12,750,000 in 2014, $13,500,000 in 2015 and $3,375,000 in 2016, prior to the final maturity.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the 1^st Lien Agreement under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The 1^st Lien Agreement also requires us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other 1^st Lien Agreement payments prior to the December 2015 maturity.

2012 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Mandatory	5,000
Voluntary	19,450
Asset sales	3,210
Excess cash flow	—
	27,660

There were no net principal payments made in 2012 under the previous credit agreement. Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the 1^st Lien Agreement total $17,750,000.

Security

The 1^st Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by all of our existing and future, direct and indirect subsidiaries in which we hold a direct or indirect interest of more than 50% (the “Credit Parties”); provided however, that our wholly-owned subsidiary Pulitzer Inc. (“Pulitzer”) and its subsidiaries are not Credit Parties. The 1^st Lien Agreement is secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the Credit Parties in their respective subsidiaries.

The Credit Parties have also granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted mortgages covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 1^st Lien Agreement. Assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

The revolving credit facility has a super-priority security interest over all of the collateral securing the term loan under

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the 1^st Lien Agreement, superior to that of the term loan lenders.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 1^st Lien Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for financing of its type. These financial covenants include a maximum total leverage ratio, as defined. The total leverage ratio is designed to assess the leverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall leverage position due to the lower leverage of Pulitzer. It is based primarily on the sum of the principal amount of debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement, plus debt under the 2^nd Lien Agreement, as discussed more fully below, which totals $836,850,000 at September 30, 2012, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer.

Our actual total leverage ratio at September 30, 2012 under the 1^st Lien Agreement was 6.7:1. Our maximum total leverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 10.0:1 at September 30, 2012 to 9.1:1 in December 2015. On a consolidated basis, using the definitions in the 1^st Lien Agreement, our leverage ratio is 5.7:1 at September 30, 2012.  This consolidated measure is not the subject of a covenant in any of our debt agreements.

The 1^st Lien Agreement also includes a minimum interest expense coverage ratio, as defined, which is based on the sum of interest expense, as defined, incurred under the 1^st Lien Agreement and 2^nd Lien Agreement, divided by the same measure of trailing 12 month operating results discussed above. The interest expense coverage ratio is similarly designed to assess the interest coverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall interest coverage position. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio at September 30 2012 was 1.93:1. Our minimum interest expense coverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 1.25:1 at September 30, 2012 to 1.1:1 in December 2015.

The 1^st Lien Agreement requires us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015. The 1^st Lien Agreement also limits capital expenditures to $20,000,000 per year, with a provision for carryover of unused amounts from the prior year. Further, the 1st Lien Agreement restricts our ability to make additional investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers without the consent of the 1^st Lien Lenders and limits our ability to incur additional debt. Such covenants require that substantially all of our future cash flows are required to be directed toward debt reduction or accumulation of cash collateral and that the cash flows of the Credit Parties are largely segregated from those of Pulitzer.

2^nd Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a second lien term loan (the “2^nd Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “2^nd Lien Lenders”). The 2^nd Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $175,000,000.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement bears interest at 15.0%, payable quarterly.

Principal Payments and Redemption

The 2^nd Lien Agreement requires no principal amortization, except in March 2017 if required for income tax purposes.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement may not be redeemed prior to January 30, 2013. From that date until January 30, 2014, the 2^nd Lien Agreement may be redeemed at 102% of the principal amount, at 101% thereafter until January 30, 2015 and at 100% thereafter until the April 2017 final maturity. Terms of the 1st Lien Agreement also restrict principal payments under the 2nd Lien Agreement.

Security

The 2^nd Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Credit Parties and by Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, other than TNI (collectively, the "2^nd Lien Credit Parties). The 2^nd Lien Agreement is secured by second priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the 2^nd Lien Credit Parties.

The 2^nd Lien Credit Parties have also granted a second priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted second lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 2^nd Lien Agreement. Assets of TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded.

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Covenants and Other Matters

The 2^nd Lien Agreement has no affirmative financial covenants. Restrictions on capital expenditures, permitted investments, indebtedness and other provisions are similar to, but generally less restrictive than, those provisions under the 1^st Lien Agreement.

2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock valued at $9,576,000, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders also received $8,750,000 in the form of non-cash fees, which were added to and included in the principal amount of the second lien term loan.

Pulitzer Notes

In conjunction with its formation in 2000, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC ("PD LLC") borrowed $306,000,000 (the “Pulitzer Notes”) from a group of institutional lenders (the “Noteholders”). The Pulitzer Notes were guaranteed by Pulitzer pursuant to a Guaranty Agreement with the Noteholders. The aggregate principal amount of the Pulitzer Notes was payable in April 2009.

In February 2009, the Pulitzer Notes and the Guaranty Agreement described below were amended (the “Notes Amendment”). Under the Notes Amendment, PD LLC repaid $120,000,000 of the principal amount of the debt obligation. The remaining debt balance of $186,000,000 was refinanced by the Noteholders until April 2012.

In January 2012, in connection with the Plan, we entered into an amended Note Agreement and Guaranty Agreement which amended the Pulitzer Notes and extended the maturity with the Noteholders. After consideration of unscheduled principal payments totaling $15,145,000 ($10,145,000 in December 2011 and $5,000,000 in January 2012), offset by $3,500,000 of non-cash fees paid to the Noteholders in the form of additional Pulitzer Notes debt, the amended Pulitzer Notes had a balance of $126,355,000 in January 2012.

The Pulitzer Notes bear interest at 10.55%, increasing 0.75% in January 2013 and January of each year thereafter. Due to the increasing interest rate, interest on the Pulitzer Notes is charged to expense using a calculated effective interest rate during the period. This method increased 2012 financial expense $871,000 from the amount actually payable to the Noteholders during this period.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance of the Pulitzer Notes is $109,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled annual prepayments totaling $1,400,000 in 2012 and $6,400,000 annually thereafter.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the Pulitzer Notes under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The Pulitzer Notes also require us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other Pulitzer Notes payments prior to the final maturity in December 2015.

2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Prior to refinancing	500
Pursuant to the Plan, net	11,645
Mandatory	1,400
Voluntary	15,955
Asset sales	—
Excess cash flow	—
	29,500

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Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the Pulitzer Notes total $9,000,000.

Security

The Guaranty Agreement provides that obligations under the Pulitzer Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Pulitzer's existing and future subsidiaries other than TNI. The Pulitzer Notes are also secured by the first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by Pulitzer in its subsidiaries other than TNI. Also, Pulitzer and each of its subsidiaries granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of its tangible and intangible assets, and granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the Pulitzer Notes. Our ownership interest in TNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

Covenants and Other Matters

The Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $25,600,000 at September 30, 2012), as defined in the Guaranty Agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt.

Further, the Pulitzer Notes have limitations or restrictions on distributions, loans, advances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers. Such covenants require that substantially all future cash flows of Pulitzer are required to be directed first toward repayment of the Pulitzer Notes or accumulation of cash collateral and that cash flows of Pulitzer are largely segregated from those of the Credit Parties.

Intercreditor Agreements

The 1st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes contain cross-default provisions tied to each of the various agreements. Intercreditor agreements and an intercompany subordination agreement are in effect.

Other

Cash payments to the Lenders, Noteholders and legal and professional fees related to the Plan totaled $38,628,000, of which $6,273,000 was paid in 2011, and the remainder of which was paid in 2012.  $721,000 of such costs were charged to expense in 2011. In addition, previously capitalized financing costs of $4,514,000 at September 25, 2011 were charged to expense in 2012 as debt financing costs prior to consummation of the Plan, with the remainder classified as reorganization costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon consummation of the Plan. 

Debt under the Plan was considered compromised. As a result, the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes were recorded at their respective present values, which resulted in a discount to the stated principal amount totaling $23,709,000. This amount is being amortized as a non-cash component of financial expense over the terms of the related debt. Such amounts totaled $4,085,000 in 2012 and are estimated to total $5,418,000 in 2013, $5,359,000 in 2014, $5,293,000 in 2015, $2,429,000 in 2016 and $1,125,000 in 2017.

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Debt is summarized as follows:

	Amount			Interest Rates (%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012
1st Lien Agreement	661,850		—	7.50
2nd Lien Agreement	175,000		—	15.00
Credit Agreement:
A Term Loan	—		569,335
Revolving credit facility	—		286,425
Pulitzer Notes	109,000		138,500	10.55
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment	(19,624	)	290
	926,226		994,550
Less current maturities of debt	17,400		994,550
Current amount of present value adjustment	(5,418	)	—
Total long term debt	914,244		—

At September 30, 2012, our weighted average cost of debt is 9.2%.

Aggregate maturities of debt total $17,400,000 in 2013, $19,150,000 in 2014, $19,900,000 in 2015, $714,400,000 in 2016 and $175,000,000 in 2017.

Liquidity

At September 30, 2012, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $29,942,000 available for future use under our revolving credit facility. Including cash, our liquidity at September 30, 2012 totals $43,862,000. This liquidity amount excludes any future cash flows. We expect all interest and principal payments due in the next twelve months will be satisfied by our continuing cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity.

There are numerous potential consequences under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements related to the Pulitzer Notes, if an event of default, as defined, occurs and is not remedied. Many of those consequences are beyond our control. The occurrence of one or more events of default would give rise to the right of the 1^st Lien Lenders, 2^nd Lien Lenders and/or the Noteholders, to exercise their remedies under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements, respectively, including, without limitation, the right to accelerate all outstanding debt and take actions authorized in such circumstances under applicable collateral security documents.

Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012.

At December 14, 2012, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $919,100,000. This amount is already less than the $938,700,000 amount projected in the Plan in September 2013. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan.

In 2010, we filed a Form S-3 shelf registration statement ("Shelf") with the SEC, which has been declared effective. The Shelf gives us the flexibility to issue and publicly distribute various types of securities, including preferred stock, common stock, secured or unsecured debt securities, purchase contracts and units consisting of any combination of such securities, from time to time, in one or more offerings, up to an aggregate amount of $750,000,000. In July 2011, the SEC announced changes to the issuer eligibility rules which will require us to have a public float of at least $75,000,000 in order to use the Shelf. Subject to maintenance of the minimum level of equity market float and the conditions of our existing debt agreements, the Shelf may enable us to sell securities quickly and efficiently when market conditions are favorable or financing needs arise. Net proceeds from the sale of any securities must be used generally to reduce debt.

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Other Matters

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $9,635,000 in 2012 and increased $4,133,000 in 2011 and $11,517,000 in 2010.

SEASONALITY

Our largest source of publishing revenue, retail advertising, is seasonal and tends to fluctuate with retail sales in markets served. Historically, retail advertising is higher in the December and June quarters. Advertising revenue is lowest in the March quarter.

Quarterly results of operations are summarized in Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

INFLATION

Price increases (or decreases) for our products are implemented when deemed appropriate by us. We continuously evaluate price increases, productivity improvements, sourcing efficiencies and other cost reductions to mitigate the impact of inflation.

CHANGES IN LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Energy Costs

Energy costs have become more volatile, and may increase in the future as a result of carbon emissions and other regulations being developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Health Care Costs

The Affordable Care Act was enacted into law in 2010. As a result, in 2010 we wrote off $2,012,000 of deferred income tax assets due to the loss of future tax deductions for providing retiree prescription drug benefits.

The Affordable Care Act will be supported by a substantial number of underlying regulations, some of which have not been issued. Accordingly, a complete determination of the impact of the Affordable Care Act cannot be made at this time. However, we expect our future health care costs to increase more rapidly based on analysis published by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, input from independent advisors and our understanding of various provisions of the Affordable Care Act that differ from our current medical plans, such as:

•Cost of a transitional reinsurance program to fund state level programs;

•Certain preventive services provided at no cost to employees;

•Higher maximum age for dependent coverage;

•Elimination of annual and lifetime benefit caps; and,

•Free choice vouchers for certain lower income employees.

Administrative costs are also likely to increase as a result of new compliance reporting. New costs being imposed on other medical care businesses, such as health insurers, pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers, may be passed on to us in the form of higher costs. We may be able to mitigate certain of these future cost increases through changes in plan design.

We do not expect the Affordable Care Act will have a significant impact on our postretirement medical benefit obligation liability.

Pension Plans

In July 2012, the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 (“STEA”) was signed into law. STEA provides for changes in the determination of discount rates that result in a near-term reduction in minimum funding requirements for our defined benefit pension plans. STEA will also increase future premiums to be paid to the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation.

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Income Taxes

Certain states in which we operate are considering changes to their corporate income tax rates. At this time, the impact of such changes cannot be determined.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table summarizes our significant contractual obligations at September 30, 2012:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Payments (or Commitments) Due(Years)
Nature of Obligation	Total	Less Than 1	1-3	3-5	More Than 5
Debt (Principal Amount)(1)	945,850	17,400	39,050	889,400	—
Financial expense (2)(3)	327,486	87,233	171,708	68,545	—
Operating lease obligations	14,183	3,534	3,544	2,803	4,302
Capital expenditure commitments	900	900	—	—	—
	1,288,419	109,067	214,302	960,748	4,302

(1)	Maturities of long-term debt are limited to mandatory payments and, accordingly, exclude excess cash flow, asset sale and other payments required under the 1st Lien Agreement and the Pulitzer Notes as such amounts cannot be determined. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.
(2)	Financial expense includes an estimate of interest expense for the 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes until their maturities in December 2015, April 2017 and December 2015, respectively. Financial expense under the 1st Lien Agreement is estimated based on the 30 day minimum LIBOR level of 1.25% as increased by our applicable margin of 6.25% applied to the outstanding balance, as reduced by future contractual maturities of such debt. Financial expense under the 2nd Lien Agreement is estimated using the 15% contractual rate applied to the outstanding balance during each period, as reduced by future contractual maturities of such debt. Financial expense under the Pulitzer Notes is estimated based on the contractual interest rates applied to the outstanding balance (10.55% at September 30, 2012), as reduced by future contractual maturities of such debt. Changes in interest rates in excess of the minimum LIBOR level, use of borrowing rates not based on LIBOR, use of interest rate hedging instruments, and/or principal payments in excess of contractual maturities or based on other requirements of the 1st Lien Agreement, 2nd Lien Agreement or Pulitzer Notes could significantly change this estimate. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.
(3)	Financial expense excludes non-cash present value adjustments and amortization of debt financing costs previously paid. Additionally, interest expense based on the effective interest rate of the Pulitzer Notes is also excluded. See Note 5 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

The table above excludes future cash requirements for pension, postretirement and postemployment obligations. The periods in which these obligations will be settled in cash are not readily determinable and are subject to numerous future events and assumptions. We estimate cash requirements for these obligations in 2013 will total approximately $2,733,000. See Notes 6 and 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

The table above also excludes future cash requirements, if any, for the payment of the Herald Value to be settled between April 2013 and April 2015. The estimated value of the Herald Value at September 30, 2012 is $300,000. See Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. We are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities for such matters. A substantial amount of our deferred income tax liabilities is related to acquisitions and will not result in future cash payments. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk stemming from changes in interest rates and commodity prices. Changes in these factors could cause fluctuations in earnings and cash flows. In the normal course of business, exposure to certain of these market risks is managed as described below.

40

INTEREST RATES ON DEBT

Our debt structure and interest rate risk are managed through the use of fixed and floating rate debt. Our primary exposure is to LIBOR. A 100 basis point increase or decrease to LIBOR would, if in excess of LIBOR minimums discussed more fully below, decrease or increase, respectively, income before income taxes on an annualized basis by approximately $6,619,000, based on $661,850,000of floating rate debt outstanding at September 30, 2012.

Our debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement is subject to minimum interest rate levels of 1.25%. Based on the difference between interest rates in December 2012 and our 1.25% minimum rate, LIBOR would need to increase approximately 70 basis points for six month borrowing up to approximately 105 basis points for one month borrowing before our borrowing cost would begin to be impacted by an increase in interest rates.

At September 30, 2012, approximately 70.0% of the principal amount of our debt is subject to floating interest rates. We regularly evaluate alternatives to hedge the related interest rate risk.

Certain of our interest-earning assets, including those in employee benefit plans, also function as a natural hedge against fluctuations in interest rates on debt.

COMMODITIES

Certain materials used by us are exposed to commodity price changes. We manage this risk through instruments such as purchase orders and non-cancelable supply contracts. We participate in a buying cooperative with other publishing companies, primarily for the acquisition of newsprint. We are also involved in continuing programs to mitigate the impact of cost increases through identification of sourcing and operating efficiencies. Primary commodity price exposures are newsprint and, to a lesser extent, ink and energy costs.

North American newsprint producers continue to deleverage under difficult market conditions as they continue to face significant declines in domestic demand as well as weakening export demand. Three of these companies exited U.S. and/or Canadian financial reorganization protection in September and October 2012. Other producers have also reacted with extended production downtime or permanent closure of facilities as well as converting paper machines to other paper grades. The high cost of attaining recycled fibers has led to significant reductions in the availability of newsprint with recycled content.

Newsprint pricing has remained relatively stable since mid-2010. Selected West coast producers have announced a $30 per metric tonne increase on 30 pound newsprint, effective throughout the December 2012 calendar quarter. The increase was precipitated primarily by a mill closure and the tightening of supply on the West coast. This increase, as well as future price changes, if any, will be influenced primarily by the balance between supply capacity and demand, domestic and export, in addition to the producers' ability to mitigate input cost pressures. The final extent of future price change announcements, if any, is subject to negotiations with each newsprint producer.

A $10 per tonne price increase for 30 pound newsprint would result in an annualized reduction in income before income taxes of approximately $775,000 based on anticipated consumption in 2013, excluding consumption of TNI and MNI and the impact of LIFO accounting. Such prices may also decrease. We manage significant newsprint inventories, which may help to mitigate the impact of future price increases.

SENSITIVITY TO CHANGES IN VALUE

Our fixed rate debt consists of the 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes, which are not traded on an active market and are held by small groups of investors. We are unable, as of September 30, 2012, to measure the maximum potential impact on fair value of fixed rate debt from adverse changes in market interest rates under normal market conditions. The change in value, if determined, could be significant.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Information with respect to this Item is included herein under the caption “Consolidated Financial Statements”.

41

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS

ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

Information with respect to this Item is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference, under the caption “Relationship with Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Under the supervision and with the participation of our senior management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”). Based on this evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded as of the Evaluation Date that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective such that the information relating to the Company, including our consolidated subsidiaries, required to be disclosed in our SEC reports (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Company's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of our senior management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, we assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, using the criteria set forth in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is effective as of September 30, 2012. Our independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, has issued a report on the Company's internal control over financial reporting. The report on the audit of internal control over financial reporting appears in this Annual Report.

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 14 weeks ended September 30, 2012 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

42

MANAGEMENT REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The management of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated (the "Company") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company's internal control system is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the preparation and fair presentation of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America.

Any internal control system, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Accordingly, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

Management of the Company assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control - Integrated Framework. Based on the assessment and those criteria, we believe that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012.

KPMG LLP, the Company's independent registered public accounting firm, issued a report on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Their report appears on the following page.

/s/ Mary E. Junck	/s/ Carl G. Schmidt
Mary E. Junck	Carl G. Schmidt
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)	and Treasurer
	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
December 14, 2012	December 14, 2012

43

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:

We have audited Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on criteria established in InternalControl - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity (deficit), and cash flows for the 53-week period ended September 30, 2012 and each of the 52-week periods ended September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010, and our report dated December 14, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Chicago, Illinois

December 14, 2012

44

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information with respect to this Item, except for certain information related to our executive officers included under the caption “Executive Team” in Part I of this Annual Report, is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference, under the captions “Proposal 1 - Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance”. Our executive officers are those elected officers whose names and certain information are set forth under the caption “Executive Team” in Part 1 of this Annual Report.

We have a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics ("Code") that applies to all of our employees, including our principal executive officer, and principal financial and accounting officer. The Code is monitored by the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors and is annually affirmed by our directors and executive officers. We maintain a corporate governance page on our website which includes the Code. The corporate governance page can be found at www.lee.net by clicking on “Governance”. A copy of the Code will also be provided without charge to any stockholder who requests it. Any future amendment to, or waiver granted by us from, a provision of the Code will be posted on our website.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Information with respect to this Item is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013which is incorporated herein by reference, under the captions, “Compensation of Directors”, “Executive Compensation” and “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”; provided, however, that the subsection entitled “Executive Compensation - Report of the Executive Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors on Executive Compensation” shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Information with respect to this Item is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference, under the caption “Voting Securities and Principal Holders Thereof” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information”.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS,

AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Information with respect to this Item is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference, under the caption “Directors' Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors”.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Information with respect to this Item is included in our Proxy Statement to be filed in January 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference, under the caption “Relationship with Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”.

45

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report:

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Years ended September 30, 2012, September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010

Consolidated Balance Sheets - September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) - Years ended September 30, 2012, September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Years ended September 30, 2012, September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

All schedules have been omitted as not required, not applicable, not deemed material or because the information is included in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included herein.

EXHIBITS

See Exhibit Index, included herein.

46

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on the 14^th day of December 2012.

LEE ENTERPRISES, INCORPORATED

/s/ Mary E. Junck	/s/ Carl G. Schmidt
Mary E. Junck	Carl G. Schmidt
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Principal Executive Officer)	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in their respective capacities on the 14^th day of December 2012.

