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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 2nd 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 and September 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, 2012 and 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.