Signature
/s/ Richard R. Cole	Director
Richard R. Cole
/s/ Nancy S. Donovan	Director
Nancy S. Donovan
/s/ Leonard J. Elmore	Director
Leonard J. Elmore
/s/ Mary E. Junck	Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Director
Mary E. Junck
/s/ Brent Magid	Director
Brent Magid
/s/ William E. Mayer	Director
William E. Mayer
/s/ Herbert W. Moloney III	Director
Herbert W. Moloney III
/s/ Andrew E. Newman	Director
Andrew E. Newman
/s/ Gordon D. Prichett	Director
Gordon D. Prichett
/s/ Gregory P. Schermer	Vice President - Strategy, and Director
Gregory P. Schermer
/s/ Carl G. Schmidt	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Carl G. Schmidt
/s/ Mark B. Vittert	Director
Mark B. Vittert

47

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	PAGE
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)	49
Consolidated Balance Sheets	50
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)	52
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	53
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	54
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	84

48

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010
Operating revenue:
Advertising	495,872		517,348		537,223
Circulation	174,747		172,245		171,155
Other	39,867		37,726		40,066
Total operating revenue	710,486		727,319		748,444
Operating expenses:
Compensation	276,379		283,527		298,873
Newsprint and ink	52,003		56,191		51,707
Other operating expenses	214,570		220,656		227,603
Depreciation	23,620		25,833		26,716
Amortization of intangible assets	42,297		44,473		45,208
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388		204,439		899
Workforce adjustments	4,640		3,922		1,199
Total operating expenses	614,897		839,041		652,205
Curtailment gains	—		16,137		45,012
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231		6,151		7,746
Reduction in investment in TNI	—		11,900		—
Operating income (loss)	102,820		(101,334	)	148,997
Non-operating income (expense):
Financial income	236		296		411
Financial expense	(83,078	)	(52,696	)	(63,117	)
Debt financing costs	(2,823	)	(12,612	)	(8,514	)
Other, net	(2,533	)	595		(1,172	)
Total non-operating expense, net	(88,198	)	(64,417	)	(72,392	)
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes	14,622		(165,751	)	76,605
Reorganization costs	37,765		—		—
Income (loss) before income taxes	(23,143	)	(165,751	)	76,605
Income tax expense (benefit)	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	(13,772	)	(145,435	)	47,297
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
Net income (loss)	(16,299	)	(146,681	)	46,178
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(399	)	(187	)	(73	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105
Other comprehensive loss, net	(7,348	)	(12,737	)	(14,704	)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(24,046	)	(159,605	)	31,401
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03
Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

49

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	13,920	23,555
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts:
2012 $4,890; 2011 $5,387	68,190	69,307
Income taxes receivable	7,887	1,335
Inventories	7,454	7,060
Deferred income taxes	789	967
Other	6,261	16,102
Assets of discontinued operations	9,171	17,415
Total current assets	113,672	135,741
Investments:
Associated companies	42,201	44,057
Restricted cash and investments	—	4,972
Other	10,033	9,199
Total investments	52,234	58,228
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	24,535	24,547
Buildings and improvements	188,743	187,039
Equipment	299,905	301,281
Construction in process	2,567	2,852
	515,750	515,719
Less accumulated depreciation	330,531	313,678
Property and equipment, net	185,219	202,041
Goodwill	247,271	247,271
Other intangible assets, net	451,292	493,589
Postretirement assets, net	7,551	14,934
Other	3,897	6,444
Total assets	1,061,136	1,158,248

The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

50

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Share Data)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	11,982		994,550
Accounts payable	22,978		26,796
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	38,559		33,991
Unearned revenue	35,078		35,365
Liabilities of discontinued operations	1,714		3,537
Total current liabilities	110,311		1,094,239
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	914,244		—
Pension obligations	68,636		73,518
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	7,160		6,104
Deferred income taxes	60,140		66,204
Income taxes payable	6,062		8,588
Other	8,639		10,489
Total liabilities	1,175,192		1,259,142
Equity (deficit):
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Serial convertible preferred stock, no par value; authorized 500 shares; none issued	—		—
Common Stock, authorized 120,000 shares; issued and outstanding:	523		89,915
September 30, 2012; 52,291 shares; $0.01 par value
September 25, 2011; 44,958 shares; $2 par value
Class B Common Stock, $2 par value; authorized 30,000 shares; none issued	—		—
Additional paid-in capital	241,039		140,887
Accumulated deficit	(342,760	)	(326,062	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(13,435	)	(6,086	)
Total stockholders' deficit	(114,633	)	(101,346	)
Non-controlling interests	577		452
Total deficit	(114,056	)	(100,894	)
Total liabilities and deficit	1,061,136		1,158,248

The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

51

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)

	Amount						Shares
(Thousands of Dollars and Shares)	2012		2011		2010		2012	2011		2010
Common Stock:
Balance, beginning of year	89,915		78,554		78,278		44,958	39,277		39,139
Change in par value	(89,466	)	—		—		—	—		—
Conversion from Class B Common Stock	—		11,352		200		—	5,676		100
Shares issued	74		209		190		7,333	105		95
Shares reacquired	—		(200	)	(114	)	—	(100	)	(57	)
Balance, end of year	523		89,915		78,554		52,291	44,958		39,277
Class B Common Stock:
Balance, beginning of year	—		11,352		11,552		—	5,676		5,776
Conversion to Common Stock	—		(11,352	)	(200	)	—	(5,676	)	(100	)
Balance, end of year	—		—		11,352		—	—		5,676
Additional paid-in capital:
Balance, beginning of year	140,887		139,460		137,713
Change in par value	89,466		—		—
Stock compensation	1,080		1,502		1,911
Shares issued (redeemed)	9,606		(75	)	(164	)
Balance, end of year	241,039		140,887		139,460
Accumulated deficit:
Balance, beginning of year	(326,062	)	(179,194	)	(225,299	)
Net income (loss)	(16,299	)	(146,681	)	46,178
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(399	)	(187	)	(73	)
Balance, end of year	(342,760	)	(326,062	)	(179,194	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Balance, beginning of year	(6,086	)	6,651		21,354
Unrealized gain on interest rate exchange agreements	—		—		2,334
Change in pension and postretirement benefits	(12,455	)	(21,518	)	(26,179	)
Deferred income taxes, net	5,106		8,781		9,142
Balance, end of year	(13,435	)	(6,086	)	6,651
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	(114,633	)	(101,346	)	56,823		52,291	44,958		44,953

The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

52

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Cash provided by operating activities:
Net income (loss)	(16,299	)	(146,681	)	46,178
Results of discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(13,772	)	(145,435	)	47,297
Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations:
Depreciation and amortization	65,917		70,306		71,924
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388		204,439		899
Curtailment gains	—		(16,137	)	(45,012	)
Reduction in investment in TNI	—		11,900		—
Stock compensation expense	1,080		1,287		1,974
Distributions greater than earnings of MNI	700		347		334
Amortization (accretion) of debt fair value adjustment	3,919		(547	)	(621	)
Debt financing costs	2,857		12,612		8,480
Reorganization costs	37,765		—		—
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	(779	)	(25,910	)	18,943
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables	1,117		5,984		7,798
Decrease in inventories and other	1,981		4,583		3,190
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, compensation and accrued liabilities and unearned revenue	423		(6,752	)	(6,553	)
Decrease in pension, postretirement and post employment benefits	(8,898	)	(5,690	)	(3,261	)
Change in income taxes receivable or payable	(9,078	)	(5,748	)	162
Other	(4,100	)	(3,697	)	(1,454	)
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations	80,520		101,542		104,100
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities of continuing operations:
Purchases of property and equipment	(8,040	)	(7,479	)	(8,835	)
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash	4,972		4,651		(862	)
Proceeds from sale of assets	1,353		1,811		2,324
Distributions greater (less) than earnings of TNI	1,156		1,818		(383	)
Other	(422	)	104		118
Net cash provided by (required for) investing activities of continuing operations	(981	)	905		(7,638	)
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities of continuing operations:
Proceeds from long-term debt	1,004,795		50,000		83,800
Payments on long-term debt	(1,065,455	)	(137,330	)	(170,545	)
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid	(32,408	)	(11,601	)	(453	)
Common stock transactions, net	—		(205	)	(166	)
Net cash required for financing activities of continuing operations	(93,068	)	(99,136	)	(87,364	)
Net cash provided by (required for) discontinued operations:
Operating activities	178		1,062		3,034
Investing activities	3,716		(240	)	(615	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(9,635	)	4,133		11,517
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	23,555		19,422		7,905
End of year	13,920		23,555		19,422

The accompanying Notes are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

References to "we", "our", "us" and the like throughout the Consolidated Financial Statements refer to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the "Company"). References to 2012, 2011, 2010 and the like refer to the fiscal years ended the last Sunday in September.

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated is a leading provider of local news and information and a major platform for advertising, in primarily midsize markets, with 47 daily newspapers and a joint interest in four others, rapidly growing digital products and nearly 300 weekly newspapers and specialty publications in 23 states. We currently operate in a single operating segment.

On December 12, 2011, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries filed voluntary, prepackaged petitions in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (the "Bankruptcy Court") for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (the "U.S. Bankruptcy Code") (collectively, the "Chapter 11 Proceedings"). Our interests in TNI Partners and Madison Newspapers, Inc., as discussed more fully below, were not included in the filings. During the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we, and certain of our subsidiaries, continued to operate as "debtors in possession" under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. In general, as debtors-in-possession, we were authorized under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to continue to operate as an ongoing business, but were not to engage in transactions outside the ordinary course of business without the prior approval of the Bankruptcy Court.

On January 23, 2012, the Bankruptcy Court approved our Second Amended Joint Prepackaged Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and on January 30, 2012 (the "Effective Date") the Company emerged from the Chapter 11 Proceedings. On the Effective Date, the Plan became effective and the transactions contemplated by the Plan were consummated. Implementation of the Plan resulted primarily in a comprehensive refinancing of our debt. The Chapter 11 Proceedings did not adversely affect employees, vendors, contractors, customers or any aspect of Company operations. Stockholders retained their interest in the Company, subject to modest dilution. See Notes 5 and 9.

1    SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“INN”).

Fiscal Year

All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 and 2010 include 52 weeks.

Subsequent Events

We have evaluated subsequent events through December 14, 2012. No events have occurred subsequent to September 30, 2012 that require disclosure or recognition in these financial statements, except as included herein.

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying

values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

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Principles of Consolidation

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Investments in TNI and MNI are accounted for using the equity method and are reported at cost, plus our share of undistributed earnings since acquisition less, for TNI, amortization of intangible assets.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.

Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in accounts payable and are classified as financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Accounts Receivable

We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical credit experience, payment trends and other economic factors. Delinquency is determined based on timing of payments in relation to billing dates. Accounts considered to be uncollectible are written off.

Inventories

Newsprint inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out methods. Newsprint inventories at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011 are less than replacement cost by $3,556,000 and $3,895,000, respectively.

The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

Other inventories consisting of ink, plates and film are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out method.

Other Investments

Other investments primarily consist of marketable securities held in trust under a deferred compensation arrangement and investments for which no established market exists. Marketable securities are classified as trading securities and carried at fair value with gains and losses reported in earnings. Non-marketable securities are carried at cost.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost. Equipment, except for printing presses and preprint insertion equipment, is depreciated primarily by declining-balance methods. The straight-line method is used for all other assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows:

	Years
Buildings and improvements	5 - 54
Printing presses and insertion equipment	3 - 28
Other	3 - 20

We capitalize interest as a component of the cost of constructing major facilities. At September 30, 2012andSeptember 25, 2011, capitalized interest was not significant.

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We recognize the fair value of a liability for a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity when such activity is a condition of a future event and the fair value of the liability can be estimated.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Intangible assets include covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, customer lists, newspaper subscriber lists and mastheads. Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows:

	Years
Customer lists	7 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	7 - 33
Noncompete and consulting agreements	15

In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year.

We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating or cash flow losses related to such assets.

Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value.

Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset.

The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results.

We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets.

We also periodically evaluate the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share. See Note 4.

Minority Interest

Minority interest in earnings of INN is recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Revenue Recognition

Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising.

Advertising Costs

A substantial amount of our advertising and promotion expense consists of ads placed in our own publications and digital products using available space. The incremental cost of such advertising is not significant and is not measured separately by us. External advertising costs are not significant and are expensed as incurred.

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

We evaluate our liabilities for pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit plans based upon computations made by consulting actuaries, incorporating estimates and actuarial assumptions of future plan service costs, future interest costs on projected benefit obligations, rates of compensation increases, employee turnover rates, anticipated mortality rates, expected investment returns on plan assets, asset allocation assumptions of plan assets and other factors. If we used different estimates and assumptions regarding these plans, the funded status of the plans could vary significantly, resulting in recognition of different amounts of expense over future periods.

We use a fiscal year end measurement date for all our pension and postretirement obligations in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 715, Retirement Plans.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are provided using the liability method, whereby deferred income tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and loss carryforwards and deferred income tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the difference between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in our opinion, it is more likely than not some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.

We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to measure and report fair value. FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FASB ASC Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable, which consists of the following levels:

Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets.

Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable.

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Valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement assets measured at fair value are as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents consist of short term deposits valued based on quoted prices in active markets. Such investments are classified as Level 1.

Equity securities are valued based on the closing market price in an active market and are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Debt securities consist of corporate bonds and government securities that are valued based upon quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Stock Compensation

We have four stock-based compensation plans. We account for grants under those plans under the fair value expense recognition provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. Key inputs to this formula include expected term, expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate.

The expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding, and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The volatility factor is calculated using historical market data for our Common Stock. The time frame used is equal to the expected term. We base the risk-free interest rate on the yield to maturity at the time of the stock option grant on zero-coupon U.S. government bonds having a remaining term equal to the option's expected term. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behavior as well as actual option forfeitures.

We amortize as compensation expense the value of stock options and restricted Common Stock using the straight-line method over the vesting or restriction period, which is generally one to three years.

Uninsured Risks

We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts. Letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $6,256,000 at September 30, 2012 are outstanding in support of our insurance program.

Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry.

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Land and Equipment, the operations and related losses on businesses sold, or identified as held for sale, have been presented as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all years presented. Gains are recognized when realized.

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2    DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000, before income taxes. The transaction resulted in a gain of approximately $2,000,000, after income taxes, which was recorded in October 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Operating revenue	27,852		28,785		32,203
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

3     INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

TNI Partners

In Tucson, Arizona, TNI, acting as agent for our subsidiary, Star Publishing Company (“Star Publishing”), and Citizen Publishing Company (“Citizen”), a subsidiary of Gannett Co. Inc., is responsible for printing, delivery, advertising and circulation of the Arizona Daily Star as well as the related digital platforms and specialty publications. TNI collects all receipts and income and pays substantially all operating expenses incident to the partnership's operations and publication of the newspaper and other media.

Income or loss of TNI (before income taxes) is allocated equally to Star Publishing and Citizen.

Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	8,029	7,857
Investments and other assets	13	32
Total assets	8,042	7,889
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	5,601	6,136
Members' equity	2,441	1,753
Total liabilities and members' equity	8,042	7,889

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Summarized results of TNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011	2010
Operating revenue	59,043		62,452	64,379
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	49,568		52,882	52,923
Workforce adjustments	(31	)	1,190	784
Operating income	9,506		8,380	10,672
Company's 50% share	4,753		4,190	5,336
Less amortization of intangible assets	723		1,092	1,156
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,030		3,098	4,180

Star Publishing's 50% share of TNI depreciation and certain general and administrative expenses associated with its share of the operation and administration of TNI are reported as operating expenses (benefit) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). These amounts totaled $(522,000), $76,000, and $291,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Fees for editorial services provided to TNI by Star Publishing totaled $5,994,000, $7,043,000, and $7,510,000 in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Our impairment analysis resulted in pretax reductions in the carrying value of TNI totaling $11,900,000 in 2011. See Note 4.

At September 30, 2012, the carrying value of the Company's 50% investment in TNI is $19,450,000. The difference between our carrying value and our 50% share of the members' equity of TNI relates principally to goodwill of$12,366,000 and other identified intangible assets of $6,430,000, certain of which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives through 2020. See Note 4.

Annual amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be $620,000 in 2013 and $418,000 in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

Madison Newspapers, Inc.

We have a 50% ownership interest in MNI, which publishes daily and Sunday newspapers, and other publications in Madison, Wisconsin, and other Wisconsin locations, and operates their related digital sites. Net income or loss of MNI (after income taxes) is allocated equally to us and The Capital Times Company (“TCT”). MNI conducts its business under the trade name Capital Newspapers.

Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	24,613	22,287
Investments and other assets	29,986	30,484
Property and equipment, net	7,707	8,519
Total assets	62,306	61,290
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	10,015	8,428
Other liabilities	6,720	5,960
Stockholders' equity	45,571	46,902
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	62,306	61,290

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Summarized results of MNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Operating revenue	70,158	73,011	75,137
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	57,981	60,982	61,467
Workforce adjustments	546	530	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,689	2,227	2,372
Operating income	9,942	9,272	11,002
Net income	6,469	6,106	7,132
Equity in earnings of MNI	3,201	3,053	3,566

Fees for editorial services provided to MNI by us are included in other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and totaled $8,098,000, $8,201,000 and $8,318,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

4    GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill related to continuing operations are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Goodwill, gross amount	1,536,000		1,536,000
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)	(1,102,448	)
Goodwill, beginning of year	247,271		433,552
Impairment	—		(186,281	)
Goodwill, end of year	247,271		247,271

Identified intangible assets related to continuing operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,875	28,875
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	864,184	864,184
Less accumulated amortization	441,772	399,477
	422,412	464,707
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,519	28,517
	5	7
	451,292	493,589

Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analyses. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011.

As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill, nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2010, 2011 and 2012. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges.

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A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899
Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

Future decreases in our market value, or significant differences in revenue, expenses or cash flows from estimates used to determine fair value, could result in additional impairment charges in the future.

Annual amortization of intangible assets for the five years ending September 2017 is estimated to be $38,716,000, $38,564,000, $38,131,000, $36,979,000, and $35,898,000, respectively.

5     DEBT

As discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), in January 2012, in conjunction with the effectiveness of the Plan, we refinanced all of our debt. The Plan refinanced our then-existing credit agreement and extended the April 2012 maturity in a structure of first and second lien debt with the existing lenders. We also amended the Pulitzer Notes, and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders.

1^st Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a credit agreement (the “1^st Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “1^st Lien Lenders”). The 1^st Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $689,510,000, and a new $40,000,000 revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility also supports issuance of letters of credit.

Interest Payments

Debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement bears interest, at our option, at either a base rate or an adjusted Eurodollar rate (“LIBOR”), plus an applicable margin. The base rate for the facility is the greater of (a) the prime lending rate of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at such time; (b) 0.5% in excess of the overnight federal funds rate at such time; or (c) 30 day LIBOR plus 1.0%. LIBOR loans are subject to a minimum rate of 1.25%. The applicable margin for term loan base rate loans is 5.25%, and 6.25% for LIBOR loans. The applicable margin for revolving credit facility base rate loans is 4.5%, and is 5.5% for LIBOR loans. At September 30, 2012, all borrowing under the 1^st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance outstanding under the term loan is $661,850,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1^st Lien Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments.

We are required to repay principal amounts, on a quarterly basis until maturity, under the 1st Lien Agreement. Principal payments are required quarterly beginning in June 2012, and total $11,000,000 in 2013, $12,750,000 in 2014, $13,500,000 in 2015 and $3,375,000 in 2016, prior to the final maturity.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the 1^st Lien Agreement under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The 1^st Lien Agreement also requires

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us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other 1^st Lien Agreement payments prior to the December 2015 maturity.

2012 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Mandatory	5,000
Voluntary	19,450
Asset sales	3,210
Excess cash flow	—
	27,660

There were no net principal payments made in 2012 under the previous credit agreement. Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the 1^st Lien Agreement total $17,750,000.

Security

The 1^st Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by all of our existing and future, direct and indirect subsidiaries in which we hold a direct or indirect interest of more than 50% (the “Credit Parties”); provided however, that our wholly-owned subsidiary Pulitzer Inc. (“Pulitzer”) and its subsidiaries are not Credit Parties. The 1^st Lien Agreement is secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the Credit Parties in their respective subsidiaries.

The Credit Parties have also granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted mortgages covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 1^st Lien Agreement. Assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

The revolving credit facility has a super-priority security interest over all of the collateral securing the term loan under the 1^st Lien Agreement, superior to that of the term loan lenders.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 1^st Lien Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for financing of its type. These financial covenants include a maximum total leverage ratio, as defined. The total leverage ratio is designed to assess the leverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall leverage position due to the lower leverage of Pulitzer. It is based primarily on the sum of the principal amount of debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement, plus debt under the 2^nd Lien Agreement, as discussed more fully below, which totals $836,850,000 at September 30, 2012, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer.

Our actual total leverage ratio at September 30, 2012 under the 1^st Lien Agreement was 6.7:1 Our maximum total leverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 10.0:1 at September 30, 2012 to 9.1:1 in December 2015. On a consolidated basis, using the definitions in the 1^st Lien Agreement, our leverage ratio is 5.7:1 at September 30, 2012.  This consolidated measure is not the subject of a covenant in any of our debt agreements.

The 1^st Lien Agreement also includes a minimum interest expense coverage ratio, as defined, which is based on the sum of interest expense, as defined, incurred under the 1^st Lien Agreement and 2^nd Lien Agreement, divided by the same measure of trailing 12 month operating results discussed above. The interest expense coverage ratio is similarly designed to assess the interest coverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall interest coverage position. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio at September 30, 2012 was 1.93:1. Our minimum interest expense coverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 1.25:1 at September 30, 2012 to 1.1:1 in December 2015.

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The 1^st Lien Agreement requires us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015. The 1^st Lien Agreement also limits capital expenditures to $20,000,000 per year, with a provision for carryover of unused amounts from the prior year. Further, the 1st Lien Agreement restricts our ability to make additional investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers without the consent of the 1^st Lien Lenders and limits our ability to incur additional debt. Such covenants require that substantially all of our future cash flows are required to be directed toward debt reduction or accumulation of cash collateral and that the cash flows of the Credit Parties are largely segregated from those of Pulitzer.

2^nd Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a second lien term loan (the “2^nd Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “2^nd Lien Lenders”). The 2^nd Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $175,000,000.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement bears interest at 15.0%, payable quarterly.

Principal Payments and Redemption

The 2^nd Lien Agreement requires no principal amortization, except in March 2017 if required for income tax purposes.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement may not be redeemed prior to January 30, 2013. From that date until January 30, 2014, the 2^nd Lien Agreement may be redeemed at 102% of the principal amount, at 101% thereafter until January 30, 2015 and at 100% thereafter until the April 2017 final maturity. Terms of the 1st Lien Agreement also restrict principal payments under the 2nd Lien Agreement.

Security

The 2^nd Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Credit Parties and by Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, other than TNI (collectively, the "2^nd Lien Credit Parties"). The 2^nd Lien Agreement is secured by second priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the 2^nd Lien Credit Parties.

The 2^nd Lien Credit Parties have also granted a second priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted second lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 2^nd Lien Agreement. Assets of TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 2^nd Lien Agreement has no affirmative financial covenants. Restrictions on capital expenditures, permitted investments, indebtedness and other provisions are similar to, but generally less restrictive than, those provisions under the 1st Lien Agreement.

2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock valued at $9,576,000, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders also received $8,750,000 in the form of non-cash fees, which were added to and included in the principal amount of the second lien term loan.

Pulitzer Notes

In conjunction with its formation in 2000, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC ("PD LLC") borrowed $306,000,000 (the “Pulitzer Notes”) from a group of institutional lenders (the “Noteholders”). The Pulitzer Notes were guaranteed by Pulitzer pursuant to a Guaranty Agreement with the Noteholders. The aggregate principal amount of the Pulitzer Notes was payable in April 2009.

In February 2009, the Pulitzer Notes and the Guaranty Agreement were amended (the “Notes Amendment”). Under the Notes Amendment, PD LLC repaid $120,000,000 of the principal amount of the debt obligation. The remaining debt balance of $186,000,000 was refinanced by the Noteholders until April 2012.

In January 2012, in connection with the Plan, we entered into an amended Note Agreement and Guaranty Agreement, which amended the Pulitzer Notes and extended the maturity with the Noteholders. After consideration of unscheduled

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principal payments totaling $15,145,000 ($10,145,000 in December 2011 and $5,000,000 in January 2012), offset by $3,500,000 of non-cash fees paid to the Noteholders in the form of additional Pulitzer Notes debt, the amended Pulitzer Notes had a balance of $126,355,000 in January 2012.

The Pulitzer Notes bear interest at 10.55%, increasing 0.75% in January 2013 and in January of each year thereafter. Due to the increasing interest rate, interest on the Pulitzer Notes is charged to expense using a calculated effective interest rate during the period. This method increased 2012 financial expense $871,000 from the amount actually payable to the Noteholders during this period.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance of the Pulitzer Notes is $109,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled annual prepayments totaling $1,400,000 in 2012 and $6,400,000 annually thereafter.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the Pulitzer Notes under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The Pulitzer Notes also require us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other Pulitzer Notes payments prior to the final maturity in December 2015.

2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Prior to refinancing	500
Pursuant to the Plan, net	11,645
Mandatory	1,400
Voluntary	15,955
Asset sales	—
Excess cash flow	—
	29,500

Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the Pulitzer Notes total $9,000,000.

Security

The Guaranty Agreement provides that obligations under the Pulitzer Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Pulitzer's existing and future subsidiaries other than TNI. The Pulitzer Notes are also secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by Pulitzer in its subsidiaries other than TNI. Also, Pulitzer and each of its subsidiaries granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of its tangible and intangible assets, and granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the Pulitzer Notes. Our ownership interest in TNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

Covenants and Other Matters

The Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $25,600,000 at September 30, 2012), as defined in the Guaranty Agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt.

Further, the Pulitzer Notes have limitations or restrictions on distributions, loans, advances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers. Such covenants require that substantially all future cash flows of Pulitzer are required to be directed first toward repayment of the Pulitzer Notes or accumulation of cash collateral and that cash flows of Pulitzer are largely segregated from those of the Credit Parties.

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Intercreditor Agreements

The 1st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes contain cross-default provisions tied to each of the various agreements. Intercreditor agreements and an intercompany subordination agreement are in effect.

Other

Cash payments to the Lenders, Noteholders and legal and professional fees related to the Plan totaled $38,628,000, of which $6,273,000 was paid in 2011, and the remainder of which was paid in 2012.  $721,000 of such costs were charged to expense in 2011. In addition, previously capitalized financing costs of $4,514,000 at September 25, 2011 were charged to expense in 2012 as debt financing costs prior to consummation of the Plan, with the remainder classified as reorganization costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon consummation of the Plan. 

Debt under the Plan was considered compromised. As a result, the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes were recorded at their respective present values, which resulted in a discount to the stated principal amount totaling $23,709,000. This amount is being amortized as a non-cash component of financial expense over the terms of the related debt. Such amounts totaled $4,085,000 in 2012 and are estimated to total $5,418,000 in 2013, $5,359,000 in 2014, $5,293,000 in 2015, $2,429,000 in 2016 and $1,125,000 in 2017.

Debt is summarized as follows:

	Amount			Interest Rates(%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012
1st Lien Agreement	661,850		—	7.50
2nd Lien Agreement	175,000		—	15.00
Previous credit agreement:
Term loan	—		569,335
Revolving credit facility	—		286,425
Pulitzer Notes	109,000		138,500	10.55
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment	(19,624	)	290
	926,226		994,550
Less current maturities of debt	17,400		994,550
Current amount of present value adjustment	(5,418	)	—
Total long term debt	914,244		—

At September 30, 2012, our weighted average cost of debt is 9.2%.

Aggregate maturities of debt total $17,400,000 in 2013, $19,150,000 in 2014, $19,900,000 in 2015, $714,400,000 in 2016 and $175,000,000 in 2017.

Liquidity

At September 30, 2012, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $29,942,000 available for future use under our revolving credit facility. Including cash, our liquidity at September 30, 2012 totals $43,862,000. This liquidity amount excludes any future cash flows. We expect all interest and principal payments due in the next twelve months will be satisfied by our continuing cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity.

There are numerous potential consequences under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements related to the Pulitzer Notes, if an event of default, as defined, occurs and is not remedied. Many of those consequences are beyond our control. The occurrence of one or more events of default would give rise to the right of the 1^st Lien Lenders, 2^nd Lien Lenders and/or the Noteholders, to exercise their remedies under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements, respectively, including, without limitation, the right to accelerate all outstanding debt and take actions authorized in such circumstances under applicable collateral security documents.

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Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012.

At December 14, 2012, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $919,100,000. This amount is already less than the $938,700,000 amount projected in the Plan in September 2013. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan.

In 2010, we filed a Form S-3 shelf registration statement ("Shelf") with the SEC, which has been declared effective. The Shelf gives us the flexibility to issue and publicly distribute various types of securities, including preferred stock, common stock, secured or unsecured debt securities, purchase contracts and units consisting of any combination of such securities, from time to time, in one or more offerings, up to an aggregate amount of $750,000,000. In July 2011, the SEC announced changes to the issuer eligibility rules which will require us to have a public float of at least $75,000,000 in order to use the Shelf. Subject to maintenance of the minimum level of equity market float and the conditions of our existing debt agreements, the Shelf may enable us to sell securities quickly and efficiently when market conditions are favorable or financing needs arise. Net proceeds from the sale of any securities must be used generally to reduce debt.

6     PENSION PLANS

We have several noncontributory defined benefit pension plans that together cover selected employees. Benefits under the plans were generally based on salary and years of service. Effective in 2012 all benefits are frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. Plan funding strategies are influenced by government regulations. Plan assets consist primarily of domestic and foreign corporate equity securities, government and corporate bonds, and cash.

The net periodic cost components of our pension plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	30		169		792
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	7,975		8,354		8,888
Expected return on plan assets	(8,891	)	(9,733	)	(9,568	)
Amortization of net loss	2,370		812		453
Amortization of prior service benefit	(136	)	(137	)	(136	)
Curtailment gains	—		—		(2,004	)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	1,348		(535	)	(1,575	)

Net periodic pension benefit of $56,000, $56,000 and $122,000 is allocated to TNI in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

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Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	186,826		178,179
Service cost	30		169
Interest cost	7,975		8,354
Actuarial loss	17,268		12,299
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Curtailment gain	—		(591	)
Benefit obligation, end of year	201,219		186,826
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year:	115,596		125,464
Actual return on plan assets	24,849		1,007
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Administrative expenses paid	(1,472	)	(1,428	)
Employer contributions	6,807		2,137
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	134,900		115,596
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	66,319		71,230

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Pension obligations	66,319		71,230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(51,871	)	(51,459	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	926		1,063
	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

We expect to recognize $2,287,000 and $137,000 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic pension cost in 2013.

The accumulated benefit obligation for the plans total $201,219,000 at September 30, 2012and $186,672,000 at September 25, 2011. The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are $201,219,000, $201,219,000, and $134,900,000, respectively, at September 30, 2012.

Assumptions

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5

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Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.9	8.0	8.0
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5	3.5

For 2013, the expected long-term return on plan assets is 7.5%. The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions.

Plan Assets

The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our pension obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds.

An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation.

The weighted-average asset allocation of our pension assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	50-75	63	66
Debt securities	25-35	29	33
Private equity investments	0-12	—	—
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	1
Receivables, net	—	6	—

Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines. At September 30, 2012, certain plan assets were in process of reallocation. These assets were invested in equity securities in October 2012. In 2012, the policy allocation was amended to allow private equity investments.

New collective bargaining agreements in 2011 and 2010 resulted in the freezing of certain defined pension benefits in 2011 and 2010 and non-cash curtailment gains in 2010.  See Note 7. 

Fair Value Measurements

The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	2,029	—	—
Receivables, net	8,117	—	—
Domestic equity securities	27,499	47,714	—
International equity securities	—	9,613	—
Debt securities	32,169	7,759	—

There were no purchases, sales or transfer of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

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Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we expect to make contributions totaling $2,733,000 to our pension trust in 2013.

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid from the pension trust as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)
2013	11,421
2014	11,263
2015	11,277
2016	11,356
2017	11,430
2018-2022	57,603

Other Plans

We are obligated under an unfunded plan to provide fixed retirement payments to certain former employees. The plan is frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. The accrued liability under the plan is $2,595,000 and $2,654,000 at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011, respectively, of which $279,000 is included in compensation and other accrued liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2012.

Certain of our current and former employees participate in multi-employer retirement plans sponsored by their respective bargaining units. The amount charged to operating expense, representing our required contributions to these plans, is $398,000 in 2012, $488,000 in 2011 and $497,000 in 2010. At September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, we have accrued multi-employer plan withdrawal liabilities of $1,426,000 and $1,319,000, respectively.

7     POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

We provide retiree medical and life insurance benefits under postretirement plans at several of our operating locations. The level and adjustment of participant contributions vary depending on the specific plan. In addition, PD LLC provides postemployment disability benefits to certain employee groups prior to retirement. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the postretirement plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. We accrue postemployment disability benefits when it becomes probable that such benefits will be paid and when sufficient information exists to make reasonable estimates of the amounts to be paid. In 2011 the trust was amended to allow benefits for certain active employees to be paid from plan assets.

The net periodic postretirement benefit cost components for our postretirement plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	728		927		361
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,109		1,600		2,971
Expected return on plan assets	(2,129	)	(2,248	)	(2,274	)
Amortization of net actuarial gain	(2,451	)	(2,467	)	(2,447	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(1,459	)	(1,455	)	(1,994	)
Curtailment gains	—		(16,137	)	(43,008	)
Net periodic postretirement benefit	(4,202	)	(19,780	)	(46,391	)

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Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	26,472		50,482
Service cost	728		927
Interest cost	1,109		1,600
Actuarial (gain) loss	5,269		(2,311	)
Benefits paid, net of premiums received	(2,965	)	(2,922	)
Changes in plan provisions	—		(5,931	)
Curtailment gains	—		(15,535	)
Medicare Part D subsidies	115		162
Benefit obligation, end of year	30,728		26,472
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	38,529		41,447
Actual return on plan assets	2,127		19
Employer contributions (reimbursements)	(690	)	1,347
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received	(2,851	)	(2,760	)
Benefits paid for active employees	(2,852	)	(1,524	)
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date	34,263		38,529
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets	(3,535	)	(12,057	)

The accumulated benefit obligation for plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets was $4,016,000 at September 30, 2012. There are no plan assets related to this plan.

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Noncurrent assets	7,551	14,934
Postretirement benefit obligations	4,016	2,877
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	30,344	42,379

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,570	27,145
Unrecognized prior service benefit	13,774	15,234
	30,344	42,379

We expect to recognize $1,324,000 and $1,459,000 of unrecognized net actuarial gain and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic postretirement benefit cost in 2013.

Assumptions

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	5.75

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The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions.

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	5.75	5.75	5.75

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Health care cost trend rates	9.0	9.0
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the “Ultimate Trend Rate”)	5.0	5.0
Year in which the rate reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate	2020	2019

Administrative costs related to indemnity plans are assumed to increase at the health care cost trend rates noted above.

Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement plans. A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following annualized effects on reported amounts for 2012:

	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease
Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	53	(48	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	1,452	(1,306	)

Plan Assets

The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our postretirement obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds.

An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions, and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation.

The weighted-average asset allocation of our postretirement assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	10-30	21	8
Debt securities	70-90	75	85
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	7
Receivables, net	—	2	—

Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to

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time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines.

Fair Value Measurements

The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	692	—	—
Receivables, net	803	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,385	2,069	—
International equity securities	—	671	—
Debt securities	—	25,643	—

There were no purchases, sales or transfers of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we do not expect to contribute to our postretirement plans in 2013.

In December 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the “Modernization Act”) was signed into law. The Modernization Act introduced a prescription drug benefit under Medicare (“Medicare Part D”) and a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans (“Subsidy”) that provide a benefit at least actuarially equivalent (as that term is defined in the Act) to Medicare Part D. We concluded we qualify for the Subsidy under the Modernization Act since the prescription drug benefits provided under our postretirement health care plans generally require lower premiums from covered retirees and have lower deductibles than the benefits provided in Medicare Part D and, accordingly, are actuarially equivalent to or better than, the benefits provided under the Modernization Act.

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid either with future contributions to the plan or directly from plan assets, as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Gross Payments	Less Medicare Part D Subsidy		Net Payments
2013	3,280	(220	)	3,060
2014	3,080	(230	)	2,850
2015	2,980	(230	)	2,750
2016	2,960	(230	)	2,730
2017	2,900	(230	)	2,670
2018-2022	13,280	(1,100	)	12,180

2011 Changes to Plans

In May 2011, a new bargaining unit contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for affected active employees and froze defined pension benefits. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $3,974,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical expense by $82,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $3,371,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits reduced 2011 net periodic pension expenses by $188,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $592,000.

In March 2011, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $1,991,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended March

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27, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 27, 2011 by $3,030,000.

In November 2010, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $10,172,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $769,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 26, 2010 by $15,065,000.

2010 Changes to Plans

In March 2010, members of the United Media Guild voted to approve a new 5.5 year contract, effective in April 2010. The new contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for active employees and defined pension benefits were frozen. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $11,878,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $6,576,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $2,004,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, reduced 2010 net periodic pension expenses by $668,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $2,004,000.

In December 2009, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $31,130,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2009, reduced 2010 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $1,460,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 27, 2009 by $28,750,000.

Litigation

Several of the plan changes noted above were the subject of litigation, or arbitration claims, under the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. In 2012, we settled all such claims with payments to plan participants totaling $2,802,000. These payments are classified as other, net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Postemployment Plan

Our postemployment benefit obligation, representing certain disability benefits, is $3,143,000 at September 30, 2012 and $3,227,000 at September 25, 2011.

8    OTHER RETIREMENT PLANS

Substantially all of our employees are eligible to participate in a qualified defined contribution retirement plan. We also have other retirement and compensation plans for executives and others. Company contributions under such plans were substantially reduced or eliminated in 2010. In 2011 certain of those contributions were reinstated.

Retirement and compensation plan costs, including interest on deferred compensation costs, charged to continuing operations are $3,533,000 in 2012, $2,666,000 in 2011 and $1,894,000 in 2010.

9     COMMON STOCK, CLASS B COMMON STOCK AND PREFERRED SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS

Common Stock

Under the Plan, the par value of our Common Stock was changed from $2.00 per share to $0.01 per share effective January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012.

As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is

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allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules.

Class B Common Stock

In 1986, one share of Class B Common Stock was issued as a dividend for each share of Common Stock held by stockholders of record at the time. The transfer of Class B Common Stock was restricted. As originally anticipated, the number of outstanding Class B shares has decreased over time through trading and reached the sunset level of 5,600,000 shares in March 2011. In March 2011, in accordance with the sunset provisions established in 1986, we effected conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock to Common Stock. As a result, all stockholders have one vote per share on all future matters. Class B shares formerly had ten votes per share.

Preferred Share Purchase Rights

In 1998, the Board of Directors adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the “Rights Plan”). Under the Rights Plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of one Preferred Share Purchase Right (“Right”) for each outstanding share of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (collectively “Common Shares”) of the Company. Rights are attached to, and automatically trade with, the Company's Common Shares. In 2008, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the Rights Plan. The amendment increased the beneficial ownership threshold to 25% from 20% for stockholders purchasing Common Stock for passive investment only and decreased the threshold to 15% for all other investors. In addition, the amendment extended the expiration of the Rights Plan to May 31, 2018 from May 31, 2008.

Rights become exercisable only in the event that any person or group of affiliated persons other than a passive investor becomes a holder of 15% or more of our outstanding Common Shares, or commences a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, would result in that person or group of affiliated persons owning at least 15% of our outstanding Common Shares. Once the Rights become exercisable, they entitle all other stockholders to purchase, by payment of a $150 exercise price, one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock, subject to adjustment, with a value of twice the exercise price. In addition, at any time after a 15% position is acquired and prior to the acquisition of a 50% position, the Board of Directors may require, in whole or in part, each outstanding Right (other than Rights held by the acquiring person or group of affiliated persons) to be exchanged for one share of Common Stock or one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock. The Rights may be redeemed at a price of $0.001 per Right at any time prior to their expiration.

10    STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS

Total non-cash stock compensation expense is $1,080,000, $1,287,000 and $1,974,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

At September 30, 2012, we have reserved 4,539,716 shares of Common Stock for issuance to employees under an incentive and nonstatutory stock option and restricted stock plan approved by stockholders. At September 30, 2012, 1,437,270 shares are available for granting of non-qualified stock options or issuance of restricted Common Stock.

Stock Options

Options are granted at a price equal to the fair market value on the date of the grant and are exercisable, upon vesting, over a ten-year period.

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A summary of stock option activity is as follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012		2011		2010
Under option, beginning of year	1,812		940		1,009
Granted	1,520		1,105		—
Exercised	—		(15	)	—
Canceled	(230	)	(218	)	(69	)
Under option, end of year	3,102		1,812		940
Exercisable, end of year	1,298		552		423

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Granted	1.16	2.57	—
Under option, end of year	3.18	5.07	8.77

The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2012 and 2011 option awards:

	2012	2011
Volatility (Percent)	122	111
Risk-free interest rate (Percent)	0.76	1.01
Expected term (Years)	4.7	4.7
Estimated fair value (Dollars)	0.95	2.00

A summary of stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Dollars)	Options Outstanding			Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Weighted Average Exercise Price	Number Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price
1 - 5	2,971,125	8.5	1.79	1,166,890	2.31
5 - 50	131,321	2.9	34.59	131,321	34.59
	3,102,446	8.2	3.18	1,298,211	5.58

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested stock options at September 30, 2012 is $1,990,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.3 years.

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is $457,000.

Restricted Common Stock

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012	2011		2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	299		453
Granted	500	—		—
Vested	—	(297	)	(143	)
Forfeited	—	(2	)	(11	)
Outstanding, end of year	500	—		299

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Weighted average grant date fair values of restricted Common Stock are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	15.02	19.35
Granted	1.31	—	—
Vested	—	15.02	28.73
Forfeited	—	15.02	15.02
Outstanding, end of year	1.31	—	15.02

The fair value of restricted Common Stock vested in 2011 and 2010, is $723,000 and $554,000, respectively.

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at September 30, 2012 is $613,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.8 years.

Stock Purchase Plans

We have 270,000 shares of Common Stock available for issuance pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan. We also have 8,700 shares of Common Stock available for issuance under our Supplemental Employee Stock Purchase Plan. There has been no activity under these plans in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

11    INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Current:
Federal	(8,244	)	4,604		8,673
State	(2,210	)	(55	)	833
Deferred	(466	)	(25,630	)	19,116
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622
Continuing operations	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Discontinued operations	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

Income tax expense (benefit) related to continuing operations differs from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes. The reasons for these differences are as follows:

(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes)	2012		2011		2010
Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	(35.0	)	(35.0	)	35.0
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax expense (benefit)	(1.9	)	(2.3	)	4.3
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates	(6.2	)	(0.5	)	(1.4	)
Domestic production deduction	2.1		(0.5	)	(0.8	)
Resolution of tax matters	(3.9	)	0.5		(3.5	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	—		23.9		—
Valuation allowance	1.8		1.0		(0.1	)
Tax law change	—		—		4.1
Non deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings	9.3		—		—
Changes in tax basis	(5.6	)	—		—
Other	(1.1	)	0.6		0.6
	(40.5	)	(12.3	)	38.2

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Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(40,684	)	(29,170	)
Investments	(11,651	)	(6,576	)
Identified intangible assets	(50,472	)	(45,472	)
Long-term debt and interest rate exchange agreements	—		(997	)
Other	(1,155	)	—
	(103,962	)	(82,215	)
Deferred income tax assets:
Long-term debt	33,682		—
Accrued compensation	5,540		7,067
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans	817		1,570
Pension and postretirement benefits	5,569		5,305
State operating loss carryforwards	24,613		23,515
Accrued expenses	2,508		5,024
Other	—		2,063
	72,729		44,544
Valuation allowance	(28,118	)	(27,566	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Current assets	789		967
Non-current liabilities	(60,140	)	(66,204	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

A reconciliation of 2012 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Balance, beginning of year	6,752
Decreases in tax positions for prior years	(163	)
Decreases in tax positions for the current year	(360	)
Lapse in statute of limitations	(1,312	)
Balance, end of year	4,917

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was $3,264,000 at September 30, 2012. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The amount of accrued interest related to unrecognized tax benefits was, net of tax, $710,000 at September 30, 2012and$1,139,000 at September 25, 2011. There were no amounts provided for penalties at September 30, 2012orSeptember 25, 2011.

At September 30, 2012, we had approximately $796,814,000 of net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for state tax purposes that expire between 2014 and 2032. Such NOLs result in a deferred income tax asset of $24,613,000 at September 30, 2012, substantially all of which is offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance not related to NOLs is $ 3,613,000 at September 30, 2012 and $4,068,000 at September 25, 2011.

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In connection with the refinancing of debt under the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we realized substantial cancellation of debt income (“CODI”) for income tax purposes. However, this income was not immediately taxable for U.S. income tax purposes because the CODI resulted from our reorganization under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. For U.S. income tax reporting purposes, we are required to reduce certain tax attributes, including any net operating loss carryforwards, capital losses, certain tax credit carryforwards, and the tax basis in certain assets and liabilities, including debt, in a total amount equal to the tax gain on the extinguishment of debt.  As a result, in February 2012 we began recognizing additional interest expense deductions for income tax purposes.  The reduction in the basis of certain assets will result in reduced  depreciation and amortization expense for income tax purposes beginning in 2013. 

12    FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate value. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The carrying value of other investments, consisting of debt and equity securities in a deferred compensation trust, is carried at fair value based upon quoted market prices. Investments totaling $8,640,000, consisting primarily of our 17% ownership of the nonvoting common stock of TCT, are carried at cost. The fair value of floating rate debt cannot be determined as an active market for such debt does not exist. Our fixed rate debt consists of the 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes, which are not traded on an active market and are held by small groups of investors. We are unable, as of September 30, 2012andSeptember 25, 2011, to determine the fair value of such debt. The value, if determined, may be less than the carrying amount. The determination of the amount of the Herald Value, as discussed more fully in Note 16, is based on an estimate of fair value using both market and income-based approaches.

The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Level 1	—	—
Level 2	—	—
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

In 2011, we reduced the Herald Value from $2,300,000 as of September 26, 2010 to $300,000 based on the most recent estimate of fair value. There were no realized or unrealized gains or losses, purchases, sales, or transfers related to the Herald Value in 2012 or 2010.

In 2012, 2011 and 2010, we reduced the carrying value of equipment no longer in use by $1,388,000, $700,000 and $899,000, respectively, based on estimates of the related fair value in the current market. Based on age, condition and marketability we estimated the equipment had no value.

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13       EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105
Weighted average Common Shares	49,357		44,912		44,902
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(96	)	(65	)	(347	)
Basic average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,555
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	—		—		400
Diluted average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,955
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03
Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

For 2012, 2011 and 2010, we had 2,334,000, 1,944,000, and 942,000 weighted average shares, respectively, subject to issuance under our stock option and employee stock purchase plans that have no intrinsic value. No stock options were considered in the computation of loss per common share in 2012 or 2011.

14    ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

Valuation and qualifying account information related to the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable related to continuing operations is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Balance, beginning of year	5,387		5,262		5,853
Additions charged to expense	1,448		2,497		2,903
Deductions from reserves	(1,945	)	(2,372	)	(3,494	)
Balance, end of year	4,890		5,387		5,262

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15    OTHER INFORMATION

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Compensation	12,556	10,207
Retirement plans	4,215	4,442
Interest	10,507	4,352
Other	11,281	14,990
	38,559	33,991

Cash payments are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Interest	72,131	53,133	65,791
Debt financing and reorganization costs	32,408	11,601	453
Income taxes, net of refunds	1,140	10,462	3,753

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 is related to pension and postretirement benefits.

16    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Operating Leases

We have operating lease commitments for certain of our office, production and distribution facilities. Management expects that in the normal course of business, existing leases will be renewed or replaced. Minimum lease payments during the five years ending September 2017 and thereafter are $3,534,000, $1,897,000, $1,647,000, $1,557,000, $1,246,000 and $4,302,000, respectively. Total operating lease expense is $4,135,000, $4,527,000 and $4,549,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Capital Expenditures

At September 30, 2012, we had construction and equipment purchase commitments totaling approximately $900,000.

Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest

In 2000, Pulitzer and The Herald Company Inc. (“Herald Inc.”) completed the transfer of their respective interests in the assets and operations of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and certain related businesses to a new joint venture, known as PD LLC. Pulitzer is the managing member of PD LLC. Under the terms of the related PD LLC Operating Agreement (the "Operating Agreement"), Pulitzer and another subsidiary held a 95% interest in the results of operations of PD LLC and The Herald Publishing Company, LLC (“Herald”), as successor to Herald Inc., held a 5% interest. Until February 2009, Herald's 5% interest was reported as minority interest in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) at historical cost, plus accumulated earnings since the acquisition of Pulitzer.

The Operating Agreement provided Herald a one-time right to require PD LLC to redeem its interest in PD LLC, together with its interest, if any, in STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") (the “2010 Redemption”). We recorded the present value of the remaining amount of this potential liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheet in 2008, with the offset primarily to goodwill in the amount of $55,594,000, and the remainder recorded as a reduction of retained earnings. The present value of the 2010 Redemption in February 2009 was approximately $73,602,000.

In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and DS LLC owned by Herald pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) will be settled, at a date determined by Herald between April 2013 and April 2015, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and

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DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. The actual amount of the Herald Value will depend on such variables as future cash flows and indebtedness of PD LLC and DS LLC, market valuations of newspaper properties and the timing of the request for redemption. Cash settlement of the Herald Value is limited by the terms of our debt agreements.

The Redemption Agreement also terminated Herald's right to exercise its rights under the 2010 Redemption. As a result, we reversed substantially all of our liability for the 2010 Redemption in 2009. The reversal reduced liabilities by $71,302,000 and increased comprehensive income by $58,521,000 and stockholders' equity by $68,824,000.

The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000.

Pursuant to an Indemnity Agreement dated May 1, 2000 (the “Indemnity Agreement”) between Herald Inc. and Pulitzer, Herald agreed to indemnify Pulitzer for any payments that Pulitzer may make under the Guaranty Agreement. The Indemnity Agreement and related obligations of Herald to indemnify Pulitzer were also terminated pursuant to the Redemption Agreement.

Income Taxes

Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. We are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities for such matters. See Note 11.

We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies, and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows.

We have various income tax examinations ongoing and at various stages of completion, but generally our income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through 2007.

Legal Proceedings

In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class certification ruling. This motion is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

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17    QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

	Quarter Ended
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	December	March		June		September
2012
Operating revenue	192,042	165,461		172,640		180,343
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	14,406	(26,373	)	(1,045	)	(761	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	218	(169	)	(309	)	(2,266	)
Net income (loss)	14,624	(26,542	)	(1,354	)	(3,027	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,554	(26,625	)	(1,473	)	(3,154	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.54	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
2011
Operating revenue	199,485	171,562		180,457		175,815
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	18,747	(1,106	)	(155,067	)	(8,009	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	230	(343	)	(409	)	(724	)
Net income (loss)	18,977	(1,449	)	(155,476	)	(8,733	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	18,941	(1,472	)	(155,553	)	(8,784	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

Results of operations for the December and March quarters of 2012 include reorganization costs of $1,241,000 and $36,626,000, respectively. Results of operations for the December, March and June quarters of 2011 include non-cash curtailment gains of $10,172,000, $1,991,000 and $3,974,000, respectively. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the September quarter of 2012 include non-cash impairment charges of $4,994,000. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the June and September quarters of 2011 include non-cash impairment charges, net of deferred income tax benefit, of $199,325,000 and $17,714,000, respectively.

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries (the Company) as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity (deficit), and cash flows for the 53-week period ended September 30, 2012 and each of the 52-week periods ended September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the consolidated balance sheets of Madison Newspapers, Inc., and Subsidiary (MNI), a 50% owned investee company, as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the years ended September 30, 2012, September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010. The Company's investment in MNI at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, was $22,751,000 and $23,451,000, respectively, and its equity in earnings of MNI was $3,235,000, $3,053,000, and $3,566,000 for the 53-week period ended September 30, 2012, the 52-week period ended September 25, 2011 and the 52-week period ended September 26, 2010, respectively. The consolidated financial statements of MNI were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for MNI, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit 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, based on our audits and the report of the other auditors, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the 53-week period ended September 30, 2012 and each of the 52-week periods ended September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on criteria established in InternalControl - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated December 14, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Chicago, Illinois

December 14, 2012

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EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibits marked with an asterisk (*) are incorporated by reference to documents previously filed by us with the SEC, as indicated. Exhibits marked with a plus (+) are management contracts or compensatory plan contracts or arrangements filed pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K. All other documents listed are filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Number	Description
3.1 *	Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated effective as of January 30, 2012 (Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
3.2 *	Amended and Restated By-Laws of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated effective as of January 30, 2012 (Exhibit 3.2 to Form 8-K filed February 3, 2012)
4 *	The description of the Company's preferred stock purchase rights contained in its report on Form 8-K, filed on May 7, 1998, and related Rights Agreement, dated as of May 7, 1998 (“Rights Agreement”), between the Company and The First Chicago Trust Company of New York (“First Chicago”), as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Rights Agreement dated January 1, 2008 between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (as successor rights agent to First Chicago) contained in the Company's report on Form 8-K filed on January 11, 2008 as Exhibit 4.2, and the related form of Certificate of Designation of the Preferred Stock as Exhibit A, the form of Rights Certificate as Exhibit B and the Summary of Rights as Exhibit C, included as Exhibit 1.1 to the Company's registration statement on Form 8-A filed on May 26, 1998 (File No. 1-6227), as supplemented by Form 8-A/A, Amendment No. 1, filed on January 11, 2008.
10.1 *	Exit Credit Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Goldman Sachs Lending Partners LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunning Managers (Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.2 *	Subsidiaries Guaranty dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among certain Subsidiaries of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated from time to time, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Administrative Agent (Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.3 *	Security Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.4 *	Pledge Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.5 *	Intercreditor Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Deutsche Bank, as Collateral Agent, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Collateral Agent, and Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof (Exhibit 10.5 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.6 *	Intercompany Subordination Agreement by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Deutsche Bank, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.6 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.7 *	Second Lien Loan Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Goldman Sachs Lending Partners LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunning Managers (Exhibit 10.7 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.8 *	Subsidiaries Guaranty dated as of January 30, 2012, by and among St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and Pulitzer Inc. and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Administrative Agent (Exhibit 10.8 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.9*	Security Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.9 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.10 *	Pledge Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and Pulitzer Inc. and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.10 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.11 *	Note Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and certain Noteholders from time to time party thereto (Exhibit 10.11 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)

85

Number	Description
10.12 *	Guaranty Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 of Pulitzer Inc. in favor of certain Noteholders (Exhibit 10.12 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.13 *	Subsidiary Guaranty dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among certain Subsidiaries of Pulitzer Inc., and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Administrative Agent (Exhibit 10.13 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.14 *	Security Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Pulitzer Inc. and St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.14 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.15 *	Pledge Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Pulitzer Inc. and St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.15 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.16 *	Intercreditor Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Collateral Agent, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Collateral Agent, Pulitzer Inc. and St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and certain Subsidiaries thereof (Exhibit 10.16 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.17 *	Intercompany Subordination Agreement dated as of January 30, 2012 by and among Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and certain Subsidiaries thereof, Pulitzer Inc. and St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC and certain Subsidiaries thereof, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Collateral Agent (Exhibit 10.17 to Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012)
10.18 *	Redemption Agreement, dated February 18, 2009, among St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC, STL Distribution Services LLC, The Herald Publishing Company, LLC, Pulitzer Inc. and Pulitzer Technologies, Inc. (Exhibit 10.12 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended March 29, 2009)
10.19 *	Operating Agreement of St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC, dated as of May 1, 2000, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to Operating Agreement of St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC, dated as of June 1, 2001 (Exhibit 10.5 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2005)
10.20 *	Amendment Number Two to Operating Agreement of St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC, effective February 18, 2009, between Pulitzer Inc. and Pulitzer Technologies, Inc. (Exhibit 10.13 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended March 29, 2009)
10.21 *	Amended and Restated Joint Operating Agreement, dated December 22, 1988, between Star Publishing Company and Citizen Publishing Company (Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2005)
10.22 *	Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2009, between Star Publishing Company and Citizen Publishing Company (Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended December 27, 2009)
10.23*	Amended and Restated Management Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2009, between Star Publishing Company and Citizen Publishing Company (Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended December 27, 2009)
10.24*	License Agreement (Star), as amended and restated November 30, 2009, between Star Publishing Company and TNI Partners (Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended December 27, 2009)
10.25*	License Agreement (Citizen), as amended and restated November 30, 2009, between Citizen Publishing Company and TNI Partners (Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended December 27, 2009)
10.26 *	Lease Agreement between Ryan Companies US, Inc. and Lee Enterprises, Incorporated dated May 2003 (Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2003)
10.27 *	License Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2000, by and between Pulitzer Inc. and St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC (Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2005)
10.28*	Non-Confidentiality Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2000 (Exhibit 10.10 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2005)
10.29 +*	Form of Director Compensation Agreement of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated for non-employee director deferred compensation (Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2004)

86

Number	Description
10.30.1 +*	Amended and Restated Lee Enterprises, Incorporated 1990 Long-Term Incentive Plan (effective October 1, 1999, as amended effective January 6, 2010) (Exhibit B to Schedule 14A Definitive Proxy Statement for 2010)
10.30.2 +*	Forms of related Incentive Stock Option Agreement, Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, Accelerated Ownership Stock Option Agreement and Restricted Stock Agreement related to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated 1990 Long-Term Incentive Plan (effective as of October 1, 1999, as amended November 16, 2005). (Exhibit 10.15.1a to Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2005)
10.31 +*	Amended and Restated Lee Enterprises, Incorporated 1996 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors Effective February 17, 2010 (Exhibit A to Schedule 14A Definitive Proxy Statement for 2010)
10.32 +*	Lee Enterprises, Incorporated Supplementary Benefit Plan, Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2008 (Exhibit 10.25 to Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 28, 2008)
10.33 +*	Lee Enterprises, Incorporated Outside Directors Deferral Plan, Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2008 (Exhibit 10.26 to Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended September 28, 2008)
10.34 +*	Form of Amended and Restated Employment Agreement for certain Lee Enterprises, Incorporated Executive Officers Group (Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended March 30, 2008)
10.35 +*	Form of Indemnification Agreement for Lee Enterprises, Incorporated Directors and Executive Officers Group (Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter Ended March 30, 2008)
10.36 +*	Lee Enterprises, Incorporated 2005 Incentive Compensation Program (Appendix A to Schedule 14A Definitive Proxy Statement for 2005)
21	Subsidiaries and associated companies
23.1	Consent of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
23.2	Consent of McGladrey LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
23.3	Report of McGladrey LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
24	Power of Attorney
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32	Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

87

EX-21

EXHIBIT 21

LEE ENTERPRISES, INCORPORATED

AND SUBSIDIARIES

SUBSIDIARIES AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

	State of Organization	Percentage of Voting Securities Owned
Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	Delaware	Parent
Lee Publications, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Lee Procurement Solutions Co.	Iowa	100	%
Lee Consolidated Holdings Co.	South Dakota	100	%
Lee Foundation	Iowa	100	%
Accudata, Inc.	Iowa	100	%
Fairgrove LLC	Delaware	100	%
Flagstaff Publishing Co.	Washington	100	%
Hanford Sentinel, Inc.	Washington	100	%
Journal-Star Printing Co.	Nebraska	100	%
K. Falls Basin Publishing, Inc.	Oregon	100	%
Kauai Publishing Co.	Delaware	100	%
Napa Valley Publishing Co.	Washington	100	%
Pantagraph Publishing Co.	Delaware	100	%
Pulitzer Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Pulitzer Missouri Newspapers, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Pulitzer Newspapers, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Pulitzer Network Systems LLC	Delaware	100	%
Pulitzer Technologies, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Santa Maria Times, Inc.	Nevada	100	%
Sioux City Newspapers, Inc.	Iowa	100	%
Southwestern Oregon Publishing Co.	Oregon	100	%
St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC	Delaware	100	%
STL Distribution Services LLC	Delaware	100	%
Star Publishing Company	Arizona	100	%
Suburban Journals of Greater St. Louis LLC	Delaware	100	%
Ynez Corporation	California	100	%
INN Partners, L.C. d/b/a TownNews.com	Iowa	82.5	%
Community Distribution Partners, LLC	Montana	50	%
Madison Newspapers, Inc. d/b/a Capital Newspapers	Wisconsin	50	%
TNI Partners	Arizona	50	%

EX-23.1

EXHIBIT 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements (No. 333-06435, No. 333-132768, Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to 333-132768, No. 333-167908, and No. 333-16709) on Form S-8 and (No. 333-167907) on Form S-3 of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated of our reports dated December 14, 2012, with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity (deficit), and cash flows for the 53-week period ended September 30, 2012 and each of the 52-week periods ended September 25, 2011 and September 26, 2010, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, which reports appear in the September 30, 2012 annual report on Form 10-K of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Chicago, Illinois

December 14, 2012

EX-23.2

EXHIBIT 23.2

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements (No. 333-06435, No. 333-132768, Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to 333-132768, No. 333-167908, and No. 333-167909) on Forms S-8 and (No. 333-167907) on Form S-3 of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and subsidiaries of our report dated November 20, 2012, relating to our audits of the consolidated balance sheets of Madison Newspapers, Inc. as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012, which appears in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated for the year ended September 30, 2012.

/s/ McGladrey LLP

Madison, Wisconsin

December 14, 2012

EX-23.3

EXHIBIT 23.3

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors

Madison Newspapers, Inc.

Madison, Wisconsin

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Madison Newspapers, Inc. and Subsidiary as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012. 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 the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal controls over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, 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 financial position of Madison Newspapers, Inc. and Subsidiary as of September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012, in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles.

Madison, Wisconsin

November 20, 2012

EX-24

EXHIBIT 24

POWER OF ATTORNEY

We, the undersigned directors of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, hereby severally constitute Mary E. Junck and Carl G. Schmidt, and each of them, our true and lawful attorneys with full power to them, and each of them, to sign for us and in our names, in the capacities indicated below, the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 to be filed herewith and any amendments to said Annual Report, and generally do all such things in our name and behalf in our capacities as directors to enable Lee Enterprises, Incorporated to comply with the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended, and all requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming our signatures as they may be signed by our said attorneys, or either of them, to said Annual Report on Form 10-K and any and all amendments thereto.

Signature	Date
/s/ Richard R. Cole
Richard R. Cole, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Nancy S. Donovan
Nancy S. Donovan, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Leonard J. Elmore
Leonard J. Elmore, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Brent Magid
Brent Magid, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ William E. Mayer
William E. Mayer, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Herbert W. Moloney III
Herbert W. Moloney III, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Andrew E. Newman
Andrew E. Newman, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Gordon D. Prichett
Gordon D. Prichett, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Gregory P. Schermer
Gregory P. Schermer, Director	December 14, 2012
/s/ Mark Vittert
Mark Vittert, Director	December 14, 2012

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I, Mary E. Junck, certify that:

1	I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K ("Annual Report") of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated ("Registrant");
2	Based on my knowledge, this Annual Report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this Annual Report;
3	Based on my knowledge, the Consolidated Financial Statements, and other financial information included in this Annual Report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this Annual Report;
4	The Registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and have:
		a)	designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this Annual Report is being prepared;
		b)	designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
		c)	evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this Annual Report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report based on such evaluation; and
		d)	disclosed in this Annual Report any change in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the Registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5	The Registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Registrant's auditors and the Audit Committee of Registrant's Board of Directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
		a)	all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
		b)	any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: December 14, 2012

/s/ Mary E. Junck

Mary E. Junck

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

I, Carl G. Schmidt, certify that:

1	I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K ("Annual Report") of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated ("Registrant");
2	Based on my knowledge, this Annual Report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this Annual Report;
3	Based on my knowledge, the Consolidated Financial Statements, and other financial information included in this Annual Report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this Annual Report;
4	The Registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and have:
		a)	designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this Annual Report is being prepared;
		b)	designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
		c)	evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this Annual Report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report based on such evaluation; and
		d)	disclosed in this Annual Report any change in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the Registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5	The Registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Registrant's auditors and the Audit Committee of Registrant's Board of Directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
		a)	all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
		b)	any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: December 14, 2012

/s/ Carl G. Schmidt

Carl G. Schmidt

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

EX-32

Exhibit 32

The following statement is being furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission solely for purposes of Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. 1350), which carries with it certain criminal penalties in the event of a knowing or willful misrepresentation.

Securities and Exchange Commission

450 Fifth Street, NW

Washington, DC 20549

Re: Lee Enterprises, Incorporated

Ladies and Gentlemen:

In accordance with the requirements of Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. 1350), each of the undersigned hereby certifies that to our knowledge:

(i)	this annual report on Form 10-K for the period ended September 30, 2012 ("Annual Report"), fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and
(ii)	the information contained in this Annual Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated for the periods presented in the Annual Report.

Date: December 14, 2012

/s/ Mary E. Junck	/s/ Carl G. Schmidt
Mary E. Junck	Carl G. Schmidt
Chairman, President and	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Chief Executive Officer	and Treasurer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and will be retained by Lee Enterprises, Incorporated and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

XML

Basis of Presentation Schedule of Less than 100% Subsidiaries (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
INN Partners [Member]
Schedule Of Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	83.00%

XML

Stock Ownership Plans Stock Option Valuation Assumption (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 3 months 18 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	4 years 8 months 12 days	4 years 8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0.95	$ 2.00
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years 3 months 18 days
Exercise Price Range 1-5 [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 1
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 5
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	8 years 6 months 0 days
Exercise Price Range- 5-50 [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 5
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 50
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	2 years 10 months 24 days

XML

Debt Schedule Of Financing Fees (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Jan. 30, 2012
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Estimated Costs To Refinance	$ 38,628,000
Payments of Financing Costs	32,408,000	11,601,000	453,000
Chapter 11 Expenses	721,000
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense		4,514,000
Present Value Discount				23,709,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Current Fiscal Year	4,085,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Next Fiscal Year	5,418,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 3	5,359,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 4	5,293,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 5	2,429,000
Amortization Of Present Value Discount- Year 6	1,125,000
2011 Refinancing [Member]
Schedule Of Financing Fees [Line Items]
Payments of Financing Costs		$ 6,273,000

XML

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Sep. 25, 2011	Jun. 26, 2011	Mar. 27, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Reorganization costs			$ 36,626,000	$ 1,241,000					$ 37,765,000	$ 0	$ 0
Curtailment gains						3,974,000	1,991,000	10,172,000	0	16,137,000	45,012,000
Asset Impairment Charges, Net Of Tax Benefit	4,994,000				17,714,000	199,325,000
Revenues	180,343,000	172,640,000	165,461,000	192,042,000	175,815,000	180,457,000	171,562,000	199,485,000	710,486,000	727,319,000	748,444,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(761,000)	(1,045,000)	(26,373,000)	14,406,000	(8,009,000)	(155,067,000)	(1,106,000)	18,747,000	(13,772,000)	(145,435,000)	47,297,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,266,000)	(309,000)	(169,000)	218,000	(724,000)	(409,000)	(343,000)	230,000	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(3,027,000)	(1,354,000)	(26,542,000)	14,624,000	(8,733,000)	(155,476,000)	(1,449,000)	18,977,000	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ (3,154,000)	$ (1,473,000)	$ (26,625,000)	$ 14,554,000	$ (8,784,000)	$ (155,553,000)	$ (1,472,000)	$ 18,941,000	$ (16,698,000)	$ (146,868,000)	$ 46,105,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ (0.02)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.18)	$ (3.45)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.42	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.06
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	$ (0.04)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.01	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.03)
Basic	$ (0.06)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.20)	$ (3.46)	$ (0.03)	$ 0.42	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.02)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.18)	$ (3.45)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.42	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.05
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.04)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.01	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.02)
Diluted	$ (0.06)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.5356393284)	$ 0.32	$ (0.20)	$ (3.46)	$ (0.03)	$ 0.42	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03

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Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Feb. 18, 2009 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments	$ 8,640,000
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure				0	0	0	0	300,000	300,000	2,300,000	2,300,000
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges	$ 1,388,000	$ 700,000	$ 899,000

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Debt Schedule of Payments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended				3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012 Previous Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Dec. 14, 2012 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Previous Credit Agreement [Member]	Dec. 14, 2012 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Debt Payments Under Reorganization Plan [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Mandatory Payment [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Mandatory Payment [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Voluntary Payment [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Voluntary Payment [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Payment Due To Asset Sale [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Excess Cash Flow Sweep [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 January 30, 2013 to January 29, 2014 [Member] 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 January 30, 2015 to April 2017 [Member] 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 2012 Member [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 After 2012 [Member] Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Payments [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Annual Principal Payment																						$ 1,400,000	$ 6,400,000
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage																			102.00%	101.00%	100.00%
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$ 1,065,455,000	$ 137,330,000	$ 170,545,000	$ 1,000	$ 17,750,000	$ 27,660,000	$ 0	$ 9,000,000	$ 30,000	$ 12,000	$ 5,000,000	$ 1,000	$ 19,450,000	$ 16,000	$ 3,210,000	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

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Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

	Years
Buildings and improvements	5 - 54
Printing presses and insertion equipment	3 - 28
Other	3 - 20

Intangible Asset Useful Life Table [Table Text Block]

Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows:

	Years
Customer lists	7 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	7 - 33
Noncompete and consulting agreements	15

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Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2009	Sep. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2009	Sep. 28, 2008	Sep. 30, 2012 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	Feb. 18, 2009 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage				95.00%
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed	5.00%
Goodwill- Herald Value				$ 55,594,000
Herald Value- Present Value				73,602,000
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input		10.00%
Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure					300,000	300,000	2,300,000	2,300,000
Herald Value Redemption- Liability Effect			71,302,000
Redemption Agreement- Comprehensive Income Effect			58,521,000
Redemption Agreement- Equity Effect			68,824,000
Hearld Value- Increase in Amortizable Tax Basis			$ 258,000,000

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Discontinued Operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Discontinues Operations [Abstract]

Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Operating revenue	27,852		28,785		32,203
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

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Pension, Postretirement, and Postemployement Obligations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 26, 2011	Mar. 27, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010	Mar. 28, 2010	Dec. 27, 2009	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Curtailment gains		$ 3,974,000	$ 1,991,000	$ 10,172,000			$ 0	$ 16,137,000	$ 45,012,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Curtailment gains					2,004,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost		188,000			668,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation		592,000			2,004,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(30,000)						30,000	169,000	792,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	7,975,000						(7,975,000)	8,354,000	8,888,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets							8,891,000	9,733,000	9,568,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	201,219,000						(2,370,000)	812,000	453,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)							136,000	137,000	136,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments							0	0	2,004,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost							1,348,000	(535,000)	(1,575,000)
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Curtailment gains		3,974,000	1,991,000	10,172,000	11,878,000	31,130,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost		82,000		769,000		1,460,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation		3,371,000	3,030,000	15,065,000	6,576,000	28,750,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(728,000)						728,000	927,000	361,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,109,000						(1,109,000)	1,600,000	2,971,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets							2,129,000	2,248,000	2,274,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)							2,451,000	(2,467,000)	(2,447,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)							1,459,000	1,455,000	1,994,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments							0	16,137,000	43,008,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost							$ (4,202,000)	$ (19,780,000)	$ (46,391,000)

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Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross	$ 1,536,000	$ 1,536,000
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	(1,288,729)	(1,102,448)
Goodwill	247,271	433,552
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0	(186,281)	0
Goodwill	$ 247,271	$ 247,271	$ 433,552

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Other Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Compensation	12,556	10,207
Retirement plans	4,215	4,442
Interest	10,507	4,352
Other	11,281	14,990
	38,559	33,991

Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]

Cash payments are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Interest	72,131	53,133	65,791
Debt financing and reorganization costs	32,408	11,601	453
Income taxes, net of refunds	1,140	10,462	3,753

Cash payments are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Interest	72,131	53,133	65,791
Debt financing and reorganization costs	32,408	11,601	453
Income taxes, net of refunds	1,140	10,462	3,753

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Earnings per Common Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Sep. 25, 2011	Jun. 26, 2011	Mar. 27, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent									$ (14,171,000)	$ (145,622,000)	$ 47,224,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,266,000)	(309,000)	(169,000)	218,000	(724,000)	(409,000)	(343,000)	230,000	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	$ (3,154,000)	$ (1,473,000)	$ (26,625,000)	$ 14,554,000	$ (8,784,000)	$ (155,553,000)	$ (1,472,000)	$ 18,941,000	$ (16,698,000)	$ (146,868,000)	$ 46,105,000
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted Average Common Shares									49,357,000	44,912,000	44,902,000
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock									(96,000)	(65,000)	(347,000)
Basic average common shares									49,261,000	44,847,000	44,555,000
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment									0	0	400,000
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted									49,261,000	44,847,000	44,955,000
Basic	$ (0.06)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.20)	$ (3.46)	$ (0.03)	$ 0.42	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03
Diluted	$ (0.06)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.5356393284)	$ 0.32	$ (0.20)	$ (3.46)	$ (0.03)	$ 0.42	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount									2,334,000	1,944,000	942,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ (0.02)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.18)	$ (3.45)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.42	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.06
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	$ (0.04)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.01	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.03)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.02)	$ (0.02)	$ (0.53)	$ 0.32	$ (0.18)	$ (3.45)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.42	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.05
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.04)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.01	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.02)

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Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 5,387	$ 5,262	$ 5,853
Provision for Doubtful Accounts	1,448	2,497	2,903
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Recoveries	(1,945)	(2,372)	(3,494)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,890	$ 5,387	$ 5,262

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Common Stock and Class B Common Stock Preferred Share Purchase Rights (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Preferred Share Purchase Rights- Exercise Price	$ 150
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Per Share	$ 0.001
2008 And After [Member]
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Beneficial OwnershipThreshold	25.00%
Beneficial Ownership Threshold	15.00%
Beneficial Ownership Percentage- Upper Limit	50.00%
Prior To 2008 [Member]
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Beneficial OwnershipThreshold	20.00%

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Debt Schedule of Debt Covenants (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 27, 2015	Sep. 30, 2012
1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Debt Covenants, Maximum Capital Expenditures		20,000,000
Lee Legacy [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Debt Covenants, Total Debt		836,850,000
1st Lien Agreement [Member] | Lee Legacy [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Leverage Ratio		6.7
Covenant Limitation, Leverage Ratio	9.1	10.0
Consolidated Leverage Ratio		5.7
Interest Coverage Ratio		1.93
Covenant Limitation, Interest Coverage Ratio	1.1	1.25
Pulitzer Notes [Member] | Pulitzer [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Minimum EBITDA Covenant Limitation		25,600,000
January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] | 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Schedule Of Debt Covenants [Line Items]
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage		101.00%

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Goodwill and other Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill related to continuing operations are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Goodwill, gross amount	1,536,000		1,536,000
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)	(1,102,448	)
Goodwill, beginning of year	247,271		433,552
Impairment	—		(186,281	)
Goodwill, end of year	247,271		247,271

Identified intangible assets related to continuing operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,875	28,875
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	864,184	864,184
Less accumulated amortization	441,772	399,477
	422,412	464,707
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,519	28,517
	5	7
	451,292	493,589

Due primarily to the difference between our stock price and the per share carrying value of our net assets, we analyzed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011. Continued deterioration in our revenue and the weak economic environment were also factors in the timing of the analyses. We concluded the fair value of our business did not exceed the carrying value of our net assets in 2011.

As a result, we recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill, nonamortized and amortizable intangible assets in 2011. Additional pretax, non-cash charges were recorded to reduce the carrying value of TNI. We also recorded pretax, non-cash charges to reduce the carrying value of property and equipment in 2010, 2011 and 2012. We recorded deferred income tax benefits related to these charges.

A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899
Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

Future decreases in our market value, or significant differences in revenue, expenses or cash flows from estimates used to determine fair value, could result in additional impairment charges in the future.

Annual amortization of intangible assets for the five years ending September 2017 is estimated to be $38,716,000, $38,564,000, $38,131,000, $36,979,000, and $35,898,000, respectively.

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Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
INN Partners [Member]
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	83.00%
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%

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Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Mastheads	$ 28,875,000	$ 28,875,000
Other intangible assets, net	451,292,000	493,589,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	38,716,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	38,564,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	38,131,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	36,979,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	35,898,000
Customer Lists [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	864,184,000	864,184,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	441,772,000	399,477,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	422,412,000	464,707,000
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	28,524,000	28,524,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	28,519,000	28,517,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 5,000	$ 7,000

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Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Current:
Federal	(8,244	)	4,604		8,673
State	(2,210	)	(55	)	833
Deferred	(466	)	(25,630	)	19,116
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622
Continuing operations	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Discontinued operations	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

The reasons for these differences are as follows:

(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes)	2012		2011		2010
Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	(35.0	)	(35.0	)	35.0
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax expense (benefit)	(1.9	)	(2.3	)	4.3
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates	(6.2	)	(0.5	)	(1.4	)
Domestic production deduction	2.1		(0.5	)	(0.8	)
Resolution of tax matters	(3.9	)	0.5		(3.5	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	—		23.9		—
Valuation allowance	1.8		1.0		(0.1	)
Tax law change	—		—		4.1
Non deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings	9.3		—		—
Changes in tax basis	(5.6	)	—		—
Other	(1.1	)	0.6		0.6
	(40.5	)	(12.3	)	38.2

Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(40,684	)	(29,170	)
Investments	(11,651	)	(6,576	)
Identified intangible assets	(50,472	)	(45,472	)
Long-term debt and interest rate exchange agreements	—		(997	)
Other	(1,155	)	—
	(103,962	)	(82,215	)
Deferred income tax assets:
Long-term debt	33,682		—
Accrued compensation	5,540		7,067
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans	817		1,570
Pension and postretirement benefits	5,569		5,305
State operating loss carryforwards	24,613		23,515
Accrued expenses	2,508		5,024
Other	—		2,063
	72,729		44,544
Valuation allowance	(28,118	)	(27,566	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

Deferred Tax Asset/Liability Classification [Table Text Block]

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Current assets	789		967
Non-current liabilities	(60,140	)	(66,204	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]

A reconciliation of 2012 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Balance, beginning of year	6,752
Decreases in tax positions for prior years	(163	)
Decreases in tax positions for the current year	(360	)
Lapse in statute of limitations	(1,312	)
Balance, end of year	4,917

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Debt Schedule Of Debt Payments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]

Debt is summarized as follows:

	Amount			Interest Rates(%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012
1st Lien Agreement	661,850		—	7.50
2nd Lien Agreement	175,000		—	15.00
Previous credit agreement:
Term loan	—		569,335
Revolving credit facility	—		286,425
Pulitzer Notes	109,000		138,500	10.55
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment	(19,624	)	290
	926,226		994,550
Less current maturities of debt	17,400		994,550
Current amount of present value adjustment	(5,418	)	—
Total long term debt	914,244		—

1st Lien Agreement [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2012 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Mandatory	5,000
Voluntary	19,450
Asset sales	3,210
Excess cash flow	—
	27,660

Pulitzer Notes [Member]

Schedule of Payments [Line Items]

Schedule Of Debt Payments [Table Text Block]

2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Prior to refinancing	500
Pursuant to the Plan, net	11,645
Mandatory	1,400
Voluntary	15,955
Asset sales	—
Excess cash flow	—
	29,500

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Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements Not Practicable (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012	Jan. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Investments	$ 8,640,000
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	926,226,000		995,000
Pulitzer Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Estimate Not Practicable, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	$ 109,000,000	$ 126,355,000	$ 139,000

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Goodwill and other Intangible Assets Schedule of Asset Impairment Charges (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 0	$ 186,281	$ 0
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Impairment Losses	0	13,259	0
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived	0	4,199	0
Tangible Asset Impairment Charges	1,388	700	899
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900	0
Impairment Of Goodwill And Other Assets (Including Equity Method Investments)	1,388	216,339	899
Asset Impairments- Discontinued Operations	3,606	700	2,391
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items]
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	$ 0	$ 11,900	$ 0

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Earnings per Common Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105
Weighted average Common Shares	49,357		44,912		44,902
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(96	)	(65	)	(347	)
Basic average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,555
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	—		—		400
Diluted average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,955
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03
Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

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Stock Ownership Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Options [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]

A summary of stock option activity is as follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012		2011		2010
Under option, beginning of year	1,812		940		1,009
Granted	1,520		1,105		—
Exercised	—		(15	)	—
Canceled	(230	)	(218	)	(69	)
Under option, end of year	3,102		1,812		940
Exercisable, end of year	1,298		552		423

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block]

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Granted	1.16	2.57	—
Under option, end of year	3.18	5.07	8.77

Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]

The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2012 and 2011 option awards:

	2012	2011
Volatility (Percent)	122	111
Risk-free interest rate (Percent)	0.76	1.01
Expected term (Years)	4.7	4.7
Estimated fair value (Dollars)	0.95	2.00

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block]

A summary of stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Dollars)	Options Outstanding			Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Weighted Average Exercise Price	Number Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price
1 - 5	2,971,125	8.5	1.79	1,166,890	2.31
5 - 50	131,321	2.9	34.59	131,321	34.59
	3,102,446	8.2	3.18	1,298,211	5.58

Restricted Stock [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012	2011		2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	299		453
Granted	500	—		—
Vested	—	(297	)	(143	)
Forfeited	—	(2	)	(11	)
Outstanding, end of year	500	—		299

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block]

Weighted average grant date fair values of restricted Common Stock are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	15.02	19.35
Granted	1.31	—	—
Vested	—	15.02	28.73
Forfeited	—	15.02	15.02
Outstanding, end of year	1.31	—	15.02

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Investments in Associated Companies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]

INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

TNI Partners

In Tucson, Arizona, TNI, acting as agent for our subsidiary, Star Publishing Company (“Star Publishing”), and Citizen Publishing Company (“Citizen”), a subsidiary of Gannett Co. Inc., is responsible for printing, delivery, advertising and circulation of the Arizona Daily Star as well as the related digital platforms and specialty publications. TNI collects all receipts and income and pays substantially all operating expenses incident to the partnership's operations and publication of the newspaper and other media.

Income or loss of TNI (before income taxes) is allocated equally to Star Publishing and Citizen.

Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	8,029	7,857
Investments and other assets	13	32
Total assets	8,042	7,889
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	5,601	6,136
Members' equity	2,441	1,753
Total liabilities and members' equity	8,042	7,889

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011	2010
Operating revenue	59,043		62,452	64,379
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	49,568		52,882	52,923
Workforce adjustments	(31	)	1,190	784
Operating income	9,506		8,380	10,672
Company's 50% share	4,753		4,190	5,336
Less amortization of intangible assets	723		1,092	1,156
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,030		3,098	4,180

Star Publishing's 50% share of TNI depreciation and certain general and administrative expenses associated with its share of the operation and administration of TNI are reported as operating expenses (benefit) in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). These amounts totaled $(522,000), $76,000, and $291,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Fees for editorial services provided to TNI by Star Publishing totaled $5,994,000, $7,043,000, and $7,510,000 in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Our impairment analysis resulted in pretax reductions in the carrying value of TNI totaling $11,900,000 in 2011. See Note 4.

At September 30, 2012, the carrying value of the Company's 50% investment in TNI is $19,450,000. The difference between our carrying value and our 50% share of the members' equity of TNI relates principally to goodwill of$12,366,000 and other identified intangible assets of $6,430,000, certain of which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives through 2020. See Note 4.

Annual amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be $620,000 in 2013 and $418,000 in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

Madison Newspapers, Inc.

We have a 50% ownership interest in MNI, which publishes daily and Sunday newspapers, and other publications in Madison, Wisconsin, and other Wisconsin locations, and operates their related digital sites. Net income or loss of MNI (after income taxes) is allocated equally to us and The Capital Times Company (“TCT”). MNI conducts its business under the trade name Capital Newspapers.

Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	24,613	22,287
Investments and other assets	29,986	30,484
Property and equipment, net	7,707	8,519
Total assets	62,306	61,290
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	10,015	8,428
Other liabilities	6,720	5,960
Stockholders' equity	45,571	46,902
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	62,306	61,290

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Operating revenue	70,158	73,011	75,137
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	57,981	60,982	61,467
Workforce adjustments	546	530	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,689	2,227	2,372
Operating income	9,942	9,272	11,002
Net income	6,469	6,106	7,132
Equity in earnings of MNI	3,201	3,053	3,566

Fees for editorial services provided to MNI by us are included in other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and totaled $8,098,000, $8,201,000 and $8,318,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Level 1	—	—
Level 2	—	—
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

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Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Oct. 31, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue		$ 27,852,000	$ 28,785,000	$ 32,203,000
Contract Price Of Disposal Group					11,950,000
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax		(4,076,000)	(2,011,000)	(1,805,000)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation		(1,549,000)	(765,000)	(686,000)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ 2,000,000

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Stock Ownership Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Dec. 27, 2009	Sep. 27, 2009
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock compensation expense	$ 1,080,000	$ 1,287,000	$ 1,974,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	4,539,716
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	1,437,270
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 1,310.00	$ 0.00	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period	0	(2,000)	(11,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	500,000	0	299,000		453,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	500,000	0	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	0	(297,000)	(143,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 0	$ 15,020		$ 19,350
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 1,310	$ 0	$ 15,020	$ 19,350
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	723,000,000	554,000,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options	613,000,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years 3 months 18 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Share Increase (Decrease) in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 0	$ 15,020	$ 28,730
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 0	$ 15,020	$ 15,020
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 1.16	$ 2.57	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period	(230,000)	(218,000)	(69,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	3,102,000	1,812,000	940,000		1,009,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	1,520,000	1,105,000	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	0	(15,000)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	1,298,000	552,000	423,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 5.07	$ 8.77
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 3.18	$ 5.07	$ 8.77
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 5.58
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	457,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options	$ 1,990,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 3 months 18 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0.95	$ 2.00
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP	270,000
Supplemental Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP	8,700
Exercise Price Range 1-5 [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	2,971,125
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	1,167,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 1.79
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 2.31
Exercise Price Range- 5-50 [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	131,321
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	131,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 34.59
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 34.59

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Consolidated Balance Sheet (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 13,920,000	$ 23,555,000
Accounts receivable, net	68,190,000	69,307,000
Income taxes receivable	7,887,000	1,335,000
Inventories	7,454,000	7,060,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current	789,000	967,000
Deferred income taxes		967,000
Other	6,261,000	16,102,000
Assets of discontinued operations	9,171,000	17,415,000
Total current assets	113,672,000	135,741,000
Investments:
Associated companies	42,201,000	44,057,000
Restricted cash and investments	0	4,972,000
Other	10,033,000	9,199,000
Total investments	52,234,000	58,228,000
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements	24,535,000	24,547,000
Buildings and improvements	188,743,000	187,039,000
Equipment	299,905,000	301,281,000
Construction in process	2,567,000	2,852,000
Property, plant and equipment, gross	515,750,000	515,719,000
Less accumulated depreciation	330,531,000	313,678,000
Property and equipment, net	185,219,000	202,041,000
Goodwill	247,271,000	247,271,000
Other intangible assets, net	451,292,000	493,589,000
Postretirement assets, net	7,551,000	14,934,000
Other	3,897,000	6,444,000
Total assets	1,061,136,000	1,158,248,000
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	11,982,000	994,550,000
Accounts payable	22,978,000	26,796,000
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	38,559,000	33,991,000
Unearned revenue	35,078,000	35,365,000
Liabilities of discontinued operations	1,714,000	3,537,000
Total current liabilities	110,311,000	1,094,239,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	914,244,000	0
Pension obligations	68,636,000	73,518,000
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligations	7,160,000	6,104,000
Deferred income taxes	60,140,000	66,204,000
Income taxes payable	6,062,000	8,588,000
Other	8,639,000	10,489,000
Total liabilities	1,175,192,000	1,259,142,000
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Serial convertible preferred stock, no par value; authorized 500 shares; none issued	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	241,039,000	140,887,000
Accumulated deficit	(342,760,000)	(326,062,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	(13,435,000)	(6,086,000)
Total stockholders' deficit	(114,056,000)	(100,894,000)
Non-controlling interests	577,000	452,000
Total deficit	(114,633,000)	(101,346,000)
Total liabilities and deficit	1,061,136,000	1,158,248,000
Common Stock [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	523,000	89,915,000
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common Stock	$ 0	$ 0

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Debt Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments (Details) (USD $)					12 Months Ended					12 Months Ended							1 Months Ended	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	4 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Dec. 14, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Previous Credit Agreement- Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Previous Credit Agreement- Revolver [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Previous Credit Agreement- Revolver [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Feb. 18, 2009 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Dec. 25, 2011 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Jan. 30, 2012 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	May 01, 2000 Pulitzer Notes [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Federal Funds Rate [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Federal Funds Rate [Member] Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Prime Lending Rate [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Prime Lending Rate [Member] Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 30 Day LIBOR [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 30 Day LIBOR [Member] Revolving Line Of Credit [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 January 30, 2014 to January 29, 2015 [Member] 2nd Lien Agreement [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Lee Legacy [Member] 1st Lien Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Leverage Ratio																															6.7
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate			9.20%
Common Stock, Shares, Issued in Refinancing											6,743,640
Fair Value Of Stock Issued In Refinancing											$ 9,576,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount						689,510,000			40,000,000		175,000,000							186,000,000					306,000,000
Long Term Debt, Principal Payments																	5,000,000	120,000,000	10,145,000	15,145,000
Base Interest Rate																								0.50%	0.50%	0.00%		1.00%	1.00%
Base Interest Rate- Minimum 30 Day LIBOR																												1.25%
Interest Rate Margin																								5.25%	4.50%	5.25%	6.25%	6.25%	5.50%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End					7.50%
Description of Collateral, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage					50.00%
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount			926,226,000	995,000	661,850,000		0			175,000,000		0	0	569,000	0	286,000	126,355,000			126,355,000	109,000,000	139,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two			17,400,000		11,000,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three			19,150,000		12,750,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four			19,900,000		13,500,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five			714,400,000		3,375,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage					7.50%					15.00%	15.00%						10.55%			10.55%	10.55%
Unamortized Loan Commitment and Origination Fees and Unamortized Discounts or Premiums			(19,624,000)	0
Long Term Debt, Annual Interest Rate Increase																	0.75%			0.75%
Effective Rate Interest Expense																					871,000
Debt Instrument, Payment Terms										0
Long Term Debt, Repayments Of Principal, Redemption Percentage																														101.00%
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis											13.00%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount											8,750,000						3,500,000			3,500,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities			17,400,000	995,000
Unamortized Present Value Discount- Current Portion			(5,418,000)	0
Long-term Debt			914,244,000	0
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five			175,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity								29,942,000
Liquidity			43,862,000
Debt, Principal Amount		919,100,000
Planned Principal Amount Of Debt	$ 939,000,000

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Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (USD $) Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended							12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 27, 2009 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2009 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Common Class B [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Retained Earnings [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Retained Earnings [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Retained Earnings [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Retained Earnings [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Sep. 25, 2011 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Sep. 26, 2010 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Beginning balance			$ (101,346,000)	$ 56,823,000										$ 89,915,000	$ 78,554,000	$ 78,278,000	$ 523,000	$ 0	$ 11,352,000	$ 11,552,000	$ 0	$ 140,887,000	$ 139,460,000	$ 137,713,000	$ 241,039,000	$ (326,062,000)	$ (179,194,000)	$ (225,299,000)	$ (342,760,000)	$ (6,086,000)	$ 6,651,000	$ 21,354,000	$ (13,435,000)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	52,291	44,958	52,291	44,958	44,953	52,291	44,958	39,277	39,139	0	0	5,676	5,776
Par Value Change- Common Stock Shares						0	0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities														0	11,352,000	200,000
Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted																		0	(11,352,000)	(200,000)
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted										0	(5,676)	(100)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax																														0	0	2,334,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax																														(12,455,000)	(21,518,000)	(26,179,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax																														5,106,000	8,781,000	9,142,000
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(3,027,000)	(8,733,000)	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000																					(16,299,000)		46,178,000
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest			399,000	187,000	73,000																					(399,000)	(187,000)	(73,000)
Change In Par Value														(89,466,000)	0	0						89,466,000	0	0
Share-based Compensation																						1,080,000	1,502,000	1,911,000
Conversion of Stock, Shares Issued						0	5,676	100
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues														74,000	209,000	190,000						9,606,000	(75,000)	(164,000)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						7,333	105	95
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value														$ 0	$ (200,000)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares						0	(100)	(57)

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Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 30, 2012
Before January 30, 2012 Refinancing [Member]
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 2.00
After January 30, 2012 Refinancing [Member]
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01
2nd Lien Agreement [Member]
Common Stock, Effect of Plan of Reorganization [Line Items]
Common Stock, Shares, Issued in Refinancing	6,743,640
Common Stock Issued In Refinancing, Percent of Total On A Pro Forma Basis	13.00%

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Postretirement Obligations (Tables) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

The net periodic postretirement benefit cost components for our postretirement plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	728		927		361
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,109		1,600		2,971
Expected return on plan assets	(2,129	)	(2,248	)	(2,274	)
Amortization of net actuarial gain	(2,451	)	(2,467	)	(2,447	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(1,459	)	(1,455	)	(1,994	)
Curtailment gains	—		(16,137	)	(43,008	)
Net periodic postretirement benefit	(4,202	)	(19,780	)	(46,391	)

Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	26,472		50,482
Service cost	728		927
Interest cost	1,109		1,600
Actuarial (gain) loss	5,269		(2,311	)
Benefits paid, net of premiums received	(2,965	)	(2,922	)
Changes in plan provisions	—		(5,931	)
Curtailment gains	—		(15,535	)
Medicare Part D subsidies	115		162
Benefit obligation, end of year	30,728		26,472
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	38,529		41,447
Actual return on plan assets	2,127		19
Employer contributions (reimbursements)	(690	)	1,347
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received	(2,851	)	(2,760	)
Benefits paid for active employees	(2,852	)	(1,524	)
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date	34,263		38,529
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets	(3,535	)	(12,057	)

Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Noncurrent assets	7,551	14,934
Postretirement benefit obligations	4,016	2,877
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	30,344	42,379

Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,570	27,145
Unrecognized prior service benefit	13,774	15,234
	30,344	42,379

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	5.75

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	5.75	5.75	5.75

Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Health care cost trend rates	9.0	9.0
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the “Ultimate Trend Rate”)	5.0	5.0
Year in which the rate reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate	2020	2019

Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]

A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following annualized effects on reported amounts for 2012:

	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease
Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	53	(48	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	1,452	(1,306	)

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

The weighted-average asset allocation of our postretirement assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	10-30	21	8
Debt securities	70-90	75	85
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	7
Receivables, net	—	2	—

Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	692	—	—
Receivables, net	803	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,385	2,069	—
International equity securities	—	671	—
Debt securities	—	25,643	—

Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid either with future contributions to the plan or directly from plan assets, as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Gross Payments	Less Medicare Part D Subsidy		Net Payments
2013	3,280	(220	)	3,060
2014	3,080	(230	)	2,850
2015	2,980	(230	)	2,750
2016	2,960	(230	)	2,730
2017	2,900	(230	)	2,670
2018-2022	13,280	(1,100	)	12,180

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Postretirement Obligations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 26, 2011	Mar. 27, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010	Mar. 28, 2010	Dec. 27, 2009	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Curtailment gains		$ 3,974,000	$ 1,991,000	$ 10,172,000				$ 0	$ 16,137,000	$ 45,012,000
Postretirement assets, net	7,551,000							7,551,000	14,934,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Curtailment gains		3,974,000	1,991,000	10,172,000	11,878,000	31,130,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost		82,000		769,000		1,460,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	3,280,000							3,280,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Next Twelve Months	(220,000)							(220,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Next Twelve Months	3,060,000							3,060,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components								53,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year								9.00%	9.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate							4.00%		5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%							4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax								16,570,000	27,000
Postretirement assets, net	7,551,000							7,551,000	15,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	4,016,000							4,016,000	3,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	30,728,000							30,728,000	26,472,000	50,482,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	728,000							(728,000)	(927,000)	(361,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	(1,109,000)							1,109,000	(1,600,000)	(2,971,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets								(2,129,000)	(2,248,000)	(2,274,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)								(2,451,000)	2,467,000	2,447,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)								(1,459,000)	(1,455,000)	(1,994,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments								0	(16,137,000)	(43,008,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost								(4,202,000)	(19,780,000)	(46,391,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)								5,269,000	(2,311,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid								(2,965,000)	(2,922,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid For Non-Participants								(2,852,000)	(1,524,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments								0	(5,931,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments								0	(15,535,000)
Prescription Drug Benefit, Effect of Subsidy on Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost								115,000	162,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	34,263,000							34,263,000	38,529,000	41,447,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets								2,127,000	19,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer								(690,000)	1,347,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Net Of Subsidy								(2,851,000)	(2,760,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(3,535,000)							(3,535,000)	(12,057,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	30,344,000							30,344,000	42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax								13,774,000	15,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax								30,344,000	42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Expected Long-term Return on Assets	4.50%							4.50%	5.75%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets							6.00%		6.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate								5.00%	5.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate	2020							2020	2019
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components								(48,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation								1,452,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation								(1,306,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	3,080,000							3,080,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Two	(230,000)							(230,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 2	2,850,000							2,850,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	2,980,000							2,980,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Three	(230,000)							(230,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 3	2,750,000							2,750,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	2,960,000							2,960,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Four	(230,000)							(230,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 4	2,730,000							2,730,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	2,900,000							2,900,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Five	(230,000)							(230,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, Year 5	2,670,000							2,670,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	13,280,000							13,280,000
Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, after Year Five	(1,100,000)							(1,100,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments Net of Subsidy, After Year 5	12,180,000							12,180,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation		3,371,000	3,030,000	15,065,000	6,576,000	28,750,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Litigation Settlement								3,000,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	21.00%							21.00%	8.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum								10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum								30.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	75.00%							75.00%	85.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum								70.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum								90.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25,642,660.000							25,642,660.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%							2.00%	7.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	691,905.000							691,905.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%							2.00%	0.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	802,801.000							802,801.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Curtailment gains					2,004,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment and Curtailment on Net Periodic Benefit Cost		188,000			668,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	11,000							11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate								4.00%	5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%							4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax							2,287,000	(51,871,000)	(51,459,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	66,319,000							66,319,000	71,230,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	201,219,000							201,219,000	186,826,000	178,179,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	30,000							(30,000)	(169,000)	(792,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	(7,975,000)							7,975,000	(8,354,000)	(8,888,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets								(8,891,000)	(9,733,000)	(9,568,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	(201,219,000)							2,370,000	(812,000)	(453,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)								(136,000)	(137,000)	(136,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments								0	0	(2,004,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost								1,348,000	(535,000)	(1,575,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)								17,268,000	12,299,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid								(10,880,000)	(11,584,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments								0	(591,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	134,900,000							134,900,000	115,596,000	125,464,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets								24,849,000	1,007,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer							2,733,000	6,807,000	2,137,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	66,319,000							66,319,000	71,230,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	(50,945,000)							(50,945,000)	(50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax							(137,000)	926,000	1,063,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax								(50,945,000)	(50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets							0.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	11,000							11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	11,000							11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	11,000							11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	11,000							11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	58,000							58,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment or Curtailment on the Accumulated Benefit Obligation		592,000			2,004,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	63.00%							63.00%	66.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum								50.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum								75.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	29.00%							29.00%	33.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum								25.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum								35.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	32,169,494.000							32,169,494.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	7,759,444.000							7,759,444.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%							2.00%	1.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,028,505.000							2,028,505.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	6.00%							6.00%	0.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	8,117,459.000							8,117,459.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
LTD Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	3,143,000							3,143,000	3,227,000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,384,746.000							4,384,746.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,068,890.000							2,068,890.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	27,499,395.000							27,499,395.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	47,713,917.000							47,713,917.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	671,069.000							671,069.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000							0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	9,612,986.000							9,612,986.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000							$ 0.000

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Other Information

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Other Information [Text Block]

OTHER INFORMATION

Compensation and other accrued liabilities consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Compensation	12,556	10,207
Retirement plans	4,215	4,442
Interest	10,507	4,352
Other	11,281	14,990
	38,559	33,991

Cash payments are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Interest	72,131	53,133	65,791
Debt financing and reorganization costs	32,408	11,601	453
Income taxes, net of refunds	1,140	10,462	3,753

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes at September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011 is related to pension and postretirement benefits.

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Allowance For Doubtful Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Receivables [Abstract]

Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]

Valuation and qualifying account information related to the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable related to continuing operations is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Balance, beginning of year	5,387		5,262		5,853
Additions charged to expense	1,448		2,497		2,903
Deductions from reserves	(1,945	)	(2,372	)	(3,494	)
Balance, end of year	4,890		5,387		5,262

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Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]

Basis of Presentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“INN”).

Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fiscal Year

All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 and 2010 include 52 weeks.

Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Subsequent Events

We have evaluated subsequent events through December 14, 2012. No events have occurred subsequent to September 30, 2012 that require disclosure or recognition in these financial statements, except as included herein.

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying

values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Principles of Consolidation

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Investments in TNI and MNI are accounted for using the equity method and are reported at cost, plus our share of undistributed earnings since acquisition less, for TNI, amortization of intangible assets.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.

Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in accounts payable and are classified as financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Accounts Receivable

We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical credit experience, payment trends and other economic factors. Delinquency is determined based on timing of payments in relation to billing dates. Accounts considered to be uncollectible are written off.

Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Inventories

Newsprint inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out methods. Newsprint inventories at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011 are less than replacement cost by $3,556,000 and $3,895,000, respectively.

The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

Other inventories consisting of ink, plates and film are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out method.

Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other Investments

Other investments primarily consist of marketable securities held in trust under a deferred compensation arrangement and investments for which no established market exists. Marketable securities are classified as trading securities and carried at fair value with gains and losses reported in earnings. Non-marketable securities are carried at cost.

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost. Equipment, except for printing presses and preprint insertion equipment, is depreciated primarily by declining-balance methods. The straight-line method is used for all other assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows:

	Years
Buildings and improvements	5 - 54
Printing presses and insertion equipment	3 - 28
Other	3 - 20

We capitalize interest as a component of the cost of constructing major facilities. At September 30, 2012andSeptember 25, 2011, capitalized interest was not significant.

We recognize the fair value of a liability for a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity when such activity is a condition of a future event and the fair value of the liability can be estimated.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Intangible assets include covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, customer lists, newspaper subscriber lists and mastheads. Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows:

	Years
Customer lists	7 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	7 - 33
Noncompete and consulting agreements	15

In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year.

We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating or cash flow losses related to such assets.

Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value.

Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset.

The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results.

We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets.

We also periodically evaluate the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share. See Note 4.

Minority Interest Policy [Policy Text Block]

Minority Interest

Minority interest in earnings of INN is recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Revenue Recognition

Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising.

Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Advertising Costs

A substantial amount of our advertising and promotion expense consists of ads placed in our own publications and digital products using available space. The incremental cost of such advertising is not significant and is not measured separately by us. External advertising costs are not significant and are expensed as incurred.

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Income Taxes

Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to measure and report fair value. FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FASB ASC Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable, which consists of the following levels:

Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets.

Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable.

Valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement assets measured at fair value are as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents consist of short term deposits valued based on quoted prices in active markets. Such investments are classified as Level 1.

Equity securities are valued based on the closing market price in an active market and are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Debt securities consist of corporate bonds and government securities that are valued based upon quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]

Stock Compensation

We have four stock-based compensation plans. We account for grants under those plans under the fair value expense recognition provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. Key inputs to this formula include expected term, expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate.

The expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding, and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The volatility factor is calculated using historical market data for our Common Stock. The time frame used is equal to the expected term. We base the risk-free interest rate on the yield to maturity at the time of the stock option grant on zero-coupon U.S. government bonds having a remaining term equal to the option's expected term. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behavior as well as actual option forfeitures.

We amortize as compensation expense the value of stock options and restricted Common Stock using the straight-line method over the vesting or restriction period, which is generally one to three years.

Uninsured Risks Policy [Policy Text Block]

Uninsured Risks

We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts. Letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $6,256,000 at September 30, 2012 are outstanding in support of our insurance program.

Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry.

Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Land and Equipment, the operations and related losses on businesses sold, or identified as held for sale, have been presented as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all years presented. Gains are recognized when realized.

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Other Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Salaries, Current	$ 12,556	$ 10,207
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current	4,215	4,442
Interest Payable, Current	10,507	4,352
Other Liabilities	11,281	14,990
Compensation and other accrued liabilities	$ 38,559	$ 33,991

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Discontinued Operations

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Discontinues Operations [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In October 2012, we sold the North County Times in Escondido, CA for $11,950,000, before income taxes. The transaction resulted in a gain of approximately $2,000,000, after income taxes, which was recorded in October 2012. Operating results of the North County Times have been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Results of discontinued operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Operating revenue	27,852		28,785		32,203
Loss from discontinued operations, before income taxes	(4,076	)	(2,011	)	(1,805	)
Income tax benefit	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
Net loss	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)

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Consolidated Balance Sheet Parentheticals (Parentheticals) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 4,890	$ 5,387
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 2.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	51,791,000	44,958,000
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 2.00	$ 2.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	30,000,000	30,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	0	0

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Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned, except for our 50% interest in TNI Partners (“TNI”), 50% interest in Madison Newspapers, Inc. (“MNI”) and 82.5% interest in INN Partners, L.C. (“INN”).

Fiscal Year

All of our enterprises use period accounting with the fiscal year ending on the last Sunday in September. Due to our fiscal calendar, 2012 includes 53 weeks of business operations. 2011 and 2010 include 52 weeks.

Subsequent Events

We have evaluated subsequent events through December 14, 2012. No events have occurred subsequent to September 30, 2012 that require disclosure or recognition in these financial statements, except as included herein.

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying

values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Principles of Consolidation

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Investments in TNI and MNI are accounted for using the equity method and are reported at cost, plus our share of undistributed earnings since acquisition less, for TNI, amortization of intangible assets.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.

Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in accounts payable and are classified as financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Accounts Receivable

We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical credit experience, payment trends and other economic factors. Delinquency is determined based on timing of payments in relation to billing dates. Accounts considered to be uncollectible are written off.

Inventories

Newsprint inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out methods. Newsprint inventories at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011 are less than replacement cost by $3,556,000 and $3,895,000, respectively.

The components of newsprint inventory by cost method are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
First-in, first-out	2,848	2,595
Last-in, first-out	2,723	2,719
	5,571	5,314

Other inventories consisting of ink, plates and film are priced at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined by the first-in, first-out method.

Other Investments

Other investments primarily consist of marketable securities held in trust under a deferred compensation arrangement and investments for which no established market exists. Marketable securities are classified as trading securities and carried at fair value with gains and losses reported in earnings. Non-marketable securities are carried at cost.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are carried at cost. Equipment, except for printing presses and preprint insertion equipment, is depreciated primarily by declining-balance methods. The straight-line method is used for all other assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows:

	Years
Buildings and improvements	5 - 54
Printing presses and insertion equipment	3 - 28
Other	3 - 20

We capitalize interest as a component of the cost of constructing major facilities. At September 30, 2012andSeptember 25, 2011, capitalized interest was not significant.

We recognize the fair value of a liability for a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity when such activity is a condition of a future event and the fair value of the liability can be estimated.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Intangible assets include covenants not to compete, consulting agreements, customer lists, newspaper subscriber lists and mastheads. Intangible assets subject to amortization are being amortized using the straight-line method as follows:

	Years
Customer lists	7 - 23
Newspaper subscriber lists	7 - 33
Noncompete and consulting agreements	15

In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets, we annually assess qualitative factors affecting our business to determine if the probability of a goodwill impairment is more likely than not. Our assessment includes reviewing internal and external factors affecting our business such as cash flow projections, stock price and other industry or market considerations. This assessment is normally made in the last fiscal quarter of each year.

We analyze goodwill and other nonamortized intangible assets for impairment more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate and operating or cash flow losses related to such assets.

Should we determine that a goodwill impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the fair value of our business. Fair value is determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimates fair value based upon future revenue, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimates fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies in the publishing industry. A non-cash impairment charge will generally be recognized when the carrying amount of the net assets of the business exceeds its estimated fair value.

Should we determine that a nonamortized intangible asset impairment is more likely than not, we make a determination of the individual asset's fair value. Fair value is determined using the relief from royalty method, which estimates fair value based upon appropriate royalties of future revenue discounted to their present value. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of such asset.

The required valuation methodology and underlying financial information that are used to determine fair value require significant judgments to be made by us. These judgments include, but are not limited to, long term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results.

We review our amortizable intangible assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present. We assess recoverability of these assets by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset or asset group with their carrying amount. The impairment amount, if any, is calculated based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets.

We also periodically evaluate the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets. Any resulting changes in the useful lives of such intangible assets will not impact our cash flows. However, a decrease in the useful lives of such intangible assets would increase future amortization expense and decrease future reported operating results and earnings per common share. See Note 4.

Minority Interest

Minority interest in earnings of INN is recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Revenue Recognition

Advertising revenue is recorded when advertisements are placed in the publication or on the related digital product. Circulation revenue is recorded over the print or digital product subscription term or as such newspapers are individually sold. Other revenue is recognized when the related product or service has been delivered. Unearned revenue arises in the ordinary course of business from advance subscription payments for print or digital products or advance payments for advertising.

Advertising Costs

A substantial amount of our advertising and promotion expense consists of ads placed in our own publications and digital products using available space. The incremental cost of such advertising is not significant and is not measured separately by us. External advertising costs are not significant and are expensed as incurred.

Pension, Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Plans

We evaluate our liabilities for pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit plans based upon computations made by consulting actuaries, incorporating estimates and actuarial assumptions of future plan service costs, future interest costs on projected benefit obligations, rates of compensation increases, employee turnover rates, anticipated mortality rates, expected investment returns on plan assets, asset allocation assumptions of plan assets and other factors. If we used different estimates and assumptions regarding these plans, the funded status of the plans could vary significantly, resulting in recognition of different amounts of expense over future periods.

We use a fiscal year end measurement date for all our pension and postretirement obligations in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 715, Retirement Plans.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are provided using the liability method, whereby deferred income tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and loss carryforwards and deferred income tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the difference between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in our opinion, it is more likely than not some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.

We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

We utilize FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to measure and report fair value. FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FASB ASC Topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy of fair value measurements based on whether the inputs to those measurements are observable or unobservable, which consists of the following levels:

Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in active markets.

Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable.

Valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement assets measured at fair value are as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents consist of short term deposits valued based on quoted prices in active markets. Such investments are classified as Level 1.

Equity securities are valued based on the closing market price in an active market and are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Debt securities consist of corporate bonds and government securities that are valued based upon quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 1. Certain investments in commingled funds are valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices. Such investments are classified as Level 2.

Stock Compensation

We have four stock-based compensation plans. We account for grants under those plans under the fair value expense recognition provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing formula. Key inputs to this formula include expected term, expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate.

The expected term represents the period that our stock-based awards are expected to be outstanding, and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The volatility factor is calculated using historical market data for our Common Stock. The time frame used is equal to the expected term. We base the risk-free interest rate on the yield to maturity at the time of the stock option grant on zero-coupon U.S. government bonds having a remaining term equal to the option's expected term. When estimating forfeitures, we consider voluntary termination behavior as well as actual option forfeitures.

We amortize as compensation expense the value of stock options and restricted Common Stock using the straight-line method over the vesting or restriction period, which is generally one to three years.

Uninsured Risks

We are self-insured for health care, workers compensation and certain long-term disability costs of our employees, subject to stop loss insurance, which limits exposure to large claims. We accrue our estimated health care costs in the period in which such costs are incurred, including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims. Other risks are insured and carry deductible losses of varying amounts. Letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $6,256,000 at September 30, 2012 are outstanding in support of our insurance program.

Our accrued reserves for health care and workers compensation claims are based upon estimates of the remaining liability for retained losses made by consulting actuaries. The amount of workers compensation reserve has been determined based upon historical patterns of incurred and paid loss development factors from the insurance industry.

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Land and Equipment, the operations and related losses on businesses sold, or identified as held for sale, have been presented as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all years presented. Gains are recognized when realized.

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Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Lee Enterprises, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0000058361
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	51,791,241
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float		$ 57,507,000

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Pensions

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Pension Disclosure [Abstract]

Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]

PENSION PLANS

We have several noncontributory defined benefit pension plans that together cover selected employees. Benefits under the plans were generally based on salary and years of service. Effective in 2012 all benefits are frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. Plan funding strategies are influenced by government regulations. Plan assets consist primarily of domestic and foreign corporate equity securities, government and corporate bonds, and cash.

The net periodic cost components of our pension plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	30		169		792
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	7,975		8,354		8,888
Expected return on plan assets	(8,891	)	(9,733	)	(9,568	)
Amortization of net loss	2,370		812		453
Amortization of prior service benefit	(136	)	(137	)	(136	)
Curtailment gains	—		—		(2,004	)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	1,348		(535	)	(1,575	)

Net periodic pension benefit of $56,000, $56,000 and $122,000 is allocated to TNI in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	186,826		178,179
Service cost	30		169
Interest cost	7,975		8,354
Actuarial loss	17,268		12,299
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Curtailment gain	—		(591	)
Benefit obligation, end of year	201,219		186,826
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year:	115,596		125,464
Actual return on plan assets	24,849		1,007
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Administrative expenses paid	(1,472	)	(1,428	)
Employer contributions	6,807		2,137
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	134,900		115,596
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	66,319		71,230

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Pension obligations	66,319		71,230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(51,871	)	(51,459	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	926		1,063
	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

We expect to recognize $2,287,000 and $137,000 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic pension cost in 2013.

The accumulated benefit obligation for the plans total $201,219,000 at September 30, 2012and $186,672,000 at September 25, 2011. The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are $201,219,000, $201,219,000, and $134,900,000, respectively, at September 30, 2012.

Assumptions

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.9	8.0	8.0
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5	3.5

For 2013, the expected long-term return on plan assets is 7.5%. The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions.

Plan Assets

The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our pension obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds.

An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation.

The weighted-average asset allocation of our pension assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	50-75	63	66
Debt securities	25-35	29	33
Private equity investments	0-12	—	—
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	1
Receivables, net	—	6	—

Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines. At September 30, 2012, certain plan assets were in process of reallocation. These assets were invested in equity securities in October 2012. In 2012, the policy allocation was amended to allow private equity investments.

New collective bargaining agreements in 2011 and 2010 resulted in the freezing of certain defined pension benefits in 2011 and 2010 and non-cash curtailment gains in 2010.  See Note 7. 

Fair Value Measurements

The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	2,029	—	—
Receivables, net	8,117	—	—
Domestic equity securities	27,499	47,714	—
International equity securities	—	9,613	—
Debt securities	32,169	7,759	—

There were no purchases, sales or transfer of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we expect to make contributions totaling $2,733,000 to our pension trust in 2013.

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid from the pension trust as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)
2013	11,421
2014	11,263
2015	11,277
2016	11,356
2017	11,430
2018-2022	57,603

Other Plans

We are obligated under an unfunded plan to provide fixed retirement payments to certain former employees. The plan is frozen and no additional benefits are being accrued. The accrued liability under the plan is $2,595,000 and $2,654,000 at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011, respectively, of which $279,000 is included in compensation and other accrued liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2012.

Certain of our current and former employees participate in multi-employer retirement plans sponsored by their respective bargaining units. The amount charged to operating expense, representing our required contributions to these plans, is $398,000 in 2012, $488,000 in 2011 and $497,000 in 2010. At September 30, 2012 and September 25, 2011, we have accrued multi-employer plan withdrawal liabilities of $1,426,000 and $1,319,000, respectively.

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Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Operating revenue:
Advertising	$ 495,872,000	$ 517,348,000	$ 537,223,000
Circulation	174,747,000	172,245,000	171,155,000
Other	39,867,000	37,726,000	40,066,000
Total operating revenue	710,486,000	727,319,000	748,444,000
Operating expenses:
Compensation	276,379,000	283,527,000	298,873,000
Newsprint and ink	52,003,000	56,191,000	51,707,000
Other operating expenses	214,570,000	220,656,000	227,603,000
Depreciation	23,620,000	25,833,000	26,716,000
Amortization of intangible assets	42,297,000	44,473,000	45,208,000
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388,000	204,439,000	899,000
Workforce adjustments	4,640,000	3,922,000	1,199,000
Total operating expenses	614,897,000	839,041,000	652,205,000
Curtailment gains	0	16,137,000	45,012,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	7,231,000	6,151,000	7,746,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Operating income (loss)	102,820,000	(101,334,000)	148,997,000
Non-operating income (expense):
Financial income	236,000	296,000	411,000
Financial expense	(83,078,000)	(52,696,000)	(63,117,000)
Debt financing costs	(2,823,000)	(12,612,000)	(8,514,000)
Other, net	(2,533,000)	595,000	(1,172,000)
Total non-operating expense, net	(88,198,000)	(64,417,000)	(72,392,000)
Income (loss) before reorganization costs and income taxes	14,622,000	(165,751,000)	76,605,000
Reorganization costs	37,765,000	0	0
Loss before income taxes	(23,143,000)	(165,751,000)	76,605,000
Income tax benefit	(9,371,000)	(20,316,000)	29,308,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(13,772,000)	(145,435,000)	47,297,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Net loss	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	(399,000)	(187,000)	(73,000)
Loss attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	(16,698,000)	(146,868,000)	46,105,000
Other comprehensive income, net	(7,348,000)	(12,737,000)	(14,704,000)
Comprehensive loss	(24,046,000)	(159,605,000)	31,401,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent	$ (14,171,000)	$ (145,622,000)	$ 47,224,000
Loss per common share:
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.06
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.03)
Basic	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.29)	$ (3.25)	$ 1.05
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.02)
Diluted	$ (0.34)	$ (3.27)	$ 1.03

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Earnings per Common Share

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Earnings Loss Per Common Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share:

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares, Except Per Common Share Data)	2012		2011		2010
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated:
Continuing operations	(14,171	)	(145,622	)	47,224
Discontinued operations	(2,527	)	(1,246	)	(1,119	)
	(16,698	)	(146,868	)	46,105
Weighted average Common Shares	49,357		44,912		44,902
Less non-vested restricted Common Stock	(96	)	(65	)	(347	)
Basic average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,555
Dilutive stock options and restricted Common Stock	—		—		400
Diluted average Common Shares	49,261		44,847		44,955
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.06
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.03	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03
Diluted:
Continuing operations	(0.29	)	(3.25	)	1.05
Discontinued operations	(0.05	)	(0.03	)	(0.02	)
	(0.34	)	(3.27	)	1.03

For 2012, 2011 and 2010, we had 2,334,000, 1,944,000, and 942,000 weighted average shares, respectively, subject to issuance under our stock option and employee stock purchase plans that have no intrinsic value. No stock options were considered in the computation of loss per common share in 2012 or 2011.

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Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Current:
Federal	(8,244	)	4,604		8,673
State	(2,210	)	(55	)	833
Deferred	(466	)	(25,630	)	19,116
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622
Continuing operations	(9,371	)	(20,316	)	29,308
Discontinued operations	(1,549	)	(765	)	(686	)
	(10,920	)	(21,081	)	28,622

Income tax expense (benefit) related to continuing operations differs from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes. The reasons for these differences are as follows:

(Percent of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes)	2012		2011		2010
Computed “expected” income tax expense (benefit)	(35.0	)	(35.0	)	35.0
State income taxes (benefit), net of federal tax expense (benefit)	(1.9	)	(2.3	)	4.3
Net income of associated companies taxed at dividend rates	(6.2	)	(0.5	)	(1.4	)
Domestic production deduction	2.1		(0.5	)	(0.8	)
Resolution of tax matters	(3.9	)	0.5		(3.5	)
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	—		23.9		—
Valuation allowance	1.8		1.0		(0.1	)
Tax law change	—		—		4.1
Non deductible costs of Chapter 11 Proceedings	9.3		—		—
Changes in tax basis	(5.6	)	—		—
Other	(1.1	)	0.6		0.6
	(40.5	)	(12.3	)	38.2

Net deferred income tax liabilities consist of the following components:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(40,684	)	(29,170	)
Investments	(11,651	)	(6,576	)
Identified intangible assets	(50,472	)	(45,472	)
Long-term debt and interest rate exchange agreements	—		(997	)
Other	(1,155	)	—
	(103,962	)	(82,215	)
Deferred income tax assets:
Long-term debt	33,682		—
Accrued compensation	5,540		7,067
Allowance for doubtful accounts and losses on loans	817		1,570
Pension and postretirement benefits	5,569		5,305
State operating loss carryforwards	24,613		23,515
Accrued expenses	2,508		5,024
Other	—		2,063
	72,729		44,544
Valuation allowance	(28,118	)	(27,566	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

Net deferred income tax liabilities are classified as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Current assets	789		967
Non-current liabilities	(60,140	)	(66,204	)
Net deferred income tax liabilities	(59,351	)	(65,237	)

A reconciliation of 2012 changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Balance, beginning of year	6,752
Decreases in tax positions for prior years	(163	)
Decreases in tax positions for the current year	(360	)
Lapse in statute of limitations	(1,312	)
Balance, end of year	4,917

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was $3,264,000 at September 30, 2012. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The amount of accrued interest related to unrecognized tax benefits was, net of tax, $710,000 at September 30, 2012and$1,139,000 at September 25, 2011. There were no amounts provided for penalties at September 30, 2012orSeptember 25, 2011.

At September 30, 2012, we had approximately $796,814,000 of net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for state tax purposes that expire between 2014 and 2032. Such NOLs result in a deferred income tax asset of $24,613,000 at September 30, 2012, substantially all of which is offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance not related to NOLs is $ 3,613,000 at September 30, 2012 and $4,068,000 at September 25, 2011.

In connection with the refinancing of debt under the Chapter 11 Proceedings, we realized substantial cancellation of debt income (“CODI”) for income tax purposes. However, this income was not immediately taxable for U.S. income tax purposes because the CODI resulted from our reorganization under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. For U.S. income tax reporting purposes, we are required to reduce certain tax attributes, including any net operating loss carryforwards, capital losses, certain tax credit carryforwards, and the tax basis in certain assets and liabilities, including debt, in a total amount equal to the tax gain on the extinguishment of debt.  As a result, in February 2012 we began recognizing additional interest expense deductions for income tax purposes.  The reduction in the basis of certain assets will result in reduced  depreciation and amortization expense for income tax purposes beginning in 2013.

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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

	Quarter Ended
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	December	March		June		September
2012
Operating revenue	192,042	165,461		172,640		180,343
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	14,406	(26,373	)	(1,045	)	(761	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	218	(169	)	(309	)	(2,266	)
Net income (loss)	14,624	(26,542	)	(1,354	)	(3,027	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,554	(26,625	)	(1,473	)	(3,154	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.54	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
2011
Operating revenue	199,485	171,562		180,457		175,815
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	18,747	(1,106	)	(155,067	)	(8,009	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	230	(343	)	(409	)	(724	)
Net income (loss)	18,977	(1,449	)	(155,476	)	(8,733	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	18,941	(1,472	)	(155,553	)	(8,784	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

Results of operations for the December and March quarters of 2012 include reorganization costs of $1,241,000 and $36,626,000, respectively. Results of operations for the December, March and June quarters of 2011 include non-cash curtailment gains of $10,172,000, $1,991,000 and $3,974,000, respectively. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the September quarter of 2012 include non-cash impairment charges of $4,994,000. Results of operations, including discontinued operations, for the June and September quarters of 2011 include non-cash impairment charges, net of deferred income tax benefit, of $199,325,000 and $17,714,000, respectively.

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Postretirement Obligations (Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]

POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

We provide retiree medical and life insurance benefits under postretirement plans at several of our operating locations. The level and adjustment of participant contributions vary depending on the specific plan. In addition, PD LLC provides postemployment disability benefits to certain employee groups prior to retirement. Our liability and related expense for benefits under the postretirement plans are recorded over the service period of active employees based upon annual actuarial calculations. We accrue postemployment disability benefits when it becomes probable that such benefits will be paid and when sufficient information exists to make reasonable estimates of the amounts to be paid. In 2011 the trust was amended to allow benefits for certain active employees to be paid from plan assets.

The net periodic postretirement benefit cost components for our postretirement plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	728		927		361
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	1,109		1,600		2,971
Expected return on plan assets	(2,129	)	(2,248	)	(2,274	)
Amortization of net actuarial gain	(2,451	)	(2,467	)	(2,447	)
Amortization of prior service benefit	(1,459	)	(1,455	)	(1,994	)
Curtailment gains	—		(16,137	)	(43,008	)
Net periodic postretirement benefit	(4,202	)	(19,780	)	(46,391	)

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	26,472		50,482
Service cost	728		927
Interest cost	1,109		1,600
Actuarial (gain) loss	5,269		(2,311	)
Benefits paid, net of premiums received	(2,965	)	(2,922	)
Changes in plan provisions	—		(5,931	)
Curtailment gains	—		(15,535	)
Medicare Part D subsidies	115		162
Benefit obligation, end of year	30,728		26,472
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	38,529		41,447
Actual return on plan assets	2,127		19
Employer contributions (reimbursements)	(690	)	1,347
Benefits paid, net of premiums and Medicare Part D subsidies received	(2,851	)	(2,760	)
Benefits paid for active employees	(2,852	)	(1,524	)
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date	34,263		38,529
Funded status - benefit obligation less than plan assets	(3,535	)	(12,057	)

The accumulated benefit obligation for plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets was $4,016,000 at September 30, 2012. There are no plan assets related to this plan.

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Noncurrent assets	7,551	14,934
Postretirement benefit obligations	4,016	2,877
Accumulated other comprehensive income (before income tax benefit)	30,344	42,379

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial gain	16,570	27,145
Unrecognized prior service benefit	13,774	15,234
	30,344	42,379

We expect to recognize $1,324,000 and $1,459,000 of unrecognized net actuarial gain and unrecognized prior service benefit, respectively, in net periodic postretirement benefit cost in 2013.

Assumptions

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.5	5.75

The assumptions related to the expected long-term return on plan assets are developed through an analysis of historical market returns and current market conditions.

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	5.75	5.75	5.75

Assumed health care cost trend rates are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Health care cost trend rates	9.0	9.0
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the “Ultimate Trend Rate”)	5.0	5.0
Year in which the rate reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate	2020	2019

Administrative costs related to indemnity plans are assumed to increase at the health care cost trend rates noted above.

Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement plans. A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following annualized effects on reported amounts for 2012:

	One Percentage Point
(Thousands of Dollars)	Increase	Decrease
Effect on net periodic postretirement benefit	53	(48	)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	1,452	(1,306	)

Plan Assets

The primary objective of our investment strategy is to satisfy our postretirement obligations at a reasonable cost. Assets are actively invested to balance real growth of capital through appreciation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income and safety of invested funds.

An investment policy outlines the governance structure for decision making, sets investment objectives and restrictions, and establishes criteria for selecting and evaluating investment managers. The use of derivatives is strictly prohibited, except on a case-by-case basis where the manager has a proven capability, and only to hedge quantifiable risks such as exposure to foreign currencies. An investment committee, consisting of certain of our executives and supported by independent consultants, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the investment policy. Assets are periodically redistributed to maintain the appropriate policy allocation.

The weighted-average asset allocation of our postretirement assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	10-30	21	8
Debt securities	70-90	75	85
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	7
Receivables, net	—	2	—

Plan assets include no Company securities. Assets include cash and cash equivalents and receivables from time to time due to the need to reallocate assets within policy guidelines.

Fair Value Measurements

The fair value hierarchy of postretirement assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	692	—	—
Receivables, net	803	—	—
Domestic equity securities	4,385	2,069	—
International equity securities	—	671	—
Debt securities	—	25,643	—

There were no purchases, sales or transfers of assets classified as Level 3 in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

Cash Flows

Based on our forecast at September 30, 2012, we do not expect to contribute to our postretirement plans in 2013.

In December 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the “Modernization Act”) was signed into law. The Modernization Act introduced a prescription drug benefit under Medicare (“Medicare Part D”) and a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans (“Subsidy”) that provide a benefit at least actuarially equivalent (as that term is defined in the Act) to Medicare Part D. We concluded we qualify for the Subsidy under the Modernization Act since the prescription drug benefits provided under our postretirement health care plans generally require lower premiums from covered retirees and have lower deductibles than the benefits provided in Medicare Part D and, accordingly, are actuarially equivalent to or better than, the benefits provided under the Modernization Act.

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid either with future contributions to the plan or directly from plan assets, as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Gross Payments	Less Medicare Part D Subsidy		Net Payments
2013	3,280	(220	)	3,060
2014	3,080	(230	)	2,850
2015	2,980	(230	)	2,750
2016	2,960	(230	)	2,730
2017	2,900	(230	)	2,670
2018-2022	13,280	(1,100	)	12,180

2011 Changes to Plans

In May 2011, a new bargaining unit contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for affected active employees and froze defined pension benefits. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $3,974,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical expense by $82,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $3,371,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits reduced 2011 net periodic pension expenses by $188,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 26, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at June 26, 2011 by $592,000.

In March 2011, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $1,991,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2011 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 27, 2011 by $3,030,000.

In November 2010, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in a non-cash curtailment gain of $10,172,000 which was recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, reduced 2011 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $769,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended December 26, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 26, 2010 by $15,065,000.

2010 Changes to Plans

In March 2010, members of the United Media Guild voted to approve a new 5.5 year contract, effective in April 2010. The new contract eliminated postretirement medical coverage for active employees and defined pension benefits were frozen. The elimination of postretirement medical coverage resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $11,878,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010 and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $6,576,000. The freeze of defined pension benefits resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $2,004,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, reduced 2010 net periodic pension expenses by $668,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at March 28, 2010 by $2,004,000.

In December 2009, we notified certain participants in our postretirement medical plans of changes to be made to the plans, including increases in participant premium cost-sharing and elimination of coverage for certain participants. The changes resulted in non-cash curtailment gains of $31,130,000, which were recognized in the 13 weeks ended December 27, 2009, reduced 2010 net periodic postretirement medical cost by $1,460,000 beginning in the 13 weeks ended March 28, 2010, and reduced the benefit obligation liability at December 27, 2009 by $28,750,000.

Litigation

Several of the plan changes noted above were the subject of litigation, or arbitration claims, under the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. In 2012, we settled all such claims with payments to plan participants totaling $2,802,000. These payments are classified as other, net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Postemployment Plan

Our postemployment benefit obligation, representing certain disability benefits, is $3,143,000 at September 30, 2012 and $3,227,000 at September 25, 2011.

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Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Commitments And Contingent Liabilities [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Operating Leases

We have operating lease commitments for certain of our office, production and distribution facilities. Management expects that in the normal course of business, existing leases will be renewed or replaced. Minimum lease payments during the five years ending September 2017 and thereafter are $3,534,000, $1,897,000, $1,647,000, $1,557,000, $1,246,000 and $4,302,000, respectively. Total operating lease expense is $4,135,000, $4,527,000 and $4,549,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Capital Expenditures

At September 30, 2012, we had construction and equipment purchase commitments totaling approximately $900,000.

Redemption of PD LLC Minority Interest

In 2000, Pulitzer and The Herald Company Inc. (“Herald Inc.”) completed the transfer of their respective interests in the assets and operations of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and certain related businesses to a new joint venture, known as PD LLC. Pulitzer is the managing member of PD LLC. Under the terms of the related PD LLC Operating Agreement (the "Operating Agreement"), Pulitzer and another subsidiary held a 95% interest in the results of operations of PD LLC and The Herald Publishing Company, LLC (“Herald”), as successor to Herald Inc., held a 5% interest. Until February 2009, Herald's 5% interest was reported as minority interest in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) at historical cost, plus accumulated earnings since the acquisition of Pulitzer.

The Operating Agreement provided Herald a one-time right to require PD LLC to redeem its interest in PD LLC, together with its interest, if any, in STL Distribution Services LLC ("DS LLC") (the “2010 Redemption”). We recorded the present value of the remaining amount of this potential liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheet in 2008, with the offset primarily to goodwill in the amount of $55,594,000, and the remainder recorded as a reduction of retained earnings. The present value of the 2010 Redemption in February 2009 was approximately $73,602,000.

In February 2009, in conjunction with the Notes Amendment, PD LLC redeemed the 5% interest in PD LLC and DS LLC owned by Herald pursuant to a Redemption Agreement and adopted conforming amendments to the Operating Agreement. As a result, the value of Herald's former interest (the “Herald Value”) will be settled, at a date determined by Herald between April 2013 and April 2015, based on a calculation of 10% of the fair market value of PD LLC and DS LLC at the time of settlement, less the balance, as adjusted, of the Pulitzer Notes or the equivalent successor debt, if any. We recorded a liability of $2,300,000 in 2009 as an estimate of the amount of the Herald Value to be disbursed. In 2011, we reduced the liability related to the Herald Value to $300,000 based on the current estimate of fair value. The actual amount of the Herald Value will depend on such variables as future cash flows and indebtedness of PD LLC and DS LLC, market valuations of newspaper properties and the timing of the request for redemption. Cash settlement of the Herald Value is limited by the terms of our debt agreements.

The Redemption Agreement also terminated Herald's right to exercise its rights under the 2010 Redemption. As a result, we reversed substantially all of our liability for the 2010 Redemption in 2009. The reversal reduced liabilities by $71,302,000 and increased comprehensive income by $58,521,000 and stockholders' equity by $68,824,000.

The redemption of Herald's interest in PD LLC and DS LLC may generate significant tax benefits to us as a consequence of the resulting increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by PD LLC and DS LLC and the related depreciation and amortization deductions. The increase in basis to be amortized for income tax purposes over a 15 year period beginning in February 2009 is approximately $258,000,000.

Pursuant to an Indemnity Agreement dated May 1, 2000 (the “Indemnity Agreement”) between Herald Inc. and Pulitzer, Herald agreed to indemnify Pulitzer for any payments that Pulitzer may make under the Guaranty Agreement. The Indemnity Agreement and related obligations of Herald to indemnify Pulitzer were also terminated pursuant to the Redemption Agreement.

Income Taxes

Commitments exclude unrecognized tax benefits to be recorded in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. We are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate amount or timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities for such matters. See Note 11.

We file income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and various state tax jurisdictions. From time to time, we are subject to routine audits by those agencies, and those audits may result in proposed adjustments. We have considered the alternative interpretations that may be assumed by the various taxing agencies, believe our positions taken regarding our filings are valid, and that adequate tax liabilities have been recorded to resolve such matters. However, the actual outcome cannot be determined with certainty and the difference could be material, either positively or negatively, to the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the periods in which such matters are ultimately determined. We do not believe the final resolution of such matters will be material to our consolidated financial position or cash flows.

We have various income tax examinations ongoing and at various stages of completion, but generally our income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through 2007.

Legal Proceedings

In 2008, a group of newspaper carriers filed suit against us in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, claiming to be our employees and not independent contractors. The plaintiffs seek relief related to alleged violations of various employment-based statutes, and request punitive damages and attorneys' fees. In July 2010, the trial court granted the plaintiffs' petition for class certification. We filed an interlocutory appeal which was denied. After concluding discovery, we filed a motion to reverse the class certification ruling. This motion is currently pending before the trial court. The Company denies the allegations of employee status, consistent with our past practices and industry standards, and will continue to vigorously contest the action, which is not covered by insurance. At this time we are unable to predict whether the ultimate economic outcome, if any, could have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

We are involved in a variety of other legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Insurance coverage mitigates potential loss for certain of these other matters. While we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these other legal actions, it is our opinion that the disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements, taken as a whole.

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Common Stock and Class B Common Stock NYSE Requirements (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 24, 2012
NYSE Listing Requirements [Line Items]
Price Per Share- NYSE Listing Requirement	$ 1
Minimum Market Capitalization- NYSE Listing	$ 50,000,000

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Stock Ownership Plans

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Ownership Plans [Abstract]

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]

STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS

Total non-cash stock compensation expense is $1,080,000, $1,287,000 and $1,974,000, in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

At September 30, 2012, we have reserved 4,539,716 shares of Common Stock for issuance to employees under an incentive and nonstatutory stock option and restricted stock plan approved by stockholders. At September 30, 2012, 1,437,270 shares are available for granting of non-qualified stock options or issuance of restricted Common Stock.

Stock Options

Options are granted at a price equal to the fair market value on the date of the grant and are exercisable, upon vesting, over a ten-year period.

A summary of stock option activity is as follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012		2011		2010
Under option, beginning of year	1,812		940		1,009
Granted	1,520		1,105		—
Exercised	—		(15	)	—
Canceled	(230	)	(218	)	(69	)
Under option, end of year	3,102		1,812		940
Exercisable, end of year	1,298		552		423

Weighted average prices of stock options are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Granted	1.16	2.57	—
Under option, end of year	3.18	5.07	8.77

The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of 2012 and 2011 option awards:

	2012	2011
Volatility (Percent)	122	111
Risk-free interest rate (Percent)	0.76	1.01
Expected term (Years)	4.7	4.7
Estimated fair value (Dollars)	0.95	2.00

A summary of stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Dollars)	Options Outstanding			Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Weighted Average Exercise Price	Number Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price
1 - 5	2,971,125	8.5	1.79	1,166,890	2.31
5 - 50	131,321	2.9	34.59	131,321	34.59
	3,102,446	8.2	3.18	1,298,211	5.58

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested stock options at September 30, 2012 is $1,990,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.3 years.

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at September 30, 2012 is $457,000.

Restricted Common Stock

A summary of restricted Common Stock activity follows:

(Thousands of Shares)	2012	2011		2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	299		453
Granted	500	—		—
Vested	—	(297	)	(143	)
Forfeited	—	(2	)	(11	)
Outstanding, end of year	500	—		299

Weighted average grant date fair values of restricted Common Stock are as follows:

(Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Outstanding, beginning of year	—	15.02	19.35
Granted	1.31	—	—
Vested	—	15.02	28.73
Forfeited	—	15.02	15.02
Outstanding, end of year	1.31	—	15.02

The fair value of restricted Common Stock vested in 2011 and 2010, is $723,000 and $554,000, respectively.

Total unrecognized compensation expense for unvested restricted Common Stock at September 30, 2012 is $613,000, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.8 years.

Stock Purchase Plans

We have 270,000 shares of Common Stock available for issuance pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan. We also have 8,700 shares of Common Stock available for issuance under our Supplemental Employee Stock Purchase Plan. There has been no activity under these plans in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

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Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate value. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The carrying value of other investments, consisting of debt and equity securities in a deferred compensation trust, is carried at fair value based upon quoted market prices. Investments totaling $8,640,000, consisting primarily of our 17% ownership of the nonvoting common stock of TCT, are carried at cost. The fair value of floating rate debt cannot be determined as an active market for such debt does not exist. Our fixed rate debt consists of the 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes, which are not traded on an active market and are held by small groups of investors. We are unable, as of September 30, 2012andSeptember 25, 2011, to determine the fair value of such debt. The value, if determined, may be less than the carrying amount. The determination of the amount of the Herald Value, as discussed more fully in Note 16, is based on an estimate of fair value using both market and income-based approaches.

The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements at September 30, 2012and September 25, 2011:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Level 1	—	—
Level 2	—	—
Level 3 - Herald Value - liability	300	300

In 2011, we reduced the Herald Value from $2,300,000 as of September 26, 2010 to $300,000 based on the most recent estimate of fair value. There were no realized or unrealized gains or losses, purchases, sales, or transfers related to the Herald Value in 2012 or 2010.

In 2012, 2011 and 2010, we reduced the carrying value of equipment no longer in use by $1,388,000, $700,000 and $899,000, respectively, based on estimates of the related fair value in the current market. Based on age, condition and marketability we estimated the equipment had no value.

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Common Stock and Class B Common Stock

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Common Stock And Class B Common Stock [Abstract]

Schedule of Stock by Class [Text Block]

COMMON STOCK, CLASS B COMMON STOCK AND PREFERRED SHARE PURCHASE RIGHTS

Common Stock

Under the Plan, the par value of our Common Stock was changed from $2.00 per share to $0.01 per share effective January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012.

As of July 1, 2011, our Common Stock traded at an average 30-day closing market price of less than $1 per share. Under the NYSE listing standards, if our Common Stock fails to maintain an adequate per share price and total market capitalization of less than $50,000,000, our Common Stock could be removed from the NYSE and traded in the over the counter market. In July 2011, the NYSE first notified us that our Common Stock did not meet the NYSE continued listing standards due to the failure to maintain an adequate share price. Under the NYSE rules, our Common Stock is allowed to continue to be listed during a cure period. In February 2012, the NYSE notified the Company that it was again in compliance with the minimum closing price standard. At September 30, 2012, our average market capitalization also exceeds the $50,000,000 minimum required by the NYSE. However, the NYSE has not yet notified us that the Company has returned to compliance with the market capitalization standard. Continued listing is subject to ongoing reassessment by the NYSE. We are currently operating under an NYSE-approved plan and expect any issues to be successfully addressed within the time frames required under the NYSE rules.

Class B Common Stock

In 1986, one share of Class B Common Stock was issued as a dividend for each share of Common Stock held by stockholders of record at the time. The transfer of Class B Common Stock was restricted. As originally anticipated, the number of outstanding Class B shares has decreased over time through trading and reached the sunset level of 5,600,000 shares in March 2011. In March 2011, in accordance with the sunset provisions established in 1986, we effected conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock to Common Stock. As a result, all stockholders have one vote per share on all future matters. Class B shares formerly had ten votes per share.

Preferred Share Purchase Rights

In 1998, the Board of Directors adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the “Rights Plan”). Under the Rights Plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of one Preferred Share Purchase Right (“Right”) for each outstanding share of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (collectively “Common Shares”) of the Company. Rights are attached to, and automatically trade with, the Company's Common Shares. In 2008, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the Rights Plan. The amendment increased the beneficial ownership threshold to 25% from 20% for stockholders purchasing Common Stock for passive investment only and decreased the threshold to 15% for all other investors. In addition, the amendment extended the expiration of the Rights Plan to May 31, 2018 from May 31, 2008.

Rights become exercisable only in the event that any person or group of affiliated persons other than a passive investor becomes a holder of 15% or more of our outstanding Common Shares, or commences a tender or exchange offer which, if consummated, would result in that person or group of affiliated persons owning at least 15% of our outstanding Common Shares. Once the Rights become exercisable, they entitle all other stockholders to purchase, by payment of a $150 exercise price, one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock, subject to adjustment, with a value of twice the exercise price. In addition, at any time after a 15% position is acquired and prior to the acquisition of a 50% position, the Board of Directors may require, in whole or in part, each outstanding Right (other than Rights held by the acquiring person or group of affiliated persons) to be exchanged for one share of Common Stock or one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock. The Rights may be redeemed at a price of $0.001 per Right at any time prior to their expiration.

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Pensions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions			$ 398,000	$ 488,000	$ 497,000
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation	1,426,000		1,426,000	1,319,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate			4.00%	5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%		4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax		2,287,000	(51,871,000)	(51,459,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	66,319,000		66,319,000	71,230,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	201,219,000		201,219,000	186,826,000	178,179,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation				186,672,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(30,000)		30,000	169,000	792,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	7,975,000		(7,975,000)	8,354,000	8,888,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			17,268,000	12,299,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(10,880,000)	(11,584,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses			(1,472,000)	(1,428,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer		2,733,000	6,807,000	2,137,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments			0	(591,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(8,891,000)	(9,733,000)	(9,568,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)	201,219,000		(2,370,000)	812,000	453,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(136,000)	(137,000)	(136,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments			0	0	(2,004,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			1,348,000	(535,000)	(1,575,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	134,900,000		134,900,000	115,596,000	125,464,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			24,849,000	1,007,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	66,319,000		66,319,000	71,230,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	(50,945,000)		(50,945,000)	(50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax		(137,000)	926,000	1,063,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			(50,945,000)	(50,396,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase				4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets		0.00%	8.00%	8.00%	8.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase				4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	11,000		11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	58,000		58,000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			50.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			75.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	63.00%		63.00%	66.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			25.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			35.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	29.00%		29.00%	33.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	32,169,494.000		32,169,494.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	7,759,444.000		7,759,444.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			0.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			12.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	0.00%		0.00%	0.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	1.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,028,505.000		2,028,505.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	6.00%		6.00%	0.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	8,117,459.000		8,117,459.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	3,280,000		3,280,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate		4.00%		5.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.00%		4.00%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax			16,570,000	27,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	4,016,000		4,016,000	3,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	30,728,000		30,728,000	26,472,000	50,482,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	(728,000)		728,000	927,000	361,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,109,000		(1,109,000)	1,600,000	2,971,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)			5,269,000	(2,311,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid			(2,965,000)	(2,922,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer			(690,000)	1,347,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments			0	(15,535,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets			(2,129,000)	(2,248,000)	(2,274,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)			2,451,000	(2,467,000)	(2,447,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)			(1,459,000)	(1,455,000)	(1,994,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments			0	(16,137,000)	(43,008,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			(4,202,000)	(19,780,000)	(46,391,000)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	34,263,000		34,263,000	38,529,000	41,447,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets			2,127,000	19,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(3,535,000)		(3,535,000)	(12,057,000)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	30,344,000		30,344,000	42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax			13,774,000	15,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax			30,344,000	42,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets		6.00%		6.00%	6.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	3,080,000		3,080,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	2,980,000		2,980,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	2,960,000		2,960,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	2,900,000		2,900,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	13,280,000		13,280,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			30.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	21.00%		21.00%	8.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum			70.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum			90.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	75.00%		75.00%	85.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25,642,660.000		25,642,660.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	7.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	691,905.000		691,905.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%	0.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	802,801.000		802,801.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Plan Assets- Receivables, net [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Other Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	2,595,000		2,595,000	2,654,000
Funded Status of Other Plans Recognized In Other Liabilities	279,000		279,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost			56,000	56,000	122,000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	27,499,395.000		27,499,395.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	47,713,917.000		47,713,917.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,384,746.000		4,384,746.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,068,890.000		2,068,890.000
Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	9,612,986.000		9,612,986.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0.000		0.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	671,069.000		671,069.000
International Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$ 0.000		$ 0.000

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Other Retirement Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Other Retirement Plans [Line Items]
Cost Related to Other Retirement Plans	$ 3,533,000	$ 2,666,000	$ 1,894,000

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Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2009	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Subsequent Event, Date		Dec. 14, 2012
Inventory, LIFO Reserve		$ 3,556,000	$ 3,895,000
FIFO Inventory Amount		2,848,000	2,595,000
LIFO Inventory Amount		2,723,000	2,719,000
Newsprint Inventory		$ 5,571,000	$ 5,314,000
Buildings Useful Life- Low End of Range		5 years 0 months 0 days
Building Useful Life- High End of Range		54 years 0 months 0 days
Press Equipment Useful Life- Low End of Range		3 years 0 months 0 days
Press Equipment Useful Life- High End of Range		28 years 0 months 0 days
Other PPE Useful Life- Low End Of Range		3 years 0 months 0 days
Other PPE Useful Life- High End Of Range		20 years 0 months 0 days
Noncontrolling Interest Redeemed PDLLC, Percent Redeemed	5.00%
Heral Value Liability- Liability Input		10.00%
Customer Lists [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range		7 years 0 months 0 days
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range		23 years 0 months 0 days
Subscriber Lists [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Life- Low End Of Range		7 years 0 months 0 days
Finite Lived Intagible Asset Useful Life- High End Of Range		33 years 0 months 0 days
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years 0 months 0 days

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Pensions (Tables) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]

We anticipate future benefit payments to be paid from the pension trust as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)
2013	11,421
2014	11,263
2015	11,277
2016	11,356
2017	11,430
2018-2022	57,603

Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

The weighted-average asset allocation of our pension assets is as follows:

(Percent)		Actual Allocation
Asset Class	Current Policy Allocation	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Equity securities	50-75	63	66
Debt securities	25-35	29	33
Private equity investments	0-12	—	—
Cash and cash equivalents	—	2	1
Receivables, net	—	6	—

Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows:

(Percent)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Discount rate	3.85	4.4
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(Percent)	2012	2011	2010
Discount rate	4.4	4.8	5.5
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7.9	8.0	8.0
Rate of compensation increase	NA	3.5	3.5

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

The net periodic cost components of our pension plans are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Service cost for benefits earned during the year	30		169		792
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	7,975		8,354		8,888
Expected return on plan assets	(8,891	)	(9,733	)	(9,568	)
Amortization of net loss	2,370		812		453
Amortization of prior service benefit	(136	)	(137	)	(136	)
Curtailment gains	—		—		(2,004	)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	1,348		(535	)	(1,575	)

Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	186,826		178,179
Service cost	30		169
Interest cost	7,975		8,354
Actuarial loss	17,268		12,299
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Curtailment gain	—		(591	)
Benefit obligation, end of year	201,219		186,826
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year:	115,596		125,464
Actual return on plan assets	24,849		1,007
Benefits paid	(10,880	)	(11,584	)
Administrative expenses paid	(1,472	)	(1,428	)
Employer contributions	6,807		2,137
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	134,900		115,596
Funded status - benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	66,319		71,230

Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Disaggregated amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Pension obligations	66,319		71,230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (before income taxes)	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011
Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(51,871	)	(51,459	)
Unrecognized prior service benefit	926		1,063
	(50,945	)	(50,396	)

Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]

The fair value hierarchy of pension assets at September 30, 2012 is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	2,029	—	—
Receivables, net	8,117	—	—
Domestic equity securities	27,499	47,714	—
International equity securities	—	9,613	—
Debt securities	32,169	7,759	—

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Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	$ 3,264,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	4,917,000	6,752,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions	(163,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions	(360,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations	(1,312,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current	789,000	967,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment	(40,684,000)	(29,170,000)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)	(8,244,000)	4,604,000	8,673,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate	(35.00%)	(35.00%)	35.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes	(1.90%)	(2.30%)	4.30%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses	0.00%	23.90%	0.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance	1.80%	1.00%	(0.10%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments	(1.10%)	0.60%	0.60%
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	(40.50%)	(12.30%)	38.20%
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)	(2,210,000)	(55,000)	833,000
Deferred Tax Expense, Continuing and Discontinued Operations	(466,000)	(25,630,000)	19,116,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Continuing and Discontinued Operations	(10,920,000)	(21,081,000)	28,622,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	(9,371,000)	(20,316,000)	29,308,000
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	(1,549,000)	(765,000)	(686,000)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Unconsolidated Subsidiary	(6.20%)	(0.50%)	(1.40%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities	2.10%	(0.50%)	(0.80%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements	(3.90%)	0.50%	(3.50%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate	0.00%	0.00%	4.10%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Chapter 11 Proceedings	9.30%	0.00%	0.00%
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments	(11,651,000)	(6,576,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets	(50,472,000)	(45,472,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Debt	0	(997,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	(1,155,000)	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	(103,962,000)	(82,215,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Debt	33,682,000	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation	5,540,000	7,067,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Allowance For Doubtful Accounts	817,000	1,570,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits	5,569,000	5,305,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local	24,613,000	23,515,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other	2,508,000	5,024,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	0	2,063,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	72,729,000	44,544,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	(28,118,000)	(27,566,000)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(59,351,000)	(65,237,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	(60,140,000)	(66,204,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued	710,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards	796,814,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	24,613,000
Valuation Allowance Not Related To Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 3,613,000	$ 4,068,000

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Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Receivables [Abstract]

Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

Valuation and qualifying account information related to the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable related to continuing operations is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011		2010
Balance, beginning of year	5,387		5,262		5,853
Additions charged to expense	1,448		2,497		2,903
Deductions from reserves	(1,945	)	(2,372	)	(3,494	)
Balance, end of year	4,890		5,387		5,262

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Investments in Associated Companies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information of TNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	8,029	7,857
Investments and other assets	13	32
Total assets	8,042	7,889
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	5,601	6,136
Members' equity	2,441	1,753
Total liabilities and members' equity	8,042	7,889

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of TNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011	2010
Operating revenue	59,043		62,452	64,379
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	49,568		52,882	52,923
Workforce adjustments	(31	)	1,190	784
Operating income	9,506		8,380	10,672
Company's 50% share	4,753		4,190	5,336
Less amortization of intangible assets	723		1,092	1,156
Equity in earnings of TNI	4,030		3,098	4,180

Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information of MNI is as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
ASSETS
Current assets	24,613	22,287
Investments and other assets	29,986	30,484
Property and equipment, net	7,707	8,519
Total assets	62,306	61,290
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities	10,015	8,428
Other liabilities	6,720	5,960
Stockholders' equity	45,571	46,902
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	62,306	61,290

Equity Method Investments, Summarized Income Statement [Table Text Block]

Summarized results of MNI are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Operating revenue	70,158	73,011	75,137
Operating expenses, excluding workforce adjustments, depreciation and amortization	57,981	60,982	61,467
Workforce adjustments	546	530	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,689	2,227	2,372
Operating income	9,942	9,272	11,002
Net income	6,469	6,106	7,132
Equity in earnings of MNI	3,201	3,053	3,566

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Debt S-3 Filing (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
S-3 Filing [Line Items]
Registration Statement- Maximum Amount	$ 750,000,000
Registration Statement- Minimum Public Float	$ 75,000,000

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Investments in Associated Companies Summarized Financial Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in earnings of associated companies	$ 7,231,000	$ 6,151,000	$ 7,746,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Associated companies	42,201,000	44,057,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	8,029	7,857
Share of TNI Operating Expenses	(522,000)	76,000	291,000
Editorial Fees	5,994,000	7,043,000	7,510,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	59,043,000	62,452,000	64,379,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	49,568,000	52,882,000	52,923,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	(31,000)	1,190,000	784,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	9,506,000	8,380,000	10,672,000
Income (Loss) From Equity Method Investments Before Amortization	4,753,000	4,190,000	5,336,000
Amortization Of Intangible Assets- TNI	723,000	1,092,000	1,156,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	4,030,000	3,098,000	4,180,000
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Associated companies	19,450,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	620,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Rolling Year Two	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	418,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	418,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	13	32
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	8,042	7,889
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	5,601	6,136
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	2,441	1,753
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	8,042	7,889
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	25,000	22,000
Editorial Fees	8,098,000	8,201,000	8,318,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	70,158,000	73,011,000	75,137,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Excluding Depreciation, Amortization And Workforce Adjustments	57,981,000	60,982,000	61,467,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Workforce Adjustments	546,000	530,000	296,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation And Amortization	1,689,000	2,227,000	2,372,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Income	9,942,000	9,272,000	11,002,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	6,469,000	6,106,000	7,132,000
Equity in earnings of associated companies	3,201,000	3,053,000	3,566,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	30,000	30,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, PPE	8,000	9,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	62,000	61,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	10,015,000	8,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities	6,720,000	6,000
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	45,571,000	47,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	62,306,000	61,000
Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Equity Method Investee- MNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Less Than 100% Owned Subsidiaries, Percentage Owned	50.00%
Goodwill [Member] | Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity	12,366,000
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Member] | Equity Method Investee- TNI [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity	$ 6,430,000

XML

Statement of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ (13,772,000)	$ (145,435,000)	$ 47,297,000
Cash provided by (required for) operating activities:
Net loss	(16,299,000)	(146,681,000)	46,178,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(2,527,000)	(1,246,000)	(1,119,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	65,917,000	70,306,000	71,924,000
Impairment of goodwill and other assets	1,388,000	204,439,000	899,000
Curtailment gains	0	(16,137,000)	(45,012,000)
Reduction of investment in TNI Partners	0	11,900,000	0
Amortization (accretion) of debt present value adjustment	3,919,000	(547,000)	(621,000)
Stock compensation expense	1,080,000	1,287,000	1,974,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of MNI	700,000	347,000	334,000
Deferred income tax benefit	(779,000)	(25,910,000)	18,943,000
Debt financing costs	2,857,000	12,612,000	8,480,000
Reorganization costs	37,765,000	0	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in receivables	1,117,000	5,984,000	7,798,000
Decrease in inventories and other	1,981,000	4,583,000	3,190,000
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and unearned revenue	423,000	(6,752,000)	(6,553,000)
Decrease in pension, postretirement and post employment benefits	(8,898,000)	(5,690,000)	(3,261,000)
Change in income taxes receivable or payable	(9,078,000)	(5,748,000)	162,000
Other, net	(4,100,000)	(3,697,000)	(1,454,000)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations	80,520,000	101,542,000	104,100,000
Cash provided by (required for) investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(8,040,000)	(7,479,000)	(8,835,000)
Decrease in restricted cash	4,972,000	4,651,000	(862,000)
Proceeds from sales of assets	1,353,000	1,811,000	2,324,000
Distributions greater than current earnings of TNI	1,156,000	1,818,000	(383,000)
Other, net	(422,000)	104,000	118,000
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations	(981,000)	905,000	(7,638,000)
Cash provided by (required for) financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	1,004,795,000	50,000,000	83,800,000
Payments on long-term debt	(1,065,455,000)	(137,330,000)	(170,545,000)
Debt financing and reorganization costs paid	(32,408,000)	(11,601,000)	(453,000)
Common stock transactions net	0	(205,000)	(166,000)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(9,635,000)	4,133,000	11,517,000
Cash and cash equivalents:
End of period	13,920,000	23,555,000	19,422,000
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations	(93,068,000)	(99,136,000)	(87,364,000)
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations	178,000	1,062,000	3,034,000
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations	$ 3,716,000	$ (240,000)	$ (615,000)

XML

Debt

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Debt [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

DEBT

As discussed more fully below (and certain capitalized terms used below defined), in January 2012, in conjunction with the effectiveness of the Plan, we refinanced all of our debt. The Plan refinanced our then-existing credit agreement and extended the April 2012 maturity in a structure of first and second lien debt with the existing lenders. We also amended the Pulitzer Notes, and extended the April 2012 maturity with the existing Noteholders.

1^st Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a credit agreement (the “1^st Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “1^st Lien Lenders”). The 1^st Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $689,510,000, and a new $40,000,000 revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility also supports issuance of letters of credit.

Interest Payments

Debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement bears interest, at our option, at either a base rate or an adjusted Eurodollar rate (“LIBOR”), plus an applicable margin. The base rate for the facility is the greater of (a) the prime lending rate of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at such time; (b) 0.5% in excess of the overnight federal funds rate at such time; or (c) 30 day LIBOR plus 1.0%. LIBOR loans are subject to a minimum rate of 1.25%. The applicable margin for term loan base rate loans is 5.25%, and 6.25% for LIBOR loans. The applicable margin for revolving credit facility base rate loans is 4.5%, and is 5.5% for LIBOR loans. At September 30, 2012, all borrowing under the 1^st Lien Agreement is based on LIBOR at a total rate of 7.5%.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance outstanding under the term loan is $661,850,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding or reduce commitments under the 1^st Lien Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments.

We are required to repay principal amounts, on a quarterly basis until maturity, under the 1st Lien Agreement. Principal payments are required quarterly beginning in June 2012, and total $11,000,000 in 2013, $12,750,000 in 2014, $13,500,000 in 2015 and $3,375,000 in 2016, prior to the final maturity.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the 1^st Lien Agreement under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The 1^st Lien Agreement also requires us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other 1^st Lien Agreement payments prior to the December 2015 maturity.

2012 payments made under the 1^st Lien Agreement are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Mandatory	5,000
Voluntary	19,450
Asset sales	3,210
Excess cash flow	—
	27,660

There were no net principal payments made in 2012 under the previous credit agreement. Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the 1^st Lien Agreement total $17,750,000.

Security

The 1^st Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by all of our existing and future, direct and indirect subsidiaries in which we hold a direct or indirect interest of more than 50% (the “Credit Parties”); provided however, that our wholly-owned subsidiary Pulitzer Inc. (“Pulitzer”) and its subsidiaries are not Credit Parties. The 1^st Lien Agreement is secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the Credit Parties in their respective subsidiaries.

The Credit Parties have also granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted mortgages covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 1^st Lien Agreement. Assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

The revolving credit facility has a super-priority security interest over all of the collateral securing the term loan under the 1^st Lien Agreement, superior to that of the term loan lenders.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 1^st Lien Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for financing of its type. These financial covenants include a maximum total leverage ratio, as defined. The total leverage ratio is designed to assess the leverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall leverage position due to the lower leverage of Pulitzer. It is based primarily on the sum of the principal amount of debt under the 1^st Lien Agreement, plus debt under the 2^nd Lien Agreement, as discussed more fully below, which totals $836,850,000 at September 30, 2012, plus letters of credit and certain other factors, divided by a measure of trailing 12 month operating results, which includes distributions from MNI and other elements, but excludes the operating results of Pulitzer.

Our actual total leverage ratio at September 30, 2012 under the 1^st Lien Agreement was 6.7:1 Our maximum total leverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 10.0:1 at September 30, 2012 to 9.1:1 in December 2015. On a consolidated basis, using the definitions in the 1^st Lien Agreement, our leverage ratio is 5.7:1 at September 30, 2012.  This consolidated measure is not the subject of a covenant in any of our debt agreements.

The 1^st Lien Agreement also includes a minimum interest expense coverage ratio, as defined, which is based on the sum of interest expense, as defined, incurred under the 1^st Lien Agreement and 2^nd Lien Agreement, divided by the same measure of trailing 12 month operating results discussed above. The interest expense coverage ratio is similarly designed to assess the interest coverage of the Company, excluding Pulitzer, and does not reflect our overall interest coverage position. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio at September 30, 2012 was 1.93:1. Our minimum interest expense coverage ratio covenant will decrease, in stages, from 1.25:1 at September 30, 2012 to 1.1:1 in December 2015.

The 1^st Lien Agreement requires us to suspend stockholder dividends and share repurchases through December 2015. The 1^st Lien Agreement also limits capital expenditures to $20,000,000 per year, with a provision for carryover of unused amounts from the prior year. Further, the 1st Lien Agreement restricts our ability to make additional investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers without the consent of the 1^st Lien Lenders and limits our ability to incur additional debt. Such covenants require that substantially all of our future cash flows are required to be directed toward debt reduction or accumulation of cash collateral and that the cash flows of the Credit Parties are largely segregated from those of Pulitzer.

2^nd Lien Agreement

In January 2012, we entered into a second lien term loan (the “2^nd Lien Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders (the “2^nd Lien Lenders”). The 2^nd Lien Agreement consists of a term loan of $175,000,000.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement bears interest at 15.0%, payable quarterly.

Principal Payments and Redemption

The 2^nd Lien Agreement requires no principal amortization, except in March 2017 if required for income tax purposes.

The 2^nd Lien Agreement may not be redeemed prior to January 30, 2013. From that date until January 30, 2014, the 2^nd Lien Agreement may be redeemed at 102% of the principal amount, at 101% thereafter until January 30, 2015 and at 100% thereafter until the April 2017 final maturity. Terms of the 1st Lien Agreement also restrict principal payments under the 2nd Lien Agreement.

Security

The 2^nd Lien Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Credit Parties and by Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, other than TNI (collectively, the "2^nd Lien Credit Parties"). The 2^nd Lien Agreement is secured by second priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by the 2^nd Lien Credit Parties.

The 2^nd Lien Credit Parties have also granted a second priority security interest on substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets, and granted second lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the 2^nd Lien Agreement. Assets of TNI, our ownership interest in, and assets of, MNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded.

Covenants and Other Matters

The 2^nd Lien Agreement has no affirmative financial covenants. Restrictions on capital expenditures, permitted investments, indebtedness and other provisions are similar to, but generally less restrictive than, those provisions under the 1st Lien Agreement.

2^nd Lien Lenders shared in the issuance of 6,743,640 shares of our Common Stock valued at $9,576,000, an amount equal to 13% of outstanding shares on a pro forma basis as of January 30, 2012. 2^nd Lien Lenders also received $8,750,000 in the form of non-cash fees, which were added to and included in the principal amount of the second lien term loan.

Pulitzer Notes

In conjunction with its formation in 2000, St. Louis Post-Dispatch LLC ("PD LLC") borrowed $306,000,000 (the “Pulitzer Notes”) from a group of institutional lenders (the “Noteholders”). The Pulitzer Notes were guaranteed by Pulitzer pursuant to a Guaranty Agreement with the Noteholders. The aggregate principal amount of the Pulitzer Notes was payable in April 2009.

In February 2009, the Pulitzer Notes and the Guaranty Agreement were amended (the “Notes Amendment”). Under the Notes Amendment, PD LLC repaid $120,000,000 of the principal amount of the debt obligation. The remaining debt balance of $186,000,000 was refinanced by the Noteholders until April 2012.

In January 2012, in connection with the Plan, we entered into an amended Note Agreement and Guaranty Agreement, which amended the Pulitzer Notes and extended the maturity with the Noteholders. After consideration of unscheduled principal payments totaling $15,145,000 ($10,145,000 in December 2011 and $5,000,000 in January 2012), offset by $3,500,000 of non-cash fees paid to the Noteholders in the form of additional Pulitzer Notes debt, the amended Pulitzer Notes had a balance of $126,355,000 in January 2012.

The Pulitzer Notes bear interest at 10.55%, increasing 0.75% in January 2013 and in January of each year thereafter. Due to the increasing interest rate, interest on the Pulitzer Notes is charged to expense using a calculated effective interest rate during the period. This method increased 2012 financial expense $871,000 from the amount actually payable to the Noteholders during this period.

Principal Payments

At September 30, 2012, the balance of the Pulitzer Notes is $109,000,000. We may voluntarily prepay principal amounts outstanding under the Pulitzer Notes at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon proper notice, and subject to certain limitations as to minimum amounts of prepayments. The Pulitzer Notes provide for mandatory scheduled annual prepayments totaling $1,400,000 in 2012 and $6,400,000 annually thereafter.

In addition to the scheduled payments, we are required to make mandatory prepayments under the Pulitzer Notes under certain other conditions, such as from the net proceeds from asset sales. The Pulitzer Notes also require us to accelerate future payments in the amount of our quarterly excess cash flow, as defined. The acceleration of such payments due to future asset sales or excess cash flow does not change the due dates of other Pulitzer Notes payments prior to the final maturity in December 2015.

2012 payments made under the Pulitzer Notes are summarized as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012
Prior to refinancing	500
Pursuant to the Plan, net	11,645
Mandatory	1,400
Voluntary	15,955
Asset sales	—
Excess cash flow	—
	29,500

Since September 30, 2012, principal payments under the Pulitzer Notes total $9,000,000.

Security

The Guaranty Agreement provides that obligations under the Pulitzer Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by Pulitzer's existing and future subsidiaries other than TNI. The Pulitzer Notes are also secured by first priority security interests in the stock and other equity interests owned by Pulitzer in its subsidiaries other than TNI. Also, Pulitzer and each of its subsidiaries granted a first priority security interest on substantially all of its tangible and intangible assets, and granted first lien mortgages or deeds of trust covering certain real estate, as collateral for the payment and performance of their obligations under the Pulitzer Notes. Our ownership interest in TNI and certain employee benefit plan assets are excluded. However, assets of Pulitzer and its subsidiaries, excluding TNI, become subject to a first priority security interest of the Credit Parties upon repayment in full of the Pulitzer Notes, as discussed more fully below.

Covenants and Other Matters

The Pulitzer Notes contain certain covenants and conditions including the maintenance, by Pulitzer, of minimum trailing 12 month EBITDA (minimum of $25,600,000 at September 30, 2012), as defined in the Guaranty Agreement, and limitations on capital expenditures and the incurrence of other debt.

Further, the Pulitzer Notes have limitations or restrictions on distributions, loans, advances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and mergers. Such covenants require that substantially all future cash flows of Pulitzer are required to be directed first toward repayment of the Pulitzer Notes or accumulation of cash collateral and that cash flows of Pulitzer are largely segregated from those of the Credit Parties.

Intercreditor Agreements

The 1st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes contain cross-default provisions tied to each of the various agreements. Intercreditor agreements and an intercompany subordination agreement are in effect.

Other

Cash payments to the Lenders, Noteholders and legal and professional fees related to the Plan totaled $38,628,000, of which $6,273,000 was paid in 2011, and the remainder of which was paid in 2012.  $721,000 of such costs were charged to expense in 2011. In addition, previously capitalized financing costs of $4,514,000 at September 25, 2011 were charged to expense in 2012 as debt financing costs prior to consummation of the Plan, with the remainder classified as reorganization costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon consummation of the Plan. 

Debt under the Plan was considered compromised. As a result, the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement and Pulitzer Notes were recorded at their respective present values, which resulted in a discount to the stated principal amount totaling $23,709,000. This amount is being amortized as a non-cash component of financial expense over the terms of the related debt. Such amounts totaled $4,085,000 in 2012 and are estimated to total $5,418,000 in 2013, $5,359,000 in 2014, $5,293,000 in 2015, $2,429,000 in 2016 and $1,125,000 in 2017.

Debt is summarized as follows:

	Amount			Interest Rates(%)
(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012		September 25 2011	September 30 2012
1st Lien Agreement	661,850		—	7.50
2nd Lien Agreement	175,000		—	15.00
Previous credit agreement:
Term loan	—		569,335
Revolving credit facility	—		286,425
Pulitzer Notes	109,000		138,500	10.55
Unaccreted (unamortized) present value adjustment	(19,624	)	290
	926,226		994,550
Less current maturities of debt	17,400		994,550
Current amount of present value adjustment	(5,418	)	—
Total long term debt	914,244		—

At September 30, 2012, our weighted average cost of debt is 9.2%.

Aggregate maturities of debt total $17,400,000 in 2013, $19,150,000 in 2014, $19,900,000 in 2015, $714,400,000 in 2016 and $175,000,000 in 2017.

Liquidity

At September 30, 2012, after consideration of letters of credit, we have approximately $29,942,000 available for future use under our revolving credit facility. Including cash, our liquidity at September 30, 2012 totals $43,862,000. This liquidity amount excludes any future cash flows. We expect all interest and principal payments due in the next twelve months will be satisfied by our continuing cash flows, which will allow us to maintain an adequate level of liquidity.

There are numerous potential consequences under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements related to the Pulitzer Notes, if an event of default, as defined, occurs and is not remedied. Many of those consequences are beyond our control. The occurrence of one or more events of default would give rise to the right of the 1^st Lien Lenders, 2^nd Lien Lenders and/or the Noteholders, to exercise their remedies under the 1^st Lien Agreement, 2^nd Lien Agreement, and the Note and Guaranty Agreements, respectively, including, without limitation, the right to accelerate all outstanding debt and take actions authorized in such circumstances under applicable collateral security documents.

Our ability to operate as a going concern is dependent on our ability to remain in compliance with debt covenants and to refinance or amend our debt agreements as they become due, or earlier if available liquidity is consumed. We are in compliance with our debt covenants at September 30, 2012.

At December 14, 2012, the principal amount of our outstanding debt totals $919,100,000. This amount is already less than the $938,700,000 amount projected in the Plan in September 2013. Lower cash balances and asset sales have contributed to the improvement in debt repayment compared to the Plan.

In 2010, we filed a Form S-3 shelf registration statement ("Shelf") with the SEC, which has been declared effective. The Shelf gives us the flexibility to issue and publicly distribute various types of securities, including preferred stock, common stock, secured or unsecured debt securities, purchase contracts and units consisting of any combination of such securities, from time to time, in one or more offerings, up to an aggregate amount of $750,000,000. In July 2011, the SEC announced changes to the issuer eligibility rules which will require us to have a public float of at least $75,000,000 in order to use the Shelf. Subject to maintenance of the minimum level of equity market float and the conditions of our existing debt agreements, the Shelf may enable us to sell securities quickly and efficiently when market conditions are favorable or financing needs arise. Net proceeds from the sale of any securities must be used generally to reduce debt.

XML

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Lease (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$ 4,000,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	1,897,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	1,647,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	1,557,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	1,246,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	4,000,000
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	4,135,000	4,527,000	4,549,000
Contractual Obligation	$ 900,000

XML

Other Information Supplemental Cash Payment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011	Sep. 26, 2010
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest Paid	$ 72,131	$ 53,133	$ 65,791
Debt Financing and Reorganization Costs Paid	32,408	11,601	453
Income Taxes Paid, Net	$ 1,140	$ 10,462	$ 3,753

XML

Goodwill and other Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Goodwill [Line Items]

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill related to continuing operations are as follows:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012		2011
Goodwill, gross amount	1,536,000		1,536,000
Accumulated impairment losses	(1,288,729	)	(1,102,448	)
Goodwill, beginning of year	247,271		433,552
Impairment	—		(186,281	)
Goodwill, end of year	247,271		247,271

Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

Identified intangible assets related to continuing operations consist of the following:

(Thousands of Dollars)	September 30 2012	September 25 2011
Nonamortized intangible assets:
Mastheads	28,875	28,875
Amortizable intangible assets:
Customer and newspaper subscriber lists	864,184	864,184
Less accumulated amortization	441,772	399,477
	422,412	464,707
Noncompete and consulting agreements	28,524	28,524
Less accumulated amortization	28,519	28,517
	5	7
	451,292	493,589

Asset Impairment Charges [Table Text Block]

A summary of impairment charges is included in the table below:

(Thousands of Dollars)	2012	2011	2010
Continuing operations:
Goodwill	—	186,281	—
Nonamortized intangible assets	—	13,259	—
Amortizable intangible assets	—	4,199	—
Property and equipment	1,388	700	899
	1,388	204,439	899
Reduction in investment in TNI	—	11,900	—
	1,388	216,339	899
Discontinued operations	3,606	700	2,391

XML

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]

	Quarter Ended
(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Common Share Data)	December	March		June		September
2012
Operating revenue	192,042	165,461		172,640		180,343
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	14,406	(26,373	)	(1,045	)	(761	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	218	(169	)	(309	)	(2,266	)
Net income (loss)	14,624	(26,542	)	(1,354	)	(3,027	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	14,554	(26,625	)	(1,473	)	(3,154	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.32	(0.53	)	(0.02	)	(0.02	)
Discontinued operations	—	—		(0.01	)	(0.04	)
	0.32	(0.54	)	(0.03	)	(0.06	)
2011
Operating revenue	199,485	171,562		180,457		175,815
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	18,747	(1,106	)	(155,067	)	(8,009	)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes	230	(343	)	(409	)	(724	)
Net income (loss)	18,977	(1,449	)	(155,476	)	(8,733	)
Income (loss) attributable to Lee Enterprises, Incorporated	18,941	(1,472	)	(155,553	)	(8,784	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)
Diluted:
Continuing operations	0.42	(0.02	)	(3.45	)	(0.18	)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01	)	(0.01	)	(0.02	)
	0.42	(0.03	)	(3.46	)	(0.20	)

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Other Retirement Plans

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Other Retirement Plans [Text Block]

OTHER RETIREMENT PLANS

Substantially all of our employees are eligible to participate in a qualified defined contribution retirement plan. We also have other retirement and compensation plans for executives and others. Company contributions under such plans were substantially reduced or eliminated in 2010. In 2011 certain of those contributions were reinstated.

Retirement and compensation plan costs, including interest on deferred compensation costs, charged to continuing operations are $3,533,000 in 2012, $2,666,000 in 2011 and $1,894,000 in 2010.